
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
The evening was already something special. The Los Angeles Dodgers’ Ring Ceremony overflowed with feelings of nostalgia and pride, celebrating their championship victory in style. The Dodger Stadium buzzed with energy as excitement rippled through the crowd. And just when it seemed the night couldn’t get any better, Shohei Ohtani delivered yet another performance that sealed a thrilling walk-off win for the Dodgers. While most players basked in the spotlight of the occasion, Ohtani quietly stole the show in his own effortless way.
As cameras followed the victorious team off the field, Ohtani made an unexpected detour. Instead of heading straight to the clubhouse, he had one more celebration in mind—not for himself, but for his beloved dog, Decoy. Kneeling down with a cupcake in hand, Ohtani offered the treat to his furry friend—a heartwarming moment that quickly captured hearts and went viral on a night filled with memorable plays and highlights.
Fans who have been tracking Ohtani’s journey wouldn’t be shocked by this development. To him, Decoy isn’t a pet; he’s a loyal companion who offers solace and occasionally steals the spotlight. Wink Wink! The memory of Ohtani introducing Decoy during his Dodgers press debut and instantly winning over Los Angeles remains etched in fans’ hearts to this day.
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Shohei Ohtani gave Decoy a special cupcake after the Dodgers walk-off win on Ring Ceremony Night.
Whole team eats 😋
Via Shohei Ohtani/IG pic.twitter.com/KtrZSxg87n
— Dodgers Nation (@DodgersNation) March 29, 2025
This isn’t the first time Decoy stole the spotlight. Last August, when Ohtani was having a season straight out of a Hollywood script, his dog delivered a blockbuster moment. In a scene that felt like it could’ve been plucked from Marley & Me—if Marley had a wicked curveball—Decoy “threw out” the ceremonial first pitch before a Dodgers’ game against the Baltimore Orioles. But that wasn’t the fun part! Decoy was wearing a custom No. 17 jersey when Ohtani, like a proud parent at graduation, carried him to the mound.
And that’s what sets Ohtani apart. It’s not just his home runs and incredible talent but also the small gestures that reveal his true character in a world where athletes can sometimes appear distant and unapproachable. Ohtani remains refreshingly human.
Shohei Ohtani’s furry friend: The MVP of the night
As soon as the video of Ohtani handing Decoy a cupcake surfaced, social media erupted with excitement. Fans couldn’t get enough of the wholesome moment, flooding the internet with reactions. Some joked that Decoy deserved his own championship ring, while others marveled at how even the simplest gestures from Ohtani could capture hearts. The bond between Ohtani and Decoy has always been special, but this small act of kindness turned the loyal pup into a star of the night.
What’s your perspective on:
Shohei Ohtani's dog Decoy steals the show—Is he the real MVP of the Dodgers' night?
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いつか、どこかの駅前にこの犬の銅像ができそう https://t.co/UR3ishclmR
— IchiroReport (@IchiroReport) March 29, 2025
Decoy has become so beloved that he might one day receive the same legendary treatment as Hachikō—the famous loyal dog honored with a bronze statue outside Shibuya Station in Tokyo. While the comparison may be, it’s an affectionate way of saying that Decoy has captured the hearts of fans, much like Ohtani himself, and has carved out his own status.
デコピンちゃん🍰 https://t.co/xAQ2QmMQT5
— nitamago (@__twoeggs) March 29, 2025
“Dekopin-chan” is a playful and affectionate nickname for Decoy, Ohtani’s dog. In Japanese, “Dekopin” refers to a light forehead flick, often used teasingly among friends or family, while “-chan” is a cute honorific. Fans may have adopted this nickname as a fun way to personify Decoy, treating him like a lovable character or mascot. The cupcake emoji (🍰) ties back to the special treat Ohtani gave Decoy after the Dodgers’ walk-off win, further reinforcing the adorable nature of the moment.
デコさんほんとかわいいお顔しとる https://t.co/ohucKqspXo
— 🐷🐷🐷 (@sho17sabuta) March 29, 2025
The fan expresses admiration for Decoy, affectionately calling him “Deco-san” with a touch of respect and warmth, similar to calling him “Mr. Deco” in Japanese. This phrase highlights Decoy’s charm, likely referencing his expressive and lovable appearance. Fans have embraced Decoy as more than just a pet. His cute face, combined with his growing presence in Ohtani’s public moments, has only deepened their affection for him.
どしたデコ?
あまりお気に召さないのか?😅 https://t.co/30IS2Ei23c— Kana (@563kay) March 29, 2025
This comment playfully imagines Decoy hesitating or being unsure about the cupcake Shohei Ohtani gave him. It adds humor by suggesting that even a championship-winning night might not guarantee Decoy’s enthusiasm for dessert. The “😅” emoji reinforces the lighthearted teasing, as if fans are jokingly reading into Decoy’s expressions. This moment underscores the deep affection fans have for Decoy, treating him as a star in his own right, with emotions and reactions that make him even more endearing.
クンクンして確かめてるのかわいい
(U^ω^) https://t.co/pQLUfLxImC— lily moon (@LilyMoon_16) March 29, 2025
It highlights an adorable detail—Decoy sniffing the cupcake before eating it, showcasing his curiosity and cautious nature. The emoticon (∪^ω^) mimics a happy, content dog, adding a cute touch to the message. Fans love these little personality traits, as they make Decoy feel like more than just a pet—he’s part of the Dodgers’ extended family and a beloved figure in the Ohtani fandom. Moments like these only deepen the connection between Decoy and his growing fan base.
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デコちゃんにもリングをあげたのね💍٩(ˊᗜˋ*)و
でもデコちゃん「これ、食べるの❓」感が・・😅
— とも猫🦄(ファナティコ専用) (@dekopin_123) March 29, 2025
The phrase humorously plays on the idea that Ohtani gave Decoy a ring too, likely referring to the edible ring placed on the cupcake as a symbolic gift, much like the championship ring Ohtani received. The second part of the comment imagines Decoy’s reaction, suggesting he was unsure whether the treat was meant for him or if Ohtani planned to eat it himself. The playful tone and expressive **)*( و** add to the charm, making Decoy feel even more like a character with his own personality in Ohtani’s world.
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As the Dodgers push forward in their season, one thing is certain: Decoy will be there, cheering from the sidelines. And if Ohtani keeps delivering these magical moments, there will be plenty more cupcakes to go around.
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Shohei Ohtani's dog Decoy steals the show—Is he the real MVP of the Dodgers' night?