MLB Tokyo Series: Dodgers vs Cubs Prediction 3/18
- Lm Tipster
- Mar 18, 2025, 6:33:58 AM
Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Chicago Cubs: MLB Tokyo Series Betting Preview
Introduction
The Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs open the 2025 MLB season in the highly anticipated Tokyo Series at the Tokyo Dome on March 18, 2025. This unique matchup features two teams with high expectations, both looking to start their regular-season campaign with a win. With elite Japanese pitchers Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Shota Imanaga taking the mound, this game sets up as a potential pitcher's duel.
Game Details
| Matchup | Los Angeles Dodgers vs. Chicago Cubs |
|---|---|
| Date | March 18, 2025 |
| Time | 3:10 AM EST |
| Location | Tokyo Dome, Tokyo, Japan |
| Weather | Indoor Stadium (Weather Not a Factor) |
Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Run Line | Total Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Dodgers | -155 | -1.5 (+120) | Over 7.5 (-115) |
| Chicago Cubs | +130 | +1.5 (-145) | Under 7.5 (-105) |
Team Analysis
Los Angeles Dodgers
The Dodgers enter the season as one of the World Series favorites, boasting a star-studded lineup. Key players to watch include:
- Shohei Ohtani: Career .333 AVG against Imanaga.
- Freddie Freeman: 3 HR, .280 AVG in Spring Training.
- Teoscar Hernández: .290 AVG against Imanaga.
While their lineup is dangerous, the focus will be on their new ace, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, making his highly anticipated MLB debut.
Chicago Cubs
The Cubs have an exciting young core and will rely on their balanced lineup to generate offense. Key contributors include:
- Gage Workman: 3 HR, .424 AVG, 13 RBIs in Spring Training.
- David Bote: 2 HR, 9 RBIs, .400 AVG.
Chicago's offense has been explosive, but facing a dominant pitcher like Yamamoto could slow them down.
Starting Pitcher Analysis
Yoshinobu Yamamoto (Dodgers)
One of the most anticipated MLB debuts in recent memory, Yamamoto was dominant in Japan, posting a sub-2.00 ERA in NPB. He has elite command and a devastating arsenal that could overwhelm Cubs hitters unfamiliar with his style.
Shota Imanaga (Cubs)
Imanaga, another highly regarded Japanese pitcher, has MLB experience and strong control. He faces a tough Dodgers lineup but has had success against key players like Will Smith (.188 AVG).
Recent Performance
Los Angeles Dodgers
| Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 3/11/25 | Cleveland Guardians | Won 10-4 |
| 3/10/25 | Arizona Diamondbacks | Won 6-2 |
| 3/9/25 | Athletics | Lost 7-5 |
| 3/8/25 | White Sox | Lost 5-2 |
| 3/7/25 | Mariners | Won 6-4 |
Chicago Cubs
| Date | Opponent | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 3/11/25 | Milwaukee Brewers | Lost 9-7 |
| 3/10/25 | Cleveland Guardians | Won 7-4 |
| 3/9/25 | San Francisco Giants | Lost 8-6 |
| 3/8/25 | Seattle Mariners | Won 9-8 |
| 3/6/25 | Kansas City Royals | Lost 9-3 |
Head-to-Head Comparison
The Dodgers and Cubs will meet multiple times this season, but this Tokyo Series is unique. With two elite pitchers making their season debuts, scoring could be at a premium.
Against the Spread (ATS) Records
Since this is the first regular-season game, ATS records are not available. However, the Cubs have struggled defensively in Spring Training, which could affect their ability to cover spreads.
Betting Stats and Trends
- Yamamoto has a career 1.95 ERA in Japan, suggesting a dominant MLB debut.
- Imanaga’s strong command should keep Dodgers hitters in check early.
- The Tokyo Dome traditionally favors pitchers, with a lower average run total than MLB stadiums.
Prediction
With two elite pitchers and an early-season game where hitters may still be adjusting, runs should be hard to come by. The total of 7.5 seems high given the talent on the mound.
Pick: Under 7.5 Runs (-105)
Expect a low-scoring, tightly contested game between the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo.
