The Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs Battle in the Tokyo Series
The 2025 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is set to commence with an exciting Tokyo Series. The Los Angeles Dodgers will face the Chicago Cubs at the Tokyo Dome. This takes place on March 18 and 19. This event marks the beginning of the MLB season. It also highlights the growing influence of Japanese talent in the league.
Japanese Players in the Spotlight
Both teams feature prominent Japanese players, adding significant local interest to the series. The Dodgers’ roster includes Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki, while the Cubs boast Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki. This marks the highest representation of Japanese players in an MLB opener in Japan. This occurrence underscores the country’s deep connection to the sport.
Shohei Ohtani’s Homecoming
Shohei Ohtani’s return to Japan has been met with immense enthusiasm. Ohtani signed a recent $700 million contract with the Dodgers. His presence has led to a surge in merchandise sales. Fans endure long lines, even in inclement weather, to purchase memorabilia. His popularity is evident throughout Tokyo, with his image prominently displayed in various advertisements.
Projected Starting Pitchers
The opening game on March 18 will feature a matchup between two Japanese pitchers:
- Los Angeles Dodgers: Right-hander Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who posted a 7-2 record with a 3.00 ERA over 90 innings in the 2024 season.
- Chicago Cubs: Left-hander Shota Imanaga, coming off an impressive rookie season with a 15-3 record and a 2.91 ERA.
This duel is particularly significant for Japanese fans, as it showcases two of their own on an international stage.
Injury Reports
- Los Angeles Dodgers: Star outfielder Mookie Betts will miss both games of the Tokyo Series due to illness. His absence is a notable setback for the Dodgers’ lineup.
- Chicago Cubs: Second baseman Nico Hoerner is listed as out with a forearm injury, impacting the Cubs’ infield depth.
Betting Odds and Predictions
As of March 17, the betting landscape for the opening game is as follows:
- Moneyline: The Dodgers are favored at -159, meaning a $159 bet would yield a $100 profit if they win. The Cubs are underdogs at +134, so a $100 bet would result in a $130 profit if they prevail.
- Run Line: The Dodgers are +1.5 (-400), indicating they need to win by at least two runs for a bet to pay out. The Cubs are -1.5 (+256), meaning they can lose by one run, and the bet would still be successful.
- Over/Under: The total runs line is set at 10, with the over at +212 and the under at -303.
MLB Tokyo Series Predictions
The Dodgers enter the series as the reigning World Series champions and have bolstered their roster in the offseason. Despite the absence of Mookie Betts, their depth and strong pitching rotation make them the favorites. However, the Cubs, having finished five games above .500 in 2024, are anticipated to show improvement. They could capitalize on the unique environment and early-season uncertainties to challenge the Dodgers.
Japanese Players’ Impact on MLB
The increasing number of Japanese players in MLB has significantly influenced both the league and fans in Japan. Players like Ohtani have become cultural icons, inspiring a new generation of athletes and boosting MLB’s popularity in Japan. The Tokyo Series acts as a celebration of this growing relationship. Fans eagerly support their compatriots. They showcase the global nature of baseball.
The 2025 MLB Tokyo Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs is an important event. It is more than just the season opener. It is a testament to baseball’s international appeal. It also highlights the profound impact of Japanese talent on the sport.
How to Watch the 2025 MLB Tokyo Series
The 2025 MLB Tokyo Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs is scheduled as follows:
- Game 1: March 18 at 6:10 a.m. Eastern Time (7:10 p.m. Japan Standard Time)
- Game 2: March 19 at 6:10 a.m. Eastern Time (7:10 p.m. Japan Standard Time)
For viewers in the United States, the broadcast details are as follows:
- Game 1 (March 18): Aired nationally on FOX.
- Game 2 (March 19): Aired nationally on FS1.
Additionally, both games will be available on the teams’ regional sports networks:
- Los Angeles Dodgers: SportsNet LA
- Chicago Cubs: Marquee Sports Network
For those preferring online streaming, MLB.TV will offer live streams of both games. Please note that blackout restrictions may apply based on your location.
These games will air at 6:10 a.m. Eastern Time on March 18 and 19.
For fans in Japan, the games will be broadcast on Nippon Television and Prime Video Japan.
Please verify the local listings or streaming platforms in your area to ensure access to the broadcasts.
Please read our Review of MyBookie and pick out one of our solid options. Don’t pass on our Professional Handicappers as well. All Your Sports Picks in One Place!!
Get the Top Formula 1 and Sports VPN on the Planet
If you need a VPN to watch the race this weekend, please check out CyberGhost. Our F1 Guide will also help for the rest of the season. You can’t go wrong with this virtual private network. You can find out all the details by clicking the banner below.
