Shohei Ohtani set to speak Monday as theft allegations against his interpreter spur investigation

Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani is set to address the media on Monday as Major League Baseball investigates allegations of theft against his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. The scandal has overshadowed the start of the MLB season and raised concerns about the relationship between professional sports and gambling. Ohtani's lawyers accused Mizuhara of massive theft and placing bets with a bookmaker under federal investigation. The MLB and the IRS are conducting separate investigations into Mizuhara's activities.

Background: Ohtani and Mizuhara worked together from 2013 to 2017 when Mizuhara served as Ohtani's translator for the Nippon-Ham Fighters in Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball League. When Ohtani joined the Los Angeles Angels in 2018, he asked Mizuhara to be his translator during his rookie season. Mizuhara later joined Ohtani with the Dodgers.

Allegations: It is alleged that at least $4.5 million was withdrawn from Ohtani's bank accounts via wire transfer, though it remains unclear who initiated the transfers. Ohtani's attorneys have not provided details on how they believe the funds were stolen, leading to questions surrounding the scandal. Mizuhara's attorney, Diane Bass, stated that her client had dealt with a bookmaker named Mathew Bowyer but denied any direct contact between Bowyer and Ohtani.

Investigations: Major League Baseball has been gathering information since the allegations came to light, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Los Angeles Field Office is investigating both Mizuhara and Bowyer. Bowyer, a California resident, had gambling debts over a decade ago. The investigations aim to shed light on the allegations and determine the extent of Mizuhara's involvement.

Statements and Reactions: The saga began with questions about alleged wire transfers from Ohtani's bank account. Mizuhara initially claimed in an interview with ESPN that he had asked Ohtani to pay off his gambling debt, but Ohtani's spokesperson disavowed this account and stated that Ohtani had been a victim of theft. Mizuhara was seen in the Dodgers' dugout and interacting with Ohtani before being fired as his interpreter. MLB and the IRS confirmed their intent to investigate following the allegations.

Conclusion: The situation surrounding Shohei Ohtani and his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, has sparked an investigation by Major League Baseball and the IRS. The allegations of theft and gambling have cast a shadow over the start of the MLB season and raised concerns about the relationship between professional sports and gambling. Ohtani is expected to provide his thoughts and address the media to shed more light on the situation.