Dodgers’ Shohei Ohtani Interpreter Accused of Financial Misconduct in Illegal Betting Probe

Representatives of the Los Angeles Dodgers have accused Shohei Ohtani‘s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, of serious financial misconduct in connection with alleged illegal betting activities involving a federal investigation. The allegations surfaced after it was revealed that Ohtani’s name was linked to the probe of Mathew Bowyer, a resident of Orange County.

Ohtani’s legal team, Berk Brettler, has indicated that Mizuhara is suspected of engaging in significant financial wrongdoing, totaling millions of dollars, prompting an escalation of the matter to the authorities. The Dodgers terminated Mizuhara’s contract following the investigation.

The investigation stems from Mizuhara allegedly placing bets with Bowyer, who is under scrutiny by federal authorities. The case involves major league baseball’s policies on gambling, which prohibit any player or employee from engaging in illegal betting activities.

Despite the accusations, Bowyer’s attorney, Diane Bass, has clarified that Bowyer had no direct contact with Ohtani. The U.S. attorney’s office in L.A. is overseeing the investigation, which is part of a broader crackdown on illegal sports gambling operations centered in Orange County, involving individuals like Wayne Nix and ex-Dodger Yasiel Puig.

Mizuhara, originally from Japan, served as Ohtani’s interpreter throughout his stint with the Angels and then the Dodgers. Their relationship dates back to their time together at the Nippon-Ham Fighters, and Mizuhara continued to accompany Ohtani in his transition to the MLB.

Known for his high-profile contract with the Dodgers, Ohtani has emerged as a significant figure in baseball and global sports. However, revelations of the alleged financial impropriety has placed a shadow over his career and raised questions about his inner circle.

Legal proceedings against Bowyer include a significant default judgment related to gambling debts, further complicating the ongoing investigation. Mizuhara’s sudden dismissal by the Dodgers adds a dramatic twist to the narrative surrounding Ohtani’s interpreter and the illegal betting allegations.