Ohtani confirmed the news via a social media post after temporarily leaving the Dodgers to be with his family during this special time. The Dodgers allowed the Japanese star to take time off for personal reasons as he and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, welcomed their new family member.

For Dodgers fans, this is not just good news about the personal life of a superstar. It also marks a new chapter in the life of a player considered a global icon of modern baseball.

In 2025, Ohtani experienced fatherhood for the first time when his family welcomed their first daughter. Just over a year later, that happiness doubled when his small family welcomed another baby.

While millions around the world celebrated Father’s Day to honor their fathers, Ohtani received this priceless gift in a completely different way: becoming the father of two children.

Those close to the Dodgers say this is one of Ohtani’s happiest times since joining the team. Despite his reputation for calmness and discretion, the Japanese superstar is said to be deeply moved to see his family continue to grow.

When Ohtani was absent from the Dodgers’ lineup, many initially worried it might be due to injury. However, Coach Dave Roberts quickly confirmed that the reason was entirely family-related. The Dodgers made every effort to ensure their star player could be with his wife during this crucial time.

The Dodgers’ support has been widely praised by the MLB community. In a fiercely competitive environment like professional baseball, such family moments are always considered sacred and precious.

Shohei Ohtani has long transcended the image of an ordinary athlete. He is the only one in the modern era who can dominate both the mound and the batter’s box, winning numerous MVP titles and breaking countless historical records.

But behind the stadium lights and multi-million dollar contracts is a man who always puts family first.

Those who follow Ohtani from Japan to the United States have noticed that since marrying Mamiko Tanaka, he has become increasingly open about his personal life. Despite maintaining necessary privacy, Ohtani didn’t hesitate to share his joy at welcoming a new member to his family.

Interestingly, immediately after returning to the Dodgers, Ohtani continued to show incredible form. He quickly made his mark with quality batting and continued to maintain his position as the leading figure of the Los Angeles offense.

Many fans even joked that Ohtani possessed “Dad Power”—a familiar term in American sports referring to athletes often performing exceptionally well after becoming fathers.

For Ohtani, this seems to be more than just a humorous story on social media.

The joy of family life is giving him energy during this crucial stage of the season.

At 31 years old, Shohei Ohtani has conquered almost every peak in baseball. He is a multiple MVP, a World Series champion, a global sports icon, and one of the most influential figures in MLB today.

But those achievements still seem insignificant compared to the joy of returning home and hearing the laughter of his children.

Father’s Day 2026 will be remembered as a special milestone in Ohtani’s life. Not because of a historic home run, not because of a perfect game, but because he received the most precious gift life could offer.

A larger family.

A new journey.

And a new role that even the greatest superstars cherish: being a father.