The Los Angeles Dodgers have commenced their 2025 season with remarkable vigor, securing victories in their first five games. This impressive start underscores the team’s robust lineup, strategic offseason acquisitions, and effective management.
The Dodgers opened their season with the MLB Tokyo Series against the Chicago Cubs at the Tokyo Dome in Japan. This marked the second consecutive year they began their campaign overseas. In the opening game on March 18, Japanese pitcher Yoshinobu Yamamoto took the mound against Shota Imanaga, marking the first Opening Day matchup between two Japanese pitchers in MLB history. Yamamoto delivered a stellar performance, allowing only one run on three hits over five innings. Shohei Ohtani energized the offense with two hits, including a double, and scored twice, leading the Dodgers to a 4–1 victory.
The following day, Roki Sasaki made his much-anticipated MLB debut. Despite some control issues, allowing one run on one hit and five walks over three innings, the Dodgers’ offense, bolstered by home runs from Ohtani, Kiké Hernández, and Tommy Edman, secured a 6–3 win, completing the sweep of the Cubs.
Returning to Los Angeles, the Dodgers hosted the Detroit Tigers for a three-game series beginning March 27. In the home opener, Blake Snell pitched five innings, yielding two runs, while the offense contributed three home runs, resulting in a 5–4 victory.
The second game showcased Yamamoto’s prowess as he struck out ten batters over five innings, despite conceding two solo home runs. Mookie Betts emerged as the hero, hitting two home runs, including a walk-off in the 10th inning, leading to an 8–5 win.
In the series finale, Sasaki faced challenges with control, walking four batters in just over an inning. Nonetheless, the Dodgers’ offense remained potent, with three home runs sealing a 7–3 victory and completing the sweep of the Tigers.
Several players have been instrumental in the Dodgers’ early success. Will Smith has demonstrated exceptional plate discipline, achieving a .619 on-base percentage by reaching base in 13 of 21 plate appearances. Shohei Ohtani leads the league with nine runs scored, maintaining a streak of scoring in each of the first six games. The duo of Mookie Betts and Freddie Freeman has been formidable, collectively hitting .320/.346/.840 with four home runs and eight RBIs.
The Dodgers’ pitching staff has exhibited dominance, striking out 31.7% of batters faced. Yoshinobu Yamamoto stands out with 14 strikeouts in his two starts, leading the majors. However, the team’s walk rate is notably high at 11.7%, influenced by Roki Sasaki’s early control issues.