Shohei Ohtani plans to speak to the media Monday on the illegal gambling and theft allegations involving his former interpreter, who stands accused of “massive theft” by Ohtani’s attorneys.
Ohtani has a lot at stake in the conversation. Although neither he nor his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, have been charged with a crime, they are under an IRS investigation. Major League Baseball is also probing the matter. The story on how and why Ohtani’s money was transferred to an alleged bookmaker has already changed, and many questions remain unanswered.
Betting on baseball games is an automatic ban from the league, although players and club official can bet on other sports. However, there is no legal sports betting in California at the moment.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts on Sunday endorsed Ohtani addressing the matter publicly.
“It’s the right thing to do,” he said. “I’m happy he’s going to speak and speak to what he knows and give his thoughts on the whole situation. I think it will give us all a little bit more clarity.”
Sunday’s Freeway Series opener at Dodger Stadium pits him against his former team, the Los Angeles Angels. The teams are playing three exhibition games before the Dodgers host the St. Louis Cardinals in their home opener Thursday.