Shohei Ohtani tells how he trained his dog Decoy to do the ceremonial toss

Shohei Ohtani had a night special at Dodger Stadium. This Wednesday was Ohtani’s Bobblehead Day along with his dog Decoy who included the ceremonial launch.

Decoy stood on the mound at Dodger Stadium, watched Ohtani at home plate, grabbed the ball and took it to the crowd of more than 50,000 fans. The first 40,000 fans entering the stadium were to receive the Ohtan Bobbleheadiy Decoy and some would even be awarded a golden one.

Approximately 2,000 of these dolls would be made of gold, which would further increase demand (not to mention value).

The Japanese revealed, after the 6-4 victory over the Baltimore Orioles, that he spent three weeks training his Dutch Spaniel to perform the ceremonial launching act.

“It’s a really special night,” Ohtani said through his interpreter, referring to Decoy’s theatrics. “I hope to get him some special snacks.”

People arrived at Dodger Stadium up to 10 hours before the game that started at 7:10 p.m.Thousands of children and adults lined up and the stadium opened up to two hours before the game, something not common at every Los Angeles Dodgers game.

“I was surprised when I arrived at the park with my family,” Ohtani said. “I wasn’t really aware of this situation; I thought there was some other special event going on.”

Dave Roberts, for his part, said that they shouldn’t be surprised when it comes to Shohei Ohtani’s dog.

“I heard Decoy was going to be making the first pitch and I’m impressed that that dog was already so well trained.”“I guess if it’s Shohei’s dog, we shouldn’t be surprised,” Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said.

Shohei Ohtani did not disappoint on the special night after hitting his 42nd home run of the season, leader of the National League. He then singled and stole his 41st base of the season.

The Japanese player reached base again on a fielder’s choice and stole base number 42. Shohei Ohtani He is on his way to 50-50, a mark that no player has achieved in the Majors.

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