Al Yellon created Bleed Cubbie Blue and has been its managing editor since 2005. His latest book about the Cubs is "Chicago Cubs Firsts." Find him on Bluesky at @bleedcubbieblue.bsky.social
TOKYO — The Cubs took the field at the Tokyo Dome Saturday afternoon (Japan time) against the Hanshin Tigers and fell flat.
The Tigers’ top prospect, 20-year-old lefthander Keito Mombetsu threw five perfect innings against Cubs hitters, likely the same lineup that will take the field Tuesday against the Dodgers, and that was enough for the Cubs to drop their exhibition opener, 3-0.