Ohtani’s ‘Perfect Person’ Image in Japan Could Take a Hit With Firing of Interpreter Over Gambling

Ohtani’s ‘Perfect Person’ Image in Japan Could Take a Hit With Firing of Interpreter Over Gambling
Los Angeles Dodgers designated hitter Shohei Ohtani stands in the dugout during a game against the San Diego Padres in Seoul, South Korea on March 21, 2024. Lee Jin-man/AP Photo
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SEOUL, South Korea—Shohei Ohtani is referred to in Japan as “kanpeki no hito”—the perfect person—because of his manners and impeccable behavior.

That image may have taken a hit when the Los Angeles Dodgers fired his good friend and interpreter Ippei Mizuhara on Wednesday over allegations he gambled illegally and stole Ohtani’s money to pay off debts.