LA DOGER'S, SHOHEI OHTANI WRITES CHILDREN'S BOOK, in HONOR OF HIS DOG, DECOY.

'DECOY SAVES OPENING DAY' is the name of Ohtani's children's picture book that was released on February 4, 2026. The story focuses on Decoy, Ohtani's dog who must find his lucky baseball before throwing the opening pitch.

Decoy is a two year old Dutch Kooikerhondje that was born June 18, 2023. Ohtani brought Decoy home for companionship in late 2023 when he suffered elbow surgery. Decoy means "flick on the forehead" in Japanase. The breed is known for being lively and intelligent. Decoy is a smallish , orange and white retriever-type dog. The breed is often featured in Japanese art. In case you are wondering by Ohtani has an interest in children's books. Ohtani and his wife, Mimiko Tanaka had a girl on April 19, 2025.

'Decoy Saves Opening Day,' published by, Harper's Collins.