The 2025 MLB season kicked off with a bang. The Dodgers faced the Cubs in the highly anticipated Tokyo Series. In a thrilling opener at the iconic Tokyo Dome, the Dodgers emerged victorious with a 4-1 win.
They showcased the talents of their Japanese stars and provided fans with unforgettable moments. Here’s a detailed look at the top highlights from this historic game.
Ohtani Shines in the Spotlight
Even without another massive home run, Shohei Ohtani was the centerpiece of the action. In the fifth inning, after Andy Pages drew a one-out walk, Ohtani delivered his first hit of the season, a single that set the stage for a three-run inning.
Tommy Edman drove in Pages with an opposite-field RBI single, and Ohtani scored on a throwing error by Cubs’ second baseman Jon Berti. Will Smith capped off the inning with an RBI single, bringing home Teoscar Hernández and giving the Dodgers a 3-1 lead.
Ohtani’s impact didn’t stop there. In the ninth inning, he hit a 108 mph double down the right-field line off Ryan Brasier. He eventually scored on Hernández’s RBI single to secure an insurance run for the Dodgers.
Historic Opening Day for Japanese Pitchers
The Tokyo Dome crowd witnessed a remarkable first: the initial Opening Day matchup between two Japanese starting pitchers. Yamamoto and Imanaga took the mound for the Dodgers and Cubs, respectively.
Yamamoto showcased his electric stuff, pitching five innings, allowing just one run, and striking out four. Imanaga, despite struggling with his command, managed to keep the Dodgers’ powerful lineup at bay.
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He pitched four shutout innings with four walks and two strikeouts.
Swanson’s First Hit and Run of the Season
Dansby Swanson etched his name into the 2025 MLB season’s history by recording the first hit and run. In the second inning, Swanson lined a curveball from Yamamoto into center field for a single.
Two batters later, Miguel Amaya drove Swanson home with an RBI double into the right-center-field gap, marking the first run of the season.
Ohtani’s Homage to Decoy
Shohei Ohtani paid tribute to his beloved dog, Decoy, by wearing custom Ohtani 1’s emblazoned with Decoy’s image. This has become a customary gesture for Ohtani.
He also entered the stadium wearing the Japan-exclusive Shohei x New Balance 990V6.
Pikachus Waddle Across the Field
In a moment that brought smiles to everyone in attendance, Pikachus made an appearance on the field. The adorable mascots waddled across the field, providing a light-hearted and memorable spectacle for fans.
After the game, the Pikachus were seen slowly making their way home, adding to the charm of the event.
Baseball Legends in Attendance
The Tokyo Dome was graced by the presence of numerous baseball legends and stars from around the world. All-time home run king Sadaharu Oh was in attendance, meeting with Dodgers manager Dave Roberts before the game.
Roberts expressed his excitement, calling it a *dream come true* to see Oh-san in person. He also noted the significance of bringing Japanese baseball together with Major League Baseball.
MLB ambassadors Ken Griffey Jr. and CC Sabathia, along with Andruw Jones and Koji Uehara, posed for pictures, adding to the star-studded atmosphere.
Celebrities from outside the baseball world, including Bill Murray, Billie Jean King, and Ilana Kloss, also made sure to be part of the historic event at the Tokyo Dome, affectionately known as the Big Egg.
Dodgers Triumph on Opening Day
The Dodgers began their World Series title defense with a commanding 4-1 victory over the Cubs. The game concluded with Tanner Scott striking out Matt Shaw on a 98 mph fastball, sealing the win for the Dodgers.
This opening day victory set the tone for what promises to be an exciting season for the Dodgers and their fans.
For more detailed insights and highlights from the game, you can read the full article on the MLB website.
Stay tuned for more updates and in-depth coverage of the 2025 MLB season as it unfolds.
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