Shohei Ohtani’s Father Pens Heartfelt Letter to Dodgers Star
The father of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani was asked to write a letter to his son in a well-known Japanese sports newspaper. Despite being a private family, the letter includes Toru’s personal thoughts about Ohtani’s accomplishments and trials in his first season with the Dodgers.
From becoming the first player in MLB history to hit 50 homers and record 50 stolen bases to reaching a potential Triple Crown, Ohtani’s first season with the Dodgers was nothing short of remarkable.
“We weren’t sure if you’d make it in the major leagues, but it all started when you developed the dream of playing there during your high school years,” Ohtani’s father wrote. “As I’ve told you before, when you entered the world of professional baseball in Japan, ‘Being able to turn something you love into a career is a wonderful thing.’ As your father, I’m envious of how you’ve been able to devote yourself wholeheartedly to baseball.”
Ohtani’s father also spoke about how the city of Los Angeles embraced his son. As soon as Ohtani joined the Dodgers franchise, he immediately became a fan favorite.
“I was amazed by the packed crowd at Dodger Stadium,” Toru wrote. “The cheers were unlike anything I’d ever heard before. Everywhere you go in Los Angeles, there are Dodgers fans. Seeing how many fans have embraced you filled me with immense gratitude.”
This year was special to Ohtani for several reasons, including his marriage to Mamiko Tanaka. Tanaka is a former professional basketball player.
Ohtani’s father believes his performance improved after the superstar married his wife.
“It feels like you’ve been able to concentrate on your play even more since getting married,” Toru added. “It also seems that some of your sharp edges have softened. I was worried earlier this year due to that fraud incident before the season started, but knowing that Mamiko was always there to support you gave me peace of mind. Without Mamiko, the current Shohei wouldn’t be who he is today. Of course, your beloved dog, Dekopin, has also played a big role.”
Ohtani’s dog Decoy made headlines after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch on his bobblehead night. Droves of Dodgers fans lined up for hours to get their hands on the one-of-a-kind bobblehead that featured Ohtani and Decoy.
The sold-out crowd at Dodgers Stadium witnessed Decoy delivering the first pitch to Ohtani on Aug. 28. Ohtani rewarded fans by hitting a leadoff homer in the first inning. Nevertheless, Decoy remained the biggest star of the night.
Regardless of the outcome of the Dodgers’ postseason efforts, Ohtani’s season will go down in history as one of the best offensive performances ever.
Photo Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
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