In a thrilling encounter at the Tokyo Dome, the Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 6-3 victory over the Chicago Cubs on March 19, 2025, completing a successful two-game series in Japan. The victory marked a strong start to the Dodgers' regular season, as they returned to Los Angeles with a commendable 2-0 record.
Shohei Ohtani, the Dodgers’ powerhouse slugger, electrified the crowd, hitting a towering solo home run off Cubs pitcher Nate Pearson that just cleared the right-center fence. This significant play came in the bottom of the fifth inning, extending the Dodgers' lead to 6-2, much to the delight of the roughly 42,000 fans in attendance. Ohtani turned on a 99 mph fastball, sending it deep into the outfield and enthralling the Tokyo Dome crowd. "The crowd roared as the ball traveled on a majestic arc deep into the outfield," reported the Associated Press.
As Ohtani noted, moments like these are what he lives for. The 30-year-old not only hit his third homer in two games but also showcased his prowess on the mound earlier, contributing to the team's early momentum.
In his Major League debut, pitcher Roki Sasaki impressed with three innings of work, allowing just one run despite issuing five walks. He tallied three strikeouts, generating five swings and misses, showcasing his remarkable potential on such a significant stage.
The Dodgers struck first in the second inning, scoring two runs on a passed ball and a sacrifice fly. This early burst of scoring set the tone for the game. Reigning NLCS MVP Tommy Edman added to the lead with a home run in the third inning, representing the first of the 2025 season for the team.
However, the highlight of the game for many was Kellé Hernández’s stunning two-run homer in the fourth inning, which had an impressive exit velocity of 109.8 mph and traveled 390 feet, further solidifying the Dodgers' command in the matchup. As the fourth inning progressed, the Cubs managed to score a run against reliever Luis Garcia, who made his debut with the team. Yet, Ohtani quickly responded, showing the kind of speedy recovery Dodgers fans have come to expect from him.
In relief, Jack Dreyer gave up a run in the fifth inning during his MLB debut, but this did little to diminish the Dodgers’ momentum. Landon Lnack took the mound next and kept things in check with a scoreless sixth and seventh inning, while veteran Kirby Yates followed suit in the eighth. Closer Alex Vesia closed out the game with a scoreless ninth, ensuring the Dodgers' season-opening success.
This game also marked another step for Ohtani, who had homered in an exhibition game just days earlier against the Yomiuri Giants. He completed the Tokyo Series hitting .600, accumulating three hits including a double and a single in the Dodgers' earlier 4-1 victory over the Cubs.
Ohtani's ability to rise to the occasion impressed many observers, especially considering the emotional weight of playing in front of a home crowd, as he is a superstar in Japan.
The Dodgers now eagerly anticipate their return to Los Angeles, where they will face the Los Angeles Angels in the Freeway Series from March 23 to 25. Following these exhibition games, the Dodgers will officially kick off their domestic season with Opening Day on March 27, hosting the Detroit Tigers for a three-game set at Dodger Stadium.
This exciting start in Tokyo not only ignites optimism among the fans but also sets the stage for what could be a memorable season ahead. With key players like Ohtani and Sasaki showcasing their talents, the Dodgers are poised to make a significant impact in the 2025 season as they pursue another championship title.
