Dodgers Prepare for Electrifying Season Opener in Japan with Shohei Ohtani Leading the Charge

The Los Angeles Dodgers are set to kick off the 2025 MLB season in electrifying fashion, traveling to Tokyo, Japan, for a highly anticipated showdown against the Chicago Cubs. This marks the second consecutive year the Dodgers will begin their season overseas, following their 2024 opener in South Korea.

However, this year’s event promises to be even more historic, as Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki return home to adulation from their Japanese fans.

Teoscar Hernández Anticipates a Wild Atmosphere in Tokyo

Among the Dodgers players heading to Japan is slugger Teoscar Hernández, who signed with LA this offseason. Hernández, like the rest of the team, is eager to witness the reception that awaits Ohtani and his fellow countrymen in their home nation.

“It’s going to be absolutely crazy over there. It’s going to be so wild just watching people react towards Shohei. We’re all looking forward to seeing that,’’ Hernández said via USA Today.

With Ohtani being the biggest global star in baseball, Hernández believes the atmosphere will be akin to a rock concert, with Japanese fans treating their homegrown heroes like legends.

Dodgers President: “This Will Feel Like a Parade Every Day”

Dodgers President Stan Kasten echoed Hernández’s excitement, noting that the reception for Ohtani, Yamamoto, and Sasaki could rival the team’s 2020 World Series parade.

“We think the reception that this team, especially because of Shohei, Yoshi, and Roki, will feel the way our [World Series] parade felt every day we’re there. This is going to be off the charts.”

With Japan’s love for baseball at an all-time high, Kasten anticipates unmatched enthusiasm from the Tokyo crowd when the Dodgers take the field.

Dodgers’ Japanese Superstars to Receive Hero’s Welcome

For Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki, the Tokyo Series will be more than just a season opener—it will be a homecoming celebration.

The Japanese trio has already transformed the Dodgers into a global phenomenon, with millions of fans tuning in to watch their games. Their return to Japan in Dodgers uniforms is expected to captivate an entire nation.

Tyler Glasnow: “It’s Going to Be Justin Bieber Times 10”

Dodgers pitcher Tyler Glasnow, who joined the team this offseason, compared the expected fan reaction to a pop culture frenzy.

“It’s going to be insane. It’s going to be like Justin Bieber times 10 over there.”

The excitement surrounding Ohtani’s return will be unlike anything seen before in baseball, as fans in Japan get a rare opportunity to see their biggest superstar play on home soil.

Austin Barnes: “I Have No Idea How Shohei Will Even Move Around”

Catcher Austin Barnes also acknowledged that the experience could be overwhelming for the team’s Japanese players.

“I have no idea how Shohei and those guys are going to maneuver over there.”

Given the level of fame Ohtani has reached in Japan, simple things like walking through a hotel lobby or entering a ballpark might prove challenging due to adoring fans eager to catch a glimpse of their hero.

The Dodgers’ Growing Connection to Japan

The Los Angeles Dodgers have rapidly become the team of Japan, thanks to their unprecedented collection of Japanese talent.

• Shohei Ohtani: The biggest star in baseball, fresh off a record-breaking $700 million contract
• Yoshinobu Yamamoto: The ace pitcher, who signed a 12-year, $325 million deal
• Roki Sasaki: The rising phenom, expected to be a future star in MLB

With Ohtani leading the way, the Dodgers have garnered millions of new Japanese fans, making their Tokyo visit even more special.

Dodgers vs. Cubs: A Historic Opening Series

The Dodgers and Cubs will play two official regular-season games in Tokyo before returning to the U.S.

📅 Game 1: March 20, 2025
📅 Game 2: March 21, 2025

After the Japan Series, the Dodgers will fly back to the U.S. and resume their season on March 27, when the rest of MLB kicks off Opening Day.

Final Thoughts: A Baseball Spectacle in the Making

The 2025 MLB season opener in Japan is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated international series in baseball history.

With Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki leading the Dodgers into a country that adores them, expect record-breaking crowds, massive media attention, and an electric atmosphere.

For the Dodgers, this trip represents more than just baseball—it’s a global celebration of the sport and its biggest stars.