Dec 14, 2023; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Ippei Mizuhara, the translator for Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani, during an introductory press conference at Dodger Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, reported to a low-security Pennsylvania prison Monday to begin serving a 57-month sentence, multiple outlets reported, after pleading guilty in March to tax evasion and bank fraud charges.
Shortly after Ohtani made his debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers in 2024, Mizuhara, 40, was fired by the club following a series of ESPN reports that revealed millions were withdrawn from Ohtani’s personal bank account and paid to a bookmaker.
A total of $17 million was revealed to have been removed from Ohtani’s account by Mizuhara through a series of wire transfers. Mizuhara was found guilty at United States District Court in Orange County, Calif.
After six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels, which concluded with him making $30 million in 2023, Ohtani agreed to a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers before the 2024 season. The current deal is set to pay Ohtani $2 million per year with the rest deferred.
Mizuhara’s sentence included an order to provide financial restitution to Ohtani. He also must pay $1.15 million to the IRS.
Mizuhara worked as Ohtani’s interpreter with the Angels and Dodgers, with the pair characterized as close friends before Othani severed ties following the theft revelations.
–Field Level Media
