MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred expressed his desire for a swift resolution to the investigation surrounding superstar Shohei Ohtani, acknowledging uncertainty regarding its duration.
The anticipation for the upcoming MLB season has been overshadowed by the recent controversy involving Ohtani and his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, regarding alleged gambling activities.
Reports emerged during the Dodgers’ visit to South Korea that Ohtani’s lawyers accused Mizuhara of embezzlement and involvement with a bookmaker under federal scrutiny, leading to Mizuhara’s dismissal.
Ohtani, who secured the league’s most lucrative contract with the Dodgers in the offseason, vehemently denied any involvement in sports betting, attributing the improprieties to Mizuhara’s misconduct.
Both MLB and federal authorities are investigating the matter, aiming to ascertain the veracity of Ohtani’s claims and ensure the game’s integrity.
Speaking with Chris ‘Mad Dog’ Russo on MLB Network, Manfred emphasized the importance of verifying Ohtani’s statements to reassure fans about the game’s integrity.
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Recent reports, citing anonymous sources, indicated significant withdrawals from Ohtani’s bank accounts, prompting further scrutiny into the situation.
The Internal Revenue Service and MLB are conducting inquiries to determine if any rules regarding gambling have been violated, with potential penalties including suspension or permanent bans.
Manfred underscored the need for clear guidelines regarding sports betting, acknowledging its prevalence in the United States following a Supreme Court ruling.
He emphasized the distinction between rules applicable to players and other stakeholders, highlighting the responsibility that comes with the privilege of playing in Major League Baseball.
Manfred emphasized the importance of upholding the game’s integrity amid the evolving landscape of sports betting in the United States.
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