Dodgers’ Manager Encouraged By Shohei Ohtani’s Response to Ippei Mizuhara Scandal
The dust hasn’t completely settled on the scandal surrounding Ippei Mizuhara. Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter — whom Ohtani has accused of stealing $4.5 million from him to cover gambling debts, and lying about Ohtani’s knowledge of the payments made from his account to an alleged sports bookmaker — has reportedly been hard to track down since the Dodgers left South Korea.
That’s a problem for law enforcement authorities, and exactly how long it takes Ohtani to be absolved by the law and Major League Baseball remains unclear.
In the meantime, the Dodgers will attempt to move on with their star player a central figure in their quest for a World Series championship. So far, so good, manager Dave Roberts said prior to the team’s home opener Thursday.
“You have to be able to compartmentalize,” Roberts said. “You have to be a professional. We have a lot of guys in the clubhouse who are professionals. Not to say you’re not emotional or empathetic but the core group of guys we have … has weathered a lot of things.”
Roberts has observed Ohtani’s demeanor on the flight back from Seoul, in the Dodgers’ clubhouse, and among teammates on the field in the days since he addressed the media to clear his name. If Ohtani is burdened by the still-unfolding scandal, he appears to be hiding it well.
“He’s handled it with flying colors,” Roberts said of Ohtani. “He prepares every day. I don’t think it’s going to affect performance. Watching him with teammates has been fun to watch. I don’t think it affects him.”
What evidence is there to suggest Ohtani is unburdened by it all?
“Just on the bench … there’s a little banter,” Roberts said. “With the hitting coaches he’s asking questions.”
While Ohtani says all the right things publicly, and does all the right things privately, the Dodgers will open their home schedule with a focus on the field. Off the field, the story of Ohtani’s 2024 season will write another story under its own, separate spotlight.
Photo Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
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