2025-10-15
Finding My Favorite MLB Teams Beyond the Dodgers
Obviously, the Dodgers are extremely popular in Japan right now, thanks to the incredible performances of Japanese superstars.
I’ve always been a fan of baseball and MLB—the relaxed pace, the anticipation, and the thrill of moments like a home run. I enjoy every part of it.
Ever since I watched Freddie’s walk-off home run in the 2024 World Series against the Yankees, I’ve been even more obsessed with baseball.
But gradually, I began to realize that the Dodgers often play the role of the “villain” in baseball, since they’re so eager to buy big-name superstars from other teams.
And to be honest, I’ve also grown a little tired of the excessive media coverage about the Dodgers and Ohtani in Japan.
So, rather than just jumping on the bandwagon, I decided to find my own favorite teams outside the Dodgers.
Through following the 2025 regular season, I discovered two teams that truly captured my heart.
1. San Diego Padres
I realized the appeal of the San Diego Padres quite early on. Especially during the 2024 season, the team had so many exciting players—Ha-Seong Kim, Jurickson Profar, and Kyle Higashioka—along with existing stars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Luis Arraez, Manny Machado, and Mitch Moreland.
But beyond the roster, I’ve always loved the city of San Diego itself. When I visited for the first time after going to Los Angeles in 2013, I was amazed by how clean, comfortable, and beautifully organized the city was.
That combination of a charming city and an energetic team made me naturally drawn to the Padres.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
I know this might sound like an unusual choice for a Japanese baseball fan living in Los Angeles, but I can’t help liking this team.
The Phillies’ fan base and history are incredibly passionate. Even their uniform, cap, and mascot—the Phillie Phanatic—are full of personality and charm.
Compared to Japanese baseball (NPB), the Phillies feel trendy, bold, and vibrant. Their roster is full of talent, especially among the starting pitchers like Zack Wheeler, Cristopher Sanchez, Jesús Luzardo, and Ranger Suárez.
However, the biggest reason I became a Phillies fan was after watching the documentary The Turnaround, which follows Trea Turner.
The film beautifully captures the passion of Phillies fans and Trea Turner’s personal struggles and comeback story. I first noticed him during his incredible performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, and learning about his challenges in Philadelphia made me admire both him and the team even more.
Final Thoughts
While the Dodgers dominate headlines, discovering other teams like the Padres and Phillies has deepened my love for baseball.
Each team has its own culture, charm, and story—and that’s what makes MLB so fascinating to follow.
I’ve always been a fan of baseball and MLB—the relaxed pace, the anticipation, and the thrill of moments like a home run. I enjoy every part of it.
Ever since I watched Freddie’s walk-off home run in the 2024 World Series against the Yankees, I’ve been even more obsessed with baseball.
But gradually, I began to realize that the Dodgers often play the role of the “villain” in baseball, since they’re so eager to buy big-name superstars from other teams.
And to be honest, I’ve also grown a little tired of the excessive media coverage about the Dodgers and Ohtani in Japan.
So, rather than just jumping on the bandwagon, I decided to find my own favorite teams outside the Dodgers.
Through following the 2025 regular season, I discovered two teams that truly captured my heart.
1. San Diego Padres
I realized the appeal of the San Diego Padres quite early on. Especially during the 2024 season, the team had so many exciting players—Ha-Seong Kim, Jurickson Profar, and Kyle Higashioka—along with existing stars like Fernando Tatis Jr., Luis Arraez, Manny Machado, and Mitch Moreland.
But beyond the roster, I’ve always loved the city of San Diego itself. When I visited for the first time after going to Los Angeles in 2013, I was amazed by how clean, comfortable, and beautifully organized the city was.
That combination of a charming city and an energetic team made me naturally drawn to the Padres.
2. Philadelphia Phillies
I know this might sound like an unusual choice for a Japanese baseball fan living in Los Angeles, but I can’t help liking this team.
The Phillies’ fan base and history are incredibly passionate. Even their uniform, cap, and mascot—the Phillie Phanatic—are full of personality and charm.
Compared to Japanese baseball (NPB), the Phillies feel trendy, bold, and vibrant. Their roster is full of talent, especially among the starting pitchers like Zack Wheeler, Cristopher Sanchez, Jesús Luzardo, and Ranger Suárez.
However, the biggest reason I became a Phillies fan was after watching the documentary The Turnaround, which follows Trea Turner.
The film beautifully captures the passion of Phillies fans and Trea Turner’s personal struggles and comeback story. I first noticed him during his incredible performance in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, and learning about his challenges in Philadelphia made me admire both him and the team even more.
Final Thoughts
While the Dodgers dominate headlines, discovering other teams like the Padres and Phillies has deepened my love for baseball.
Each team has its own culture, charm, and story—and that’s what makes MLB so fascinating to follow.