Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts revealed the plans for his team’s pitching for their opening series at Tokyo Dome against the Chicago Cubs. This highly anticipated series of two games, which will take place in Tokyo on March 18-19th, is expected to feature many baseball stars.
Roberts has confirmed that Yoshinobu Yammoto, Dodgers prized right handed pitcher, will start the first game. Roki Saksaki could start the Game 2 as well, if he is officially added to 40-man squad. The pairing of these two Japan-born pitchers is likely to draw a lot of attention from local fans.
Dave Roberts expects Yoshinobu Yammoto to start #Dodgers First game in Tokyo v Cubs. Roki Sasaki may start the second game
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) February 12, 2025
Chicago Cubs also plan to use a Japanese pitcher for the entire series. Craig Counsell had indicated previously that Shota Imanagaga, a left-handed player who is also Japanese, would start at least one game for Chicago. The two Japanese pitchers will now face off in Tokyo.
When asked if Shota Imanaga would start the first game against the Dodgers next month in Tokyo, Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell laughed.
Yes, Shota will pitch in Japan. This is a requirement. “I don’t believe I have any choice.— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) February 9, 2025
Yoshinobu Yammoto spent his first spring with the Dodgers in 2014 after signing an important 10-year contract. Tyler Glasnow was the starter for the opener in Seoul, South Korea. Yamamoto, however, took over the pitching duties for Game 2 of that game. In Tokyo this season, it appears that the Dodgers will give Yamamoto the nod for Game 1, confirming his status as a vital member of their staff. Roki’s possible addition for Game 2 is a further indication of the Dodgers’ commitment to using international talent.
Roki Sasaki has been the subject of much discussion since he signed a contract in minor leagues with the Dodgers due to MLB rules regarding international free agents. Roberts’ remarks suggest Sasaki will be playing in the first games of this season, even though there is no deadline for adding him to the Dodgers 40-man roster. As the new season nears, keep an eye out for the Dodgers to determine how Sasaki will be affected. Dodgers have made a major investment to acquire elite Japanese pitchers.
Yoshinobu YAMAMOTO was 26 when he made his debut in the regular season. He had a 7-2 mark and a 3.00 ERA. After sustaining a shoulder strain in the middle of the season, Yoshinobu Yamamoto returned to his role as a major contributor to Dodgers World Series victory. He had a 2-0 postseason record with a 3.86 ERA. He was outstanding in the Game 5 National League Division Series matchup against the San Diego Padres.
Yamamoto was instrumental in helping the Los Angeles Dodgers win three out of four playoff games he started. This shows his contribution in critical moments. In 2025, the Dodgers will be counting on Yamamoto’s continued success. This includes a prominent appearance in Japan.