Shohei Ohtani often steals the limelight, but this offseason, a competitor arrives. Of all the things, it’s the Japanese sensation’s pet dog giving him a tough fight. After Ohtani’s second MVP win on Thursday night, his pet dog stole the show. The canine’s adorable high-five to the Japanese pitcher melted hearts, leading fans to give him another ‘MVP’ title – ?most valuable puppy.? Topps hopped on the trend with an innovative card to honor Ohtani and the pup.

The two-way phenom has joined an elite list of MLB players with multiple MVPs, but the star pitcher has also created a separate individual record. He becomes the first player to have two MVP awards won unanimously. Even with history-creating moments catapulting him to the spotlight, it was the dog who unexpectedly stole the attention.

Shohei Ohtani and His Dog Feature on a Special Topps Card

During his recovery time at home, Shohei Ohtani has found comfort in his furry friend. What surprised the fans was the dog?s skills and training. During Ohtani?s MVP award celebration, the cute companion gave him a high-five to cheer him up, just like a buddy.

This soon went viral on social media, and to honor this adorable companionship, Topps made an innovative card captioned, ?Shohei Ohtani Celebrates AL MVP Award with Most Valuable Puppy.? Surprisingly, this has even impacted the free agency of Ohtani to some extent.

The cute bonding of the player with his dog drew the attention of MLB enthusiasts, especially ESPN?s Mina Kimes. She is a die-hard Seattle Mariners fan and is famous for her pet affection. On MLB’s post featuring the most endearing duo, she wrote, ?DO WHATEVER IT TAKES @mariners.? She is clearly trying to push her favorite team to make some move in the Ohtani chase.

Read More: Shohei Ohtani Puts Forth Strict Free Agency Request, Preferring Privacy Amidst $500 Million Negotiations.

Fans jumped into the comment section to express their awe and love for Shohei Ohtani and the Beagle.

Shohei Ohtani?s Dog Becomes a Superstar Overnight

Baseball stars often have their four-footed buddies to enjoy their time with. But only a few get the stardom that the canine Ohtani received. Fans have been praising Topps for capturing this side of Ohtani.

Some love the new side of Ohtani and praise his moments with the dog.

A few fans even called the two-way player a “National Treasure.”

Some called the puppy the most valuable one.

Some even started a poll about the puppy’s behavior.

A few fans even consider it a heartwarming message.

The two-way phenom is renowned for his gentle and down-to-earth behavior. But the MVP night has opened up another side of his character, taking his popularity to new heights.

Watch the Story: ?Young Shohei Ohtani?s Journey To Elite Hitting Proving His Little League Coach Wrong