Shohei Ohtani's gambling scandal resurfaces, questioning MLB's inconsistent handling of cases compared to Emmanuel Clase's investigation.
Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through August 31 as part of Major League Baseball’s ongoing inquiry into sports betting. Clase joins his teammate, right-handed pitcher Luis Ortiz, who is also on leave within the same investigation timeframe. While it remains unclear if the two cases are directly connected, the Guardians’ management confirmed they do not anticipate other players or staff members being involved as the team contends mid-season against the Colorado Rockies.
Renewed Attention on Shohei Ohtani’s Gambling Controversy
The suspension of Clase has stirred renewed public discussion around the past gambling allegations involving Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani. Unlike Clase and Ortiz, Ohtani’s case centered on his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, who misappropriated over $17 million of Ohtani’s finances to feed a severe gambling addiction. Mizuhara pleaded guilty in early 2025 and received a prison sentence of four years and nine months. Since then, Ohtani and the Dodgers hired Will Ireton to handle Ohtani’s media engagements and public appearances to restore his professional image. Many fans have expressed suspicion that Mizuhara took the fall to shield Ohtani, raising concerns about MLB and the Dodgers’ handling of the incident.
Criticism Over MLB’s Inconsistent Approach to Betting Allegations
The current investigation into Clase and Ortiz has sparked significant debate about possible double standards by Major League Baseball. Fans and commentators have noted that the Ohtani-Mizuhara case, first uncovered in 2024, did not prompt an MLB investigation until a year later, while Clase and Ortiz were swiftly placed on leave. One fan questioned,
Image of: Shohei Ohtani
“They were quick to put him on leave. Where was that energy for Ohtani?”
Various social media reactions included remarks like,
“Just pull Ohtani’s card, it was just his translator”
and
“If only he had a translator to save himself”
, reflecting frustration that Ohtani was never suspended despite the scandal. Other comments suggested that the league appeared to cover up for Ohtani while applying heavier punishments in recent cases.
Outcome of the Shohei Ohtani Gambling Investigation
Shohei Ohtani was ultimately cleared of any direct involvement after an investigation lasting roughly three months, following his signing with the Los Angeles Dodgers as a free agent. While the probe brought significant attention to Ohtani’s off-field associations, authorities found no evidence of wrongdoing by the player himself, allowing him to continue his career without disciplinary action.
Implications for MLB’s Future Enforcement and Public Trust
The suspension of Emmanuel Clase amid the ongoing MLB betting inquiry underlines increasing league scrutiny toward gambling-related offenses. However, the contrasting treatment between Clase and Ohtani’s cases has raised concerns about consistency in enforcing league policies. This debate may pressure MLB to clarify its protocols and ensure uniform transparency to maintain player accountability and public confidence. How MLB will handle these high-profile investigations going forward remains a closely watched matter within baseball circles and by fans who demand fairness and integrity in the sport.
