Ippei Mizuhara, a friend and translator of recently signed Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, has been fired by the team after being accused of stealing “millions of dollars” from Ohtani.
This report was originally Los Angeles Times, revealed Otani’s lawyers say they believe Mizuhara stole the money and used it to bet with an illegal bookmaker named Matthew Bowyer.
Mr. Bowyer is currently under federal investigation.
Law firm Burke Brettler said, “In the course of responding to recent media interviews, we learned that Mr. Shohei was the victim of grand theft, and we have decided to refer this matter to the authorities.” said.
Ippei Mizuhara, who serves as an interpreter for Shohei Ohtani #17 of the Los Angeles Angels, stands in the dugout during a game against the Baltimore Orioles at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on April 22, 2022 in Anaheim, California. (Jane Kamin Onsia/Getty Images)
Mizuhara initially admitted betting on sports other than baseball, but claimed he did not know the bets were illegal. Mr. Mizuhara then said that Mr. Otani sent him money by wire to cover his $4.5 million gambling debt. But on Wednesday, Mizuhara told ESPN that Ohtani did not know about the gambling debt and that he did not send any money.
The specific MLB rule at issue is Rule 21(d)(3), which states that “a player, umpire, club or league official or employee who places a bet with an illegal bookmaker or with an agent of an illegal bookmaker. shall be punished.” Inflict such punishment as the Director-General deems appropriate in the light of the facts and circumstances of the act. ”
The bet was placed in California, where sports betting remains illegal.
Mr. Mizuhara only worked for Otani, but in MLB, all interpreters are team employees.
Los Angeles Angels No. 17 Shohei Otani and interpreter Ippei Mizuhara (right) speak at a press conference to announce the All-Star starting lineup at McGregor Square near Coors Field in Denver, Colorado on July 12, 2021. (Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
“The more severe penalties associated with Rule 21 include betting on baseball.” sports illustrated report. “Anyone who bets on a baseball game in which his team does not participate will be sentenced to one year of disqualification.” For example, Pete Rose was found to have violated a section known as Rule 21(d)(2). ”
Mizuwon will not only be punished by the league, but will also face legal action.
