Anthony Arroyo
The Dodgers’ series-opening win against the Chicago Cubs sent a clear message: this series was about more than wins and losses, showcasing Dodger baseball’s international appeal and legacy. Even without superstars Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman, the Dodgers demonstrated their depth and resilience, delivering a thrilling performance on the global stage and further strengthening their deep ties to Japanese baseball.
For those unfamiliar, the Dodgers have a storied connection to Japanese baseball. Legends like Hideo Nomo, Kenta Maeda, Yu Darvish, and Hiroki Kuroda paved the way. This legacy continues to thrive with Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Roki Sasaki on the roster. Nomo, in particular, was the first Japanese-born player in decades to join Major League Baseball when he signed with the Dodgers in 1995. His success opened the door for countless Japanese stars to follow, further intertwining the histories of the NPB and MLB.
The Tokyo Series is more than just a marketing strategy for Major League Baseball; it is a celebration of the game shared by the United States and Japan. Baseball has been beloved in Japan, and the country has produced some of the sport’s most extraordinary talents.
Events like these bridge the two baseball cultures, strengthening ties and fostering mutual respect between leagues and fan bases. Following last season’s international series in South Korea, MLB has made it clear that expanding baseball’s global reach is a top priority.
Using historic franchises like the Chicago Cubs to promote the sport is brilliant. The Cubs’ roster features Japanese stars Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki, continuing a tradition that includes former Cubs like Yu Darvish, Koji Uehara, Kyuji Fujikawa, and Kosuke Fukudome.
Fukudome, in particular, made an unforgettable debut with the Cubs in 2008, hitting a game-tying three-run homer on Opening Day and instantly winning over the fans as the first Japanese-born player to play for the franchise. The presence of these players not only enhances the competitive nature of the series but also serves as a point of pride for Japanese baseball fans who witness their homegrown stars shine on an international stage.
Even with the Dodgers sweeping the series, the significance of this event extends far beyond the final scores. For fans in attendance, witnessing moments like Ohtani’s home run, Sasaki’s first professional strikeout, or Imanaga’s pitching performance created memories that will last a lifetime. This makes baseball unique: its ability to inspire, connect generations, and ignite a passion for the game to new audiences.
MLB’s ongoing international efforts are building a more substantial global fan base, ensuring that the love for baseball endures. As the game evolves, its essence remains: uniting people through unforgettable moments, shared traditions, and a timeless passion for the sport.
The success of the Tokyo Series marks another step forward in baseball’s mission to become a truly global game, fostering deeper appreciation and engagement across borders. This momentum is expected to grow as the World Baseball Classic is scheduled for next year, ahead of the 2026 MLB season.
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