The much-anticipated 2025 MLB season will ignite with an electrifying matchup that takes baseball back to its international roots, as the Los Angeles Dodgers face off against the Chicago Cubs in Tokyo, Japan. This opening series, dubbed the Tokyo Series, promises a blend of high stakes and unique cultural significance, particularly with prominent Japanese players on both rosters. As the reigning World Series champions, the Dodgers look to defend their title, while the Cubs are eager to challenge them and snap a playoff drought.
Match Info
- MLB Tokyo Series
- Tuesday, 18 March 2025, 06:00 EST / 11:00 GMT
- Tokyo Dome, Tokyo, Japan
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers, last season’s champions, are riding high with MVP Shohei Ohtani leading the charge. Ohtani, last season’s National League MVP, displayed his unparalleled skills by achieving the first 50-home-run, 50-stolen-base season in MLB history. Now fully recovered from a shoulder injury sustained in last year’s World Series, Ohtani proved his readiness by hitting a two-run homer in a recent exhibition match. Yoshinobu Yamamoto, another key player for the Dodgers, boasts a solid record from last season and will be starting on the mound. The absence of Mookie Betts due to illness will be felt, but Miguel Rojas is set to step in, ensuring the team remains competitive. 
Chicago Cubs
The Chicago Cubs are lining up with equal fervour. Shota Imanaga, the Cubs’ starter for the series, had a stellar debut season, earning a spot on the NL All-Star team and a near win in the Cy Young and Rookie of the Year races. Seiya Suzuki, returning to a familiar stadium, brings local experience and a storied career from his time in Nippon Professional Baseball, enhancing the Cubs’ strategic depth. Additionally, Kyle Tucker, a recent addition from Houston, is expected to inject power and consistency into the Cubs’ lineup, aiming to elevate the team above last season’s second-place finish in the NL Central and break their playoff absence.
This Tokyo Series not only represents a high-caliber sporting event but also a significant cultural exchange, promising thrilling baseball action against a backdrop of international camaraderie.
America Bet Match Winner Prediction
Los Angeles Dodgers to win
The Los Angeles Dodgers enter the Tokyo Series as the reigning World Series champions and possess a roster that’s both deep and talented. With Shohei Ohtani, last season’s MVP, back in form and demonstrating his prowess in recent exhibitions, the Dodgers have a significant advantage. The absence of Mookie Betts is notable, but the team’s overall strength and the presence of seasoned players like Yoshinobu Yamamoto on the mound make them the favourites to take the opener against the Cubs.
America Bet Score Prediction
Los Angeles Dodgers 5 – 3 Chicago Cubs
The prediction leans towards a Dodgers victory with a scoreline of 5-3. The Dodgers’ powerful lineup, led by Shohei Ohtani, combined with Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s solid pitching, suggests they can outscore the Cubs. While Chicago’s lineup, enhanced by Kyle Tucker and the strategic pitching of Shota Imanaga, will keep the game competitive, the Dodgers’ overall momentum from last season and their robust offensive capabilities give them the upper hand in this matchup.
America Bet Betting Tips
- Dodgers to win.
- Over 7.5 total runs.
- Shohei Ohtani to hit at least one home run.
- Yoshinobu Yamamoto over 5 strikeouts.
- Cubs under 4 total runs.
- Dodgers to score first.
- Total hits over 8.5.
- First inning scoreless.
- Kyle Tucker to get at least one RBI.
- Game to be decided by less than 3 runs.
