Dodgers Set to Feature Japanese Pitchers in Tokyo Opener
GLENDALE, Ariz. — The Los Angeles Dodgers are preparing for a unique start to their 2023 season as they head to Tokyo, Japan, to face off against the Chicago Cubs. Manager Dave Roberts has indicated that Yoshinobu Yamamoto is likely to take the mound in the first game on March 18. This decision comes as no surprise given Yamamoto’s solid performance in his rookie season. The 26-year-old left-hander posted an impressive 7-2 record with a 3.00 ERA over 18 starts, quickly earning the trust of the Dodgers’ coaching staff and fans alike. Roberts is keen to ensure that Yamamoto is well-prepared for this high-profile international debut, a moment that could solidify his place in the team’s rotation.
Roki Sasaki: The Rising Star
The second game of the series is equally anticipated, as it may mark the major league debut of Roki Sasaki. The 23-year-old right-hander has been making waves with his electric fastball, which has been clocked at over 100 mph. Last season, Sasaki was a standout pitcher for the Pacific League’s Chiba Lotte Marines, racking up a 10-5 record and a 2.35 ERA in 18 games. Despite a season cut short by shoulder inflammation, he managed to strike out 129 batters in just 111 innings, a testament to his raw talent and potential. Roberts is cautious about putting Sasaki in a specific box, emphasizing the importance of his well-being and ensuring he is in the best position to succeed when he takes the mound.
Exhibition Games: A Platform for Sasaki
Roberts also mentioned the possibility of Sasaki pitching in one of the Dodgers’ exhibition games in Tokyo before the season opener. While this is still under consideration, the manager is clear that the decision will depend on how Sasaki responds to spring training and his physical conditioning. The idea of giving Sasaki a taste of major league competition in an exhibition game is seen as a way to prepare him for the rigors of the MLB, allowing him to acclimate to the new environment without the pressure of a regular-season game. However, the primary goal remains to ensure that Sasaki is fully ready and confident for his debut.
Shohei Ohtani: The Dual-Threat Sensation
Adding to the excitement for Japanese fans, Shohei Ohtani is expected to be a key player in the series. Ohtani, a two-way star, has been a sensation both as a pitcher and a batter since his arrival in the MLB. His ability to dominate on the mound and contribute offensively makes him a must-watch for any baseball enthusiast. The presence of Ohtani, alongside Yamamoto and Sasaki, ensures that the Dodgers will have a strong contingent of Japanese talent on display, further enriching the connection between the team and its international fan base.
Cubs’ Japanese Representation: Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki
The Cubs, while not as heavily represented by Japanese players, will also bring two notable Japanese talents to Tokyo. Shota Imanaga, a 24-year-old left-hander, and Seiya Suzuki, a 25-year-old outfielder, add an interesting dynamic to the series. Imanaga, like Sasaki, has been in the developmental stages and could see action in the exhibition games or even the regular-season matchups. Suzuki, who burst onto the scene in 2022, is already a fan favorite and will be eager to showcase his skills on home soil. The inclusion of these players promises to provide a balanced and engaging series for Japanese fans, celebrating the growing presence of Japanese talent in the MLB.
A Historic Series for Japanese Baseball Fans
The Tokyo series is not just a pair of baseball games; it’s a historic event that highlights the global reach of Major League Baseball. For Japanese fans, the opportunity to see their favorite players, both homegrown and internationally renowned, in action on their home turf is unprecedented. The series is expected to draw large crowds and generate significant media attention, serving as a bridge between the two nations and a platform to showcase the best of baseball. As the Dodgers and Cubs prepare for this international showcase, the focus is not only on the competitive aspect but also on fostering goodwill and promoting the sport across borders.
