TOKYO — It has been announced that Shohei Ohtani and his wife, Mamiko Tanaka, are preparing to welcome their first child. Mookie Betts, Ohtani’s colleague on the Los Angeles Dodgers, shared some humorous yet practical advice regarding parenthood.
During a press interaction in Tokyo on Tuesday, Betts suggested, “He should get his sleep now,” alluding to the adjustments that come with a newborn. “Because when the baby comes, he won’t get any.” Betts, who is a father of two, speaks from personal experience about the challenges of sleep deprivation that new parents face.
Betts was in Japan promoting a tea brand and fielded a limited number of questions in a brief interview at a hotel. Questions primarily revolved around Ohtani and Roki Sasaki, the rookie pitcher who has recently signed with the Dodgers, who are the reigning World Series champions.
Both Ohtani and Sasaki are set to take the field when the Dodgers face the Chicago Cubs on March 18 and 19 for the opening of the Major League Baseball season at the Tokyo Dome. Betts expressed enthusiasm about working with the 23-year-old Sasaki, who is already labeled a “phenom” before making his MLB debut. He will be joining Ohtani and another pitcher, Yoshinobu Yamamoto, on the Dodgers roster.
Betts characterized Sasaki as exceptionally soft-spoken, noting that his reserved nature may in part stem from language differences. “I’m going to get him out of his shell,” Betts commented. “I’m going to laugh and joke and help him embrace American culture. I believe that will greatly assist him in reaching his full potential as a top-tier pitcher.” Betts, reflecting a common sentiment regarding Ohtani, expressed admiration, stating, “He’s like a god. His presence in the clubhouse — it’s so important.”
This statement underlines the significant impact both players have on and off the field as the Dodgers gear up for an exciting season ahead, infused with fresh talent and celebrated personalities.
