Overview

• The Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers will play a two-game series in Tokyo, marking the start of the 2025 MLB season and continuing the league's international expansion efforts.
• Japanese stars Shohei Ohtani, Shota Imanaga, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki are at the center of attention, with fans celebrating their homecoming and impact on global baseball popularity.
• The Dodgers, reigning World Series champions, have bolstered their roster with key additions, including phenom Roki Sasaki, who will make his MLB debut in Tokyo.
• Cubs outfielder Seiya Suzuki and pitcher Shota Imanaga return to Japan as part of a revamped Chicago roster, receiving a warm reception from local fans during exhibition games.
• MLB's Tokyo Series reflects the sport's growing global reach, with increasing international viewership and Japanese fan engagement revitalizing interest in baseball.