The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season opens with fanfare as the Chicago Cubs and the defending champions, the Los Angeles Dodgers, gear up for two electrifying matches at the Tokyo Dome on March 18 and 19. This marks the start of the season and highlights the growing popularity of baseball, particularly with its deep roots and enthusiasm present in Japan. Fans worldwide are eager to witness the talents of notable players, especially star Shohei Ohtani, who has become a colossal figure both at home and abroad.
On March 18, the first game of the MLB Tokyo Series kicks off at 6:10 AM ET (7 PM JST local time). The anticipation surrounding these matches is palpable, especially considering the impact of Ohtani, who recently signed a record-breaking $700 million contract after helping the Dodgers secure the World Series title last season. The second match will follow the next day at the same time, airing on FS1 and FOX Deportes, with local teams gearing up for what promises to be action-packed games.
Baseball first touched down on Japanese soil back in 1872, thanks to American schoolteacher Horace Wilson. Since then, it has grown to become the most beloved sport in the country. The involvement of international stars like Ohtani continues to accentuate its charm. The Dodgers and Cubs bring forth notable Japanese players, including Rōki Sasaki for the Dodgers and Shota Imanaga for the Cubs, who are sure to delight fans.
With tickets selling for as much as $10,000, the demand speaks volumes about fan excitement. The spectacle surrounding Ohtani has been impossible to overlook; his presence stretches beyond the field, reaching billboards and merchandise across Tokyo. His image can be seen everywhere—from advertisements for green tea to vending machines—indicating his status as both a sports hero and cultural icon.
Rob Manfred, MLB’s commissioner, remarked on Ohtani’s unprecedented level of excitement, saying, "I’ve never seen anything at the level of excitement for Ohtani." This excitement translates directly to financial gains, as Ohtani’s multiple sponsorship deals contribute to skyrocketing sales for MLB apparel and merchandise. According to reports, sales surged by 183% last year, as sponsorships grew by 114%, highlighting the deepening cultural connection Japan has with the MLB, especially underlining Ohtani's influence.
Fans flocking to the games from Japan and beyond contribute to the Dodgers’ reputation as the top drawing team of the league, with stadium attendance growing by 2.7% last year. Anecdotal reports from the Los Angeles Tourism & Convention Board noted 80 to 90% of Japanese visitors last year came to catch Dodgers games. This underlines the burgeoning fandom from Japan toward Ohtani, whose star power extends internationally.
For those planning to watch the series from afar, streaming services offer various options. Sling TV subscribers can find the games through their packages, or fans can opt for DirecTV Stream or fuboTV, which are also providing coverage. VPN services are becoming popular for overseas fans hoping to bypass geographic restrictions, ensuring all can tune in to this highly anticipated event.
The significance of this series transcends sport, serving as a bridge between cultures. Ohtani's rise mirrors the history of Japanese players finding success on global stages, reminiscent of legends like Ichiro Suzuki and Hideo Nomo. Yet, Ohtani's ability to pitch and hit at elite levels truly sets him apart, often likened to the legendary Babe Ruth.
Despite his overwhelming popularity, there are concerns about overexposure. Some fans express fatigue from the constant media focus on Ohtani, noting the unusual depth of coverage —a phenomenon can be seen on social media platforms, where mixed reactions are surfacing. Some individuals chastise the incessant reporting, feeling overshadowed by Ohtani’s persona. Nevertheless, opinions on him remain overwhelmingly positive as he earns accolades for his prowess on the field.
The Tokyo Series serves as more than just games; it feels like Ohtani’s coronation back home. His agent, Nez Balelo, emphasizes the importance of managing Ohtani’s brand amid extensive media exposure, attempting to strike the right balance between his athletic commitments and marketing endeavors. Balelo’s efforts to maintain Ohtani's focus signify the dedication to preserving the player's health and performance on the field.
With significant media coverage leading up to the games, anticipation runs high for fans both locally and abroad. Occasional discussions on forums reveal moments of public adoration juxtaposed with critiques born from the digital age’s insatiable appetite for content. Ohtani, alongside both the Cubs and the Dodgers, surely faces scrutiny each time they step onto the field.
For fans across the world, these games at the Tokyo Dome present not merely tickets to baseball but rather experiences imbued with history, culture, and international fanfare. Whether you’re tuning in at 6 AM ET or waiting eagerly at the Tokyo Dome, the excitement encapsulated within the MLB Tokyo Series promises to be unforgettable as the season commences with fervor.
One thing is certain: with Shohei Ohtani leading the charge and the Cubs vying for victory, this year’s season opener will not only launch the 2025 MLB season but also create lasting memories for fans worldwide.
