Tens of thousands flock to watch Dodgers-Cubs workouts in Japan
- Major League Baseball's international strategy is evident as the Dodgers and Cubs held public workouts in Tokyo, drawing a massive crowd.
- The turnout was significantly influenced by the presence of Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani, increasing fans' interest in the series.
- These events demonstrate the growing potential for Major League Baseball to expand its popularity and merchandising in international markets.
In March 2025, the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs traveled to Tokyo, Japan, to participate in a season-opening series. This event included workouts at The Tokyo Dome, marking a significant shift in how teams engage with fan bases internationally. Historically, such workouts were closed events, but opening them to the public this year allowed both teams to capitalize on the heightened interest in Major League Baseball (MLB) due to Japanese-born stars on the roster. Tens of thousands of fans attended these workouts, with a large portion drawn by the presence of Shohei Ohtani, a major celebrity in Japan. The fan enthusiasm was further fueled by MLB's efforts to expand its reach globally, as evidenced by the successful turnout in previous international games. The introduction of these events has proven beneficial for both fan engagement and merchandise sales. Ohtani was highlighted as a primary draw for the crowds, underscoring his status in Japan and the potential market within the country for the Dodgers and the MLB. Furthermore, ticket prices for the upcoming games reflected this loyalty and excitement, with seats commanding exorbitant secondary market prices. Amidst this growing popularity, merchandise sales related to Ohtani have soared, creating long lines as Japanese fans are eager to purchase limited edition items. These dynamics illustrate how Ohtani's presence is not only an attraction for watching games but also for merchandising, providing significant revenue opportunities for the Dodgers and the league. This marketplace strategy aligns with a broader trend seen in various sports leagues looking to tap into international fandom. As the series approaches, the public's excitement suggests that MLB's international game strategy is yielding positive results. The successful turnout for workouts and subsequent merchandise sales indicate a promising future for baseball in Japan, revealing a major opportunity for growth not just for the league but also for individual teams trying to foster a dedicated fan base abroad.