Dodgers Defeat Cubs 4-1 In MLB Opening Game At Tokyo Dome

On March 18, 2025, Major League Baseball (MLB) kicked off its season with the highly anticipated opening game at Tokyo Dome, where the Los Angeles Dodgers triumphed over the Chicago Cubs with a score of 4-1. This match marked the return of Major League Baseball to Japan after six years, and it held significant meaning for the players involved, especially for Shohei Ohtani, who played as the designated hitter for the Dodgers.

Shohei Ohtani, batting first as designated hitter, was instrumental for his team, achieving two hits from five at-bats, including a double. The standout performance by Ohtani came after some initial struggles, as he struck out twice against Cubs' starting pitcher Shota Imanaga. Despite these challenges, Ohtani showed resilience and effectively contributed to the game when it mattered most.

Yoshinobu Yamamoto, the Dodgers' starting pitcher, also showcased impressive skills, pitching five innings where he allowed only three hits and one run, securing his first win of the season. His performance marked the first time since 2019, when Masahiro Tanaka pitched, to have a Japanese pitcher earn the victory on opening day.

This thrilling matchup unfolded at Tokyo Dome, home to 42,365 enthusiastic fans, making it clear just how much the opening game meant for players and fans alike. The game had its share of dramatic moments, with the Cubs initially taking the lead. Amaya hit a timely double against Yamamoto, giving the Cubs their first run of the game.

Yet, the Dodgers turned the game around dramatically, led by Ohtani's pivotal fifth inning contribution. He hit a powerful single to right field, increasing the Dodgers’ chances of scoring. This was followed by a chain of events culminating in three runs for the Dodgers after some defensive mishaps from the Cubs. With Ohtani igniting the offense, other hitters capitalized on the opportunity leading to the Dodgers’ comeback.

Ohtani reflected on his experience during the game, expressing his initial nerves but also the relief of performing well under intense pressure. "I felt kind of nervous, which is unusual for me, but after I got my first hit, I was able to stay calm and focus for my other at-bats," he said. The atmosphere was electric, with Ohtani adding another double to his performance later, cementing his standing as one of MLB's brightest stars.

"It feels good to perform well, especially and play against someone like Imanaga, whom I respect," Ohtani remarked, praising his fellow player’s capabilities and acknowledging the challenging environment of the opening match. Ohtani's performance not only contributed to the team's victory but also connected him back to his home crowd, making the moment deeply meaningful.

Yamamoto, now with added confidence, mentioned how he felt about his pitching performance, stating, “The initial pressure of pitching on such a grand stage was palpable, but I managed to maintain my focus and stick to my game plan. It was contagious. Once I saw Ohtani get his hit, it chimed with my own performance as well.”

The game revealed not only the excitement of MLB's return to Japan but also showcased the talents of Japanese players on the international stage. While the Cubs' Seiya Suzuki did not get on base during the match, finishing with no hits, his presence as part of the dual Japanese player showcase drew significant attention.

This opening match is merely the start of the MLB Tokyo Series, which extends through the following days. Tomorrow, another highlight will take place when Sasaki of the Dodgers is set to make his major league debut as the starting pitcher. Fans can look forward to seeing both teams continue to compete fiercely during their return to the U.S. where they will open their season stateside on March 27.

Ohtani's contributions and the thrilling game serve as reminders of the talent present among the league's players, and the importance of the connections these athletes have with their fans, especially during such significant events. Everyone is hopeful for continued excitement as the series progresses.