In Photos: Shohei Ohtani makes time for 'Decoy' after Dodgers’ World Series celebration
Often referred to as one of the best baseball players of all time, Japanese superstar Shohei Ohtani has now added his first-ever World Series title to his trophy cabinet. Following the Dodgers' victory in Game 5 of the World Series at Yankee Stadium on Wednesday, the Blues won the series 4-1 and sealed their eighth title.
On Thursday, Ohtani took to Instagram to give fans a sneak peek into some of the celebrations inside the Dodgers' locker room. His dog, Dekopin, who is also known in America as 'Decoy', also made an appearance in the post, although not with the team.
"2024 WORLD SERIES CHAMPIONS 👑" Shohei Ohtani captioned his Instagram post.
In one picture, Decoy is out on a walk amid fall leaves. And in another, it's lying on a bed with a sleepy look on its face.
A Dutch Kooikerhondje, Decoy was first brought home by Shohei Ohtani after the Japanese International underwent surgery for a torn ulnar collateral ligament injury in September of 2023. The pup, who celebrated his first birthday last June, kept him company in the months he spent recovering at home, per SI.
Dodgers celebrated Shohei Ohtani-Decoy bobblehead night this season
Just like Ohtani made history by becoming the first player to enter the 50-50 club, Decoy became the first-ever dog to perform a ceremonial first pitch at a Dodgers game on August 28. The pup 'threw' a perfect strike to Ohtani at home plate, followed by an adorable high-five.
As one would expect, Decoy was naturally a fast fan favorite at Dodger Stadium, so much so that the organization also gave away special bobbleheads featuring the pair together shortly after Decoy's pre-game pitch.
"It's a really special night," Ohtani said through his interpreter about the Ohtani-Decoy bobblehead night, per ESPN. "I hope to buy some special snack for him."
The first 40,000 fans got the bobblehead of the two. There was so much excitement about the giveaway that tens of thousands of people were already waiting at the gates much earlier than usual for a Dodgers game.
The Dodgers won the bobblehead night game against the Baltimore Orioles 6-4, with Ohtani getting a home run and two stolen bases.