Dodgers v. Cubs Take Tokyo: A World Stage Two-Game Matchup

July 3, 2024: Freddie Freeman celebrating with Shohei Ohtani and Will Smith after hitting a three-run home run against the Arizona Diamondbacks. Courtesy of Getty Images.

The Major League Baseball season starts big with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs heading to Tokyo, Japan for a two-game series. This matchup means more than just an early-in-the-season head-to-head; it is a stage for baseball to shine on the world scene, with two historical franchises facing off in Japan.

There have been past games played in Japan, Mexico, and London that have propelled the sport to greater heights. This series not only strengthens MLB’s ties to Japan, a country with a deep baseball tradition, but it also serves as an opportunity for Japanese fans to see top-tier talent on their home turf.

September 11, 2024: Max Muncy of the Los Angeles Dodgers makes the out against Michael Busch of the Chicago Cubs. Courtesy of Getty Images.

Both teams have high hopes for their season ahead. The Dodgers, perennial contenders, have a star-studded lineup and championship aspirations. The Cubs however are attempting to revive their status as a contender team. After a few years of inconsistency following their 2016 World Series victory, the Cubs are hoping a mix of young talent and veteran leadership will bring them back to playoff relevance. In Tokyo, these two games could set the tone for their season, providing an early test for both rosters.

In Japan, the love for baseball runs deep and this series is a special moment for the sport. The Tokyo Dome is going to give a unique atmosphere. Between the dimensions and artificial turf, the stadium can affect gameplay. The turf can impact infield defense and baserunning strategies, giving both teams something to adjust to in this unfamiliar setting. Along with this, Japanese fans are known for their enthusiastic support, and they create an electric environment that is going to differ from a typical MLB game. 

June 12, 2024: Patrick Wisdom celebrates scoring with Christopher Morel on a home run by Cody Bellinger against the Tampa Bay Rays. Courtesy of Getty Images.

This series highlights the MLB’s continued efforts to globalize the game. Japan has produced some of the league’s biggest stars, including Shohei Ohtani, Ichiro Suzuki, and Hideo Nomo. This event is both a tribute to Japan’s influence on baseball and an opportunity to further connect with international fans. For young Japanese players watching in the stands, seeing MLB action live in Tokyo could be a big inspiration to pursue careers at the highest level.

As the Dodgers and Cubs square off, the series will not only provide thrilling baseball action but also strengthen the relationship between MLB and Japan. Fans will watch a clash of two historic teams in a setting that celebrates baseball’s global appeal. This series is more than just two early-season games — it’s a celebration of baseball’s worldwide reach.

Edited by Brittany Snow