The 2025 MLB season kicked off in an exciting way, with the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs beginning the year in Tokyo. In the opening game, the Dodgers secured a 4-1 win, bolstered by impressive pitching and a standout performance from Shohei Ohtani. 

The Cubs are now eager to recover and avoid starting the season 0-2 as they prepare to face one of the most formidable lineups in baseball. That brings about our Dodgers vs. Cubs picks.

 

 

 

Dodgers vs. Cubs Predictions For MLB Tokyo, 3/19

The upcoming game on Wednesday at 6:10 a.m. ET promises even more thrills, featuring Roki Sasaki making his MLB debut for the Dodgers, while the Cubs counter with their ace, Justin Steele.

With star players and global interest, this series finale along with our Dodgers vs. Cubs predictions are not to be missed.

 

 

 

Los Angeles Dodgers: Sasaki’s Debut

The Dodgers' most significant offseason signing, Roki Sasaki, is set to make his highly anticipated MLB debut. The 22-year-old right-handed pitcher showcased his exceptional talent in Japan's NPB, wrapping up the 2024 season with a 10-5 record and an impressive 2.35 ERA while playing for the Chiba Lotte Marines. His fastball can exceed 100 mph, and his lethal splitter is regarded as one of the most formidable pitches in baseball.

The key question remains: How will he cope with the pressure of his inaugural MLB start in front of a large crowd at the Tokyo Dome? If he can manage his nerves and perform as expected, the Dodgers are likely to secure a victory.

 

 

 

Chicago Cubs: Steele Tries To Right The Ship

Chicago's Justin Steele had a commendable 2024 season, posting a record of 5-5 with a 3.07 ERA over 134 2/3 innings, despite facing injury challenges. When in good health, he has proven to be one of the top left-handed pitchers in the National League over the last two years.

The Cubs will rely on him to effectively counter the Dodgers' potent offense, particularly if their own batting lineup continues to face difficulties. The crucial factor for Steele will be to navigate the initial innings without giving up runs and to minimize damage against formidable hitters like Ohtani and Freeman.

If Steele can maintain a close game, the Cubs stand a chance to secure a victory. However, if he struggles early on, it could lead to another tough outing for Chicago.

 

 

 

Dodgers vs. Cubs Odds, Spreads, Total & Betting Lines

Here are the current Dodgers vs. Cubs odds from DraftKings Sportsbook:

  • Money Line (ML): Dodgers -148 | Cubs +124
  • Run Line (RL): Dodgers -1.5 (+114) | Cubs +1.5 (-135)
  • Over/Under (O/U): 8 (O: -105 | U: -115)

Los Angeles is once again the favorite, showcasing their strong roster and skill. The key point of interest is whether Sasaki can replicate his impressive NPB performances in his first MLB start or if he will face challenges in the spotlight.

 

 

 

Dodgers vs. Cubs Spread Pick: Los Angeles -1.5 (+114 at DraftKings)

The Dodgers enter Game 2 as the clear favorites, and it's easy to see why. Their depth, star talent, and knack for performing under pressure were on full display in their 4-1 win in the first game. On the other hand, the Cubs will depend on Justin Steele to keep them competitive, but they need to boost their offensive output to level the series.

If Roki Sasaki meets expectations in his much-anticipated MLB debut, the Cubs may find it challenging to score runs. This scenario further tilts the advantage toward Los Angeles, especially given their robust bullpen and lineup depth.

The most promising wager for Dodgers vs. Cubs predictions is to back the Dodgers on the run line (-1.5). Here are a few reasons why:

  • Sasaki’s Potential – If he performs close to his NPB standards, he could overpower the Chicago lineup.
  • Dodgers’ Offensive Depth – Despite injuries, they still boast talents like Ohtani, Freeman, Hernandez, and Muncy.
  • Cubs’ Offensive Struggles – They only managed a single run in Game 1 and will need to improve against a formidable Dodgers bullpen.

While this game could also be low-scoring, the Dodgers' offensive strength gives them the advantage. Game 2 in Tokyo features an exciting pitching duel between the debuting star (Sasaki) and the seasoned ace (Steele). Although Steele can keep Chicago in the game, the Dodgers' superior lineup and Sasaki's electrifying skills make them the more favorable choice.

If the Cubs can ramp up their offense, they might have a shot at an upset. However, if Sasaki shines in his first outing, anticipate another victory for LA in Dodgers vs. Cubs predictions, completing the sweep.

 

 

 

Dodgers vs. Cubs Injury Report & Hitting Order

Los Angeles Dodgers

  1. Shohei Ohtani, DH
  2. Tommy Edman, 2B
  3. Freddie Freeman, 1B
  4. Teoscar Hernandez, RF
  5. Max Muncy, 3B
  6. Will Smith, C
  7. Kike Hernandez, LF
  8. Miguel Rojas, SS
  9. Andy Pages, CF

Chicago Cubs

  1. Ian Happ, LF
  2. Kyle Tucker, RF
  3. Seiya Suzuki, DH
  4. Michael Busch, 1B
  5. Dansby Swanson, SS
  6. Matt Shaw, 3B
  7. Pete Crow-Armstrong, CF
  8. Carson Kelly, C
  9. Jon Berti, 2B

Injury Report

Dodgers:

Cubs:

  • No major injuries reported.

Regarding Dodgers vs. Cubs picks, if Freeman returns, the Dodgers’ offense gets an extra boost, making the run line bet even stronger.

 

 

 

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