Seiya Suzuki’s Emotional Return to Tokyo Dome: Cubs Outfielder Reflects on His MLB Journey
Seiya Suzuki’s return to Japan for the Tokyo Series brought a wave of nostalgia and emotion as the former Hiroshima Carp star played at Tokyo Dome for the first time in an MLB uniform. After leaving Japan’s Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) to pursue a career in Major League Baseball (MLB) four years ago, the 29-year-old outfielder returned to familiar surroundings, facing off against the Hanshin Tigers in an exhibition game. The experience was a bittersweet reminder of the incredible journey he’s undertaken since his move to the U.S.
Suzuki, who spent eight seasons with the Carp and left as one of Japan’s top hitters, admitted that the game brought back memories of his early career. “I played against some of them (the Tigers) before,” he said after the Cubs’ 3-0 loss. “So it felt nostalgic in that sense. It’s only been four years, so it hasn’t been that long.”
In the game, Suzuki showed glimpses of the skill that made him a household name in Japan. He went 1-for-3 with a single, a walk, and two deep fly balls to center field. Cubs manager Craig Counsell praised his performance, saying, “Seiya swung the bat well today, certainly, as well as anybody on our team.”
During his time in Japan, Suzuki built an impressive resume with a career .315 average, 182 home runs, and 562 RBIs. Now, as he prepares for his fourth season in MLB with the Chicago Cubs, his return to Tokyo Dome marked a meaningful moment in his transition to the big leagues.
The crowd at Tokyo Dome cheered loudly for Suzuki, especially when he notched his first hit of the game. “I have good memories here,” Suzuki said, visibly moved by the reception. “I heard the cheers before I stepped in the batter’s box and I was really happy.” The Tokyo native seemed genuinely touched by the warm welcome from his home fans, many of whom wore his jersey with pride.
As he interacted with fans, Suzuki reflected on his own childhood, recalling how he used to look up to players at the Tokyo Dome. “I was in the opposite position when I was little, so it’s a little strange to be in that position now,” he admitted. “I’m very happy about that.”
Although the game ended in defeat, Suzuki’s excitement was undeterred. “Even though the results were not great, there are still more games left,” he said, focusing on the opportunities ahead. His teammates, many of whom had never experienced the unique atmosphere of a Japanese baseball game, also enjoyed the experience. “I didn’t tell them anything, but they seemed to like it,” Suzuki noted with a smile. “I was happy to hear they enjoyed it. It’s also been a long time for me to hear the Hanshin Tigers cheer songs, it gave me goosebumps.”
In 2024, Suzuki posted solid numbers with a .283 batting average, 21 home runs, and 73 RBIs for the Cubs. However, with the addition of three-time All-Star Kyle Tucker, who also plays right field, Suzuki might find himself taking on a designated hitter role this season. Despite the challenges, Suzuki feels optimistic about his form, noting that his condition is improving as spring training progresses.
“My condition is getting better,” Suzuki said, indicating that he’s ready to take his game to the next level in the 2025 season. Playing at Tokyo Dome in a Cubs uniform was an unforgettable moment for him, one that he will cherish for the rest of his career.