"Hopefully that brings up the number of his breed" – Shohei Ohtani on his dog Decoy’s celebrity moment and the unlikely spotlight

Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani has the spotlight focused squarely on him after winning the AP Male Athlete of the Year Award for 2024 on Monday. It was his third time receiving the prestigious award.

But amid the hoopla surrounding Ohtani’s honors, his dog, Decoy, also got caught up in the spectacle.

Earlier this year, Shohei Ohtani’s dog became a media sensation as fans eagerly awaited knowing his name. When it was revealed that the dog was named Decoy, fans immediately adopted the furry pal as one of their own.

But now, there’s another twist to the story. The dog’s breed is an unusual one. Decoy is a Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, a rare breed not known much outside of expert dog breeding circles.

Because of that unique situation, Shohei Ohtani was quoted as saying by the AP:

“The number of the breed has kind of dwindled, so by him gaining a little bit of popularity hopefully that brings up the number of his breed.”

Given the attention Decoy has brought to the rare dog breed, perhaps the public may become interested in adopting these dogs as pets of their own.

“I do feel like we were able to, in a small way, contribute to the popularity of the dog, and I’m sure Decoy himself would be happy about that,” Ohtani said.

Perhaps Shohei Ohtani can take credit for something else beyond being one of the best ballplayers in history. That distinction may not go on his Hall of Fame resume, but it will go down as a singular feat.

Dave Roberts excited for Shohei Ohtani in 2025

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts had nothing but praise for the Japanese sensation. In particular, Roberts praised the humble and down-to-earth nature Shoehei Ohtani exhibits, particularly when bestowed with honors such as the AP Athlete of the Year Award.

“I really do believe that as good of a ballplayer as he is, he’s a much better person," Roberts told the AP. "He’s very kind, considerate. He cares.”

The kind comments come after a full season of interacting with one another.

“I’m just proud of any fame or glory or award that he receives because he just does it in such a respectful and humble way,” Roberts said.

But that’s not all Roberts had to say about Shohei Ohtani. If there’s anyone happy to see Ohtani in action, it’s Roberts.

“I’m just excited to see what ’25 has for Shohei Ohtani,” the Dodgers’ skipper said.

Barring any unforeseen injuries, Ohtani could well reprise his 50/50 season. If that’s the case, Ohtani would go down as one of the most impressive ballplayers of all time.