Shohei Ohtani's Performance in Dodgers vs. Angels Game Amidst Controversy

Japanese player Shohei Ohtani didn't get any hits for the second game in a row. The Los Angeles Dodgers lost 6-0 to the Los Angeles Angels at Dodger Stadium.

In the team's second Freeway Series exhibition game after coming back from South Korea, Ohtani didn't manage to get a hit. He went 0-for-2, grounding out twice and also receiving a walk in the game against his old team.

Before the game, the two-time MVP spoke out publicly for the first time since allegations of gambling and theft surfaced against his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, last week.

The 29-year-old Ohtani firmly stated that he did not participate in any sports betting or have any dealings with a bookie. He pointed fingers at his former interpreter, accusing him of stealing money from his account.

Ohtani expressed his dismay and surprise, stating, "I’m very saddened and shocked that someone who I’ve trusted has done this." The statement was translated into English by Dodgers employee Will Ireton.

CNN reached out to Mizuhara for a comment. Mizuhara told ESPN, "I never bet on baseball … That’s 100 percent. I knew that rule … We have a meeting about that in spring training."

Ohtani, who typically shies away from media interviews, also noted he was limited in what he could say, acknowledging the ongoing federal and league investigations.

Ohtani prepares to bat against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday.

Ohtani prepares to bat against the Los Angeles Angels on Monday.

Jae C. Hong/AP

He mentioned that he has never placed bets on baseball or any other sports, nor has he ever asked someone to do so on his behalf. Additionally, he stated that he has never used a bookmaker to place bets on sports.

The Internal Revenue Service and Major League Baseball are currently looking into the issue, as the league is trying to ascertain whether any violations of its strict rules against gambling have occurred.

A player or employee who bets on baseball could face a one-year suspension. However, if they bet on a game they are involved in, the suspension could be for life. MLB's commissioner has the authority to punish individuals who engage in illegal sports betting with a bookie.

According to ESPN's Tisha Thompson, who quoted multiple anonymous sources on CNN's "The Lead" last week, it was reported that at least $4.5 million was withdrawn from Ohtani's bank accounts through wire transfers. The initiator of these transfers remains unclear.

Ohtani's attorneys have not explained how they think the money was taken, raising concerns about the scandal.

After being named the American League MVP twice in the last three seasons as both a pitcher and designated hitter for the Angels, Ohtani secured an extraordinary 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers this season.

The Dodgers will close out the three-game exhibition against the Angels on Tuesday.

Raja Razek, Steve Almasy, Dalia Faheid and Elizabeth Wolfe contributed to reporting.

Editor's P/S:

The recent allegations against Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter have cast a shadow over the start of the MLB season. Ohtani's strong denial of any involvement in gambling and his accusations against Mizuhara have brought the issue to the forefront. While the investigations by the IRS and Major League Baseball are ongoing, it is crucial to emphasize the strict rules against gambling within the league. The potential consequences, including lifetime suspensions, underscore the severity of this matter.

Ohtani's public statement, a departure from his usual media reserve, highlights the seriousness of the situation. His trust has been breached, and he is rightfully dismayed and shocked. The reported withdrawal of millions of dollars from his bank accounts raises further concerns. It is imperative that the investigations proceed thoroughly and swiftly to determine the truth and hold those responsible accountable. The integrity of the sport and the reputation of its players must be upheld.