The Tokyo Dome has seen a lot of historic moments. But on March 18th, 2025, it witnessed something even more historic. The Chicago Cubs were facing off against the Los Angeles Dodgers on a global stage. Among thousands of fans, one stood out, not because of his identity, but because of how much he cares. Bill Murray, the ultimate Cubs loyalist, created another historic moment. He stood right there, breathing every moment like it was Game 7 of the World Series.

Bill Murray has unconditional love for the Chicago Cubs. Although the Tokyo series opener didn’t go the way they wanted to, the Hollywood icon wasn’t about to let that instance lower his spirits. During an interview, Murray shook off the loss with the kind of charm only he can pull off. He beautifully stated while smirking under his signature Cubs cap, “Wins, losses, jet lag—I don’t care. This is my team for life,” as if the scores didn’t even matter to him.

Tokyo Skytree became a watch party hotspot, and an exclusive collection of MLB memorabilia was put on display. The event brought together all legendary sports figures, such as Billie Jean King and Ken Griffey Jr. But for Murray, all of this was secondary. The only thing on his mind was the Cubs.

From heartbreaks to miracles, Bill Murray has been through it all in Cubs history. Even with the stadium halfway across the world, Bill Murray was still there, cheering and believing. He portrayed what a real fan looks like.

Matt Shaw makes a highly anticipated Tokyo debut

For Matt Shaw, the opening day was simply a crowning point of years of hard work, endless practice sessions, and the echo of hearing his name announced in a major league lineup. His debut took place under the bright lights of Tokyo Dome while thousands of fans roared as the Cubs kicked off their season in Japan.

The young rookie was introduced fifth in the Cubs’ lineup. He is immersed in the atmosphere as they take place at third base. It was an overwhelming moment that will stay with him forever. Shaw stated, “I’ll remember everything. You try to take in everything the whole time.”

Even though the Cubs came up short, losing 4-1 to the Dodgers, Shaw checked off a huge milestone—his major league debut. He secured his place in less than two years after he was drafted 13th overall in 2023. His fast climb through the Cubs system was a legitimate achievement. He was consistent throughout, climbing from High-A to Double-A in 2023 with a 1.018 OPS before shifting to third base in 2024 and touching Triple-A Iowa by season’s end.

Cubs manager, Craig Counsell said, “Since we drafted Matt, every challenge that’s been put in front of him, he’s thrived in. You put a challenge in front of him; he wins the challenge.” But facing major league pitching is the toughest test yet. Shaw’s first exposure to it came against Dodgers ace Yoshinobu Yamamoto, which resulted in a bounce out. Then, he struck out twice, once on one of Yamamoto’s go-to splitters and a second time, on a 97.7 mph fastball from Tanner Scott to end the game.

Shaw had some bumps when it came to defense, but still, he cherished the entire experience. He stated, “There’s a ton of emotions… and then, you’re just playing another baseball game once it starts.”. Well, this was just the beginning for Shaw; the true journey starts now.