On March 16, 2025, at Tokyo Dome, the Tokyo Series showcased the San Francisco Giants against the Chicago Cubs, marking a prelude to the MLB season. Both teams revealed their lineups, leading to exciting displays from players such as Seiya Suzuki and Shogo Ashino.
Shogo Ashino, the young star of the Giants, took to the field as the eighth batter and designated hitter (DH). His performance was anticipated following the team’s earlier match-up against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 15, where consistent lineups saw other key players like Oka Moto and Nakayama holding the fort.
Taking the mound for the Giants was Griffin, collaborating with catcher Kishiada Tomoki, as they set out to provide strength against the Cubs' batting order. Griffin had much to prove against formidable competitors like Suzuki, who started as the third batter and DH for Chicago.
For the Giants, the batting order remained unchanged from the previous day, with notable mentions including Maru leading off, followed by Hernandez, Yoshikawa, Oka Moto, and Cabbage rounding out the top five. Nakayama occupied the sixth spot followed by Kishiada, then Ashino, and the lineup concluded with shortstop Kanewaki. Griffin was fully prepared as the starting pitcher, aiming for decisive strikes against the Cubs.
Suzuki, returning to Japan after considerable time, expressed deep emotions about stepping onto the Tokyo Dome turf, reminiscing about his time playing for the Hiroshima Carp before transitioning to Major League Baseball. He stated, "Wearing the Cubs' uniform and playing at Tokyo Dome is special to me; it reminds me of the past and how far I’ve come. It’s truly unforgettable." His sentiments reflect the warmth and nostalgia many players feel when returning to familiar grounds.
During the game, Suzuki had two significant at-bats. His first opportunity came with one out and a runner on second base. Displaying patience, he walked on four pitches, successfully setting the stage for the Cubs’ offense. Later, he stepped up for his second at-bat and faced Griffin again. After fouling off the first pitch, he hit the second, which was clocked at 145 km/h, but it resulted in a fly-out to right field.
Adding to the day’s buzz, Suzuki delighted teammates and fans with his surprise ramen dance, lightening the mood before the matchup. Taylor McGregor, the field reporter for the Cubs’ local broadcast, humorously described the scene saying, "We witnessed the mystery of ‘Seiya Santa’ surprising his teammates with delicious ramen!" This playful interaction adds levity, showcasing the camaraderie within the squad.
The match ran scoreless until the early moments of the later innings; both teams struggled to capitalize on their opportunities. It was clear, though, the athletes were not merely competing; they were also engaged in fostering international relations through sport. This game formed part of the MLB's effort to reach out to broader audiences and strengthen ties with Japanese fans.
The Giants, coming off their notable performance against the Dodgers, aimed for consistency with every at-bat and play made. Each player understood the importance of this game as both practice and preparation for the upcoming regular season.
Reflecting on the recent performances, Griffin shared his determination for this matchup: "We aim to carry the momentum from the Dodgers game. Every score matters, and we need to sharpen our skills before heading to our next big game.” Meanwhile, each player, from the starters to the substitutes, focused on honing their strategies efficiently.
The Chicago Cubs, after this game at the Tokyo Dome, will head straight to the opening series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on March 18. Prior to departing, Suzuki expressed his eagerness to face this high-profile competition, having not faced such teams after transitioning to the MLB. "This challenge excites me. I need to deliver results to honor my teammates and the fans back home,” he stated.
This MLB Tokyo Series, particularly highlighted by giant efforts from both clubs and the entertaining gameplay by Suzuki and Ashino, acts as more than just a game; it signifies the binding culture and shared history between America and Japan. It encapsulates enthusiasm, friendships, and engaging moments destined to live on well beyond the pitch.
Overall, as the pre-season encounter concluded, both teams showcased their fierce competitive spirits, leaving fans at the Tokyo Dome eager for the regular season’s commencement. The atmosphere buzzed with excitement, blending cultural exchanges and the spirit of baseball as pivotal elements of the day.
With fresh talent like Ashino and established stars like Suzuki, the future of baseball remains bright. It's not just about victory; it's about the relationships built and the memories shared along the way. Players and fans alike anticipate what lies ahead, hoping for success and more unforgettable moments on and off the field.