LA Dodgers (1-0) at Chi Cubs (0-1)
- When: Mar 19 2025, 6:10 AM
- Where: Tokyo Dome, Tokyo
- Where to watch: FOX
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Chicago Cubs: Betting Preview & Predictions
Dodgers Favored at -157 | Total Set at 8.0 Runs
Los Angeles Dodgers
After securing a 4-1 win in the Tokyo Series opener, the Dodgers look to keep their momentum going behind Japanese pitching sensation Roki Sasaki. The 23-year-old right-hander makes his much-anticipated MLB debut, having dominated in the Cactus League with seven strikeouts over seven scoreless innings. Known for his triple-digit fastball and historic strikeout performances in Japan, Sasaki could be the next dominant arm in Los Angeles’ already stacked rotation.
Shohei Ohtani, fresh off a two-hit, two-run performance, will look to build on his strong season opener. Meanwhile, Freddie Freeman remains questionable with rib discomfort, but Enrique Hernandez and Michael Conforto filled in seamlessly in Game 1. The Dodgers’ bullpen also flexed its strength, combining for five strikeouts and no hits allowed over four innings, reinforcing why L.A. is a top contender this season.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs need to bounce back after an error-filled opener, where they went 0-for-16 at the plate following Ian Happ’s third-inning single. Left-hander Justin Steele will take the mound, hoping to give Chicago a chance at a split in the two-game series. Steele was the Cubs’ ace last season, finishing with a 3.07 ERA and earning All-Star honors. He has been solid against the Dodgers in past outings, posting a 2-1 record with a 3.00 ERA across three appearances.
While Steele provides stability on the mound, the Cubs will need better discipline at the plate and cleaner defensive play. Shota Imanaga’s four walks in the season opener put them in a hole early, and defensive miscues cost them additional runs. If Chicago hopes to keep this one close, their lineup must find ways to produce against Sasaki and avoid the same self-inflicted mistakes that plagued them in Game 1.
Prediction
The Dodgers have the clear edge with Sasaki’s electric arm making its debut, coupled with their deep bullpen and a lineup headlined by Ohtani. Chicago’s offensive struggles and defensive lapses in the opener don’t inspire much confidence, even with Steele on the mound.
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Cubs 2
Best Bet: Dodgers ML (-157)
Lean: Under 8.0 (-105)
- MLB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
