Shohei Ohtani and Wife Mamiko Tanaka Expecting Their First Baby

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani is expecting his first child. This announcement comes just months after his marriage to Mamiko Tanaka became public.

On December 27, Ohtani excitedly shared his news. He posted a picture on Instagram featuring his dog, Decoy, next to a pale pink baby onesie, baby sneakers, and a sonogram. The caption read, "Can’t wait for the little rookie to join our family soon!"

At 30 years old, Ohtani remains private about his personal life. He married former professional basketball player Mamiko Tanaka in February. In his announcement, he did not disclose her name or mention their relationship prior.

Ohtani expressed his happiness by stating, "Not only have I begun a new chapter in my career with the Dodgers, but I’ve also begun a new life with someone special from my home country of Japan." He thanked his supporters for their encouragement.

He shared more about his and Tanaka's plans for the future. In a post translated by CNN, Ohtani wrote in Japanese, "We are still young and don’t know what the future holds but hope you will watch over us." He emphasized the importance of supporting each other, alongside their dog and fans.

Ohtani reflected on his decision to announce his marriage. He stated, "I felt it was good timing before the season." He sought to avoid distractions during the upcoming baseball season. Ohtani faced delays due to paperwork but wanted to announce it earlier.

He described his wife as a "normal Japanese woman" and noted that he had known her for three or four years. Ohtani proposed to her in 2023, according to reports.

In March, the Dodgers’ official social media confirmed Tanaka’s identity by posting a picture of the couple.

Previously, she played for Fujitsu Red Wave in the Women’s Japan Basketball League. Since then, she has attended several of Ohtani's games and the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation's 2024 Blue Diamond Gala in May. They were recently photographed together at a Lakers game.

Reportedly, Ohtani had expressed his aspirations, including starting a family, while in high school. According to Sports Illustrated, a now-viral list detailed his dreams of marrying and winning the World Series by age 26 and having a son by 28.

In October, Ohtani made his first appearance in the MLB postseason. He helped the Dodgers clinch the 2024 World Series title, solidifying his prestige in baseball.

Earlier, SSP reported that Billie Lourd reflected on loss and love.