While the world waits anxiously for Shohei Ohtani to reach a history-breaking deal as a free agent this offseason, a recent video has given fans something to savor and divert their minds. Recently, when Ohtani won his second AL MVP award, there was one more interesting personality with him. Sitting with Ohtani was Malört, his lovable pet dog. The internet exploded on seeing the lovely sight of Ohtani playing with his little doggo. But then the question arrived – is Malört the first pet of Ohtani?

The two-way phenom’s love for animals is a well-known fact. Several pictures of him with dogs have gone internet viral in the past years. The connection between him and the dogs is endless. But when did it all start?

The childhood pet of Shohei Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani has loved dogs since his childhood. As he was the youngest child in his family, he wanted a dog to feel like a big brother. His wish finally came true when he was in first grade in elementary school. This is how an ‘Ace’ entered his life.

Ace was the name of the Golden Retriever that his family got as a pet. The young Shohei immediately felt connected to this cute dog and said, “I have a younger brother.”

Gradually, the connection grew, and Ohtani enjoyed the company of a loving pet. Ace even played a hand in his playing for the Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan. When the Ham Fighters’ staff came to meet Ohtani, they first talked to Ace. This led to Shotime’s mother being convinced that they were good people. She believed that only good people could love dogs.

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When Ohtani started playing professionally, his meetings with Ace became quite infrequent. He could only see his beloved pet during the New Year. When he missed one New Year due to being a judge on a show, the two-way phenom was visibly upset about the missed chance to meet his “younger brother.” Sadly, after 15 years and eight months of happy living, Ace passed away in July 2017. But Ohtani’s love for dogs stays strong after the death of his beloved Ace.

Peak wholesome vibes for Ohtani’s Doggo

Over the years, Shohei has been seen showing his love for pups during various appearances. But to celebrate his second MVP award with his pet dog really topped the list of adorable moments. Ohtani spent most of his interview playing with Malört. Apart from this, he loved playing with the guard dog while he was in the Angels. It seems that Ohtani can’t really control himself from petting a dog whenever he sees one. Well, that’s a ‘cute’ problem with most dog lovers or pet lovers in general.

But now, as his free agency deal is nearing its climax, the fans are waiting to see him sit with Malört and announce the team he is signing with as soon as possible. Though he’ll probably make the decision before the end of December, one wonders just where the dog-loving Japanese superstar finally lands his record-breaking deal.

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