LA Dodgers (0-0) at Chi Cubs (0-0)
- When: Mar 18 2025, 6:10 AM
- Where: Tokyo Dome, Tokyo
- Where to watch: FOX
MLB Opening Day in Tokyo: Dodgers vs. Cubs
Dodgers (-164) | Total: 8.0 Runs
The 2025 MLB season officially kicks off with an international showdown as the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs clash in the Tokyo Series, a two-game set featuring some of Japan’s biggest baseball stars. Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and the Dodgers take on fellow countrymen Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki, making this a highly anticipated event for fans in Japan and worldwide.
This opener will feature a pitching duel between Yamamoto and Imanaga, both of whom had strong rookie seasons in the majors last year.
Los Angeles Dodgers Outlook
2024 Record: 98-64 (NL West Champions) | 2024 World Series Champions
The defending World Series champions are looking to start another dominant season, and they’ll do so behind their ace from Japan, Yoshinobu Yamamoto. The right-hander went 7-2 with a 3.00 ERA last year and had strong performances against Chicago, striking out eight batters in both of his outings against the Cubs.
But all eyes will be on Shohei Ohtani, who returns to Japan as the reigning National League MVP. After making MLB history with a 50-50 season (54 HRs, 59 SBs), Ohtani suffered a labrum tear in the World Series, forcing him out of action. Now, he’s back and already showing no signs of rust, launching a two-run homer in an exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants over the weekend.
One major setback for Los Angeles is the absence of Mookie Betts, who has been ruled out due to an illness. He reportedly lost close to 15 pounds, and manager Dave Roberts confirmed he may fly back to the U.S. early to prepare for the March 27 home opener against Detroit. Miguel Rojas will take over at shortstop in Betts’ absence.
Key Dodgers Player Props to Watch
Shohei Ohtani Over 1.5 Total Bases: Playing in front of a home crowd, expect Ohtani to make an early statement.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto Over 6.5 Strikeouts: Given his previous success against Chicago, he should rack up Ks.
Freddie Freeman to Record an RBI: With Betts out, Freeman will take on more responsibility in the heart of the lineup.
Chicago Cubs Outlook
2024 Record: 83-79 (2nd in NL Central, Missed Playoffs)
The Cubs narrowly missed the playoffs last season, and they’ll be looking to make an early statement in Tokyo. Chicago will send Shota Imanaga to the mound, who impressed in his MLB debut season with a 15-3 record and 2.91 ERA. He was also strong against the Dodgers, going 1-0 with a 2.45 ERA in two starts against them.
Seiya Suzuki, another Japanese-born star, is excited to be back in Tokyo, where he had tremendous success in the Nippon Professional Baseball League. Suzuki, now in his third MLB season, will look to help boost an offense that struggled at times last season.
One of the biggest offseason moves for the Cubs was acquiring Kyle Tucker from the Houston Astros. The three-time All-Star brings much-needed power to the lineup, and he should play a major role this season as the Cubs try to snap a four-year playoff drought.
Key Cubs Player Props to Watch
Seiya Suzuki Over 0.5 Hits: Playing in front of a Japanese crowd, he should thrive in his return home.
Kyle Tucker to Hit a Home Run: The slugger adds a power presence, and Dodgers’ pitching may not have fully scouted him yet.
Shota Imanaga Over 5.5 Strikeouts: He held his own against L.A. last year, and could punch out plenty of batters again.
Final Prediction & Betting Analysis
With two strong pitchers on the mound and the excitement of opening day, this game could start off slow offensively before the big bats wake up late. Ohtani, Freeman, and Suzuki are all prime candidates to deliver key hits, but the absence of Mookie Betts could make a difference for L.A.
However, the Dodgers’ overall firepower gives them the edge, and Yamamoto should be able to outduel Imanaga in the opener.
Final Score Prediction: Dodgers 5, Cubs 2
Best Bet: Dodgers ML (-164)
Lean: the Under 8.0 (-120) (Opening-day jitters, strong pitching matchups, and jet lag could keep this game under)
- MLB Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
