### Shohei Ohtani Demands Return of Fraudulently Purchased Baseball Cards

Baseball star Shohei Ohtani is seeking the return of hundreds of thousands of dollars' worth of baseball cards, allegedly bought using his money by his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. According to court documents filed on Tuesday, Ohtani is also asking for the return of signed collectible baseball cards depicting him, which Mizuhara reportedly had in his unauthorized and wrongful possession.

The legal documents outline that Mizuhara began accessing Ohtani’s bank account around November 2021. By adjusting security protocols, Mizuhara was able to impersonate Ohtani and authorize wire transfers. By the year 2024, he had allegedly purchased approximately $325,000 worth of baseball cards from online resellers eBay and Whatnot using Ohtani’s funds.

Mizuhara's attorney, Michael G. Freedman, chose not to comment on the recent court filing. Back in June, Mizuhara had pleaded guilty to charges of bank fraud and subscribing to a false tax return. The charges stemmed from his spending millions from Ohtani's Arizona bank account to cover gambling bets, debts with an illegal bookmaker, personal medical bills, and the $325,000 worth of baseball cards. The potential sentencing for these crimes could exceed 30 years in federal prison. Additionally, Mizuhara might have to repay nearly $17 million in restitution to Ohtani, along with over $1 million to the IRS. As a legal permanent resident with a green card, he also faces possible deportation to Japan.

Mizuhara had been a close figure in Ohtani’s professional and personal life. He supported Ohtani during major career milestones, from serving as his catcher during the 2021 All-Star Game’s Home Run Derby to witnessing Ohtani's two American League MVP wins and a record-breaking $700 million, 10-year contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Off the field, Mizuhara and Ohtani developed a close friendship, even socializing with their respective families.

Unfortunately, Mizuhara’s gambling addiction led to his downfall. He bet tens of millions of dollars, primarily on international soccer, the NBA, the NFL, and college football, notably avoiding bets on baseball.

Earlier this year, Ohtani achieved more milestones, winning the World Series with the Dodgers and securing his third Most Valuable Player award.