In 1995, right-handed pitcher Hideo Nomo made his Major League debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Although Nomo wasn’t the first Japanese player in the big leagues, he is often credited for paving the way for those who have followed him to stateside baseball.
More news: Dave Roberts Hints at Dodgers Opening Day Center Fielder for Tokyo Series
The signing of Nomo could certainly be considered the genesis of the Dodgers’ relationship with Japanese players.
Flash forward to 2025, the Dodgers will compete against the Chicago Cubs on Opening Day at the Tokyo Dome.