Back in 2023, the Dodgers signed two-way star Shohei Ohtani to a record-breaking 10-year, $700 million deal. That time, it became the highlight in the MLB fraternity. And once again, this historic agreement is generating news. Why? Well, recently, his mom revealed something that has ignited a debate in Dodgerland.
But Shohei Ohtani’s parents, Kayoko and Toru, were always humble, which helped form him. And in a candid conversation, the discussion happened on life after baseball. She said, “I still work.” This tells more about her character than the money. A little surprising, right?
It all started with Kayoko’s simple yet deep statement: “It doesn’t feel right to ask my son for money just because he’s getting paid well.” That honest comment, which was posted on Instagram, recently sparked a lot of conversation. People talked about family honor, cultural values, and personal dignity.
Shohei Ohtani is a lot more than simply another name in the MLB. He has a record-breaking contract and has built a huge business on top of it. He makes over $100 million a year from endorsements and marketing partnerships. When his mother told the truth, it sent shockwaves through the baseball world.
Kayoko Ohtani was 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧 in Yokohama in 1963. And went on to become a national-level badminton player. She offered a great example of how to be disciplined in sports. Toru, Shohei’s father, worked in the auto industry and played baseball on the side in Japan’s Industrial League. Kayoko didn’t stop working when Shohei Ohtani got pro.
The internet, which is like a worldwide town square, has been buzzing with responses…
Fan reactions: A digital deluge of opinions
Shohei Ohtani hails from Japan, and it has its own culture and value system. And emphasizing exactly that, a comment read, “Cultural thing.” The idea of “meiwaku,” which means not wishing to be a burden to others, is fundamental in Japanese society. Fans really respect and admire Kayoko’s choice. “I honestly respect this💯.” Kayoko’s way of doing things reflects a new perspective. She’s showing that money doesn’t have to affect who you are or what you care about. A pretty good one!
But not everyone looks at the situation through rose-colored glasses. “He trippin ain’t no way he still got his mom working🤦🏽♂️.” For this fan, money means comfort. And letting your mother work when you have $700M in the pockets is not a good call. While it may seem so, Ohtani is deeply grateful for his parents’ efforts. He’s spoken about it regularly. “My parents took me to baseball practices every week. I love my parents and am thankful for their support. I would never have been able to do any of this without them.”
“Nnaaahhhhhh!!! GOT ME F— UP!!! My momma would be easily my assistant!! … here go a brand new building office! With a factory connected making all MY MERCH!!! Ran by my momma!!!! BOOM!! Now work that momma since you don’t wanna sit down and let me take care of YA!!!” Living and giving a million-dollar life to your family is a fantasy.
Finally, someone who gets it! “She said she works part time not full time. Sometimes its good for older adults to feel like they have some type of duty or purpose. Keeps them active and living longer.” Research shows that people with a sense of purpose and social connections tend to live longer and healthier lives. Kayoko’s part-time job may improve her well-being.
Even in a $700 million acquisition, the most important assets are often intangible. And that is principles and cultural values.
