The Dodgers have transformed into Japan’s MLB team after signing Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto and Roki Sasaki the last two seasons. All the glitz of the Dodger’s Hollywood roster came to Tokyo, marking a second straight year the Dodgers have opened their season in Asia.
Times staff photographer Robert Gauthier offers a glimpse of what the Dodgers’ Tokyo trip has looked like, where the city flowed with Dodger blue.
Thousands gather in Haneda Airport and the Tokyo Dome to get a glimpse of Shohei Ohtani and the Dodgers.
Electronic billboard spanning nearly a city block features advertising starring Ohtani near the Tokyo Dome.
MLB Fan Fest allows fans to pose for photos with cardboard cutouts of their favorite players.
Miguel Rojas takes a selfie with the members of J-Pop trio MiSaMo, who threw out the ceremonial first pitch.
Tokyo Dome grounds crews apply the finishing touches to home plate before the Dodgers play an exhibition game against the Yomiuri Giants.
Fans holding signs for Ohtani arrive early to get a glimpse of the superstar.
Koki Yamaguch corrals his boys, Hataka, 3, and Kyoji, 1, as they scurry around the Tokyo Dome.
Fans along the third base line crane to take photos of Ohtani as vigilant ushers wearing batting helmets look on.
Ohtani is introduced, surrounded by Pikachus.
A food vendor walks the stadium during the first game of the season at the Tokyo Dome.
A young pitcher prepares to throw a pitch during opening ceremonies.
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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
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