A 28-foot mural celebrating the bond between Shohei Ohtani and his dog Decoy now stands in Los Angeles’ Arts District, commemorating a moment that drew national attention during the 2024 Major League Baseball season.
Artist Alex “Ali” Gonzalez created the large-scale artwork, which depicts Decoy delivering the ceremonial first pitch on August 28, 2024, before the Los Angeles Dodgers’ home game against the Baltimore Orioles. The mural captures the instant Decoy dropped the ball at home plate and high-fived Ohtani.
The piece was installed at Pawradise Park, a newly opened dog park and cafe located at 435 Molino St., Los Angeles, CA 90013. The venue includes indoor and outdoor dog areas, off-leash spaces, and a members-only lounge alongside a café designed to serve the local community.
Pawradise Park operates Monday through Thursday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Decoy first gained widespread attention in November 2023 when he appeared alongside Ohtani during the announcement of his second American League Most Valuable Player Award on MLB Network.
The dog’s full name is Dekopin, a Japanese term referring to flicking someone on the forehead with a finger as a playful gesture. As understood, Ohtani shortened the name to Decoy.
The breed, a Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, is described by the American Kennel Club as “lively, agile, self-confident, good-natured and alert.” The organization also states, “The breed is faithful, easy-going and friendly in the home. Outdoors he is a true sporting dog being keen, swift, tough, attentive and energetic.”
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During the August 28, 2024, ceremony at Dodger Stadium, fans received a bobblehead featuring Ohtani and Decoy. After the game, Ohtani said through interpreter Will Ireton, “It’s a really special night. I hope to buy some special snacks for him,” according to MLB.com.
Decoy continued to appear during major career milestones for Ohtani. He was present when Ohtani was named the 2024 National League Most Valuable Player. In November 2025, Ohtani became the second MLB player to win three consecutive MVP awards, marking his fourth overall MVP honor, with Decoy again by his side.
On January 25, the Baseball Writers’ Association of America presented its first Most Valuable Dog award at the BBWAA Awards Dinner. Decoy received the honor and was awarded a plaque.
Shohei Ohtani’s Dog Decoy’s Expanding Public Profile Beyond The Field
Beyond ceremonial appearances, Decoy has become a recurring presence in Shohei Ohtani’s public life and marketing moments. The dog appeared on the inside lining of Ohtani’s suit during the All-Star red carpet event and was featured on Ohtani’s custom “Decoy” cleats for Players’ Weekend.
A children’s book titled “Decoy Saves Opening Day” was released on February 3 this year. The story follows Decoy as he prepares to throw out the first pitch on Opening Day, but realizes he left his lucky baseball at home and must retrieve it before the game begins.
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With the mural now installed at Pawradise Park, the tribute adds a permanent visual landmark in Los Angeles tied to Ohtani’s tenure with the Dodgers and Decoy’s ongoing presence during key moments of his career.
