Dodgers Begin Japan Series Featuring Shohei Ohtani and Japanese Stars

The Dodgers open their season in Tokyo with Shohei Ohtani headlining a historic showcase of Japanese talent and global baseball excitement.

Shohei Ohtani will focus on hitting as the Dodgers delay his return to pitching following recovery from Tommy John surgery and a torn labrum.
The Dodgers will play two exhibition games and two regular-season games against the Chicago Cubs at Tokyo Dome, with tickets selling for record-breaking prices.
Japanese pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki are set to start the season-opening games, marking a historic moment for Japanese baseball representation in MLB.
Manager Dave Roberts, born in Japan, described the trip as deeply personal and a celebration of global baseball, with Ohtani's popularity driving unprecedented excitement.
The Dodgers' spring training showcased strong performances from key players, including Mookie Betts' improved defense at shortstop and Roki Sasaki's promising MLB debut preparation.