Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers Shine in MLB’s Historic Tokyo Opener
The city of Tokyo, a nation consumed by baseball fever, witnessed a moment of profound significance as Major League Baseball (MLB) kicked off its 2025 season in Japan. The sold-out crowd of 42,365 at the Tokyo Dome fell silent as Shohei Ohtani, Japan’s brightest baseball star, stepped into the batter’s box to face fellow countryman Shota Imanaga. Though technically the visiting team, the Chicago Cubs played host to the reigning World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers, a franchise whose influence and dominance in the sport are unmatched. Yet, the night belonged to Ohtani, the two-way sensation who has captivated not just Japan but the entire baseball world.
Ohtani, the face of modern Japanese baseball, has become a cultural icon, his image plastered on billboards and advertisements across Tokyo. His impact extends far beyond the diamond, inspiring a generation of players and fans alike. On this historic evening, Ohtani admitted to feeling unusually nervous, a rare glimpse of vulnerability from a player known for his calm demeanor. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts noted Ohtani’s emotional reaction during the Japanese national anthem, a poignant reminder of the weight of the moment. Japan’s baseball community, which has nurtured the sport for over a century, had awaited this moment for years, and Ohtani’s presence at the center of it all underscored his role as a trailblazer.
The game itself was a celebration of Japanese baseball’s rich history and its growing influence on the global stage. Imanaga, a standout pitcher, delivered four no-hit innings, while Yoshinobu Yamamoto, who signed the richest pitching contract in history just 15 months prior, earned the win with a dominant five-inning performance. Seiya Suzuki, the Cubs’ designated hitter, also made his mark, solidifying his place as a key figure in the franchise’s quest for success. The matchup marked the first-ever Opening Day game featuring two Japanese-born starting pitchers, a milestone that resonated deeply with fans in Japan and beyond.
The pre-game festivities added to the event’s historic significance. Baseball legend Sadaharu Oh, the all-time leader in professional home runs with 868, made a special appearance, drawing admiration from players, coaches, and fans. Hall of Famers like Ken Griffey Jr. and CC Sabathia, along with current stars such as the Dodgers’ Teoscar Hernández, lined up for photos, eager to preserve a piece of history as it unfolded. Roberts reflected on the significance of the moment, stating that every Japanese baseball player likely watched the game, seeing themselves in the spotlight. For Ohtani, who has transcended the sport to become a symbol of Japanese culture, every at-bat felt like a national event.
Despite the star-studded lineup, the Dodgers’ victory came without two of their key players. Mookie Betts, sidelined by illness, and Freddie Freeman, who was a late scratch due to rib discomfort, were notably absent. Yet, the night remained a resounding success, both on and off the field. The Dodgers’ dominance in Japan is not just about talent but also about their strategic investment in the market. Their signing of Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki, who is set to make his MLB debut, underscores their commitment to building a global brand. Dodgers CEO Stan Kasten highlighted the positive response from sponsors, calling the event a “dream come true” for the franchise.
For the Cubs, the series offered an opportunity to regenerate their identity. Manager Craig Counsell emphasized the importance of bonding during the team’s time in Japan, using the term “kizuna” (a Japanese word for “bond”) to describe the experience. The electric atmosphere at the Tokyo Dome, reminiscent of a playoff game, provided the perfect backdrop for a team looking to rebuild. Cubs president Jed Hoyer described the energy as “awesome,” noting that the pressure and excitement of the moment were invaluable for his players.
The cultural exchange between MLB and Japanese baseball was just as significant as the game itself. Players like Dodgers infielder Miguel Rojas marveled at the unique traditions of Japanese baseball, from the sushi races between innings to the enthusiastic fan chants. Dodgers utilityman Kiké Hernández shared his appreciation for the respectful silence during pitching and the lively celebrations during hitter’s at-bats. For Ohtani, the night was a coronation, not just of his talent but of his role as a bridge between two baseball-loving cultures. As the Dodgers began their title defense with a 4-1 victory, the game served as a testament to the power of sports to unite people across borders, languages, and generations.
In the end, the Tokyo opener was more than a game; it was a celebration of baseball’s global reach and a reminder of the enduring legacy of players like Shohei Ohtani, who are redefining the sport for a new era. As the Dodgers and Cubs departed Japan, they carried with them the energy of a nation and the hope of inspiring the next generation of players and fans.
