In a heartwarming turn of events, Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Shohei Ohtani has officially entered the paternity list as he prepares to welcome his first child with wife Makiko. The announcement came on April 18, 2025, just before the Dodgers faced off against the Texas Rangers in a crucial series.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared the news with enthusiasm, declaring, "Big news, big news! Shohei is on paternity leave." He elaborated that Ohtani and Makiko are eagerly anticipating their baby's arrival, although he noted, "I don’t know when he will return or when the baby will be born, but the two are waiting and together." With the paternity leave allowing a maximum of three games off, Ohtani will be temporarily replaced on the roster by outfielder Eddie Rosario.
The Dodgers specialist media, Dodgers Nation, reported that Ohtani's absence comes at a pivotal moment, as he had already made a significant impact this season, tying for the National League lead with six home runs. Fans and teammates alike are excited about the impending addition to the Ohtani family, with social media buzzing with supportive messages wishing for a safe delivery.
Ohtani announced his wife's pregnancy on December 28, 2024, through a heartfelt Instagram post featuring their dog, Dekopin, alongside baby clothes and an ultrasound image. The post read, "Can’t wait for the little rookie to join our family soon!" This sentiment has resonated with fans, who are now rallying around the couple as they embark on this new chapter of their lives.
As the Dodgers kick off their three-game series against the Rangers, Ohtani remains in Los Angeles, allowing him to be by Makiko's side during this significant moment. Roberts hinted at the possibility of Ohtani returning this weekend, saying, "There’s definitely a chance. But when he returns, that’s not exactly decided. We just hope the baby is born healthy."
Ohtani's situation reflects a broader trend in Major League Baseball, which has implemented paternity leave since 2011, allowing players to take time off for the birth of a child. This policy has been utilized by several players in the past, including notable names like Aoki Norichika and Tanaka Masahiro.
As the Dodgers face the Rangers, the team is rallying around the excitement of Ohtani's impending fatherhood. Roberts expressed his anticipation for the new addition to the Dodgers family, stating, "We can’t wait to welcome the little one!" Fans have taken to social media to express their joy, with comments like, "Ohtani is about to become a dad! I can’t contain my excitement!" and "Wishing all the best to Makiko and the baby!"
In the meantime, Eddie Rosario, who has nine years of major league experience, steps into Ohtani's role. Rosario, who has spent recent weeks in Triple-A, is ready to contribute to the team's success in Ohtani's absence.
This season, Ohtani has been nothing short of spectacular, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities as both a pitcher and a hitter. Despite not having pitched yet this season, he has maintained impressive offensive stats, including a .288 batting average, six home runs, and eight RBIs. His performance continues to place him among the elite players in the league, and fans are eager to see how he will balance his responsibilities as a new father with his commitment to the Dodgers.
As the weekend unfolds, all eyes will be on the Dodgers, but especially on Ohtani as he navigates this life-changing moment. The anticipation surrounding his return to the mound and the birth of his child adds an extra layer of excitement to the Dodgers' season.
In conclusion, while the Dodgers face the Rangers without their star pitcher, the focus remains on the joy and excitement of family. Ohtani’s journey into fatherhood is celebrated not just by his teammates but by fans around the world, all eager to support him during this special time.
