In Photos: Shohei Ohtani highlights unforgettable moments from L.A. Dodgers Parade ft. wife Mamiko Tanaka, Magic Johnson & more
Shohei Ohtani's long-awaited dream of winning a World Series came to fruition this week after his Los Angeles Dodgers defeated the New York Yankees 4-1 in the Fall Classic. Following the Dodgers' second World Series title in five years, the NL West team organized a parade to celebrate with the fans after missing out on the celebrations due to the COVID-19 pandemic during their last triumph.
On Friday, Shohei Ohtani shared the celebratory moments he shared with his teammates and close ones after his maiden World Series triumph.
He shared a picture with his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, holding their dog Decoy while Ohtani held the World Series trophy. In one of the other pictures, the Japanese sensation shared the frame with LA Lakers icon and Dodgers minority owner Magic Johnson.
Ohtani was also seen holding Decoy on top of the bus during the World Series celebration parade and waving to Dodgers fans who turned up to the streets to celebrate their eighth World Series title.
Shohei Ohtani spent six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels before his record-breaking $700 million move to the Dodgers in December 2023. Although he was nursing an elbow surgery that restricted him from pitching, Ohtani became the first player to a 50-50 season in MLB history.
Shohei Ohtani laughs off suggestion of shirtless celebration
Winning the World Series was the perfect icing on the cake for Ohtani who was playing in the postseason for the first time in his MLB career. Although Ohtani rejoiced in celebrations after the win against the Yankees, there was a limit to his celebration he wasn't going to push.
When SportsNet LA's David Vassegh asked Shohei Ohtani if he ever thought about taking his shirt off to celebrate like his Dodgers teammate Kike Hernandez, the two-time MVP instantly laughed off the suggestion.
"No, never" Ohtani replied when asked about going shirtless.
Ohtani is expected to resume his pitching duties sometime next season, but the Dodgers won't risk aggregating his elbow issues, especially after the injury-riddled season of several pitchers this season.