Dodgers Sweep Cubs in Tokyo Series, Launching World Series Title Defense
The Los Angeles Dodgers showcased their championship mettle, completing a dominant two-game sweep of the Chicago Cubs in the Tokyo Series on Wednesday. In a captivating contest held at the iconic Tokyo Dome, the Dodgers emerged victorious with a 6-3 scoreline, broadcast to a global audience on FOX Sports. This impressive series win marks a strong start to their campaign to defend their World Series title.
Despite missing key players Freddie Freeman, sidelined with a rib injury, and Mookie Betts, battling illness, the Dodgers demonstrated their depth and resilience. The team’s offensive prowess was on full display as they pounced on Cubs’ starting pitcher Justin Steele early in the game, setting the tone for their eventual victory.
The Dodgers’ offense ignited in the second inning when Max Muncy delivered a powerful double off a hanging breaking ball. This crucial hit positioned runners on second and third with only one out, creating a prime scoring opportunity. Will Smith, the Dodgers catcher, capitalized on this chance, scoring the game’s first run on a passed ball. Muncy advanced to third during the play, further intensifying the pressure on the Cubs. Kiké Hernandez then stepped up to the plate and delivered a sacrifice fly to center field, driving Muncy home and extending the Dodgers’ lead to 2-0.
In the subsequent inning, Tommy Edman added to the Dodgers’ momentum with a towering solo home run into the left-field bleachers. This blast, a high fastball that Edman launched into the stands, was the first home run of the 2025 MLB season, a symbolic moment that further solidified the Dodgers’ early dominance.
The Dodgers’ offensive explosion provided ample support for their starting pitcher, Roki Sasaki, who made his highly anticipated major league debut. The 23-year-old pitching sensation showcased glimpses of his potential, pitching three innings and allowing only one run on a single hit. However, Sasaki’s command wavered at times, as he walked five batters during his outing, revealing areas for future improvement.
The Cubs managed to score their lone run against Sasaki in the bottom of the third inning. Right fielder Kyle Tucker drew a walk with the bases loaded, allowing second baseman Jon Berti to cross the plate. This run reduced the Dodgers’ lead to 3-1, offering a glimmer of hope for a Cubs comeback.
Undeterred, the Dodgers responded swiftly in the top of the fourth inning. Kiké Hernandez continued his stellar performance, crushing an inside fastball for a two-run home run into the left-field seats. This impressive display of power extended the Dodgers’ lead to 5-1 and highlighted Hernandez’s significant contribution to the team’s success, finishing the game with three RBIs.
Justin Steele, the Cubs’ starting pitcher, endured a difficult outing. He was tagged with the loss after surrendering five runs across four innings of work in his season debut. The Dodgers’ relentless offense proved too much for Steele to handle, underscoring the challenges facing the Cubs.
The Cubs countered with a run of their own in the bottom of the fourth inning, with Ian Happ driving in a run with a single, making the score 5-2. While this run offered a slight improvement, the Cubs still faced a significant deficit.
Shohei Ohtani, fresh off scoring two runs in the Dodgers’ victory on Tuesday, joined the home run party in the top of the fifth inning. He launched a powerful shot off Cubs reliever Nate Pearson. The home run was initially subject to review due to potential fan interference, but after careful consideration, the call stood, and the Dodgers extended their lead to 6-2. Ohtani’s contribution further solidified the Dodgers’ offensive dominance.
Cubs’ shortstop Dansby Swanson responded with a run-scoring double in the bottom of the fifth inning, narrowing the gap to 6-3. However, this would be the final scoring play of the game, as the Dodgers’ pitching staff managed to shut down the Cubs’ offense for the remainder of the contest.
The Cubs mounted a late threat in the ninth inning, bringing the tying run to the plate. However, Dodgers closer Alex Vesia slammed the door shut, securing the win and completing the series sweep. Vesia’s clutch performance ensured that the Dodgers maintained their lead and emerged victorious. Dodgers reliever Landon Knack was credited with the win, as he pitched two scoreless innings in the sixth and seventh innings, striking out three Cubs hitters. Knack’s performance highlighted the depth of the Dodgers’ bullpen.
With the Tokyo Series sweep, the Dodgers demonstrated their championship pedigree and began their World Series title defense with a perfect 2-0 start. The team will now return to the United States to participate in additional spring training games before resuming the regular season on March 27, when they will face the Detroit Tigers.
The Cubs, mirroring the Dodgers’ itinerary, will return home to play a few more spring training games before commencing their regular season against the Arizona Diamondbacks on March 27. The Cubs will aim to rebound from their 0-2 start and demonstrate their potential as contenders in the National League.
The Tokyo Series provided an exciting glimpse into the upcoming MLB season, showcasing the talent and competitiveness of both the Dodgers and the Cubs. While the Dodgers emerged as the clear victors in this international showdown, both teams will undoubtedly strive for success as the season progresses.
