A Weekend of New Beginnings for Ohtani

Shohei Ohtani, the electrifying Dodgers MVP, is set to experience a life-changing moment off the field this weekend as he awaits the arrival of his first child. The Dodgers confirmed that Ohtani has been placed on the paternity list, signaling a temporary break in his thrilling baseball career.

Family Comes First: Ohtani Stays in Los Angeles

Amidst the hustle of the baseball season, Ohtani remains in Los Angeles with his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, as they prepare for this monumental milestone. Dodgers manager Dave Roberts shared, "They are together in anticipation" but did not disclose the exact timing of the baby’s arrival.

Who's Stepping Up? Eddie Rosario Joins the Lineup

In Ohtani's absence, veteran outfielder Eddie Rosario has been called up from Triple-A to fill the void during the Dodgers’ series against the Texas Rangers. This strategic move ensures that the team maintains its competitiveness while Ohtani cherishes these special family moments.

When Will Ohtani Return?

Ohtani can remain on the paternity list for a maximum of three days, which means he could potentially reunite with the team for their upcoming series against the Chicago Cubs at the iconic Wrigley Field. However, there's a chance he might make a quicker return to the diamond by rejoining the Dodgers later this weekend.

A Roster Shakeup: Dodgers Manage Injuries

To accommodate Rosario in the lineup, the Dodgers have also made a roster adjustment by placing reliever Edgardo Henriquez on the 60-day injured list. With this strategic shuffle, the team is optimizing their chances to shine on the field while supporting one of their star players during this joyous occasion.

As fans eagerly await updates on both Ohtani's family expansion and the team's performance, one thing is clear: Ohtani's heart is now as full off the field as it is on it.