Shota Imanaga and Yoshinobu Yamamoto to Make MLB History in Tokyo Series Opener

The Cubs and Dodgers will feature the first-ever Opening Day matchup between Japanese-born pitchers in Japan on March 18.

Shota Imanaga has been named the Chicago Cubs' Opening Day starter for the Tokyo Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers, scheduled for March 18 at Tokyo Dome.
Imanaga will face fellow Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto, marking the first time two Japan-born players have started against each other in an MLB regular-season game in Japan.
Imanaga, who had a stellar rookie season with a 15-3 record and a 2.91 ERA, expressed gratitude to past Japanese players for paving the way for international recognition in MLB.
The Tokyo Series will also spotlight other Japanese stars, including Shohei Ohtani and Seiya Suzuki, and aims to inspire youth baseball participation in Japan amid declining numbers.
The series is expected to draw significant global attention, with Cubs and Dodgers executives emphasizing its importance for showcasing baseball's international appeal.