Shohei Ohtani, the talented two-way player for the Los Angeles Angels, has been making headlines not only for his impressive performances on the field but also for a recent scandal involving his interpreter. The interpreter, who has been accused of illegal gambling, has brought unwanted attention to Ohtani and the team.
This accusation raises questions about the integrity of those surrounding professional athletes and their potential influence on players. As an integral part of Ohtani's communication with teammates, coaches, and media, the interpreter plays a crucial role in ensuring smooth interactions both on and off the field. If found guilty of these allegations, it could have serious consequences not only for the interpreter but also for Ohtani's career and reputation.
Ippei Mizuhara, the longtime friend and interpreter for Ohtani, incurred the gambling debts to a Southern California bookmaking operation that is under federal investigation, multiple sources told ESPN. How he came to lose his job started with reporters asking questions about the wire transfers.
Ohtani told ESPN the slugger had transferred the funds to cover Mizuhara's gambling debt. The spokesman presented Mizuhara to ESPN for a 90-minute interview Tuesday night, during which Mizuhara laid out his account in great detail. However, as ESPN prepared to publish the story Wednesday, the spokesman disavowed Mizuhara's account and said Ohtani's lawyers would issue a statement
Mizuhara is a familiar face to baseball fans as Ohtani’s constant companion, interpreting for him with the media and at other appearances since Ohtani came to the U.S. in 2017. He even served as Ohtani’s catcher during the Home Run Derby at the 2021 All-Star Game. When Ohtani left the Los Angeles Angels to sign a $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers in December, the club also hired Mizuhara.
Dodgers said in a statement they were "aware of media reports and are gathering information.
“The team can confirm that interpreter Ippei Mizuhara has been terminated,” the statement said. "The team has no further comment at this time.”
"In the course of responding to recent media inquiries, we discovered that Shohei has been the victim of a massive theft, and we are turning the matter over to the authorities," a statement from West Hollywood law firm Berk Brettler reportedly read. The BBC has contacted the law firm for confirmation.
Mr Ohtani recently signed a record 10-year, $700m contract with the Dodgers, after winning his second unanimous American League MVP award.
His stint in the US started in 2018, and Mr Mizuhara has been a constant companion. He and his wife were recently seen in a picture which unveiled Mr Ohtani's wife, Mamiko Tanaka after weeks of speculation.
Mr Mizuhara's ability to interpret Mr Ohtani's comments into colloquial English has been widely praised in Japan.
 Read more
MLB opener: Dodgers vs. Padres Ohio Primary Election: Trump-endorsed Senate candidate Bernie Moreno wins
Sarah H
Also on site :