Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter for Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani, is set to be sentenced on Thursday for bank and tax fraud. Mizuhara, who had access to Ohtani’s finances, stole nearly $17 million from the Los Angeles Dodgers player’s bank account to cover his gambling debts. Federal prosecutors are seeking a prison sentence of four years and nine months, citing a severe breach of trust.
The Case Against Mizuhara
Mizuhara was responsible for bridging the communication gap between Ohtani and his English-speaking teammates, but instead, he exploited his position to steal millions. Authorities revealed that Mizuhara accessed Ohtani’s bank account as early as 2021, altering security settings to impersonate the baseball star and authorize wire transfers. The stolen money was used to place bets on international soccer, the NBA, the NFL, and college football. However, prosecutors clarified that Mizuhara did not bet on baseball, and Ohtani was completely unaware of the fraudulent activity.
Mizuhara’s Gambling Addiction and Apology
In a letter to the court, Mizuhara admitted to his financial struggles and gambling addiction, expressing deep regret for betraying Ohtani’s trust. He acknowledged that his actions were inexcusable and pleaded for leniency in his sentencing. His lawyer, Michael G. Freedman, requested a reduced sentence of 1.5 years, arguing that Mizuhara had already suffered significant personal and professional consequences, including the loss of his job and reputation.
Prosecutors Demand Full Restitution
Federal prosecutors insist that Mizuhara must repay the stolen $17 million to Ohtani and an additional $1 million to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). They described Mizuhara’s actions as a “calculated betrayal,” emphasizing that his crime was not just about financial losses but also about the trust he violated.
Impact on Ohtani and the Baseball Community
Shohei Ohtani, one of the world’s most famous baseball players, was blindsided by the fraud, which became an international scandal. Ohtani, who previously played for the Los Angeles Angels, is now with the Dodgers under a record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract. The case stemmed from a broader federal investigation into illegal sports betting in Southern California, which has led to charges against multiple individuals.
Mizuhara’s Background and Relationship with Ohtani
Born in Japan, Mizuhara moved to California as a child and later returned to Japan in 2013 to work as an interpreter for a baseball team. He became Ohtani’s personal interpreter in 2018 and played a crucial role in the player’s daily life, handling tasks beyond translation, such as grocery shopping and scheduling. He stood by Ohtani’s side during major career moments, including his Home Run Derby appearance, two American League MVP wins, and his recent World Series victory with the Dodgers.
What’s Next?
Mizuhara is expected to serve time in prison and faces deportation to Japan after completing his sentence. The court’s final decision on his sentencing will determine the length of his imprisonment and the restitution he must pay. Meanwhile, Ohtani remains focused on his career, though the betrayal by someone he once considered a close friend will likely leave a lasting impact.
The case of Ippei Mizuhara serves as a stark reminder of how trust can be exploited, even among close companions. While Ohtani continues to shine on the baseball field, his former interpreter faces serious consequences for his actions. The sentencing will mark the final chapter of a scandal that has rocked the sports world and highlighted the dangers of gambling addiction and financial fraud.
