Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani is set to release a children’s book inspired by his beloved dog, Decoy. The picture book, titled Decoy Saves Opening Day, is scheduled for publication by HarperCollins on February 3, 2026, and is now available for preorder.
Co-authored by Ohtani and Michael Blank with illustrations by Fanny Liem, the story follows Decoy as he prepares to throw the ceremonial first pitch on Opening Day. When he realizes he has forgotten his lucky baseball at home, he must race against time to retrieve it.
The book’s plot is loosely based on a real event from an August 2024 Dodgers game, where Decoy famously delivered the first pitch. Wearing a No. 17 jersey, the Kooikerhondje ran the ball from the pitcher’s mound to Ohtani at home plate, becoming the first dog to perform the pre-game honor.
Decoy has become an unofficial mascot and fan favorite, frequently appearing with Ohtani. That same August 2024 game also featured a popular giveaway of a limited-edition bobblehead of Ohtani and his canine companion. Decoy later joined the two-way phenom during the Dodgers’ World Series victory parade in November 2024.
