Hanshin Tigers Sweep MLB Clubs In Tokyo Exhibition Games

• The Tigers secured victories over the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo.

• Pitching staff excelled, not allowing a single run in both games.

• Daichi Ishii's 95 mph fastball sealed the win against the Dodgers.

Los Angeles Dodgers' Shohei Ohtani flies out against the Hanshin Tigers during the third inning in an MLB Japan Series exhibition baseball game, Sunday, March 16, 2025, in Tokyo. (AP Photo/Hiro Komae)

AP

Japanese baseball showcased its strength as the Hanshin Tigers completed a two-game exhibition sweep over MLB clubs in Tokyo. The Tigers secured a 3-0 victory over the Los Angeles Dodgers at the Tokyo Dome, displaying their dominance on both offense and defense.

The Tigers' pitching staff was exceptional, not allowing a single run in either game. Daichi Ishii sealed the win against the Dodgers with a powerful 95 mph fastball, striking out James Outman to cap off 18 consecutive scoreless innings.

Offensively, the Tigers capitalized on their opportunities, with Teruaki Sato delivering a crucial three-run homer in the fourth inning against Dodgers' pitcher Blake Snell. The Tigers' fan club erupted in celebration as Sato's hit soared into the right-field seats.

5

Pitching staff excelled, not allowing a single run in both games.

5

The Tigers secured victories over the Dodgers and Cubs in Tokyo.

5

Daichi Ishii's 95 mph fastball sealed the win against the Dodgers.

5

Teruaki Sato's three-run homer was a key offensive highlight.

5

Hiroto Saiki limited the Dodgers to one hit and one walk.

Hiroto Saiki showcased his pitching prowess, limiting the Dodgers to just one hit and one walk over five dominant innings. Saiki's performance included striking out seven batters, including Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani.

The Tigers' success continued from the previous day when they defeated the Chicago Cubs 3-0. Lefty pitcher Keito Mombetsu threw five perfect innings, setting the tone for the Tigers' impressive display of skill and strategy.

Manager Kyuji Fujikawa expressed his satisfaction with the team's performance, highlighting the invaluable experience gained from facing top MLB clubs. The Tigers' ability to execute both offensively and defensively against elite competition solidified their reputation as a formidable force in Japanese baseball.

Japanese players have made significant contributions to MLB, with stars like Ichiro Suzuki leaving a lasting legacy. The Tokyo Series further emphasizes the global impact of Japanese talent, with players from both the Tigers and Giants showcasing their skills against MLB opponents.

The exhibition games between the Tigers, Giants, Cubs, and Dodgers served as a prelude to the upcoming regular season opener between the Cubs and Dodgers at the Tokyo Dome. The competitive matchups and impressive performances underscored the high level of play in both Japanese and American baseball.

Overall, the Tigers' sweep of MLB clubs in Tokyo exemplified the strength and depth of Japanese baseball, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.