The MLB offseason has been dominated by Shohei Ohtani’s colossal 10-year, $700 million free agent contract, making him the undeniable star. However, sharing the spotlight, and perhaps even stealing a bit of the limelight among fans, is Ohtani’s loyal companion, Decoy, affectionately known as “Dekopin” in Japanese. Decoy was by Ohtani’s side as he clinched his second American League MVP award, and now, the four-legged sensation is reveling in the perks of international stardom.
In a delightful twist, Ohtani disclosed on Thursday that Decoy has received a special visa, facilitating his travels between the United States and Japan. The catch? The visa is more of a symbolic gesture. It’s a replica, presented to Ohtani and Decoy during their visit to the U.S. embassy in Japan. Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. ambassador to Japan, played a part in this lighthearted exchange, gifting Ohtani the oversized document and receiving a Dodgers jersey in return.
“Thrilled to meet trailblazing two-time MVP Ohtani-san again – my lucky day,” Emanuel shared on X (formerly Twitter). “Maybe next time I’ll be fortunate enough to meet his MVPup, Decoy. – this ‘visa’ should help.”
Shohei Ohtani posted a fake passport for his dog Decoy 😂 pic.twitter.com/H29bZXgQl5
— MLB (@MLB) January 11, 2024
Is it showtime or is it Sho-time!? Thrilled to meet trailblazing two-time @MLB MVP Ohtani-san again – my lucky day. Maybe next time I’ll be fortunate enough to meet his MVPup, Decoy – this “visa” should help? I promise my bark is worse than my bite! ⚾️🐾@Dodgers @DodgersNation pic.twitter.com/hzPZRPYnSn
— ラーム・エマニュエル駐日米国大使 (@USAmbJapan) January 11, 2024
Emanuel’s playful reference to Decoy as the “MVPup” is complemented by the humorous details on the faux visa. Notably, Decoy’s passport number reads as “000MVPUP000,” and his control number is cleverly listed as “000GOODBOY000.” The visa playfully notes Decoy’s birthday as “N/A Dog Years” and claims dual U.S. and Japanese citizenship.
This whimsical episode adds a touch of humor and charm to Ohtani’s already remarkable offseason, highlighting the endearing bond between the baseball sensation and his furry friend. As Ohtani continues to make waves in the baseball world, Decoy, with his honorary visa in tow, becomes a delightful sidekick in this tale of international baseball stardom.