Just when you thought 2024 couldn't get any better for Shohei Ohtani, the most significant and joyous development of his year -- and one of the most important moments of his life -- has come as the year draws to a close.
After winning his third unanimous MVP Award and his first World Series ring, Ohtani announced on social media Saturday that he and his wife, Mamiko, are expecting their first child.
"Can't wait for the little rookie to join our family soon!" Ohtani wrote as the caption to a photo of a onesie and baby shoes -- and his famous dog Decoy, of course.
Given what Shohei has accomplished in his baseball career -- including numerous accolades and unprecedented feats as a two-way superstar, as well as Mamiko's athletic prowess as a former professional basketball player in Japan -- it's hard not to wonder whether their progeny will one day follow in their footsteps.
One thing is for sure: Decoy is looking at some pretty tough competition for the most adorable Ohtani.