By Los Angeles, CA – On March 12, 2025, MLB insider Bob Nightengale tweeted at 12:07 p.m. ET about the Los Angeles Dodgers’ upcoming “world tour” in the 2025 MLB Tokyo Series, spotlighting Shohei Ohtani and the team’s potential to dazzle fans in Japan. The post, shared on X with a link to USA Today, hyped the two-game set against the Chicago Cubs on March 18-19 at Tokyo Dome, marking the MLB season’s opening and promising an “insane” spectacle.
Just how ‘insane’ will Dodgers’ Japan Series be? Shohei Ohtani and Co. resume world tour https://t.co/br1ZJbiL5C
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) March 12, 2025
Shohei Ohtani, the Japanese two-way phenom, is the centerpiece of this international showcase. After signing a record-breaking $700 million deal with the Dodgers in December 2023, Ohtani delivered a historic 2024 season with 50 home runs and 50 stolen bases, cementing his global stardom. His presence, alongside teammates Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki—both Japanese pitching sensations—makes the Dodgers a must-watch, especially in Japan, where Ohtani’s 2024 World Baseball Classic triumph with Team Japan still echoes. Nightengale’s tweet taps into the excitement, suggesting this series could redefine baseball’s reach in Asia.
The Tokyo Series, part of MLB’s push to expand globally, follows the Dodgers’ 2024 World Series win, adding to their momentum. The Cubs, featuring Japanese stars Shota Imanaga and Seiya Suzuki, promise a fierce rivalry, but the Dodgers’ star power, including Ohtani’s anticipated pitching return in 2025, steals the spotlight. Fans on X are buzzing, with some calling it “Ohtani’s homecoming” and others debating its impact on the 162-game season, given the early March timing.
Nightengale’s coverage, linked to USA Today, highlights the logistical challenges—jet lag, time zones—but emphasizes the cultural celebration. With tickets sold out to U.S. fans in January and local excitement peaking, this series could boost MLB’s Asian market, following Ohtani’s record-breaking draw. As Opening Day nears, the Dodgers’ Japan adventure promises unforgettable moments, potentially setting the stage for a dominant 2025 campaign. Baseball fans worldwide are gearing up for what Nightengale calls an “insane” start to the season.
