WATCH: Shohei Ohtani catches ceremonial first pitch from pediatric patient

Despite his relatively short tenure in LA, Shohei Ohtani did not take long to become a fan favorite. Recently, the reigning AL MVP showed once again why his reputation is well-earned.

On Thursday, the Dodgers honored Ohtani with a Bobblehead Giveaway Night during their fixture against the Reds. For one young fan, the night would signify a more personal encounter with the superstar than most.

Ahead of the game, a 13-year-old boy named Albert was brought into a room at Dodger Stadium. A patient at UCLA's Mattel Children's Hospital, Albert had no idea who he was about to meet until Ohtani himself appeared.

"A moment Albert and Shohei will never forget. In honor of his bobblehead night, Shohei surprised Albert, a pediatric patient of @UCLAMCH, with a first pitch and suite tickets to tonight's game" - Los Angeles Dodgers

Ohtani greeted Albert, thanked him for coming, and gifted him a signed jersey. The youngster was in a state of disbelief, and could only mutter the simple word "wow" as the world's most famous baseball player stood before him.

Although Ohtani's wife Mamiko was originally slated to throw out the first pitch, Ohtani ultimately offered the chance to Albert, who was gleeful at the chance. Ohtani would go 0 for 2 with a walk and strikeout in the team's 7-2 loss to the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday night.

"Shohei Ohtani was a catcher for Albert (pediatric heart patient) So sweet. 大谷翔平選手、小児心臓病の少年の捕手務める." - Chanana Ram Barupal Jsm

Despite his reserved personality, the 29-year-old Ohtani is known to go above and beyond for his fans. Ohtani has made visits to various children's hospitals during both his time with the Los Angeles Angels as well as in his home country of Japan.

Fans always come first for Shohei Ohtani

From the moment he signed his 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers last December, Shohei Ohtani has been beloved among the team's fans. Thursday's gesture was another example of why Ohtani is so beloved. After the opportunity, Albert said:

“First thing I thought was like, ‘Oh, he’s tall. I couldn’t even breathe for like 30 seconds.”

With many more years and at-bats to come, there can be no doubt that Ohtani will continue to use his status to help and enrich those who are less fortunate. As such, we can expect that this iconic player will remain a fan favorite for some time to come.