In a shocking turn of events, Shohei Ohtani's former English-Japanese translator, Ippei Mizuhara, is at the center of a scandal involving alleged theft and a questionable past. Mizuhara, who was recently fired, is accused of stealing $4.5 million from the Dodgers superstar to cover his gambling losses.

The scandal has raised numerous unanswered questions, including the nature of Ohtani's involvement in covering his friend's debts. Initially, Mizuhara claimed that Ohtani had knowingly paid an illegal bookmaker to settle his gambling debts. However, the truth behind these claims remains unclear.

Mizuhara's past is now under scrutiny, particularly regarding his education and alleged MLB experience. His biography with the Angels states that he graduated from the University of California-Riverside in 2007. However, according to NBC Los Angeles, there is no record of Mizuhara attending the university. The university spokesperson confirmed that they have no records of a student by the name of Ippei Mizuhara.

The investigation into Mizuhara's background also extends to his alleged role as an interpreter for former pitcher Hideki Okajima. Multiple news reports suggest that Mizuhara worked with Okajima for the Red Sox in 2010. However, the Red Sox have vehemently denied this claim, stating that Mizuhara was never employed by the team in any capacity. They have thoroughly checked their files to ensure accuracy in their response.

Furthermore, Mizuhara's biography claims that he served as Okajima's interpreter with the Yankees during spring training in 2012. It is worth noting that Okajima was released by the Yankees on February 17, 2012, before the official start of spring training. However, it is possible that Mizuhara was with Okajima in the weeks prior to spring training when players typically report to the team complex for individual training.

The situation has garnered the attention of Major League Baseball, which is currently conducting its own investigation. Additionally, the IRS has opened a criminal investigation into Mizuhara, according to The Associated Press.

As more details unfold in this scandal, the focus on Mizuhara's mysterious past and the discrepancies in his biography continues to intensify. The truth behind his educational background and alleged MLB experience is yet to be fully determined. For now, all eyes are on the ongoing investigations and the potential legal consequences Mizuhara may face.