LOS ANGELES – The unfolding scandal involving Shohei Ohtani and his longtime interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, has gripped sports enthusiasts, with new developments surfacing by the day. Here’s what we know so far:

Mizuhara Scandal Timeline

Wednesday, March 20

Ohtani Unaware of Mizuhara’s Issues

1:13 p.m. PT: Ohtani’s camp claims the baseball star was unaware of Mizuhara’s alleged gambling problems until after the season opener. Despite ESPN’s inquiries, Ohtani’s representatives maintained his ignorance of the situation.

12:55 p.m. PT: ESPN releases a transcript of a phone conversation with Mizuhara, who takes full responsibility for the debacle. Mizuhara admits fault but remains tight-lipped about when Ohtani learned of the situation.

Dodgers Take Action

11:30 a.m. PT: The Los Angeles Dodgers terminate Mizuhara’s employment.

11 a.m. PT: Ohtani’s legal team issues a statement, alleging that the slugger fell victim to a significant theft, prompting them to involve the authorities.

8:32 a.m. PT: Ohtani’s spokesperson refutes Mizuhara’s claims during the ESPN interview, distancing Ohtani from Mizuhara’s narrative.

7 a.m. PT: In a clubhouse meeting in Seoul, Mizuhara confesses to his gambling addiction, with Dodger executive Andrew Friedman revealing Ohtani’s financial assistance to cover Mizuhara’s losses.

Ohtani’s Discovery

7 a.m. PT: Ohtani becomes aware of missing funds from his account, sparking further inquiry into Mizuhara’s actions.

3:05 a.m. PT: Amidst the turmoil, the Dodgers secure a victory against the San Diego Padres in Game 1 of the Seoul Series, with Ohtani and Mizuhara sharing light moments in the dugout.

Tuesday, March 19

7:30 p.m. PT: Mizuhara engages in a 90-minute interview with ESPN, reportedly facilitated by Ohtani’s spokesperson.

4:30 p.m. PT: MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred receives initial reports regarding the unfolding situation involving Ohtani.

Repercussions and Clarifications

As the saga unfolds, the repercussions for both Ohtani and Mizuhara remain uncertain. With investigations underway and statements being issued, the true extent of the matter and its implications on both their careers await further clarification.

Source