The Chicago Cubs, fresh off shaking their offseason dust, are more than ready to start their 2025 season. However, there’s something extra special this year.

The excitement builds as the team prepares for an extraordinary start to the season: a trip to Japan! They’ll be visiting Japan for the Tokyo Series alongside the Los Angeles Dodgers, an incredible chance to kick off the season on the global stage. The stakes are at an all-time high, and there is one player who is at the center of attention: Shota Imanaga, the Cubs’ star Japanese pitcher.

Chicago Cubs manager Craig Counsell was fully aware of the weight this series holds. When he was asked about Imanaga’s role in the series openers, he couldn’t hold back but express his lighthearted take. “Yes, Shota’s going to pitch in Japan. I think that’s mandated. I don’t think I have a choice,” he grinned, acknowledging both the importance of the event and the inevitable role Imanaga would play. It is obvious since Imanaga is currently the Cub’s best starter.

Cubs fans are excited to see the 29-year-old ace on such a global stage. His ability to shut down lineups will be crucial in what is supposedly a high-profile start for the season. He will be the most counted on to set the tone for the Cubs. The team is also preparing for a second strong outing from lefty Justin Steele, who will likely take the mound in the second game, barring any setbacks during spring training.

For the Cubs, this Tokyo series isn’t just about winning. It is an opportunity to showcase to the world, at a mega stage, their growing talent and ambition. Whether in front of a packed stadium in Japan or the passionate Cubs fanbase back home, this is a moment that could shape the future of the 2025 season. The Cubs are there not just to contend; they are determined to make it count!

Cubs’ Tokyo showdown: Can they topple the Dodgers?

The stage is set for a new baseball chapter for the Chicago Cubs. A perfect start to their 2025 season with an international exhibition against the Los Angeles Dodgers in Tokyo. With new faces, a fresh mindset, and trump cards like Shota Imanaga, the obvious question arises. Can the Cubs take down the mighty Dodgers?

The Cubs are hungry to prove they can compete with the league’s best, and a strong showing against the Dodgers could be just what they need to kickstart their season. The Los Angeles Dodgers are no doubt one of the most dominant sides, although not invincible. Although a powerhouse overall, there are certain flaws. The Cubs, with their strong roster and focused mindset, will look to exploit any vulnerabilities. Even the defending champions have been hit by offseason changes, and their pitching staff, while strong, isn’t unbeatable. With game-changing stars like Kyle Tucker and Shota Imanaga, they can prove to be serious challengers to the Dodgers.

A victory over the Dodgers would make a bold statement, not only to the rest of the MLB but also to the Cubs’ fanbase. They have just the right pieces, talent, and a strong ambition. However, the question of whether they will topple the Dodgers will be answered under the bright lights of Tokyo!