BREAKING: Shohei Ohtani Donates Entire $3.2 Million Signing Bonus and Sponsorship Earnings to Charities and Homeless Relief

Los Angeles, CA – May 12, 2025 — In an extraordinary act of generosity and compassion, Shohei Ohtani, two-way superstar of the Los Angeles Dodgers, has announced the donation of his entire $3.2 million signing bonus along with his current sponsorship revenue to a series of charitable organizations focused on homelessness relief and community support.

The announcement was made early this morning through Ohtani’s official representatives and confirmed by the Dodgers organization shortly after. Ohtani’s donation is being directed to programs not only in Los Angeles, but also across the United States and in his native Japan, where issues of homelessness and poverty remain pressing social challenges.

A Humble Star with a Big Heart

Ohtani, known for his quiet demeanor and otherworldly talents both as a pitcher and hitter, is proving that his greatness extends far beyond the diamond.

“Baseball has given me more than I could ever imagine,” Ohtani said in a written statement. “This is a small way to give back to the communities that have embraced me. I believe in lifting others when we have the opportunity, and right now, the need is great.”

The charities that will receive funds from Ohtani’s donation include Los Angeles Mission, Union Rescue Mission, Covenant House California, and Second Harvest Japan, among others. The donation will provide thousands of meals, shelter beds, job training, and mental health services to those in need.

Team and Community React

News of the donation sparked immediate praise from teammates, fans, and figures across Major League Baseball.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts called it “one of the most selfless acts I’ve ever witnessed from a professional athlete.”

“He’s a once-in-a-generation talent on the field, and off the field, he’s showing just as much class and heart,” Roberts said. “We’re incredibly proud to have him in our clubhouse.”

Dodgers star Mookie Betts shared on social media, “Ohtani isn’t just a great player—he’s a great man. Respect.”

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred also released a statement acknowledging Ohtani’s act as “a powerful example of leadership and humanity at the highest level of the sport.”

Fans Across the Globe Applaud

In both the U.S. and Japan, fans responded with overwhelming support and admiration. Social media exploded with hashtags like #OhtaniGivesBack, #ShoheiForChange, and #DodgerWithHeart, with fans sharing their appreciation and personal stories of how Ohtani’s actions inspired them.

“I already loved him as a player, but now I admire him even more as a person,” one fan wrote on Twitter. “This is what real heroes look like.”

More Than Just Baseball

Ohtani’s philanthropic move comes at a time when homelessness remains a serious issue in Los Angeles and major cities across the country. According to recent data, over 75,000 people are currently experiencing homelessness in Los Angeles County alone—a figure that continues to rise.

Experts say Ohtani’s donation could have a tangible, life-changing impact.

“With Shohei’s support, we’ll be able to expand outreach programs, shelter more families, and provide long-term solutions,” said Andy Bales, CEO of Union Rescue Mission. “This gift gives us hope—and more importantly, gives people in need a fighting chance.”

A Track Record of Giving

This is not Ohtani’s first time giving back. Over the years, he has quietly supported disaster relief efforts in Japan, funded youth baseball programs, and provided scholarships for underprivileged students.

However, this marks the largest single charitable donation Ohtani has made to date—and one of the largest ever by an active MLB player from personal income.

“It’s not about the amount,” Ohtani said in his statement. “It’s about using what you have to make life better for someone else.”

A Legacy Beyond the Game

While Shohei Ohtani continues to dazzle fans with his unique two-way dominance—leading the Dodgers in both strikeouts and home runs—his off-field legacy is now just as profound.

He is not only redefining what’s possible in baseball, but also what it means to be a role model in modern sports.

Ohtani ended his statement with a simple, powerful message:

“If my success can bring hope or healing to others, then that is the true win.”