MLB Tokyo Series: Dodgers and Cubs Set for Early Season Showdown in Japan
MLB’s regular season gets an early start this year, with the Dodgers and Cubs facing off in Tokyo a full week before the traditional Opening Day festivities.
For the second straight year, the Dodgers will begin their season on international soil. This time, the defending World Series champions head to Japan to take on the Cubs in the Tokyo Series. It’s MLB’s return to Japan after a five-year absence, continuing the league’s efforts to showcase baseball globally.
The series features a remarkable collection of Japanese talent. The Dodgers bring superstar Shohei Ohtani, prized offseason acquisition Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and highly touted newcomer Roki Sasaki. The Cubs counter with their own Japanese stars in Shoto Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki.
What to Know About the Tokyo Series
These aren’t exhibition games. The two-game set counts toward the regular season standings despite taking place during what would normally be Spring Training. The Cubs will be the designated home team for both contests.
The teams will play seven total games against each other this season, with the Tokyo matchups being the first two. The early scheduling gives both clubs time to adjust to the significant time difference before returning to their regular MLB schedules.
First pitch for both games is set for 6:10 a.m. ET (7:10 p.m. local time in Tokyo) on March 18-19. The opener will air on Fox, with the second game shifting to FS1.
The pitching matchups highlight the Japanese influence on the series. Game one features Yoshinobu Yamamoto against Shoto Imanaga, while Roki Sasaki makes his MLB debut in his home country in game two, facing the Cubs’ Justin Steele.
MLB has been expanding its international presence for three decades now. This marks the sixth time regular season games have been played in Tokyo since 2000. Last year, the Dodgers opened in Seoul, Korea – MLB’s first games there. The league has also held regular season contests in Puerto Rico, Mexico, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
Regular MLB Opening Day Schedule
The traditional MLB Opening Day follows on Thursday, March 27, with all 30 teams in action. The full slate includes:
- Brewers @ Yankees – 3:05 p.m. ET, ESPN
- Orioles @ Blue Jays – 3:07 p.m. ET
- Red Sox @ Rangers – 4:05 p.m. ET
- Phillies @ Nationals – 4:05 p.m. ET
- Guardians @ Royals – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Mets @ Astros – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Giants @ Reds – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Braves @ Padres – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Angels @ White Sox – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Twins @ Cardinals – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Pirates @ Marlins – 4:10 p.m. ET
- Tigers @ Dodgers – 7:10 p.m. ET, ESPN
- Cubs @ Diamondbacks – 10:10 p.m. ET
- Athletics @ Mariners – 10:10 p.m. ET
After the Tokyo Series, the Cubs and Dodgers will meet again for a three-game set in Los Angeles (April 11-13) and a two-game series in Chicago (April 22-23).
