
An international superstar, four-time MVP, and two-time World Series champion, Shohei Ohtani is now adding a new role to his resume: children's book author.
This Dodgers two-way phenom took on a fresh challenge during the offseason, involving his dog Decoy in a unique initiative. His debut picture book, "Decoy Saves Opening Day," was officially released on Tuesday in the U.S. by HarperCollins.
In this illustrated children's story, Decoy—honored as the Major League's "Most Valuable Dog"—has an important mission: to throw the ceremonial first pitch on Opening Day for his owner, Shohei Ohtani. However, Decoy forgets the lucky baseball at home and must race against time to retrieve this meaningful ball before the ceremony begins.
The 32-page picture book, co-created by Michael Blank with illustrations by Fanny Liem, aims to promote Ohtani’s charitable efforts linked to animal rescue organizations.
Ohtani is not the first Major League player to enter the world of children's books; first baseman Josh Bell and pitcher Brent Suter have previously published works. Now, this brightest star in baseball has taken on the challenge, and knowing Ohtani, there are few things he cannot accomplish.