
USA Today via Reuters
Aug 28, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) gets a kiss from his dog Decoy after he delivered the first pitch before the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY

USA Today via Reuters
Aug 28, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani (17) gets a kiss from his dog Decoy after he delivered the first pitch before the game against the Baltimore Orioles at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY
“Hope is a good thing, maybe the best of things, and no good thing ever dies.” This Redemption of a dialogue somewhat captures the spirit in which Shohei Ohtani has continued to transcend expectations and inspire millions as the Los Angeles Dodgers’ two-way phenomenon. The one who charms the crowd not only with his glorious style of play but also with his humbleness and sense of dedication.
And now, this modern-day Babe Ruth is taking his talents to the virtual world. And fans are going wild!
The legendary collaboration between Fortnite and Shohei Ohtani was officially announced on March 10. This agreement between Epic Games and Major League Baseball introduces the first-ever MLB player to Fortnite’s Icon Series. It’s a sign of Ohtani’s global appeal and his ability to break down the walls around traditional sports.
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Prepare to witness Ohtani like never before! Starting March 17, Fortnite players can purchase the Shohei Ohtani outfit, featuring his Dodgers uniform in home, away, and even LEGO styles. But that’s not all!
A special “Samurai Shohei” outfit, inspired by the Dodgers’ participation in the Tokyo Series, will also be available. This reactive outfit features a fiery pitching arm animation that ignites after eliminations, adding a touch of Ohtani’s on-field intensity to the virtual battlefield.
Shohei Ohtani and Decoy in Fortnite is going to break the internet.
pic.twitter.com/H8c2Q2g8qG— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) March 12, 2025
And of course, no Ohtani skin would be complete without his trustworthy companion, Decoy, who appears as an adorable bobblehead back bling.
These virtual renditions of Ohtani are available in Fortnite Chapter 6, Season 2.
This partnership is a home run for Major League Baseball, bringing forth an opportunity to introduce the sport to a younger generation. Those who might relate to the athletes best through virtual battles rather than the crack of a bat.
Remember when Space Jam introduced basketball to a new generation, thanks to Michael Jordan‘s presence? This could be a similar game-changer for baseball.
And this epic crossover is getting fans all excited…
Ohtani’s power to unite: fan Reactions speak volumes
Ohtani’s genuine connection with fans transcends the typical athlete-fan dynamic.
I know, I can’t stop watching it.
— Sandra Tabbytosavit 🆘 🥁 (@STabbytosavit) March 12, 2025
Captivated by the Fortnite reveal, one fan couldn’t help but express their admiration. With so much love, we cannot help but recall how Shotime surprised Albert, a young pediatric patient from UCLA Mattel Children’s Hospital, before a Dodgers game, bestowing him with an autographed jersey and getting him out on the field to throw the ceremonial first pitch. Seems like fans cannot get enough of Ohtani’s charisma! From chanting “Come to Seattle!” back in the 2023 All-Star Game in Seattle to today’s pumped affirmations, fans’ affection for Ohtani’s broad appeal is pretty evident.
Finally @DodgersNation making a worthy post!
— Fred (@Twoblackaces) March 12, 2025
Fans were impressed and the “worthy post” from “DodgersNation” seems to have been giving out the message that the media company redeemed themselves. Remember when they prematurely reported Ohtani signing with the Blue Jays? Then, Ohtani had to clarify that he was signing the Dodgers? Well, this Fortnite collaboration announcement seems to have erased that memory.
好可愛哦🥰 https://t.co/wtdmmhmnVw
— shan 🎀. 17⚾️🦄️🐶🫶🏆💙 (@loveloveohtani) March 12, 2025
Another user kept it simple with the comment, “So cute,” capturing the essence of Ohtani’s appeal. He’s not only a dominant athlete; he’s also a relatable and likable figure, bringing joy into the game. Ohtani’s playful nature and his genuine warmth in dealing with fans and his fellow players touch the MLB community. Whether he’s engaging in a mock fishing duel with Seiya Suzuki or humbly seeking high-fives after his first major league home run – Ohtani’s infectious energy is undeniable.
I can’t believe we got Shohei Ohtani in Fortnite before GTA6 💀
— Don Staple (@DonStaple) March 12, 2025
Basically, this crossover between gaming and sports, especially baseball, is a rare one. And given the competition Fortnite and GTA6 are sharing now, this reaction makes absolute sense, isn’t it? The last time Fortnite signed a sports star was Lionel Messi in December 2024. So, yeah, this collab was unexpected! While Fortnite secured a high-profile collaboration, GTA fans are still waiting for the GTA6 release.
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Ohtani catching bodies https://t.co/hTOuTy5rTr
— RASHAD™️ (@CallMeRashad) March 12, 2025
Another Ohtani admirer couldn’t hold back from envisioning Ohtani dominating the virtual battlefield. This classic gamer lingo highlights the anticipation of seeing Shohei Ohtani’s virtual persona racking up eliminations in Fortnite. It’s a playful acknowledgment of his prowess, both on the baseball field and now, potentially, in the gaming world.
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Seems like fans are all geared up to don in Shohei Ohtani’s avatar and crash the gaming dynamics. Are you ready, too?
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