Shohei Ohtani Battles Ex-Interpreter Over Stolen Baseball Cards and Millions in Fraud
In a shocking twist that feels more like a Hollywood heist movie than real life, Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani is taking legal action against his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, over a jaw-dropping fraud scheme. Ohtani, who has become one of the most celebrated players in Major League Baseball, is demanding the return of hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of baseball cards that Mizuhara allegedly purchased using stolen funds. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.
According to court documents filed on Tuesday, Ohtani claims Mizuhara fraudulently accessed his bank account starting in November 2021. The filing alleges that Mizuhara manipulated Ohtani’s security protocols, impersonating the two-way phenom to authorize wire transfers. By the time the scheme unraveled in 2024, Mizuhara had reportedly spent $325,000 of Ohtani’s money on collectible baseball cards through online platforms like eBay and Whatnot. But the cards weren’t just any memorabilia—they included signed collectibles featuring Ohtani himself, which the star athlete now wants returned.
Ohtani’s legal team is accusing Mizuhara of being in “unauthorized and wrongful possession” of these cards, adding another layer of betrayal to an already devastating case. Mizuhara’s attorney, Michael G. Freedman, has declined to comment on the latest filing, leaving fans and analysts alike to speculate on what might come next in this high-stakes legal battle.
The $17 Million Betrayal
This isn’t the first time Mizuhara has made headlines for all the wrong reasons. Back in June, Mizuhara pleaded guilty to bank and tax fraud after stealing nearly $17 million from Ohtani. Prosecutors revealed that Mizuhara used the stolen funds to fuel a gambling addiction, placing massive bets on international soccer, the NBA, the NFL, and college football. Notably, he never bet on baseball, a fact that may have spared him from even harsher scrutiny within the MLB community.
In addition to gambling, Mizuhara reportedly used Ohtani’s money to pay off his own medical bills and, of course, to amass his collection of high-value baseball cards. The scale of the fraud is staggering, and Mizuhara now faces serious consequences. He is scheduled to be sentenced in January and could face more than 30 years in federal prison for one count of bank fraud and one count of subscribing to a false tax return. On top of that, he may be required to pay nearly $17 million in restitution to Ohtani, as well as over $1 million to the IRS. As a legal permanent resident with a green card, Mizuhara also risks deportation to Japan.
From Trusted Ally to Betrayer
For years, Mizuhara was more than just an interpreter for Ohtani—he was a trusted confidant and friend. He stood by Ohtani’s side during some of the most iconic moments of his career, including serving as his catcher during the Home Run Derby at the 2021 All-Star Game. Mizuhara was also there for Ohtani’s two American League MVP wins and his record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract with the Dodgers. Their bond seemed unshakable, making Mizuhara’s betrayal all the more heartbreaking.
Off the field, Mizuhara’s gambling addiction spiraled out of control. Prosecutors say he wagered tens of millions of dollars that weren’t his to lose, betting on everything from international soccer matches to college football games. The betrayal has left fans stunned, as Mizuhara’s actions not only violated Ohtani’s trust but also tarnished the legacy of their once-close partnership.
Ohtani’s Unstoppable Rise
Despite the off-field drama, Ohtani has continued to dominate the baseball world. Earlier this year, he and the Dodgers captured the World Series title, cementing their place in MLB history. Ohtani also added another accolade to his already impressive resume, winning his third Most Valuable Player award. His ability to shine on the mound and at the plate has made him a global sensation, and his $700 million contract is a testament to his unparalleled talent.
But even as Ohtani continues to break records and win championships, the legal battle with Mizuhara serves as a stark reminder of the challenges that come with fame and fortune. For now, Ohtani is focused on reclaiming what’s rightfully his, including the baseball cards that Mizuhara allegedly purchased with stolen funds. The case is far from over, and fans will be watching closely as it unfolds.
Key Takeaways
- Ippei Mizuhara, Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter, pleaded guilty to stealing nearly $17 million from the MLB star.
- Mizuhara allegedly spent $325,000 of Ohtani’s money on collectible baseball cards, including signed cards featuring Ohtani himself.
- Mizuhara faces up to 30 years in federal prison, potential deportation, and millions in restitution payments.
- Ohtani, meanwhile, continues to dominate on the field, winning his third MVP award and leading the Dodgers to a World Series title.
As this legal drama continues to unfold, one thing is clear: Shohei Ohtani’s story is as compelling off the field as it is on it. Stay tuned for updates on this developing case.
Originally Written by: Associated Press
