Some 250,000 baseball fans packed the streets of Los Angeles Friday as the Dodgers soaked in their World Series win over the New York Yankees.
A key, but perhaps lesser-known member of the team, Decoy, took centre stage — and even had his own parade access courtesy of all-star owner, Shohei Ohtani.
Decoy, clad in a No. 17 Dodgers jersey, enjoyed the adulation — that is, pets — of young fans.
Decoy, a Nederlandse Kooikerhondje, has been a constant presence with the team.
The team’s best friend, if you will, since the Dodgers signed the superstar Japanese pitcher and designated hitter before the start of the season.
he American Kennel Club describes the Decoy’s breed as “lively, agile, self-confident, good-natured and alert.”
“Outdoors he is a true sporting dog being keen, swift, tough, attentive and energetic,” the AKA writes. “With sufficient perseverance and stamina, he enjoys working and does so with a cheerful character.”
So, a lot like Ohtani, who this season did what no player had ever done before.
He hit 50 homers and stole his 50th base of the season. He is alone in the 50-50 club — widely considered one of the greatest achievements in baseball history.
Decoy has been celebrated in numerous ways with his own passport, imaging and even a bobblehead during a game where he tossed the first pitch.
Which goes to show, you can almost never compete with animals in a popularity contest.
