Shohei Ohtani Celebrates Children's Book Release With Daughter and Dog Decoy

The Los Angeles Dodgers star's new book "Decoy Saves Opening Day" supports animal rescue organizations.

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher and MVP Shohei Ohtani has released his first children's book, "Decoy Saves Opening Day," which tells the story of his beloved dog Decoy forgetting his lucky baseball before throwing out the first pitch on Opening Day. Ohtani celebrated the book's release with an Instagram post featuring his daughter and Decoy. Proceeds from the book will support animal rescue organizations through the Shohei Ohtani Family Foundation.

Why it matters

Ohtani's children's book release highlights his growing off-the-field impact, from supporting animal welfare causes to inspiring the next generation of readers and baseball fans. As one of the sport's biggest stars, Ohtani's foray into children's literature could help introduce the game to new young audiences.

The details

Ohtani co-authored the book with Michael Blank, with illustrations by Fanny Liem. The story follows Decoy, Ohtani's Dutch Kooikerhondje dog, as he forgets his lucky baseball and has to rush to get it before throwing out the first pitch on Opening Day. Decoy has become a beloved figure to Dodgers fans, often appearing alongside Ohtani at awards shows and other events.

  • Ohtani's children's book "Decoy Saves Opening Day" was released on February 5, 2026.
  • Decoy first appeared on TV during the announcement of Ohtani's 2023 American League MVP Award.

The players

Shohei Ohtani

A two-way star pitcher and outfielder for the Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani is a two-time MVP and has become one of the biggest names in baseball.

Decoy

Ohtani's Dutch Kooikerhondje dog, who has become a beloved figure to Dodgers fans and often appears alongside Ohtani at events.

Mamiko Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani's wife, who along with Ohtani launched the Shohei Ohtani Family Foundation to support animal welfare and children's health initiatives.

Michael Blank

The co-author of Ohtani's children's book "Decoy Saves Opening Day."

Fanny Liem

The illustrator of Ohtani's children's book "Decoy Saves Opening Day."

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What they’re saying

“I heard that decoy was going to throw out the first pitch, and I just am impressed that dog was already that trained.”

— Dave Roberts, Dodgers Manager (si.com)

“Decoy and my first children's book is out today! We can't wait for you to read it.🐶”

— Shohei Ohtani (Instagram)

What’s next

Proceeds from the book sales will support non-profit animal rescue organizations that help animals find forever homes through the Shohei Ohtani Family Foundation.

The takeaway

Ohtani's children's book release showcases his growing impact off the field, from supporting animal welfare causes to inspiring the next generation of baseball fans. As one of the sport's biggest stars, Ohtani's foray into children's literature could help introduce the game to new young audiences.