In a groundbreaking fusion of art and sports, renowned Japanese contemporary artist Takashi Murakami has partnered with Major League Baseball (MLB) to commemorate the upcoming Tokyo Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Chicago Cubs.
This exclusive collaboration, unveiled on February 27, 2025, introduces the “Takashi Murakami x MLB Tokyo Series” collection, set to launch on March 7, 2025.
Murakami Brings His Iconic Art to MLB Merchandise
Murakami, celebrated for his vibrant and playful motifs, has infused his signature style into a diverse range of MLB merchandise. The collection features Nike apparel, including T-shirts, hoodies, and limited-edition jerseys adorned with Murakami’s iconic floral designs.
These jerseys spotlight star players such as:
- Shohei Ohtani, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, Mookie Betts, and Freddie Freeman from the Dodgers
- Shota Imanaga, Seiya Suzuki, and Dansby Swanson from the Cubs
Beyond Apparel: Caps, Bats, and Exclusive Trading Cards
Beyond apparel, the collaboration extends to New Era caps, Rawlings baseballs and gloves, Victus bats, and exclusive slides from Murakami’s Ohana Hatake footwear brand. Each item merges Murakami’s artistry with MLB’s classic iconography, creating one-of-a-kind collector’s pieces.
A special Topps trading card set will also be available, featuring Murakami’s artwork and highlighting top players from both teams. The set includes rare parallels and autographs, with the standout item being a one-of-a-kind dual-autograph card signed by Murakami and Ohtani.
Where to Buy the Collection
Fans can purchase the collection starting March 7, 2025, on Complex.com, Fanatics.com, and MLBShop.com. Select items will also be available at:
- Tokyo Dome during the Tokyo Series games (March 18-19)
- Dodger Stadium and Wrigley Field
- MLB Flagship Store in New York City
Immersive Pop-Up Events in Los Angeles and Tokyo
To enhance the fan experience, immersive Murakami-inspired pop-up events will take place in:
- Los Angeles (March 7-9)
- Tokyo (March 8-21)
These events will feature interactive installations and exclusive merchandise drops, bringing Murakami’s artistic vision to life in a way that blends sports and contemporary art.
Celebrating Baseball’s Cultural Connection with Japan
This collaboration is not just about fashion—it’s a celebration of the deep cultural connection between baseball and Japan. The 2025 MLB Tokyo Series highlights the global reach of baseball while giving fans a unique opportunity to experience the sport through the lens of contemporary art.
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