Shohei Ohtani showcases creativity by co-authoring children's book about his dog
- Shohei Ohtani, a Los Angeles Dodgers player, is co-authoring a children's book featuring his dog, Decoy.
- The book tells the story of Decoy's adventure to retrieve his baseball before Opening Day.
- Ohtani aims to raise awareness and funds for nonprofits supporting stray dogs through the book's sales.
In the United States, Shohei Ohtani, the renowned Los Angeles Dodgers player, has ventured into the literary world by co-writing a children’s book about his beloved dog, Decoy. Following a challenging period of injuries that hindered his pitching career, Ohtani sought to channel his creativity into this project. The book, titled 'Decoy Saves Opening Day,' highlights Decoy, a Dutch Kooikerhondje, as he tries to retrieve his lucky baseball that he left at home before throwing the first pitch of the new season. This narrative captures not only the excitement of baseball but also the deep bond between Ohtani and his dog. The release of the book is scheduled for February 3, and it will be published by HarperCollins. It will feature charming illustrations by Fanny Liem, making it appealing to children and families alike. Ohtani collaborated with Michael Blank, indicating a blend of creativity and expertise in children's literature. The announcement of this book came alongside a post where Ohtani shared a teaser image of Decoy sitting beside the book, reflecting his pride and enthusiasm for this new project. Furthermore, the initiative aims to support nonprofit organizations focused on rescuing stray and abandoned dogs. By using his platform, Ohtani aspires to raise awareness regarding the plight of these animals and hopes to contribute to better adoption rates. His relationship with Decoy has already gained attention, as he brought his dog to special events, highlighting the role Decoy plays in his life both on and off the field. Ohtani has expressed a desire for Decoy’s popularity to help elevate the profile of the Kooikerhondje breed, whose numbers have diminished over time. As a professional athlete, Ohtani's transition into writing illustrates his multifaceted personality beyond sports. This publication represents a significant moment for him as he introduces his love for dogs and storytelling to diverse audiences. By delving into the world of children's literature, he encourages young readers to explore themes of perseverance, companionship, and the joy of baseball through the adventures of Decoy. His story is thus not just a children's tale but a reflection of broader social causes as well, aligning with Ohtani's ongoing commitment to philanthropy and community involvement.