Chicago Cubs left-hander Shota Imanaga said Wednesday he was “very honored” to receive the opening day start against the Los Angeles Dodgers when the teams meet March 18 in Tokyo.

Shota Imanaga said he doesn't take lightly the "honor" of being named Opening Day starter for the Chicago Cubs on March 18 in Tokyo.Imanaga is expected to oppose countryman Yoshinobu Yamamoto of the Dodgers in the first of a two-game set labeled the Tokyo Series.

Shota Imanaga has taken the mound inside the Tokyo Dome in the past, but his next appearance there will carry more of an historic impact. The lefty will be returning to Japan with the Cubs next month to open the Major League season against the Dodgers.