On March 15, 2025, at the iconic Tokyo Dome, baseball fans were treated to an exciting preseason matchup between the Hanshin Tigers and the Chicago Cubs, marking the return of MLB’s opening series to Japan for the first time in six years. The Tigers put forth a formidable display, with their young pitcher Kento Kadoshita stealing the show with a perfect performance over five innings, leading Hanshin to a 3-0 victory.
Kadoshita, just 20 years old and only three years out of high school, faced a powerful Cubs lineup, featuring strong hitters like Ian Happ and Seiya Suzuki. Despite the intimidating competition, he impressed fans and coaches alike, producing numerous ground balls right from the outset. His command was impeccable, allowing no hits and no walks, along with two strikeouts—an extraordinary feat for the rookie.
"I’m really excited for the game. I hope to pitch my own way without being intimidated by major league hitters," Kadoshita stated before the match. His determination was evident, and he proved his worth by suppressing even the most aggressive batters with compelling fastball pitches.
The game began with Hanshin quickly demonstrating their offensive capabilities. Koji Chikamoto put the Tigers on the scoreboard with a timely double to right field after Umeno started with a hit of his own followed by Kozato's sacrifice bunt. Experts were quick to praise Chikamoto’s performance, with former Hanshin player Akahoshi commenting, "Whenever the season is set to start, it looks like we will be fine."
Following Chikamoto's heroics, Kento Morishita struck again with another single, effectively pushing the Tigers to extend their lead. This action, complemented by Maikawa, who is recognized as the Triple Crown winner of the open games, allowed Hanshin to secure another valuable run and strengthen their 2-0 lead.
Not to be outdone, Hanshin’s offensive momentum did not wane. During the fifth inning, the Tigers were back on the attack. After Nakano reached base with another walk, Chikamoto stole second, showcasing his speed and strategic play. Then came the big hit—Sato connected with the pitch, sending it to right field for yet another timely hit, marking the third consecutive inning the Tigers scored.
The Cubs attempted to rally throughout the game, but Kadoshita’s consistent performances thwarted their efforts at every turn. He maintained composure against tough opponents, showcasing the kind of resilience and talent now expected of young MLB pitchers.
Demonstrably, both teams displayed their readiness as the MLB regular season approached. Kaito Suzuki, making his return to Tokyo since his stunning performance with the Hiroshima Carp, was another focal point of the game for the Cubs. His appearances generated excitement, as fans remembered his remarkable days, but Kadoshita did well to keep him and the rest of the Cubs' sluggers at bay.
The match culminated with Kadoshita walking off the mound to cheers from the crowd, as he left without giving up any runs—an impressive stat for any player, especially one so early on his professional career. By the end of the game, the Cubs would only manage one hit; the praise for Kadoshita reached all corners, including American fans who remarked it was time for the Cubs to think about acquiring such talent.
Hanshin manager, who once played with the team, noted the significance of this win and what it meant as they prepared for the upcoming regular season. The triumph served not just as validation for their strategies but also solidified the notion of Kadoshita being one to watch this season.
The Cubs, on the other hand, will look at this preseason game as learning and preparation for the tougher competition coming their way. Although they fell short, the resilience of their players, coupled with their adjustments to pitching strategies, showcases their potential for exciting matchups as the season progresses.
This game was not just about the result but depicted the heightened anticipation both teams have for their futures—one attempting to break through with fresh talent and the other striving to capitalize on their established core. What awaits next is the regular season, and all eyes will be on how each team develops from this moment.