Words cannot describe the relationship between Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara. On one hand, the latter may just be his translator in the forefront. On the other, he is a constant force for the two-way phenom’s behind the scenes. When one dives deep into understanding everything about Mizuhara and baseball, their bond appears in every chapter. But is he close enough to trade texts with Ohtani’s parents? 

In the ever-so-private life that the Japanese star maintains in his life, Ippei-san is a friend and a close confidant. As has been proven over and over again, the two share a camaraderie that goes beyond just having breakfast at the hotel. One day, he shared certain details of when he received a “lot of messages from Japan“. 

Here’s Why Ippei Mizuhara Received So Many Messages From Japan

A video that recently surfaced on YouTube had the Los Angeles Angels’ Mark Gubicza interviewing Shotime’s interpreter, Mizuhara Ippei. Stating that it was fun, the video captured the 38-year-old sharing information about how the unicorn’s parents and sponsors would send him text messages. He said, “Well I get a lot of messages from Japan, with people that are around Shohei, like his parents, some sponsors seeing how he’s doing and stuff. So every time he does well on the field I usually get 15 to 20 texts”. Now that’s a dedicated ritual to follow after every game. 

In conjunction to highlighting a regular post-game practice, this piece of trivia reveals how well knit both of them are. So much so that even Ohtani’s well-wishers are in direct touch with his interpreter.

Their friendship has been so special that Mizuhara did not hesitate risking his job when he was asked to distance himself from Shohei during peak COVID. How could he stay away? After all, he spends more time with the Oshu-born than he does with his own family.

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Shohei Ohtani’s Gestures Reciprocate Ippei Mizuhara’s Emotions

Ippei Mizuhara’s presence in Ohtani’s life is so monumental that when Ohtani bagged the Rookie of the Year title, he raised Mizuhara’s arms too, as a form of appreciation and gratitude. Reminiscing that moment, the Tomakomai-born told Nippon.com that he felt a little embarrassed by the act. But this was not the only time when the 29-year-old reciprocated his friendship. 

Read More : When Did Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara First Meet? The Translator’s Journey Alongside Sho-Time

Surpassing the limits of baseball, Mizuhara and Ohtani’s off court friendship is commendable. Back in 2018, when Mizuhara tied the knot, the $700 million Dodgers’ star surprised him with a party onboard their flight. Moreover, he generously offered the newlyweds a travel gift certificate that covered the entire expenditure for their honeymoon. This is one of the many instances that stand as a testament to their relationship.