MLB launches formal investigation into gambling scandal involving Shohei Ohtani interpreter Ippei Mizuhara

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Major League Baseball announced plans to open a formal investigation into gambling allegations against Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter for two-time league MVP Shohei Ohtani.

The Dodgers parted ways with Mizuhara this week after reports from the Los Angeles Times and ESPN raised accusations he stole and was associated with an illegal bookmaker.

"Major League Baseball has been gathering information since we learned about the allegations involving Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhari from the news media," the league said in a statement Friday. 

"Earlier today, our Department of Investigations (DOI) began their formal process investigating the matter."

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Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara of the Los Angeles Dodgers during a press conference at Dodger Stadium Dec. 14, 2023, in Los Angeles.  (Rob Leiter/MLB Photos via Getty Images)

Mizuhara is a familiar face to baseball fans and has served as Ohtani's interpreter since the Japanese pitcher and designated hitter arrived in the U.S. in 2017. 

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When Ohtani left the Los Angeles Angels to sign a record 10-year contract with the Dodgers in December, the club also hired Mizuhara. He was in the Dodgers' dugout during Wednesday's season opener against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea.

The Dodgers released a statement after the allegations surfaced saying they were "aware of media reports" and were "gathering information."

"The team can confirm that interpreter Ippei Mizuhara has been terminated," the statement said. "The team has no further comment at