The Los Angeles Angels have found an unusual source of inspiration in their dugout this season: a small Pikachu figurine perched near the camera well. Since its appearance last month, the figurine has become an unofficial mascot for several players, including shortstop Zach Neto, who credits it with helping the team maintain a relaxed and focused approach on the field.
The Pikachu figure, sometimes concealed under a blanket or turned away, quietly observes each play without drawing attention from umpires or opposing teams. Neto described the presence of the figurine as a fun distraction that allows him to play with a clear mind and enjoy the game. “I could just go out there with a free mind and not have to think about too much, and just kind of play my game,” Neto said.
This newfound lightheartedness coincides with a series of positive moments for the Angels. Since Pikachu’s arrival, Neto hit a game-winning home run against the Oakland Athletics on June 21. Meanwhile, pitcher Ryan Johnson, who struggled with a 14.40 earned run average in May, nearly threw a no-hitter on June 23 against the Baltimore Orioles, striking out eight while allowing just one hit. Catcher Logan O’Hoppe followed with a walk-off infield single in extra innings during the series finale against Baltimore. The team also secured four consecutive home series wins in June.
Johnson attributed his improved performance partly to luck, calling the figurine’s presence “lucky,” though he was otherwise noncommittal about its influence. Manager Kurt Suzuki, known for his superstitious tendencies, expressed openness to the charm, stating, “If it helps Neto, it can stay.”
The connection between the players and Pokémon runs deeper than the figurine alone. Neto, a 25-year-old with a background rooted in Miami’s vibrant Cuban-American culture, initially was not a fan of Pokémon. However, his older brother introduced him to the cards, and following a slump early in the season, star outfielder Mike Trout invited Neto to a pregame ritual involving opening Pokémon card packs to spark good fortune.
According to Neto, the turning point came when both he and Trout pulled Charizard cards—a rare and coveted Pokémon—before the May 5 game against the Chicago White Sox. Both then hit home runs in a 4-3 Angels victory, reinforcing the playful superstition. Since then, the two have embraced the hobby, with Neto joking that they have become “all-in” on Pokémon.
The Pikachu figurine itself came as part of the packaging when opening a box of Pokémon card packs in Sacramento. Although originally adorned with a small halo accessory, the figure’s halo broke, but Neto decided to keep and cherish the now imperfect mascot as a symbol of fun and resilience.
“For me, it’s a relief,” Neto said. “If I have a bad game or a good game, it helps me not even think about what just happened or what’s about to happen. Just focus on the task at hand, and try to have fun out there.”
As the Angels continue their season, the playful presence of a yellow Pokémon in the dugout serves as a reminder that sometimes, success on the baseball diamond can come with a bit of unexpected whimsy.