In an electrifying scene at the Tokyo Dome on March 19, 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers' Tommy Edman made headlines by hitting his first home run of the season against the Chicago Cubs. Edman's achievement marked not just a significant moment in the game but also a personal milestone, as he had replaced star player Mookie Betts in the lineup due to Betts' withdrawal from the match because of health issues.
During the third inning, with the Dodgers leading 2-0 and two outs, Edman faced Cubs pitcher Justin Steele. After a full count, Edman unleashed a powerful swing against a high fastball pitched at 90.1 miles per hour (approximately 145 kilometers). The ball soared majestically into the upper tier of the left field stands, much to the delight of the fans. Cheers erupted around the stadium, and a visibly excited Roki Sasaki, the starting pitcher for the Dodgers and a fellow countryman, clapped his glove in appreciation from the bench.
This home run did not merely increase the Dodgers' lead; it served as an indication of Edman's impressive power despite his listed height of under 180 centimeters. The small yet mighty utility player had previously showcased glimmers of brilliance during the 2024 season, where he transferred from the St. Louis Cardinals and played a pivotal role in the Dodgers' triumph in the World Series. His performance in last season's National League Championship Series, where he posted a remarkable .407 batting average and drove in 11 runs, earned him the MVP title for that series.
A noteworthy moment following Edman's achievement occurred during his return to the dugout, where he received enthusiastic acknowledgment from his teammates, including a nod of respect from prominent player Shohei Ohtani. The sight of Edman's jubilant response as he rounded the bases—his arms raised in celebration—added to the aura of the evening.
Coverage of the event even sparked joy in media outlets across Korea, where Edman, whose mother is Korean and who played for the Korean national team in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, was celebrated. A report from Korean media outlet OSEN pointedly stated, "The main character is not Ohtani but Edman," drawing attention to the significance of Edman’s breakthrough at this high-profile event. This public recognition highlighted the ongoing legacy of Edman among Korean fans and supporters, who cheered for him as their own.
Following the match, discussions increased about Edman’s potential impacts moving forward for the Dodgers as they embark on the 2025 season. His abilities not only as a reliable infielder but also as a solid batter are being optimized under the coaching of manager Dave Roberts, who continues to adapt the team strategies around its standout players.
The fans at Tokyo Dome walked away with a remarkable experience, witnessing not just a home run but a powerful narrative that highlights Edman’s personal journey juxtaposed with the broader themes of sportsmanship and cultural pride. As the Dodgers continue their journey, the anticipation builds for what Edman and the team may achieve together.
Looking ahead, Edman will need to maintain this momentum as the Dodgers prepare for the looming challenges of the season, knowing that his contributions could play a crucial role in the team's quest for another championship. His strategic prowess in the field combined with his recent batting success stands as a testament to his skills, further tightening his bond with the fans who resonate with his underdog story.
From the electrifying atmosphere of the Tokyo Dome to the hopeful eyes of fans, Tommy Edman has ignited excitement for the upcoming MLB season, proving once more that great things can come in small packages.
