Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, began serving a 57-month sentence at a low-security prison in Pennsylvania on Monday after pleading guilty to charges of tax evasion and bank fraud earlier this year. The Shohei Ohtani interpreter tax evasion scandal attracted widespread attention following reports of millions of dollars missing from Ohtani’s accounts.

Details of the Financial Misconduct

Mizuhara was dismissed by the Los Angeles Dodgers shortly after Ohtani’s debut with the team in 2024, following investigations by ESPN that uncovered wire transfers totaling $17 million withdrawn from Ohtani’s personal bank account and paid to a bookmaker. The guilty verdict was handed down in the United States District Court in Orange County, California.

Background and Contract Context

Ohtani, who completed six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels and earned $30 million in 2023, signed a massive 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers prior to the 2024 season. This deal includes a base salary of about $2 million annually, with the majority of the earnings deferred. Mizuhara’s misappropriation of funds came to light as Ohtani began this new chapter in his career.

Legal Consequences and Financial Restitution

In addition to his prison term, Mizuhara has been ordered to repay Ohtani the stolen amounts and to pay $1.15 million to the Internal Revenue Service. Once trusted as a close friend and colleague, Mizuhara’s role as interpreter extended through Ohtani’s time with both the Angels and Dodgers, but their relationship ended after the revelations.

Impact on Ohtani and the Baseball Community

The breach of trust in this high-profile case has cast a shadow over Ohtani’s career and raised concerns about the financial security of top athletes. The case serves as a cautionary example within the sports world, underscoring the importance of transparent financial management and accountability for those handling players’ personal affairs.

“–Field Level Media”