Major League Baseball (MLB) has initiated a formal investigation into Los Angeles Dodgers' star player Shohei Ohtani regarding his alleged role in a gambling scandal. The investigation focuses on Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, who was recently fired by the Dodgers after it was discovered that substantial wire transfers totaling at least $4.5 million were sent from Ohtani's bank account to an alleged bookmaking operation currently under federal investigation.

The situation grew more complex when Ohtani's representatives allowed Mizuhara to grant an interview to ESPN. During the interview, Mizuhara claimed that Ohtani had used the wire transfers to settle the interpreter's gambling debts. However, Ohtani's handlers subsequently distanced themselves from Mizuhara's statements, asserting that the funds were stolen from the slugger in what they called a "massive theft."

As of now, it does not appear that law enforcement agencies are actively involved in investigating the matter. ESPN's sources revealed that Ohtani's team officially reported the allegation to unspecified authorities, though it is unclear which agency is handling the case. The California Bureau of Investigation, the FBI, and the Los Angeles Police Department have all denied involvement, suggesting that it may be a federal matter. The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Central District of California declined to comment on the situation.

Ohtani, as a member of the MLB Players Association, has the right to refuse cooperation during the investigation. Despite the ongoing investigation, Ohtani is expected to continue playing for the Dodgers.

MLB released a statement confirming that the league's Department of Investigations has formally launched its own inquiry into the matter as of Friday. It is unclear at this time what the consequences for Ohtani or Mizuhara could be if any evidence of wrongdoing is found. Both individuals have not been charged with any crime thus far.

As the investigation unfolds, Ohtani will remain on the Dodgers' active roster, awaiting further developments as MLB seeks to uncover the truth behind these alleged gambling activities.