Scheduled release date: February 13, 2026 *The release date is an estimate and may change.

DECOY SAVES OPENING DAY
by Shohei Ohtani & Michael Blank,pictures by Fanny Liem
Binding: Hardcover Pages: 32 pages Language: English

A heartwarming picture book featuring MLB superstar Shohei Ohtani and his beloved dog, Decoy.

[Synopsis]
On opening day, Decoy is thrilled to be entrusted with throwing the first pitch!
Hot dogs, a wide lawn, and lots of fans await at the stadium.
But, oh no! I forgot my lucky baseball at home!
Will Decoy be able to safely retrieve the ball and make it in time for the opening game?

Join Los Angeles Dodgers All-Star and MLB MVP Shohei Ohtani as he shares the even more adorable debut story of his adorable doggie decoy!
Shohei Ohtani is currently one of the most talked-about superstars in baseball, and he is also actively involved in supporting animal protection organizations.
Through the publication of their book, "Decoy Saves Opening Day," Shohei and Decoy aim to support an amazing organization that works to help dogs find their "forever families."

In fiction, they save the opening game, but in the real world, they work to save the lives of animals in real need.

Written by: Michael Blank
Storyteller, baseball fan, and father of two
Co-founder/Managing Partner of Connect Ventures

Illustration: Fanny (she/her)
An illustrator from Indonesia. A picture book given to him by his uncle at a young age inspired him to become a picture book author. His hobbies are watching movies and country music.