The scandal involving Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of Shohei Ohtani created quite a stir among the MLB circuit. This case is a classic example of what greed can do to a person. Prosecution for the $17 million scandal is about to end now with Mizuhara already being sentenced to 57 months. However, Mizuhara is a closed chapter now and he was never an on-field personality. As a result, it is now all about Shohei Ohtani who is still facing public scrutiny in this case. 

The unethical activities of Mizuhara caused enough damage to the dignity and social image of Ohtani and his wife. The statement shared by the US Attorney General against this might be an effective repellent for Ohtani to regain his social image. The message from the Attorney general was also required to convey a stern warning to the offenders about potential consequences. Now, as Ohtani is free of any charges in this scandal, what holds ahead for him?

Shohei Ohtani is the victim

Since this scandal came into the limelight and Mizuhara was convicted, Ohtani’s role also came under suspicion. Fans that time left wondering about how Ohtani hadn’t gotten to know about Mizuhara’s wire transfers from his bank account and why Ohtani was not aware of the potential involvement of bookies with his manager cum interpreter. So yes, a lot of suspected activities came under the name of Ohtani as well and it was important to clear the air about who was convicted and who proved innocent. Shohei Ohtani came to the US to play in MLB and he has gained celebrity status with his hard work and dedication that came all at stake. Now support from law enforcement is needed for Ohtani to reclaim his lost status. 

“Mr Ohtani is a victim in this case,” the US Attorney General shared a strong-worded statement to everyone suspecting Ohtani’s role. It is detailed how his former interpreter Mizuhara took advantage of his busy schedule of Ohtani to his benefit. It was the trust and busy lifestyles of Ohtani that led him to keep faith in his interpreter and now his social image is defamed. Ohtani being a public figure was also at risk of gaining negative publicity and that can be mitigated now after this statement. This statement also pointed out how Law enforcement should offer support to the victim and protect him from social outrage. 

More responsibility going forward

Now as this case is about to get closed and Ohtani is clear of any charge, a more responsible approach is what is expected from him. Indeed, Ohtani was not involved in any way in this scandal and it is his trust that went for a toss here but he would have avoided his considering he was more aware. In his letter to the Judge, Mizuhara pointed out that he served multiple roles for Ohtani including driving, cooking and even managing his daily chores. These activities caused Ohtani to get more dependent on his interpreter and let the former work at his will.

Going forward, it would be expected that Ohtani will act more responsibly and will be accountable for his private stuff. The exposure of his prenup agreement with his wife did no good to him and perhaps it’s the lesson that will make Ohtani a more responsible and careful individual. Well, the fans also have a few responsibilities to fulfill including respecting one’s dignity and privacy and not indulging in beating the bushes with Ohtani’s private stuff. 

Now it’s time for Ohtani to focus on his on-field activities and with the spring season about to start, fans would like to see Ohtani at his very best. 

What do you think about the Attorney General’s message? Share your thoughts with us below.