Shohei Ohtani has denied betting on baseball or sports, as well as paying a bookie, but there are doubts about his story. Ohtani claims that his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, stole money from his accounts to gamble, but Mizuhara originally stated that Ohtani helped him pay off gambling debts. However, Mizuhara has since admitted to lying in his initial interview with ESPN, and Ohtani continues to maintain that Mizuhara was stealing money and spreading falsehoods. Despite Ohtani’s assertions, former MLB catcher A.J. Pierzynski believes the situation is suspect, questioning how Ohtani could have missed the multiple large withdrawals from his account, totaling $4.5 million, and suggesting that the circumstances do not add up.
Pierzynski acknowledges that it is not uncommon for athletes to have money taken from them by individuals they trust, such as financial advisors or agents with access to their finances. However, he finds it unusual that Ohtani’s interpreter, who was also his best friend, is accused of stealing such a significant amount without his knowledge. Additionally, Pierzynski notes the odd timing of the revelation, with Mizuhara being friendly with Ohtani in the dugout before the game and later being accused of stealing the large sum immediately after the game. The circumstances surrounding the situation raise red flags for Pierzynski, casting doubt on Ohtani’s version of events.
Ohtani claims he did not learn of Mizuhara’s gambling activities until a team series in Seoul, despite Mizuhara allegedly communicating with Ohtani’s representatives and the team about the matter. When Ohtani confronted Mizuhara about his debts, Mizuhara confessed to using Ohtani’s account to send money to a bookmaker. This revelation prompted Ohtani to notify his representatives and eventually involve the Dodgers and his lawyers. The attorneys deemed the situation to be theft and fraud, recommending that authorities handle the matter. Major League Baseball is now investigating the incident involving Ohtani and Mizuhara, who had been Ohtani’s personal translator since his MLB debut in 2018 with the Los Angeles Angels.
The close relationship between Ohtani and Mizuhara has been highlighted, with Mizuhara attending Ohtani’s bullpen sessions and playing catch with him before games. Despite their bond, Mizuhara’s actions have led to the severance of their partnership, raising questions about trust and transparency in their working relationship. Ohtani has maintained his innocence, asserting that Mizuhara misrepresented their interactions and involvement in the financial transactions. The ongoing investigation by Major League Baseball will hopefully shed light on the truth behind the allegations and provide clarity regarding the events that transpired between Ohtani and Mizuhara. The situation serves as a reminder of the complexities of professional sports and the importance of vigilance in managing personal and professional relationships.
