Shohei Ohtani surprised many baseball fans on Thursday morning when he announced on social media that he recently got married.
Ohtani told reporters at spring training on Thursday that his wife is a “normal Japanese woman”—in other words, not a celebrity—and that he has known her for three to four years.
Ohtani also said his relationship had “absolutely nothing to do” with his decision to sign a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers, and his wife was supportive of his decision.
Shohei Ohtani said his wife is a “normal Japanese woman” (aka, not a fellow celebrity) who he has known for 3-4 years
— Jack Harris (@ByJackHarris) February 29, 2024
He didn’t say when they got married, but insisted the relationship had no bearing on his FA decision and that she was supportive of him signing with the Dodgers
Ohtani also told reporters he announced the news of his marriage Thursday to avoid distractions during the season, preferring to get the news out now.
“To all my friends and fans throughout, I have an announcement to make,” Ohtani wrote on social media in his announcement, translated from Japanese. “Not only have I began a new chapter in my career with the Dodgers, but I also have began 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 come and thank you for your support.”
Ohtani is not in the lineup for the Dodgers’ matchup against the Cincinnati Reds on Thursday. He made his spring training debut on Tuesday, going 1-for-3 with a home run.
