On March 18, 2025, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, 52, had the pleasure of reuniting with SoftBank Chairman Sadaharu Oh, 84, on the field before the opening game at Tokyo Dome, marking a significant moment for the two baseball figures. This reunion allowed Roberts to capture the moment with Oh, known as "the world’s Sadaharu Oh" and celebrated as one of Japan's baseball legends, who holds the record for 868 home runs.
Upon seeing Oh on the field, Roberts' smile was infectious as he approached the baseball legend with a bow and extended both hands for a heartfelt handshake. They were later joined by the team’s announcer and former MLB second baseman Harold Reynolds for a commemorative photo, which displayed the emotion and joy of the moment.
Roberts expressed his gratitude to Oh, saying, "Arigato Gozaimasu!" to which the Japanese fans responded with warmth. Reflecting on his past visit to Japan, which had been about 20 years ago, Roberts reminisced about his memorable experience dining with Oh, accompanied by his son. His visit left him delighted, recalling it as one of the best memories of his life.
During the press conference held prior to the game, Roberts articulated the excitement of finally reaching the day of the season opener, especially the Japanese opening game. "Emotionally, the opening game has finally arrived, the Japanese opening game has arrived," he noted, highlighting the palpable anticipation from fans and players alike. With each passing moment, Roberts could sense the excitement growing among players as they prepared for the significant match.
Born in Okinawa and closely connected to Japan, Roberts remarked about the special significance of the upcoming game. He shared how his mother, still residing in Okinawa, would be watching the game closely. "The moment and the game will be historic," he declared, emphasizing the importance of the game as it would feature two Japanese pitchers facing off for the first time as opening day starters—an unprecedented moment not just for the Dodgers, but for Major League Baseball (MLB) as well.
Roberts also spoke positively about pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, whom he described as being in great physical and mental condition, and he didn't voice any concerns over Yamamoto's performance. "Both pitchers are great, and it’s going to be historic. I don't expect many runs to be scored," he detailed, underlining the strong potential for an aesthetically pleasing match. He believed this matchup would be a fantastic opportunity for baseball.
Meanwhile, Dodgers superstars continue to prepare for the opening week with the ambition of securing consecutive World Series championships. Roberts shared how the team’s total payroll for the opening day is projected to reach $389 million, the highest ever recorded for any MLB team.
The Dodgers made various strategic signings, including players like Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Blake Snell, Tanaer Scott, Curbie Ewetz, and Michael Conforto. They also re-signed Teoscar Hernandez, chasing their goal of winning back-to-back championships for the first time since the New York Yankees accomplished this feat between 1998 and 2000, and the first for any National League team since the Cincinnati Reds did so from 1975-1976.
Reflecting on player dynamics, Roberts expressed his confidence and respect for Kike Hernandez, noting his unique behavior within the clubhouse. "Kike has such a distinctive personality and is someone you can rely on during the big games," he remarked. Hernandez's presence becomes even more significant with star player Mookie Betts being out for the opener. Roberts indicated Hernandez's start was no surprise due to his terrific playoff performance last year.
Emerging talent Jack Dreyer and Pahesz also received mentions during the conference, with Roberts describing Dreyer as having tremendous potential with power capabilities and maturity beyond his years. Roberts believed Pahesz deserved the starting role after impressing during training camp, emphasizing the competition within the team for key player positions.
Looking back at the path leading to the season opener, every player and coach is aware of the significance of the game. Roberts shared, "It’s important for each player to understand this is the real game." The historic nature of this matchup is especially pronounced for him as he acknowledged the significance of being Japanese-born and being part of this pivotal moment. He articulately expressed his belief, exclaiming, "This is going to be brilliant for the sport of baseball!"
Roberts’ anticipation for this unique MLB experience underscored not just his professional aspirations to lead the Dodgers to victory but also the intrinsic connection he feels to Japan and its baseball culture.
