Two-way superstar Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers‘ star player, was recently embroiled in a controversy. His former right-hand man and interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara was in the mix as well. The leading man in this gambling story? Probably Mizuhara? After all, he is reportedly in negotiations to plead guilty to federal crimes related to the alleged theft. It’s a matter of millions of dollars. 

When we look at the allegations, the theft emerged during the Dodgers’ season opener in South Korea. There were reports of suspicious wire transfers from Ohtani’s account, which led to an investigation by federal authorities. Early on, Ohtani’s agent and Mizuhara tried to handle the situation without informing the player himself. But their accounts of the situation were nevertheless inconsistent.

Allegations and Development in the Story So Far: Is Ippei Mizuhara at Fault? 

Initially, Mizuhara’s explanation was that Ohtani had paid off the debts of another team member.  Then came the changed version, which claimed that he owed gambling debts to a bookmaker, and Ohtani had bailed him out. Now, for anyone who is on the receiving end of these conflicting narratives, there are great concerns. Particularly with Major League Baseball (MLB) executives, who fear an unprecedented connection between Ohtani and gambling. Something that is strictly prohibited.

Unbeknownst to Ohtani, the Blue Crew and MLB figured out about the wire transfers. Confronting Mizuhara, who addressed the team, admitted to a gambling addiction and claimed that the phenomenon helped settle his debts. Now comes the part where Ohtani is seen under suspicion. After this address, Ohtani confronted Mizuhara, at which point the story took a completely different turn. Ippei Mizuhara had allegedly confessed to stealing the money. As a consequence, the Dodgers promptly fired Mizuhara.

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This investigation, co-led by the IRS, the Department of Homeland Security, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, indicates that Mizuhara could have stolen more than the $4.5 million that was reported.  Authorities also believe that he manipulated the Japanese star’s bank account settings to prevent transaction alerts and confirmations. By pleading guilty, the only relief Mizuhara could receive is a lighter sentence.

Shohei Ohtani Maintains Innocence and Focuses On the Game

All through this ordeal, the 29-year-old has maintained his innocence. He has publicly denied any involvement in gambling. Moreover, he has pledged complete cooperation with both the federal investigation and MLB’s internal probe. Nevertheless, uncertainties remain. Concluding anyone as innocent or guilty isn’t something that can be done hastily. 

Shohei Ohtani Remains Tight-Lipped About Ippei Mizuhara Scandal, Investigation Continues Amidst Growing Media Buzz

On one hand, Mizuhara’s potential plea indicates that he could be guilty. But the investigation is still one. Further details about the full extent of the alleged theft and Mizuhara’s actions continue to be hidden in the clouds. It is established that this situation has cast a shadow over Ohtani and the sport. But nothing can be concluded unless a final resolution formally comes.