TL;DR - Scouting Report
The Dodgers’ 2025 Spring Training opener had it all: Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s encouraging start, Bobby Miller’s scary injury, and MLB’s ABS system debut. A game of drama, innovation, and resilience as the Dodgers chase another title.
Start the Rally: Tweet This Now!The Los Angeles Dodgers kicked off their 2025 Spring Training campaign with a game that had an encouraging pitching performance, a terrifying injury, and a groundbreaking technological debut. While the Dodgers fell 12-4 to the Chicago Cubs in their Cactus League opener, the game provided a glimpse into the team’s potential.
Yoshinobu Yamamoto’s Stellar Start
Yoshinobu Yamamoto took the mound and delivered a performance that reassured fans of his readiness for the upcoming season. The 26-year-old right-hander pitched 1 2/3 scoreless innings, allowing just three hits and striking out two. His fastball averaged 95.5 mph, showcasing improved command and communication compared to his debut season in 2024.
“Having one full season under my belt, I know how to prepare myself better,” Yamamoto said through an interpreter. His growth is a promising sign for the Dodgers as they aim to defend their 2024 World Series title.
Bobby Miller’s Terrifying Moment
The game took a frightening turn in the third inning when Dodgers pitcher Bobby Miller was struck in the forehead by a 106-mph line drive off the bat of Cubs’ Michael Busch. The impact sent Miller’s hat flying and left a visible welt, but the 25-year-old walked off the field under his own power.
“That’s always very terrifying and frightening,” said Dodgers third baseman Max Muncy, who witnessed the incident. Miller is now in concussion protocol, and the team will monitor his recovery closely. Despite the scare, Miller’s resilience and ability to joke about the incident in the dugout offered a silver lining.
MLB’s ABS System Makes History
Thursday’s game also marked the debut of MLB’s Automated Ball-Strike System (ABS) in Spring Training. Cubs pitcher Cody Poteet made history by successfully challenging a ball call during Max Muncy’s at-bat, overturning it to a strike. The ABS system, which allows teams two challenges per game, aims to improve accuracy but is still a work in progress.
“The technology isn’t 100% there yet, but the idea is really cool,” Muncy said. The system’s introduction could revolutionize the game by 2026, and its performance this spring will be closely watched.
Shohei Ohtani’s Road to Recovery
While Shohei Ohtani didn’t play in the opener, he remains on track to return as a hitter by Opening Day. The two-way star is also experimenting with a wind-up in his pitching delivery, a change from his Angels days. “I do want to explore different options to grow as a player,” Ohtani said. His progress will be critical as the Dodgers aim for another championship run.
What’s Next for the Dodgers?
The Dodgers’ lineup strategy for 2025 is already taking shape, with Shohei Ohtani leading off and Mookie Betts batting second. Freddie Freeman and Teoscar Hernández round out the top of the order, providing a formidable offensive core.
As the team prepares for its next Cactus League games, all eyes will be on Bobby Miller’s recovery, Yamamoto’s continued dominance, and the evolving role of the ABS system. With a mix of veteran talent and emerging stars, the Dodgers are poised for another exciting season.
