The MLB player and wife Mamiko Tanaka are expecting a “little rookie” next year! Learn more about Mamiko and her marriage here.
Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers’ standout player, is set to embark on another equally vital role: fatherhood! The 30-year-old baseball sensation and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, 28, made the big announcement on Instagram on Saturday, December 28, 2024. “Can’t wait for the little rookie to join our family soon!” he excitedly captioned the post, which included a shot of their dog Dekopin, a pair of pink ruffled baby pajamas, and an ultrasound photo covered in a baby-face emoji. Dekopin, also known as “Decoy,” appeared to be taking the news in stride, laying back with his legs in the air for the adorable photo.
Before the arrival, here’s what you should know about Shohei Ohtani’s wife, Mamiko Tanaka, and their married life.
Who is Shohei Ohtani’s Wife?
Mamiko Tanaka, 28, is a former professional Japanese basketball player, per PEOPLE. The site reported that Tanaka played for Waseeda University early on.
The Fujitsu Red Wave of the Women’s Japan Basketball League signed her in 2019. At 5’11”, she was graceful and played pro basketball for four years until retiring in 2023. Perhaps most importantly, she’s shown that Ohtani’s family has other outstanding athletes.
How Long Has Shoehei Ohtani Been Married?
Ohtani announced his marriage on Instagram on February 29, 2024, without disclosing the date or bride.
He added, “To all my friends and fans throughout, I have an announcement to make: Not only have I begun a new chapter in my career with the Dodgers but I also have begun a new life with someone from my Native country of Japan who is very special to me and I wanted everyone to know I am now married “I am excited for what is to come and thank you for your support.”
An cute photo of Dekopin in the announcement corner capped the good news.
Two weeks later, Ohtani and Tanaka posed with his new bride before flying to Seoul. As they prepared to play there, the Dodgers posted a photo of Ohtani and Tanaka on Twitter, along with one of Mookie Betts and Brianna Hammonds. “Wheels up to Seoul,” the squad captioned.
Ohtani has hardly discussed his daily life with Tanaka on social media beyond his two big declarations.
Does Shohei Ohtani Have Kids?
Ohtani recently announced he’s having his first child! His Instagram photo of a pink ruffled onesie revealed that his first child will be a daughter.
The arrival excited fans, who commented in the thread. I am very happy for you two! Congratulations and good luck with your daughter! Decoy will be a fantastic sibling, said a follower. Another asked, “do you need a nanny?”
The Los Angeles Times reports that Ohtani’s announcement follows a year of transition, including a switch from the Angels to the Dodgers. He inked a $700 million contract with the renowned squad in December 2023. He guided the squad to its eighth world series win in November 2024.
