Dodgers pop-culture domination continues with Godzilla bobbleheads planned for regular-season finale

The Shohei Ohtani effect is minting a whole new lineup of Dodgers sponsors — and this time, the King of the Monsters is stepping up to the plate.The Dodgers have inked another splashy partnership with a Japanese powerhouse, unveiling a Godzilla Minus Zero Night that underscores how Ohtani has turned the franchise into Major League Baseball’s hottest destination for Japanese brands eager to cash in on the superstar’s global appeal.The Sept.24 showdown against the rival San Diego Padres — the Dodgers’ regular-season home finale at UNIQLO Field at Dodger Stadium — will bring one of Japan’s most legendary pop-culture icons to Chavez Ravine.The first 40,000 fans through the gates for the 7:10 p.m.

first pitch will score an exclusive Godzilla Minus Zero bobblehead, with one giveaway per valid ticket.The collectible features Godzilla decked out in Dodgers blue, sporting an LA batting helmet and a white Dodgers jersey emblazoned with “0.0” while chomping down on a baseball bat.The monster stands atop a wrecked stadium scene surrounded by flames, with “Godzilla Minus Zero” displayed on the base.The promotional image notes the design shown is a concept and the final product is subject to change.Fans will also be treated to a Godzilla-themed drone show after the game, while additional in-stadium activations promoting the event will take place in the days leading up to the matchup.The event also serves as a promotional launch for TOHO’s upcoming feature film, Godzilla Minus Zero, which opens in theaters nationwide on Nov.6.Written, directed and featuring visual effects by Takashi Yamazaki, the movie is set in 1949, two years after the events of Godzilla Minus One, and follows the Shikishima family as they confront an all-new calamity.Its predecessor won the Academy Award for Best Visual Effects at the 96th Academy Awards.“We are pleased to partner with TOHO on Godzilla Minus Zero Night, an evening at the ballpark that should be a sure-fire hit with D...