Dodgers Open Tokyo with Convincing Victory
The Dodgers secured a 4-1 win over the Cubs in their season opener played in Tokyo. The performance highlighted the team’s resilience and adaptability, particularly given the roster challenge of having nine pitchers sidelined due to injuries.
Roster Setbacks and Injury Updates
The team is managing significant injury hurdles as nine pitchers are listed on the injured reserve. Among those affected are Tony Gonsolin, dealing with back tightness on a 15-day stay; Brusdar Graterol and Michael Grove, both set for 60-day absences following shoulder surgeries; and Eduardo Henriquez, who is sidelined with a left foot fracture. Additional players include Kyle Hurt with a right elbow surgery on a 15-day list; Clayton Kershaw, recovering from left toe surgery and expected to miss 60 days; Michael Kopech battling right shoulder impingement on a 15-day assignment; Evan Phillips managing a right rotator cuff strain; and Emmett Sheehan, also undergoing a 15-day recovery for right elbow surgery. Despite these setbacks, the active pitching roster stepped up to deliver strong performances in Tokyo.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto Leads the Effort
In the series opener, Yoshinobu Yamamoto delivered an impressive start by pitching five innings, allowing just one run and recording four strikeouts. His sharp outing set the tone for the game, giving his team a solid foundation to build upon. Once Yamamoto handed over the game in the bottom of the sixth, the bullpen maintained the momentum with contributions from Anthony Banda, Ben Casparius, Blake Treinen, and Tanner Scott. Their combined effort was highlighted by retiring nearly every batter faced, with only one baserunner allowed on a hit-by-pitch.
Consistent Relief Performance in the Follow-Up Game
In the second game of the series, Roki Sasaki took the mound and delivered three innings of one-run ball. The relief staff, including Luis Garcia, Jack Dreyer, Landon Knack, Kirby Yates, and Alex Vesia, then combined to pitch six innings, conceding only two runs. This depth in the pitching staff underscores the Dodgers’ ability to perform under pressure, even when key players are out due to injury.
Each performance during the Tokyo series opener reflects the Dodgers’ depth and the solid contributions of both the starting rotation and bullpen, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.