In a heartfelt moment for baseball fans, the Los Angeles Dodgers announced on April 18, 2025, that Shohei Ohtani, the 30-year-old star pitcher, has been placed on the paternity list. This decision comes as Ohtani's wife, Makiko, prepares to give birth to their first child, a joyous event that has captured the attention of fans and media alike. Ohtani's absence from the field marks a significant personal milestone, as he steps away to support his family during this special time.
Ohtani, who did not travel with the team for their game against the Texas Rangers in Arlington, Texas, on April 19, 2025, is expected to remain on the paternity list for a maximum of three days. This marks his first absence of the season and highlights the Major League Baseball's (MLB) paternity leave system, which was introduced in 2011. The paternity list allows players to take time off for the birth of their child or for adoption, providing them with the opportunity to be present during such significant life events.
According to Dodgers manager Dave Roberts, there are no specific updates regarding Ohtani's situation, but he expressed optimism about the pitcher’s return. "I hope he’ll be back soon," Roberts stated, adding that Ohtani will announce the birth himself when the time is right. The anticipation surrounding Ohtani's family news has generated excitement among fans, who are eager to hear more about the newest addition to his family.
Ohtani and Makiko, who tied the knot on February 29, 2024, revealed their pregnancy news on December 28, 2024, through a heartfelt Instagram post. The post featured a photo of their beloved dog, Decopin, alongside baby clothes, shoes, and an ultrasound image, with Ohtani expressing his eagerness for their "little rookie" to join the family. This personal touch has endeared Ohtani even more to his fans, who have followed his career and personal life closely.
The paternity list allows players to be removed from the active roster for up to three days, during which time teams can call up alternate players to fill the vacancy. This system not only supports players in balancing their professional and personal lives but also reflects the evolving culture within sports, where family commitments are increasingly recognized as vital.
Former MLB player Munenori Kawasaki, who appeared on a Japanese television program on April 20, 2025, shared his own experience with the paternity list. Kawasaki, who played for the Toronto Blue Jays in 2013, took paternity leave for the birth of his first child. He recounted how he initially wanted to prioritize playing in games but was strongly advised by his manager to be present for his wife during the birth. "What are you thinking? Go! What are you going to do if you're not there for your wife at a time like this? Baseball doesn't matter," Kawasaki recalled his manager saying. This moment of realization changed Kawasaki's perspective on family and work, emphasizing that there are things more important than baseball.
Reflecting on the support he received from his team upon returning from leave, Kawasaki shared that he was met with gifts, including diapers and baby supplies, which made him feel valued and appreciated. The camaraderie and understanding within the sport highlight the importance of family in the lives of professional athletes.
As Ohtani embraces fatherhood, Kawasaki predicts that he will experience significant changes in his daily life. "It will be a different lifestyle. There will be nights when the baby cries. Babies have their own rhythms, and it will bring a lot of energy into his life," Kawasaki noted, expressing his hope that Ohtani will draw inspiration from this new chapter in his life.
Ohtani's situation has sparked conversations about the culture of family within professional sports, especially in a league that has increasingly recognized the importance of players' personal lives. The Dodgers and their fans stand behind Ohtani as he navigates this exciting time, eagerly awaiting updates about both his family and his return to the diamond.
As of now, Ohtani's absence from the lineup against the Rangers marks a new chapter in his life, one filled with hope and anticipation for the future. Fans are excited to welcome the newest member of the Ohtani family and look forward to seeing how this life event influences his performance on the field.
In summary, Shohei Ohtani's placement on the paternity list not only highlights his commitment to family but also underscores the MLB's evolving approach to player welfare. As he takes this time to be with his wife during the birth of their child, the baseball community rallies around him, celebrating this significant milestone in his life.
