Cubs Vs. Dodgers In Japan: Do Those Games Count?

Hey guys! Ever wondered whether those super cool baseball games played way over in Japan actually count towards the official season records here at home? Specifically, let's talk about when the Chicago Cubs and the Los Angeles Dodgers pack their bags and head to the Land of the Rising Sun. Do those games matter as much as the ones played at Wrigley Field or Dodger Stadium? Well, let's dive deep into the world of international baseball and find out!

Opening Series and MLB Regular Season Games

Okay, so here's the lowdown: When the MLB decides to kick off the season with an Opening Series in another country, like Japan, those games absolutely count toward the regular season standings. Think of it as starting the season with a bang – a very jet-lagged bang, but a bang nonetheless! These aren't exhibition games or just for show; they're the real deal. So, every home run, strikeout, and stolen base meticulously adds to each team's journey for the year. For teams like the Cubs and Dodgers, who often have high expectations and playoff aspirations, these early games can set the tone for the entire season. They're not just fun cultural experiences; they're critical contests that can impact playoff seeding and division titles.

Now, consider the logistics involved. The MLB doesn't just wake up one morning and decide to play a series in Japan. There's a ton of planning that goes into it. From coordinating travel for players and staff to ensuring the field meets MLB standards, it's a massive undertaking. But the commitment shows just how seriously these games are taken. They're not exhibition matches; they're legitimate, high-stakes baseball. This is also a fantastic opportunity to grow the game internationally, exposing new fans to the excitement of MLB and potentially creating new fans for teams like the Cubs and Dodgers. So, while it might seem a bit surreal to watch American baseball being played thousands of miles away, rest assured that every pitch, hit, and catch counts just as much as if it were happening in the United States. Remember, these games are part of the 162-game marathon that determines who makes the playoffs and who goes home, so their importance cannot be overstated.

Impact on Team Standings

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how these international games can impact team standings. Imagine the Cubs and Dodgers are neck-and-neck in the division race, battling for that top spot. Every single win and loss becomes magnified, right? Now, throw in a two-game series in Japan at the start of the season. If the Cubs sweep the Dodgers, those two wins could be the difference between winning the division and settling for a Wild Card spot. Seriously, those early games can have a huge ripple effect as the season progresses.

Consider this: a team might use these games to test out new strategies or give young players a chance to prove themselves under pressure. A rookie who shines in Japan might earn a permanent spot in the lineup, changing the team's dynamic for the entire year. Or, a veteran player might struggle with the travel and time change, leading to a temporary slump. The point is, these international games introduce an element of unpredictability that can influence a team's performance in ways that traditional home or away games might not. It's not just about the wins and losses; it's about how the experience shapes the team's identity and approach moving forward. And for fans, it adds an extra layer of excitement and intrigue to follow, knowing that these games are more than just a spectacle – they're a crucial part of the season's narrative. Thinking about those standings and what they really mean adds a lot to the excitement, and it means that you will have something to talk about with your baseball friends. Plus, who doesn't love debating the importance of every single game?

Examples of MLB Games Played in Japan

Over the years, the MLB has showcased its teams in Japan multiple times, creating unforgettable moments and boosting baseball's global appeal. One notable instance was in 2000 when the New York Mets and Chicago Cubs faced off in Tokyo. This series marked a significant milestone, bringing regular-season MLB games to Japanese fans and providing a unique cultural experience for the players. The atmosphere was electric, with fans enthusiastically supporting both teams, creating a memorable blend of American and Japanese baseball traditions.

Then, in 2004, the New York Yankees and Tampa Bay Devil Rays (now the Rays) played a two-game series in Tokyo. Seeing the Yankees, with their star-studded roster, compete in Japan was a major draw, further solidifying MLB's presence in the country. These games weren't just about baseball; they were about cultural exchange and building bridges between nations through the shared love of the sport. More recently, in 2019, the Oakland Athletics and Seattle Mariners played their opening series in Tokyo, featuring the highly anticipated MLB debut of Japanese superstar Yusei Kikuchi. This event was particularly special as it allowed Japanese fans to witness one of their own playing on the MLB stage. These games always generate a buzz, not only for the baseball action but also for the cultural festivities surrounding them, making them a true celebration of the sport.

Do Exhibition Games Count?

Alright, let's clear up some confusion. While regular-season games in Japan count just as much as games played in the US, exhibition games are a different story. Exhibition games, like Spring Training matchups or special contests, don't count toward a team's official record. They're basically warm-up acts, chances for teams to experiment with lineups, evaluate players, and get ready for the real deal. So, if the Cubs and Dodgers play an exhibition game in Japan, it might be fun to watch, but it won't affect their standings one bit.

Exhibition games are more about preparation than competition. Managers often use these games to give younger players opportunities to showcase their skills or to try out new strategies without the pressure of a regular-season game. The focus is on development and evaluation, rather than securing a win. This means you might see unusual player combinations, pitchers working on specific pitches, and hitters focusing on different aspects of their swing. For fans, exhibition games can be a sneak peek at potential future stars and a chance to see their favorite players in a relaxed environment. However, it's important to remember that the results of these games don't hold any weight when it comes to the official standings. So, while they can be entertaining and informative, they're ultimately just practice rounds before the real competition begins.

Conclusion

So, to wrap it all up, when the Cubs and Dodgers (or any other MLB teams, for that matter) play regular-season games in Japan, those games count! They're not just a fun trip abroad; they're crucial contests that contribute to the season's overall standings. But remember, exhibition games are just for fun and don't impact the records. Now you know! Keep enjoying baseball, whether it's played in Chicago, Los Angeles, Tokyo, or anywhere else in the world!