The Los Angeles Dodgers have returned to Japan for their upcoming season opener, generating early excitement and anticipation. The defending MLB champions faced the Yomiuri Giants in an exhibition game at the Tokyo Dome, drawing a playoff-like atmosphere with a full house of 42,064 fans. Meanwhile, the Chicago Cubs played the Hanshin Tigers in front of 41,978 spectators.
This trip serves as a platform for the Dodgers and MLB to showcase international talents like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki. Ohtani made a notable impact by hitting a two-run home run in the third inning, adding to the Dodgers’ 5-0 victory. Michael Conforto and Teoscar Hernandez also contributed with home runs during the game.
The Dodgers’ pitching staff shone with a total of 11 strikeouts against the Giants, highlighting their strong performance. The team’s popularity in Tokyo was evident as fans flocked to watch their workouts and games, with over 10,000 attending a pre-game session.
The 2025 MLB season will kick off with the Dodgers and Cubs playing in Tokyo on March 18 and 19 at 6:10 a.m. ET. The anticipation for these games is high, as both teams look to start the season on a positive note in Japan.
