Historic Tokyo Series Kicks Off With Dodgers And Cubs

The highly anticipated 2025 Major League Baseball Tokyo Series officially opened on March 18, 2025, at the iconic Tokyo Dome, marking another milestone in MLB's mission for global outreach. This thrilling matchup featured the LA Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs, two of baseball's renowned franchises facing off on this historic occasion.

What makes this opener truly unique is the spotlight on Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, alongside fellow Japanese players like Yamamoto Yoshinobu and Sasaki Roki for the Dodgers, and Imanaga Shota and Suzuki Seiya for the Cubs. With the beginning of the Tokyo Series, MLB aims to extend its reach within Asia, building on last year's successful Seoul Series.

Fans from all corners gathered at the Tokyo Dome, eagerly waiting to purchase official merchandise and tickets. The event sold out within one hour, with 43,500 seats filled—a remarkable feat for any sporting event. Ticket prices soared to around 30 million won, underscoring the immense excitement surrounding this series. There was palpable energy as fans formed long lines to grab commemorative goods, eager to celebrate the commencement of the MLB season with homegrown stars.

Ohtani, who has always been at the center of attention since signing with the LA Angels back in 2018, has returned home to Japan as the lead-off hitter for the Dodgers. After his stellar performance last season, where he recorded 54 home runs and demonstrated exceptional skill both as a hitter and pitcher, expectations are sky-high. Notably, he showcased his prowess just days earlier by hitting home runs during practice games, making fans even more excited for today's game.

The starting lineups reveal some strategic changes for the Dodgers. Mookie Betts, originally slated to play, was sidelined due to health issues related to the flu. Consequently, Tommy Edman filled his position at second base, and Miguel Rojas took over shortstop duties. Local media, including MLB.com, initially projected Kim Ha-seong to start at second and Betts at short, but the realities of game day required adjustments to the lineup.

Yamamoto Yoshinobu, who has been tipped as one of the game’s top pitchers, faced off against the Cubs' Imanaga Shota—the first time Japanese starters have squared off in the MLB opening game. With impressive statistics from last season, Yamamoto demonstrated his potential for continued success on the mound, holding onto a 3.00 ERA from 18 games. Meanwhile, Imanaga boasted 15 wins and only 3 losses with incredible 2.91 ERA from 29 games played, ensuring the match promises to be intense.

"It's the first time Japanese players are pitching against each other at the MLB opening game," noted one baseball analyst, emphasizing the significance of this moment. Meanwhile, another expert remarked, "Ohtani has made history already and continues to amaze fans around the world," showcasing the star’s steep influence on the game.

The two teams had spent the week acclimizing to the time zone and conditions, conducting training sessions to prepare adequately. Dodgers’ coaching staff expressed optimism about their adjustments and overall readiness. The opportunity to play on home soil against historical rivals capped by such stellar Japanese talent drew unprecedented attention.

The spring breeze wafting through Tokyo Dome this morning also carried with it not only the scent of baseball but the hope of fans for yet another competitive MLB season. Major League Baseball continues to venture beyond American borders, establishing multiple global series, and there's no doubt the Tokyo Series is aimed at long-term growth and establishing connections with international fans.

For viewers back home, KBS Korea Broadcasting is set to provide live coverage of the game beginning at 6:50 PM KST, allowing fans unable to attend the event to join through the screen. This initiative harks back to their commitment to deliver Major League Baseball action, following their previous broadcasts.

With seven Japanese players total participating throughout the series, this is more than just another game. It’s a celebration of talent, ambition, and the spirit of baseball. The eyes of the world are focused on Tokyo as this historic chapter begins—swiftly followed by who will claim the top spot at the first of many battlegrounds throughout the season.

The atmosphere today is electric, spurring excitement and anticipation among players and fans alike for the thrilling prospects awaiting them throughout the Tokyo Series.

Sports are more than just games; they serve to unite cultures and people through their shared love for competition and excellence. The Tokyo Series is poised as another stepping stone for baseball's global narrative as athletes take the field to engage with fans across the globe.