The year 2025 witnessed a heartwarming trend off the baseball diamond, as several Major League Baseball (MLB) superstars stepped into a new, life-changing role: fatherhood. Away from the intense glare of stadium lights and the pressure of the season, these athletes welcomed newborns, offering fans a rare and softer glimpse into their personal lives. These milestones highlighted a significant chapter beyond home runs and strikeouts, showcasing the joy of family.
A New Inning: MLB Stars Welcome Their First Children
The 2025 season will be remembered not just for records and playoffs, but for the personal joy that arrived for key players. Stars like Shohei Ohtani, Aaron Judge, and J.P. Crawford each celebrated the arrival of their first child, marking a transformative period in their lives. These events were shared with the public through social media, revealing a side of the athletes often shielded by their on-field personas.
Shohei Ohtani's Daughter Arrives in April
Los Angeles Dodgers two-way phenomenon Shohei Ohtani and his wife, former Japanese basketball player Mamiko Tanaka, welcomed their first child—a daughter—in April 2025. Ohtani marked the occasion with a grateful post on his Instagram on April 20. He expressed profound thanks to his wife and extended his gratitude to the Dodgers organization, his teammates, and fans for their support. "Welcome to the Ohtani Family!" he wrote, offering a rare, intimate look at a moment of pure personal happiness away from the sport.
Aaron Judge Begins Fatherhood in January
New York Yankees powerhouse and captain Aaron Judge entered the new year with a monumental personal milestone. He and his wife Samantha welcomed their first child, a daughter named Nora Rose Judge, on January 27, 2025. Judge shared an adorable photo holding his newborn's hand, captioning it with excitement for the future memories for their family of three. Alongside embracing fatherhood, Judge continued his active involvement in charitable work, a constant throughout his professional career.
J.P. Crawford's Late 2024 Blessing
Seattle Mariners' standout shortstop J.P. Crawford and his wife Katty became parents slightly earlier, welcoming their baby girl in late December 2024. He announced her arrival on December 8, introducing Korra Crawford to the world. Crawford has often spoken about how his daughter brings him peace and happiness. The joy of fatherhood even seemed to fuel his on-field performance, as he hit a memorable grand slam on his first Father's Day in June 2025.
Life Beyond the Ballpark
While statistics and championships define their professional legacy, the year 2025 was uniquely shaped by the personal triumph of fatherhood for these athletes. The arrival of a new family member marked an indelible personal chapter during the grueling MLB season. These shared moments remind fans that behind the elite athleticism and competitive fire are individuals experiencing the universal joys of family life, adding a rich, human dimension to their public personas.
