Wed Mar 19 10:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Roki Sasaki Dazzles in MLB Debut as Dodgers Win Tokyo Series Opener
**TOKYO, JAPAN** – The Los Angeles Dodgers secured a 4-1 victory over the Chicago Cubs in Game 2 of the Tokyo Series, highlighted by the electrifying Major League debut of Japanese pitching phenom Roki Sasaki. Sasaki, ranked MLB Pipeline’s No. 1 overall prospect, immediately impressed, hitting 100 mph on his third pitch and striking out Cubs star Seiya Suzuki with a 99.3 mph fastball in a dominant first inning. The game, broadcast on FS1, SportsNet LA, Marquee Sports Network and MLB.TV, followed a star-studded Opening Day that saw appearances from Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, and Shota Imanaga.
The Tokyo Dome witnessed a spectacular pre-game ceremony featuring traditional Japanese Taiko drummers and a performance of the national anthems by J-pop group Little Glee Monster. This followed Tuesday’s Pokémon-themed introductions. While the Dodgers celebrated Sasaki’s debut, they continued to be without star Freddie Freeman, who sat out a second consecutive game due to left rib discomfort. Despite Freeman’s absence, the Dodgers secured the series win, showcasing their strength even without one of their key players. The Cubs, meanwhile, will be looking to improve their performance as the regular season continues.
First Piper 