On March 18, 2025, the Chicago Cubs and Los Angeles Dodgers played the first MLB Tokyo Series game at Japan’s Tokyo Dome, and Pokemon icon Pikachu made a cameo appearance. In addition to the series being referenced during the introduction to the match-up, people in mascot costumes of the character appeared in Dodgers’ jerseys.
The official MLB social media account shared videos of some of the Pokemon references and Pikachu appearances during the first Cubs vs Dodgers Tokyo Series baseball game. First, it showed the introduction. This involved a video with electrical effects and a reference to “Japanese monsters went to MLB.” We also see a child on the mound in a uniform that is holding a standard Poke Ball.
Another video offered a peek at the Pikachu mascots roaming the field at points during the Cubs vs Dodgers Tokyo Series baseball game. While it highlighted Yoshiki’s performance of the US national anthem, two characters could be seen behind both teams.
Thoughout the game, the mascots could be seen milling about in the background of shots. For example, Cut4 shared this clip that showed a Pikachu coming up behind broadcasters Stephen Nelson and Kirsten Watson.
The Dodgers won that first game of the season. The final score was 4 to 1.
While the first game already happened on March 18, 2025, it is still possible to catch the second. That will happen on March 19, 2025. People will be able to watch it starting at 3:10am PT/6:10am ET. Both games featured the Cubs and Dodgers. Both teams also faced Japanese teams in exhibition matches ahead of the season opener. These involved the Hanshin Tigers and Yomiuri Giants each facing both the Cubs and Dodgers.
The next MLB Tokyo Series game between the Cubs and Dodgers will air at 3:10am PT/6:10am ET on March 19, 2025. The most recent mainline Pokemon games are Pokemon Scarlet and Violet on the Nintendo Switch.
Published: Mar 18, 2025 12:00 pm