If you are a baseball fan or just a dog enthusiast, you know that Dodger player Shohei Ohtani’s furry friend, Decoy, “threw” out the first pitch for the August 28 game. Shohei carried his canine companion onto the pitching mound, much to the delight of the spectators. Once on the mound, Decoy grabbed the baseball that had been placed next to him and ran to home base. After such an incredible pitch, Decoy and a smiling Shohei celebrated by high-fiving. 

Now that Decoy has made his way into the hearts of millions of Dodgers fans, we thought we’d spotlight the furry friend. 

Without further ado, here are a few fun facts about the very good and athletic boy. 

Decoy’s Real Name Is Dekopin

While speaking to MLB.com in December 2023, Shohei shared that Decoy’s given name is Dekopin. 

“So his name is Dekopin. That’s a Japanese name. I figured that it would be hard for American people to pronounce it, so he has an American name and it’s Decoy,” said Shohei. 

According to Kyodo News, Dekopin is “the Japanese word for flicking someone's forehead.”

Shohei Ohtani Said He Planned on Giving His Dog Treats 

Following the August 28 game, Shohei spoke to reporters about his dog’s first pitch, per NPR. The 30-year-old shared he was impressed with his furry friend. 

“It was a really special night. I hope to buy a special snack for him,” said Shohei. 

Dodger Manager Dave Roberts Is Impressed With the Dog 

Shohei was not the only person impressed with Decoy. NPR reported that The Dodgers manager, Dave Roberts, told reporters that he “was really impressed that that dog was already that trained” before he threw out the pitch. He clarified that “nothing should be that surprising” as Decoy is Shohei’s dog. 

Decoy & Shohei Ohtani’s Bobblehead is Worth Some Serious Money 

The Los Angeles Times reported that Shohei and Decoy’s bobblehead, which was gifted to fans at the August 28 game, is worth quite a bit of money. 

According to the publication, the bobbleheads have been sold for “$150 to more than $1,500” to fans online. While that’s a pretty penny, we get it! Who doesn’t want Decoy merchandise?

Dodgers Won the Night Decoy Threw the Pitch 

The Dodgers ended up winning the August 28 game against the Orioles. While we’re not saying that Decoy’s incredible first pitch caused the team to win, it certainly boosted the team’s morale.