MLB opens investigation into Ohtani, ex-interpreter, following theft charges.

Major League Baseball announced on Friday that it has launched a formal investigation into the situation involving Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani and his long-time interpreter Ippei Mizuhara, following allegations of "massive theft."

"Major League Baseball has been gathering information since we learned about the allegations involving Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhari from the news media," an MLB spokesperson said.

"Earlier today, our Department of Investigations (DOI) began their formal process investigating the matter."

Mizuhara was fired by the team on Wednesday after Ohtani's lawyers claimed he had committed "massive theft."

According to US media, Mizuhara allegedly used Ohtani's money to pay off gambling debts owed to a Southern California bookmaker who is currently under federal investigation.

In the offseason, the team signed two-time AL MVP Ohtani to a record 10-year, $700 million contract.

The allegations surfaced during the Seoul Series, the first scheduled MLB games in South Korea, which featured the Dodgers and the San Diego Padres.

SportsLigue