Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter of Japanese baseball star Shohei Ohtani, has pleaded guilty to bank fraud and filing a false tax return in the US. He illegally transferred nearly $17 million from Ohtani's bank account to pay off personal debts and fuel a gambling habit. The case shocked baseball fans in Japan and the US, with Mizuhara facing up to 30 years in prison for bank fraud and up to three years for tax evasion.
Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of MLB star Shohei Ohtani, is reportedly expected to plead guilty to fraud for allegedly stealing $4.5 million from Ohtani to settle gambling debts. Mizuhara is believed to have disabled notifications on Ohtani's bank account to conceal the transactions. Despite speculation suggesting Ohtani was involved in gambling, he denied ever betting on sports. The funds were transferred in Ohtani's name to an illegal bookmaker. Ohtani expressed shock and betrayal upon learning about Mizuhara's actions during the team's visit to South Korea for a game against the San Diego Padres.
Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of MLB star Shohei Ohtani, is reportedly expected to plead guilty to fraud for allegedly stealing $4.5 million from Ohtani to settle gambling debts. Mizuhara is believed to have disabled notifications on Ohtani's bank account to conceal the transactions. Despite speculation suggesting Ohtani was involved in gambling, he denied ever betting on sports. The funds were transferred in Ohtani's name to an illegal bookmaker. Ohtani expressed shock and betrayal upon learning about Mizuhara's actions during the team's visit to South Korea for a game against the San Diego Padres.
Former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara is charged with bank fraud for allegedly stealing funds from Shohei Ohtani's account to cover gambling debts for two years. The money was sent to an illegal sports gambling operation, but there is no evidence of bets on baseball games. Ohtani, not accused of wrongdoing, expressed feeling betrayed by Mizuhara, a close friend. Mizuhara impersonated Ohtani to deceive bank employees into authorizing wire transfers. Mizuhara's gambling losses led to the theft, as revealed in messages to a bookmaker. The incident has shocked Ohtani, who met Mizuhara in 2013 for banking assistance upon arriving in the US in 2018.
Former interpreter Ippei Mizuhara is charged with bank fraud for allegedly stealing funds from Shohei Ohtani's account to cover gambling debts for two years. The money was sent to an illegal sports gambling operation, but there is no evidence of bets on baseball games. Ohtani, not accused of wrongdoing, expressed feeling betrayed by Mizuhara, a close friend. Mizuhara impersonated Ohtani to deceive bank employees into authorizing wire transfers. Mizuhara's gambling losses led to the theft, as revealed in messages to a bookmaker. The incident has shocked Ohtani, who met Mizuhara in 2013 for banking assistance upon arriving in the US in 2018.
Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, allegedly funneled $16 million from Ohtani's bank accounts to pay off a gambling debt. Mizuhara made $500,000 payments from Ohtani's account to casinos in California and Las Vegas to settle debts with an illegal bookie. Federal investigations revealed a scheme involving cash deposits, gambling, and money laundering. Mizuhara faces a bank fraud charge and up to 30 years in prison if convicted. Several individuals, including associates of the bookie, have been implicated in the illegal gambling ring.
Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani, allegedly funneled $16 million from Ohtani's bank accounts to pay off a gambling debt. Mizuhara made $500,000 payments from Ohtani's account to casinos in California and Las Vegas to settle debts with an illegal bookie. Federal investigations revealed a scheme involving cash deposits, gambling, and money laundering. Mizuhara faces a bank fraud charge and up to 30 years in prison if convicted. Several individuals, including associates of the bookie, have been implicated in the illegal gambling ring.
Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of Shohei Ohtani, was released on a $25,000 signature bond after being in U.S. District court. Mizuhara stole $16 million from Ohtani to gamble, making nearly 25 bets per day and losing a total of $41 million. His bond conditions include surrendering his passport and staying within the Central District of California's jurisdiction. Mizuhara apologized to Ohtani, the Dodgers, Major League Baseball, and his family through his attorney. He will be arraigned on May 9.
Ippei Mizuhara, the former interpreter of Shohei Ohtani, was released on a $25,000 signature bond after being in U.S. District court. Mizuhara stole $16 million from Ohtani to gamble, making nearly 25 bets per day and losing a total of $41 million. His bond conditions include surrendering his passport and staying within the Central District of California's jurisdiction. Mizuhara apologized to Ohtani, the Dodgers, Major League Baseball, and his family through his attorney. He will be arraigned on May 9.
A gambling scandal in Major League Baseball (MLB) involving interpreter Ippei Mizuhara and superstar Shohei Ohtani has emerged, with Mizuhara allegedly receiving $4.5 million from Ohtani's accounts to cover gambling debts. Initially, Mizuhara claimed the money was to cover his debts, but Ohtani later stated he was a victim of theft, denying knowingly covering the debts. The situation has escalated into a high-profile investigation, with conflicting claims and a twist where Ohtani and Mizuhara deny any prior knowledge of the gambling activities.
A gambling scandal in Major League Baseball (MLB) involving interpreter Ippei Mizuhara and superstar Shohei Ohtani has emerged, with Mizuhara allegedly receiving $4.5 million from Ohtani's accounts to cover gambling debts. Initially, Mizuhara claimed the money was to cover his debts, but Ohtani later stated he was a victim of theft, denying knowingly covering the debts. The situation has escalated into a high-profile investigation, with conflicting claims and a twist where Ohtani and Mizuhara deny any prior knowledge of the gambling activities.
Shohei Ohtani, known for his baseball prowess, faces personal and professional changes as his longtime friend and interpreter is charged with bank fraud for allegedly stealing from him. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani's current team, believe his friend's departure has provided them with a clearer understanding of him. Ohtani, previously reserved about personal matters, is now facing questions about his feelings and personal life following this scandal.
Shohei Ohtani, known for his baseball prowess, faces personal and professional changes as his longtime friend and interpreter is charged with bank fraud for allegedly stealing from him. The Los Angeles Dodgers, Ohtani's current team, believe his friend's departure has provided them with a clearer understanding of him. Ohtani, previously reserved about personal matters, is now facing questions about his feelings and personal life following this scandal.
Shohei Ohtani impressed in his debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers, helping them secure a 7-1 win over the St. Louis Cardinals. However, the more intriguing aspect of Ohtani's story revolves around his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, and his sports gambling addiction. Ohtani revealed that Mizuhara had stolen money from his account to pay off debts to an alleged illegal bookie. The investigation, including questions about bank account access and unnoticed wire transfers, is ongoing under MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's oversight.
Shohei Ohtani impressed in his debut with the Los Angeles Dodgers, helping them secure a 7-1 win over the St. Louis Cardinals. However, the more intriguing aspect of Ohtani's story revolves around his interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, and his sports gambling addiction. Ohtani revealed that Mizuhara had stolen money from his account to pay off debts to an alleged illegal bookie. The investigation, including questions about bank account access and unnoticed wire transfers, is ongoing under MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's oversight.
Los Angeles Dodgers' star Shohei Ohtani will speak to the media for the first time regarding a gambling scandal with his ex-interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. The scandal involves alleged theft of Ohtani's money to pay debts, leading to Mizuhara's firing by the Dodgers. Ohtani plans to provide clarity on the situation, supported by manager Dave Roberts, amidst doubts on the timeline of events. The incident occurred during the team's trip to South Korea, and Ohtani's statement aims to bring transparency to the matter.
Los Angeles Dodgers' star Shohei Ohtani will speak to the media for the first time regarding a gambling scandal with his ex-interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. The scandal involves alleged theft of Ohtani's money to pay debts, leading to Mizuhara's firing by the Dodgers. Ohtani plans to provide clarity on the situation, supported by manager Dave Roberts, amidst doubts on the timeline of events. The incident occurred during the team's trip to South Korea, and Ohtani's statement aims to bring transparency to the matter.
Shohei Ohtani had a mixed performance at Dodger Stadium, with a baserunning blunder in his first at-bat but later going 2-for-3 with a run scored in a 7-1 win for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Cardinals. His former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, is accused of massive theft and involvement in gambling, leading to an ongoing legal investigation. Ohtani denied any involvement in gambling activities and expressed shock at Mizuhara's actions.
Shohei Ohtani had a mixed performance at Dodger Stadium, with a baserunning blunder in his first at-bat but later going 2-for-3 with a run scored in a 7-1 win for the Los Angeles Dodgers against the Cardinals. His former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, is accused of massive theft and involvement in gambling, leading to an ongoing legal investigation. Ohtani denied any involvement in gambling activities and expressed shock at Mizuhara's actions.
Shohei Ohtani's longtime interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Dodgers and charged with bank fraud after allegedly stealing more than $16 million to pay off illegal gambling debts. Despite the betrayal, Ohtani remained focused and hit a milestone home run in the midst of the scandal.
Shohei Ohtani's longtime interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Dodgers and charged with bank fraud after allegedly stealing more than $16 million to pay off illegal gambling debts. Despite the betrayal, Ohtani remained focused and hit a milestone home run in the midst of the scandal.
Shohei Ohtani, after accusing his longtime interpreter of theft and dishonesty, has hired the Berk Brettler LLP law firm to handle the situation, which was founded by high-profile attorneys Andrew Brettler and Blair Berk. The firm has worked with notable figures in entertainment and sports, including Prince Andrew, Russell Brand, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Dodgers amidst the scandal, and Ohtani has denied any wrongdoing, stating that he was a victim of theft.
Shohei Ohtani, after accusing his longtime interpreter of theft and dishonesty, has hired the Berk Brettler LLP law firm to handle the situation, which was founded by high-profile attorneys Andrew Brettler and Blair Berk. The firm has worked with notable figures in entertainment and sports, including Prince Andrew, Russell Brand, and Leonardo DiCaprio. Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, was fired by the Dodgers amidst the scandal, and Ohtani has denied any wrongdoing, stating that he was a victim of theft.
Shohei Ohtani and his wife Mamiko Tanaka attended the Dodgers' charity gala, marking a rare public appearance since announcing their marriage. Tanaka, a Japanese basketball player, has known Ohtani for three to four years. The event raised funds for important causes. Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, is under investigation for alleged theft of $16 million to cover gambling debts. Ohtani, a two-way Dodgers phenomenon, signed a $700 million deal with the team in December.
Shohei Ohtani and his wife Mamiko Tanaka attended the Dodgers' charity gala, marking a rare public appearance since announcing their marriage. Tanaka, a Japanese basketball player, has known Ohtani for three to four years. The event raised funds for important causes. Ohtani's interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, is under investigation for alleged theft of $16 million to cover gambling debts. Ohtani, a two-way Dodgers phenomenon, signed a $700 million deal with the team in December.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remains positive about baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani's relationship with his new teammates despite the scandal involving his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, who allegedly stole millions to cover gambling debts. Ohtani, who denies any involvement in the alleged theft, has a new interpreter, Will Ireton, and has been more engaged with teammates recently. Mizuhara played a significant role in Ohtani's life in the United States, not just as an interpreter but also as a personal assistant and confidant.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts remains positive about baseball superstar Shohei Ohtani's relationship with his new teammates despite the scandal involving his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, who allegedly stole millions to cover gambling debts. Ohtani, who denies any involvement in the alleged theft, has a new interpreter, Will Ireton, and has been more engaged with teammates recently. Mizuhara played a significant role in Ohtani's life in the United States, not just as an interpreter but also as a personal assistant and confidant.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred hopes for a swift investigation into the allegations that former Los Angeles Dodgers interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole $4.5 million from player Shohei Ohtani to cover gambling debts. Ohtani denies involvement in sports betting and claims ignorance of Mizuhara's actions. Both MLB and the IRS are conducting separate investigations, with Mizuhara and an alleged illegal bookmaker under criminal investigation. Manfred hopes for a short investigation but acknowledges uncertainty. He defends MLB's partnerships with legal gambling companies and discusses revenue challenges from regional sports networks affecting player contracts.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred hopes for a swift investigation into the allegations that former Los Angeles Dodgers interpreter Ippei Mizuhara stole $4.5 million from player Shohei Ohtani to cover gambling debts. Ohtani denies involvement in sports betting and claims ignorance of Mizuhara's actions. Both MLB and the IRS are conducting separate investigations, with Mizuhara and an alleged illegal bookmaker under criminal investigation. Manfred hopes for a short investigation but acknowledges uncertainty. He defends MLB's partnerships with legal gambling companies and discusses revenue challenges from regional sports networks affecting player contracts.
Ippei Mizuhara (水原一平, Mizuhara Ippei, born December 31, 1984) is a Japanese interpreter employed by the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). Mizuhara is most well-known for serving as the interpreter for Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani, translating Japanese to English and vice versa for Ohtani's media appearances and teammate interactions. He previously worked for the Boston Red Sox as an interpreter for Hideki Okajima and for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) as an interpreter for several of the team's Anglophone players. Mizuhara has gained popularity among baseball fans for his close association with Ohtani. He frequently aids Ohtani in non-interpreting contexts, such as catching his bullpen sessions or playing catch with him during pregame warmups. During the 2021 MLB Home Run Derby, Mizuhara served as Ohtani's catcher.
Ippei Mizuhara (水原一平, Mizuhara Ippei, born December 31, 1984) is a Japanese interpreter employed by the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). Mizuhara is most well-known for serving as the interpreter for Dodgers player Shohei Ohtani, translating Japanese to English and vice versa for Ohtani's media appearances and teammate interactions. He previously worked for the Boston Red Sox as an interpreter for Hideki Okajima and for the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) as an interpreter for several of the team's Anglophone players. Mizuhara has gained popularity among baseball fans for his close association with Ohtani. He frequently aids Ohtani in non-interpreting contexts, such as catching his bullpen sessions or playing catch with him during pregame warmups. During the 2021 MLB Home Run Derby, Mizuhara served as Ohtani's catcher.
A lifelong LA Dodgers fan, Ambar Roman, was pressured to hand back Shohei Ohtani's first home-run ball to him after catching it during a game against the San Francisco Giants. The ball was hit at 105.6mph and landed 430 feet away in the crowd, valued at $100,000. Dodgers security staff urged Roman and her husband to return the ball, despite promises of rewards. Ohtani, a $700 million recruit, is a significant star in baseball after signing with the Dodgers.
A lifelong LA Dodgers fan, Ambar Roman, was pressured to hand back Shohei Ohtani's first home-run ball to him after catching it during a game against the San Francisco Giants. The ball was hit at 105.6mph and landed 430 feet away in the crowd, valued at $100,000. Dodgers security staff urged Roman and her husband to return the ball, despite promises of rewards. Ohtani, a $700 million recruit, is a significant star in baseball after signing with the Dodgers.
A new book titled 'Charlie Hustle: The Rise and Fall of Pete Rose, and the Last Glory Days of Baseball' revisits the dramatic narrative of Pete Rose's lifetime ban from Major League Baseball due to gambling scandals. Rose, accused of betting on his own games as a player-manager, faced stiff punishment from then-commissioner A Bartlett Giamatti in 1989. The book also draws parallels to the recent gambling scandal in the major leagues involving Ippei Mizuhara, the ex-interpreter for MLB standout Shohei Ohtani.
A new book titled 'Charlie Hustle: The Rise and Fall of Pete Rose, and the Last Glory Days of Baseball' revisits the dramatic narrative of Pete Rose's lifetime ban from Major League Baseball due to gambling scandals. Rose, accused of betting on his own games as a player-manager, faced stiff punishment from then-commissioner A Bartlett Giamatti in 1989. The book also draws parallels to the recent gambling scandal in the major leagues involving Ippei Mizuhara, the ex-interpreter for MLB standout Shohei Ohtani.
Shohei Ohtani (大谷 翔平, Ōtani Shōhei, born July 5, 1994), nicknamed "Shotime", is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher and designated hitter for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Los Angeles Angels and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Because of his elite contributions both as a hitter and as a pitcher, a rarity for two-way players, Ohtani's peak is widely considered among the greatest in baseball history, with some comparing it favorably to the early career of Babe Ruth.Considered early on as an elite two-way player, Ohtani was the first pick of the Fighters in the 2012 draft. He played in NPB for the Fighters from 2013 through 2017 as a pitcher and an outfielder, and won the 2016 Japan Series with them. The Fighters posted Ohtani to MLB after the 2017 season, and he signed with the Angels, soon winning the 2018 American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award.Following an injury-plagued 2019 and 2020, Ohtani had a 2021 season widely considered to be historic, as he became the first in the history of MLB with 10+ home runs and 20+ stolen bases as a hitter and 100+ strikeouts and 10+ pitching appearances as a pitcher in the same season, while also holding at least a share of the major league lead in home runs in 14 starts. For his efforts, he was awarded the 2021 American League Most Valuable Player Award. He followed this in 2022 by becoming the first player in the modern era to qualify for both the hitting and pitching leaderboards in one season, reaching the thresholds of 3.1 plate appearances and one inning pitched per game with 586 at-bats and 166 innings pitched.Ohtani completed yet another historic campaign in 2023, becoming the first player in MLB history with 10 wins and 40 home runs in a season, the first Japanese-born player to win a major league home run title, leading the American League with 44 home runs, the first player in MLB history to win MVP by unanimous vote twice and the first Japanese player to have the most popular Major League Baseball jersey sales. After the 2023 season, Ohtani signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, the largest contract in professional sports history.Internationally, Ohtani represented Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, winning the MVP Award for the tournament following Japan's victory over the USA. The final game was one of the most-watched baseball games in history, culminating with Ohtani striking out Angels teammate and USA captain Mike Trout on a full count, securing a 3–2 win and Japan's third title.
Shohei Ohtani (大谷 翔平, Ōtani Shōhei, born July 5, 1994), nicknamed "Shotime", is a Japanese professional baseball pitcher and designated hitter for the Los Angeles Dodgers of Major League Baseball (MLB). He has previously played in MLB for the Los Angeles Angels and the Hokkaido Nippon-Ham Fighters of Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB). Because of his elite contributions both as a hitter and as a pitcher, a rarity for two-way players, Ohtani's peak is widely considered among the greatest in baseball history, with some comparing it favorably to the early career of Babe Ruth.Considered early on as an elite two-way player, Ohtani was the first pick of the Fighters in the 2012 draft. He played in NPB for the Fighters from 2013 through 2017 as a pitcher and an outfielder, and won the 2016 Japan Series with them. The Fighters posted Ohtani to MLB after the 2017 season, and he signed with the Angels, soon winning the 2018 American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award.Following an injury-plagued 2019 and 2020, Ohtani had a 2021 season widely considered to be historic, as he became the first in the history of MLB with 10+ home runs and 20+ stolen bases as a hitter and 100+ strikeouts and 10+ pitching appearances as a pitcher in the same season, while also holding at least a share of the major league lead in home runs in 14 starts. For his efforts, he was awarded the 2021 American League Most Valuable Player Award. He followed this in 2022 by becoming the first player in the modern era to qualify for both the hitting and pitching leaderboards in one season, reaching the thresholds of 3.1 plate appearances and one inning pitched per game with 586 at-bats and 166 innings pitched.Ohtani completed yet another historic campaign in 2023, becoming the first player in MLB history with 10 wins and 40 home runs in a season, the first Japanese-born player to win a major league home run title, leading the American League with 44 home runs, the first player in MLB history to win MVP by unanimous vote twice and the first Japanese player to have the most popular Major League Baseball jersey sales. After the 2023 season, Ohtani signed a 10-year, $700 million contract with the Dodgers, the largest contract in professional sports history.Internationally, Ohtani represented Japan in the 2023 World Baseball Classic, winning the MVP Award for the tournament following Japan's victory over the USA. The final game was one of the most-watched baseball games in history, culminating with Ohtani striking out Angels teammate and USA captain Mike Trout on a full count, securing a 3–2 win and Japan's third title.
Before breaking Dave Roberts' record for most home runs by a Japanese-born player in Dodgers history, Shohei Ohtani gifted his manager a toy Porsche, jokingly promising to buy him a real car. Ohtani surpassed Roberts' mark with his eighth home run in a game against the Atlanta Braves, showcasing his sense of humor and camaraderie within the team.
Before breaking Dave Roberts' record for most home runs by a Japanese-born player in Dodgers history, Shohei Ohtani gifted his manager a toy Porsche, jokingly promising to buy him a real car. Ohtani surpassed Roberts' mark with his eighth home run in a game against the Atlanta Braves, showcasing his sense of humor and camaraderie within the team.
Speculation escalated over Shohei Ohtani's free agency, with reports of him joining the Toronto Blue Jays before he ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite false reports, Blue Jays fans reacted negatively towards Ohtani at a game, where he responded by hitting a massive home run, silencing the boos. Fans directed their frustration towards Ohtani instead of the reporters who spread misinformation,
Speculation escalated over Shohei Ohtani's free agency, with reports of him joining the Toronto Blue Jays before he ultimately signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Despite false reports, Blue Jays fans reacted negatively towards Ohtani at a game, where he responded by hitting a massive home run, silencing the boos. Fans directed their frustration towards Ohtani instead of the reporters who spread misinformation,
After catching Shohei Ohtani's first home-run ball, Dodgers fan Ambar Roman was pressured by team officials to hand it over in exchange for $5,000 worth of memorabilia. The Dodgers have now invited Roman and her husband back for an on-field experience to make amends, following backlash over the initial exchange.
After catching Shohei Ohtani's first home-run ball, Dodgers fan Ambar Roman was pressured by team officials to hand it over in exchange for $5,000 worth of memorabilia. The Dodgers have now invited Roman and her husband back for an on-field experience to make amends, following backlash over the initial exchange.
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers surpassed Hideki Matsui's record for most home runs hit by a Japanese-born player in Major League Baseball with a 423-foot, 110-mph two-run homer against the New York Mets. This was Ohtani's 176th homer in his six-plus MLB seasons, surpassing Matsui's 175. Ohtani, signed to a $700 million contract last winter, had hit 171 homers in six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels prior to this achievement.
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers surpassed Hideki Matsui's record for most home runs hit by a Japanese-born player in Major League Baseball with a 423-foot, 110-mph two-run homer against the New York Mets. This was Ohtani's 176th homer in his six-plus MLB seasons, surpassing Matsui's 175. Ohtani, signed to a $700 million contract last winter, had hit 171 homers in six seasons with the Los Angeles Angels prior to this achievement.
Shohei Ohtani: Beyond the Dream is a sports documentary film about Shohei Ohtani and his beginnings in rural Japan to his success with the Los Angeles Angels. The film premiered on November 17, 2023, on ESPN+ in the US and will stream on Disney+ internationally.
Shohei Ohtani: Beyond the Dream is a sports documentary film about Shohei Ohtani and his beginnings in rural Japan to his success with the Los Angeles Angels. The film premiered on November 17, 2023, on ESPN+ in the US and will stream on Disney+ internationally.
A total of 67 Japanese-born players have played in at least one Major League Baseball (MLB) game. Of these players, eight are on existing MLB rosters. The first instance of a Japanese player playing in MLB occurred in 1964, when the Nankai Hawks, a Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) team, sent three exchange prospects to the United States to gain experience in MLB's minor league system. One of the players, pitcher Masanori Murakami, was named the California League Rookie of the Year while playing for the Fresno Giants (the San Francisco Giants' Class-A team).Giants executives were impressed with his talent and on September 1, 1964, Murakami was promoted, thus becoming the first Japanese player to play in MLB, as well as being the first Asian player. After Murakami put up good pitching statistics as a reliever, Giants executives sought to exercise a clause in their contract with the Hawks that, they claimed, allowed them to buy up an exchange prospect's contract. NPB officials objected, stating that they had no intention of selling Murakami's contract to the Giants and telling them that Murakami was merely on loan for the 1964 season. After a two-month stalemate the Giants eventually agreed to send Murakami back to the Hawks after the 1965 season. This affair led to the 1967 United States – Japanese Player Contract Agreement, also known as the "Working Agreement", between MLB and NPB, which was basically a hands-off policy.For thirty years Murakami was the only Japanese player to appear in an MLB game. Pitcher Hideo Nomo, with the help of agent Don Nomura, became the second Japanese player to play in MLB in 1995. Nomo, who was not yet eligible for free agency in Japan, was advised by Nomura that a "voluntary retirement" clause in the Working Agreement did not specify that a player wishing to play again after retiring must return to NPB. Nomo utilized this loophole to void his NPB contract with the Kintetsu Buffaloes and play in MLB. He announced his retirement from NPB in late 1994 and signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in February 1995. Nomo's maneuver and Hideki Irabu's later MLB contractual complications were contributing factors to a major revision of the Working Agreement in 1998 that created the posting system. Since its inception 22 Japanese players have been signed through the system, however one of these players, Shinji Mori, did not play in a single MLB game due to an injury. NPB players who have nine or more years of playing service with NPB can become international free agents and do not need to enter MLB through the posting system. The remaining Japanese players that have played in MLB have either signed as free agents or signed as amateur players. Mac Suzuki, Kazuhito Tadano, and Junichi Tazawa are the only Japanese players to have debuted in MLB without previously playing in NPB. All 30 MLB teams have had at least one Japanese player on their roster.Japanese players have had a range of success in MLB. Twelve players have been selected to participate in the All-Star Game; Ichiro Suzuki has made the most appearances with ten. In addition to these selections, Ichiro has won several prestigious MLB awards including the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award and the AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award in 2001, the All-Star Game MVP Award in 2007 and multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards. Ichiro also holds the MLB record for the recording the most hits in a single season. Hideo Nomo was the only Japanese pitcher to throw a no-hitter until Hisashi Iwakuma accomplished the feat on August 12, 2015. Nomo threw two in total; the first came in 1996 and the last occurred in 2001.Currently, Shohei Ohtani is the only player in MLB history to win the AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award twice unanimously in 2021 and 2023, the first player in MLB history with 10 wins and 40 home runs in a season, and the first player in MLB history to be named to both first teams for the 2023 All-MLB Team in the same season (as a designated hitter and starting pitcher respectively). Ohtani is also the first Japanese-born player to hit for the cycle, the first Japanese-born player to win a major league home run title, leading the American League with 44 home runs the first Japanese-born player to win the AL Hank Aaron Award, and the first Japanese player to have the most popular Major League Baseball jersey sales. In addition, Ohtani has also won the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award in 2018, two Silver Slugger Awards, and multiple Edgar Martínez Outstanding Designated Hitter Awards. Ohtani also signed the largest contract in professional sports history, a 10-year $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. while Yoshinobu Yamamoto received the most guaranteed dollars ever given to a pitcher, signing a 12-year, $325 million contract with the Dodgers.Thirteen Japanese players have played in the World Series. Of these players, So Taguchi has won the most with two and Hideki Matsui is the only one to win the World Series MVP Award. The 2007 World Series had the most Japanese players, with Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima pitching for the Boston Red Sox, and Kazuo Matsui playing for the Colorado Rockies.
A total of 67 Japanese-born players have played in at least one Major League Baseball (MLB) game. Of these players, eight are on existing MLB rosters. The first instance of a Japanese player playing in MLB occurred in 1964, when the Nankai Hawks, a Nippon Professional Baseball (NPB) team, sent three exchange prospects to the United States to gain experience in MLB's minor league system. One of the players, pitcher Masanori Murakami, was named the California League Rookie of the Year while playing for the Fresno Giants (the San Francisco Giants' Class-A team).Giants executives were impressed with his talent and on September 1, 1964, Murakami was promoted, thus becoming the first Japanese player to play in MLB, as well as being the first Asian player. After Murakami put up good pitching statistics as a reliever, Giants executives sought to exercise a clause in their contract with the Hawks that, they claimed, allowed them to buy up an exchange prospect's contract. NPB officials objected, stating that they had no intention of selling Murakami's contract to the Giants and telling them that Murakami was merely on loan for the 1964 season. After a two-month stalemate the Giants eventually agreed to send Murakami back to the Hawks after the 1965 season. This affair led to the 1967 United States – Japanese Player Contract Agreement, also known as the "Working Agreement", between MLB and NPB, which was basically a hands-off policy.For thirty years Murakami was the only Japanese player to appear in an MLB game. Pitcher Hideo Nomo, with the help of agent Don Nomura, became the second Japanese player to play in MLB in 1995. Nomo, who was not yet eligible for free agency in Japan, was advised by Nomura that a "voluntary retirement" clause in the Working Agreement did not specify that a player wishing to play again after retiring must return to NPB. Nomo utilized this loophole to void his NPB contract with the Kintetsu Buffaloes and play in MLB. He announced his retirement from NPB in late 1994 and signed with the Los Angeles Dodgers in February 1995. Nomo's maneuver and Hideki Irabu's later MLB contractual complications were contributing factors to a major revision of the Working Agreement in 1998 that created the posting system. Since its inception 22 Japanese players have been signed through the system, however one of these players, Shinji Mori, did not play in a single MLB game due to an injury. NPB players who have nine or more years of playing service with NPB can become international free agents and do not need to enter MLB through the posting system. The remaining Japanese players that have played in MLB have either signed as free agents or signed as amateur players. Mac Suzuki, Kazuhito Tadano, and Junichi Tazawa are the only Japanese players to have debuted in MLB without previously playing in NPB. All 30 MLB teams have had at least one Japanese player on their roster.Japanese players have had a range of success in MLB. Twelve players have been selected to participate in the All-Star Game; Ichiro Suzuki has made the most appearances with ten. In addition to these selections, Ichiro has won several prestigious MLB awards including the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award and the AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award in 2001, the All-Star Game MVP Award in 2007 and multiple Gold Glove and Silver Slugger Awards. Ichiro also holds the MLB record for the recording the most hits in a single season. Hideo Nomo was the only Japanese pitcher to throw a no-hitter until Hisashi Iwakuma accomplished the feat on August 12, 2015. Nomo threw two in total; the first came in 1996 and the last occurred in 2001.Currently, Shohei Ohtani is the only player in MLB history to win the AL Most Valuable Player (MVP) Award twice unanimously in 2021 and 2023, the first player in MLB history with 10 wins and 40 home runs in a season, and the first player in MLB history to be named to both first teams for the 2023 All-MLB Team in the same season (as a designated hitter and starting pitcher respectively). Ohtani is also the first Japanese-born player to hit for the cycle, the first Japanese-born player to win a major league home run title, leading the American League with 44 home runs the first Japanese-born player to win the AL Hank Aaron Award, and the first Japanese player to have the most popular Major League Baseball jersey sales. In addition, Ohtani has also won the American League (AL) Rookie of the Year Award in 2018, two Silver Slugger Awards, and multiple Edgar Martínez Outstanding Designated Hitter Awards. Ohtani also signed the largest contract in professional sports history, a 10-year $700 million contract with the Los Angeles Dodgers. while Yoshinobu Yamamoto received the most guaranteed dollars ever given to a pitcher, signing a 12-year, $325 million contract with the Dodgers.Thirteen Japanese players have played in the World Series. Of these players, So Taguchi has won the most with two and Hideki Matsui is the only one to win the World Series MVP Award. The 2007 World Series had the most Japanese players, with Daisuke Matsuzaka and Hideki Okajima pitching for the Boston Red Sox, and Kazuo Matsui playing for the Colorado Rockies.
Hiroki Mizuhara (水原 大樹, Mizuhara Hiroki, born January 15, 1975) is a former Japanese football player.
Hiroki Mizuhara (水原 大樹, Mizuhara Hiroki, born January 15, 1975) is a former Japanese football player.
CBS News
NY Post
Yahoo! News
Jake Nisse
https://apnews.com/author/stefanie-dazio
NBC
Steve Almasy, Cheri Mossburg
https://www.theguardian.com/profile/tomlutz
Jake Nisse
Fox News
https://www.facebook.com/bbcnews
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
Wikipedia
Wikipedia
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
Wikipedia
Wikipedia
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
PANORA
Wikipedia
Wikipedia
Wikipedia
Wikipedia
Wikipedia
Wikipedia