The Chicago Cubs are catching a massive break not having to face off against one of the Los Angeles Dodgers stars.

For the first time in six years, Major League Baseball games will be played in Japan this season. The Chicago Cubs and defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers will open the 2025 regular season with two games in Tokyo starting Tuesday.

The Major League Baseball season kicks off Tuesday night at the Tokyo Dome when Shohei Ohtani and the defending World Series champion Los Angeles Dodgers face the Chicago Cubs.

In the Cubs’ 4-2 win against the Yomiuri Giants in an exhibition game Sunday, Boyd threw four shutout innings in relief, in the latest step of his spring training buildup. And, pitching in the Tokyo Dome in front of 42,000 fans, he clocked in at least 94.5 mph five times.

In their final game action until they face the Dodgers on Tuesday, the Cubs regained some positive momentum with a 4-2 win against the Yomiuri Giants of the NPB. The Cubs looked much better than their previous exhibition, a sign that they may finally be acclimated to the unique environment that Tokyo provides.