In a heartwarming turn of events, Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has officially entered the "paternity list" for a maximum of three days, as he prepares to welcome his first child with wife Mamiko. This announcement was made by Dodgers manager Dave Roberts prior to the team's game against the Texas Rangers on April 18, 2025 (Japanese time April 19, 2025).
Ohtani, 30, is taking advantage of this Major League Baseball (MLB) provision, which allows players to step away from their teams during the birth of their child. Roberts commented on the situation, stating, "I don't know when he will return," highlighting the uncertainty surrounding the exact date of the childbirth.
The paternity list, which was introduced in 2011, allows players to take leave for 24 hours to a maximum of 72 hours. During this time, the player's service time in the major leagues continues to accrue. The system was put in place to support players during significant family events, and it has become increasingly accepted since its inception.
Ohtani first shared the news of his wife's pregnancy on his social media accounts back in December 2024. In a touching post, he included images of baby clothes, a pair of New Balance baby shoes, and what appeared to be an ultrasound photo, captioning it, "can’t wait for the little rookie to join our family soon." This glimpse into his personal life has endeared him even more to fans, who have followed his incredible career in baseball.
In Ohtani's absence, the Dodgers have registered outfielder Eddy Rosario, 33, to fill his spot on the roster. This strategic move allows the team to maintain its competitive edge while supporting Ohtani during this pivotal moment in his life.
Historically, the paternity list has been utilized by several notable MLB players. Japanese stars such as Masahiro Tanaka, Kenta Maeda, Yu Darvish, and Munetaka Murakami have all taken advantage of this policy in the past. The acceptance of paternity leave in the sports world has evolved significantly since its introduction, with many players now openly discussing the importance of family and the need for support during such life-changing events.
Initially, the concept of paternity leave was met with skepticism, with some critics questioning whether players should be allowed to step away from their teams for personal reasons. A notable controversy arose in April 2014 when Mets infielder Daniel Murphy faced backlash after leaving the team to be present for the birth of his child. This incident sparked a broader conversation about the role of family in professional sports and the expectations placed on athletes.
Today, however, the narrative has shifted, and taking paternity leave has become a norm in MLB. Players are increasingly vocal about their family commitments, and the league has embraced this change, recognizing the importance of supporting athletes during such significant life events.
As Ohtani prepares for this new chapter in his life, the Dodgers organization and fans alike are rallying around him. The team has expressed their full support for Ohtani's decision to prioritize family, a sentiment echoed by Roberts, who emphasized the importance of being there for loved ones during such a crucial time.
With the season well underway, the Dodgers will look to continue their strong performance in Ohtani's absence. The team has shown resilience and depth, and they are determined to keep their momentum going as they compete for a playoff spot.
As the situation develops, fans will be eagerly awaiting updates on both Ohtani's family situation and the Dodgers' performance on the field. The combination of personal joy and professional ambition makes this a particularly exciting time for the talented pitcher.
In conclusion, Shohei Ohtani's decision to enter the paternity list underscores the evolving nature of family dynamics in professional sports. As more players embrace the importance of family, the MLB continues to adapt, ensuring that athletes can balance their careers with their personal lives. Ohtani's journey into fatherhood is one that many will follow closely, and it serves as a reminder that behind every athlete is a human being navigating the joys and challenges of life.
