Ippei Mizuhara, the long-standing interpreter for Japanese baseball sensation Shohei Ohtani, has been dismissed by the Los Angeles Dodgers in light of allegations surrounding theft and illegal gambling activities. The controversy emerged as Ohtani, recently having signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, commenced his regular season with the team. Reports indicate approximately $4.5 million was illicitly transferred from Ohtani’s account to a bookmaker, though Ohtani himself faces no accusations of misconduct.

The scandal, unearthed amidst the Dodgers’ stint in Seoul, South Korea, for Ohtani’s debut, places Mizuhara at the center of illegal betting accusations, involving substantial sums wagered on a variety of sports excluding baseball. Despite initially denying involvement in baseball betting, which is strictly prohibited by Major League Baseball (MLB) regulations, Mizuhara admitted to accumulating gambling debts, partially settled upon request by Ohtani.

The Dodgers have officially terminated Mizuhara’s employment, following confirmed reports of his engagement in illegal gambling pursuits. The MLB’s stringent policies against betting extend to all team staff and players, reinforcing the decision to dismiss Mizuhara from his post. Amidst the unfolding scandal, Ohtani has also been enveloped in security concerns, including a resolved bomb threat against him at the Gocheok Sky Dome.

This incident underscores the prevalent regulations within professional sports aimed at curbing illegal gambling activities among players and associated personnel. Shohei Ohtani, unaffected by the allegations against his former interpreter, continues his career with the Dodgers, buoyed by his significant contribution to the sport and recent achievements.