In a shocking turn of events, the Los Angeles Dodgers, a prominent Major League Baseball (MLB) team, terminated the contract of Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, on March 21, 2024. The decision came after allegations surfaced that Mizuhara was involved in a significant theft, purportedly involving millions of dollars, affecting Japanese baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani.
A Stunning Revelation
The Los Angeles Dodgers confirmed the dismissal of Mizuhara following investigations by the Los Angeles Times and ESPN, which linked him to illegal betting activities. A statement from Berk Brettler LLP, representing Ohtani, highlighted the discovery of the massive theft, prompting immediate legal action.
Shohei Ohtani, celebrated as a two-time American League MVP and noted for his dual prowess as both a pitcher and batter, stands as the highest-paid player in baseball, with a vast fan base across Asia. Mizuhara, aged 39, had been a close associate and interpreter for Ohtani since his move to the United States in 2017, meeting first in Japan in 2013.
The Confession and Consequences
Mizuhara admitted to ESPN that he engaged in sports betting, violating MLB regulations and accruing debts exceeding $1 million. Initially, he claimed Ohtani was aware of these debts and had requested financial help to cover them. However, this narrative shifted, with Mizuhara later asserting Ohtani had no knowledge of the gambling debts.
Mizuhara’s gambling activities extended to European football, the NBA, the NFL, and college football, although he insisted he never bet on baseball games. Despite his claims, MLB policies strictly prohibit betting on any sport by players and team staff, with severe penalties for breaches.
This incident marks the most significant scandal in baseball gambling since the Pete Rose case in the 1980s, raising questions about integrity and compliance within the sport.