History in the Making: MLB Season Opener in Tokyo
The 2024 Major League Baseball (MLB) season is set to kick off in historic fashion as the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers take on the Chicago Cubs in a two-game series at the iconic Tokyo Dome in Japan. This marks the first opportunity for baseball fans in Japan and around the world to witness the excitement of MLB’s new season, and the stakes are higher than ever. The series is not just a clash of two powerhouse teams but also a celebration of baseball’s growing global influence, featuring five Japanese players who are making waves in the league. Among them are Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and rookie sensation Roki Sasaki, who will represent the Dodgers, while the Cubs boast outfielder Seiya Suzuki and left-handed pitcher Shota Imanaga. The energy in Tokyo is electric, with fans packing the 42,000-seat Tokyo Dome for exhibition games leading up to the main event. Cubs manager Craig Counsell captured the mood, stating, “Everybody’s very aware of the series… that’s a great feeling. The players love big events, that’s why we do this.”
A Pitching Showdown for the Ages
The first game of the series is poised to make history as it features the first all-Japanese pitching matchup on opening day in MLB history. Yoshinobu Yamamoto will take the mound for the Dodgers, facing off against Shota Imanaga of the Cubs. Yamamoto, entering his second season with the Dodgers, proved instrumental in their World Series victory last year, delivering a standout performance in Game 2 against the Yankees. With a 7-2 record and a 3.00 ERA in 2023, he has established himself as a formidable force. Imanaga, on the other hand, is coming off an impressive debut season with the Cubs, earning All-Star honors with a 15-3 record and a 2.91 ERA. The stage is set for a thrilling duel that will showcase the talent and determination of these two Japanese stars. Adding to the excitement, rookie Roki Sasaki will start for the Dodgers in the second game on Wednesday night, giving fans another chance to witness the future of baseball.
Young Talent on Full Display
The Chicago Cubs are banking on their young prospects to make a Splash in Tokyo, with third baseman Matt Shaw expected to make his MLB debut in the series. Shaw, a highly touted prospect and the No. 13 overall pick in 2020, earned his starting role after a stellar spring training. In 2023, he hit .284 with 21 home runs and 71 RBIs while splitting time between Double-A and Triple-A. His debut is a moment of pride for the Cubs organization and a testament to his hard work. Joining Shaw in the spotlight is outfielder Pete Crow-Armstrong, who is entering his third season with the Cubs. After a promising second half of 2023, expectations are high for him to take a significant step forward. Additionally, rookie second baseman Gage Workman could also make his MLB debut in Tokyo, further highlighting the Cubs’ emphasis on developing young talent.
Mookie Betts Sidelined Due to Illness
While the Dodgers are looking to defend their title, they will be without one of their key players, shortstop Mookie Betts, for the Tokyo series. Betts has been battling an illness for the past week, resulting in a significant weight loss of nearly 15 pounds. Manager Dave Roberts confirmed that while Betts is on the mend, he is still regaining strength and hydration. As a precaution, Betts may return to the United States early to prepare for the Dodgers’ domestic opener on March 27. In his absence, veteran Miguel Rojas will step in at shortstop. While the Dodgers are no strangers to overcoming adversity, Betts’ absence will undoubtedly be felt, especially in such a high-profile series.
A Wake-Up Call for U.S. Fans
For baseball enthusiasts in the United States, catching the Tokyo series will require an early wake-up call. Both games are scheduled to start at 7:10 p.m. Tokyo time, which translates to 6:10 a.m. Eastern Time. Fans in Chicago will need to rise and shine at 5:10 a.m., while those in Los Angeles will have it slightly easier with a 3:10 a.m. start time. Despite the early hours, the games will air nationally on Fox, giving fans across the country a chance to witness history. For those who can’t watch live, highlights and updates will be widely available, but there’s nothing quite like experiencing the magic of opening day in real time. Coffee will undoubtedly be flowing as fans tune in to cheer on their favorite teams.
Celebrating a Legacy of Baseball in Japan
The 2024 Tokyo series marks the 25th anniversary of the first MLB regular season games played in Japan. Back in 2000, the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs made history with a two-game series at the Tokyo Dome, paving the way for future international matchups. Since then, MLB has returned to Japan in 2004, 2008, 2012, and 2019, each time strengthening the bond between the league and its Japanese fans. The 2019 series, featuring the Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners, was particularly memorable as it honored the legendary Ichiro Suzuki, who played the final games of his career in his home country. Suzuki will be inducted into the Hall of Fame this summer, further cementing his legacy as one of baseball’s greatest ambassadors.
The Tokyo series is more than just a pair of games; it’s a celebration of baseball’s global reach and the incredible talent that defines the sport. As the Dodgers and Cubs take the field at the Tokyo Dome, they will not only be competing for early-season supremacy but also representing the shared passion of baseball that unites fans across the world. With history-making performances, rising stars, and a festive atmosphere, this series is the perfect way to kick off the 2024 MLB season.
