In anticipation of the 2025 Tokyo Series, Major League Baseball (MLB) has teamed up with the internationally acclaimed Japanese artist, Takashi Murakami, to release an exclusive line of merchandise. This collaboration, unveiled by Complex on Thursday, features Murakami's signature vibrant and colorful floral designs on a variety of items including T-shirts, hoodies, and custom jerseys for the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs. The collection is set to drop on March 7, just before the teams face off in Tokyo on March 18 for the season opener.

A Fusion of Art and Baseball

Murakami, known for his iconic smiling flower motif, has infused his artistic style into the collection, creating pieces that are as much works of art as they are sportswear. The merchandise includes jerseys for standout players like Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman from the Dodgers, as well as Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, and Dansby Swanson from the Cubs. Additionally, the collection features custom baseballs, gloves, and bats, all adorned with Murakami's designs.

A Celebration of Cultural Ties

In a statement, Murakami expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with MLB and Complex, stating, "This new collection builds upon the historical friendship between Japan and the United States. I am overwhelmed with gratitude to be part of something that highlights Shohei Ohtani, an exceptional athlete who has made a name for himself globally."

Limited Edition Pieces

The collection includes standout items such as a black Dodgers hoodie with floral designs surrounding the LA logo, and a grey Cubs long sleeve featuring Murakami's signature flower in team colors. Limited-edition jerseys for both teams, though not worn in-game, are a highlight of the collaboration. The Cubs' white pinstripe jersey showcases the team logo on one side and Murakami's smiling flower on the other, while the Dodgers' jerseys feature pink flowers prominently displayed on the front.

A Historic Collaboration

"Complex is proud to bring together Takashi Murakami and two of the biggest teams in MLB to celebrate this historic sports moment in Tokyo," said Aaron Levant, CEO of Complex. "This once-in-a-lifetime collaboration merges Murakami's unmistakable artistry with the global energy of baseball, capturing the essence of the city and the deep cultural connection between art and sport."

Fans and art enthusiasts alike can look forward to owning a piece of this unique collaboration, which bridges the worlds of sports and contemporary art.