Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, addressed recent allegations regarding illegal sports betting in a press conference on Monday. Ohtani unequivocally denied any involvement in gambling activities and instead accused his translator, Ippei Mizuhara, of stealing money from his account and lying to cover his actions.
Ohtani’s Statement: A Clear Denial
Ohtani, speaking through a team translator, stated, “I am very saddened and shocked someone whom I trusted has done this. Ippei has been stealing money from my account and has been telling lies. I never bet on sports or have willfully sent money to the bookmaker.” He emphatically reiterated his denial, adding, “I never bet on baseball or any other sports or never have asked somebody to do it on my behalf, and I have never gone through a bookmaker to bet on sports. and was never asked to assist betting payment for anyone else.”
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/72067750/1436413140.0.jpg)
This statement directly contradicts Mizuhara’s claims in an ESPN interview that Ohtani willingly provided funds to pay off gambling debts. Such actions would not only jeopardize Ohtani’s career but also violate federal laws. Ohtani dismissed Mizuhara’s account as “a complete lie,” asserting that Mizuhara had not communicated with him about the media inquiry and had falsely claimed to be in contact with Ohtani’s team.
Mizuhara’s Contradictory Account and Ohtani’s Response
Ohtani revealed that he was unaware of Mizuhara’s gambling addiction and debt until a team meeting in Seoul, South Korea. Mizuhara requested a private conversation after the meeting, where he confessed to using Ohtani’s account to send money to a bookmaker. Ohtani immediately contacted his representatives.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_asset/file/24558931/1364253422.jpg)
Legal Experts Weigh In
Prominent baseball writer and former attorney Craig Calcaterra commented on the situation, stating that Ohtani’s accusation of theft is a risky claim if untrue, potentially exposing him to legal repercussions. Calcaterra also noted that Mizuhara, facing significant debt, has a strong incentive to lie to protect himself.
Further Discrepancies in Mizuhara’s Credibility
Adding to the questions surrounding Mizuhara’s credibility are reports challenging claims on his resume, including his alleged work for the Boston Red Sox and his educational background. These discrepancies further bolster Ohtani’s allegations.
Ongoing Investigations and Future Implications
Major League Baseball (MLB), the IRS, and the FBI are currently investigating the matter. The investigations are expected to uncover facts that could exonerate Ohtani. It’s important to note that Mizuhara stated that none of the bets placed were on baseball, differentiating this situation from the Pete Rose scandal. However, this incident raises concerns about MLB’s increasing reliance on gambling partnerships as a revenue source.
Awaiting Further Developments
The situation remains under investigation, and further developments are expected. Ohtani’s reputation and the integrity of the game hang in the balance as authorities work to uncover the truth. The outcome of this investigation could have significant implications for the future of baseball and its relationship with the gambling industry.
