“Shohei Ohtani's Father Writes Heartfelt Letter to Dodgers Star”

The father of Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani was asked to write a letter to his son in a popular Japanese sports newspaper. Although private, the letter contains Toru's personal thoughts about Ohtani's successes and trials in his first season with the Dodgers.

From becoming the first player in MLB history to hit 50 home runs and record 50 stolen bases to achieving a potential Triple Crown, Ohtani's first season with the Dodgers was nothing short of remarkable.

“We weren't sure if you would make it to the big leagues, but it all started when you developed the dream of playing there during your high school years,” Ohtani's father wrote. “As I told you when you entered the world of professional baseball in Japan, it was a wonderful thing to be able to turn something you love into a career.” As your father, I’m jealous of how you’ve been able to dedicate yourself wholeheartedly to baseball.”

Ohtani's father also spoke about how the city of Los Angeles embraced his son. As soon as Ohtani joined the Dodgers franchise, he immediately became a fan favorite.

“I was amazed at the packed crowd at Dodger Stadium,” Toru wrote. “The cheering was unlike anything I had ever heard before. There are Dodgers fans everywhere in Los Angeles. Seeing how many fans have embraced you made me feel so grateful.”

This year was special for Ohtani for several reasons, including his wedding to Mamiko Tanaka. Tanaka is a former professional basketball player.

Ohtani's father believes his performance improved after the superstar married his wife.

“It feels like you’ve been able to focus on your drama even more since you got married,” Toru added. “It also seems that some of your sharp edges have softened. At the beginning of the year I was worried about the cheating incident before the season started, but knowing that Mamiko was always there for you put my mind at ease. Without Mamiko, the current Shohei would not be who he is today. Of course, your beloved dog Dekopin also played a big role.”

Ohtani's dog Decoy made headlines after throwing out the ceremonial first pitch at his bobblehead night. Hordes of Dodgers fans lined up for hours to get their hands on the one-of-a-kind bobblehead featuring Ohtani and Decoy.

The sellout crowd at Dodgers Stadium saw Decoy deliver the first pitch to Ohtani on August 28th. Ohtani rewarded the fans with a home run in the first inning. Nevertheless, Decoy remained the biggest star of the evening.

Regardless of the outcome of the Dodgers' postseason efforts, Ohtani's season will go down as one of the best offensive performances of all time.

Photo credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images

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