Just when the Shohei Ohtani gambling scandal seemed to be fading into history, Ozzie Guillén, never one to stay quiet, reignited the controversy with a shocking claim. The former White Sox manager took to social media this week and accused Major League Baseball of protecting Ohtani throughout the investigation involving his former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.
“Everyone Knows He Gambled,” Guillén Claims
In a now-viral quote shared by Fernando Ballesteros of Puro Beisbol, Guillén didn’t mince words:
“Everyone knows that Shohei Ohtani gambled — and they [MLB] protected him.”
This bold accusation directly contradicts legal findings from federal prosecutors, who previously declared Ohtani a victim. Mizuhara admitted to stealing millions from the Dodgers star to fund his gambling addiction. Mizuhara has since been sentenced to nearly five years in prison and ordered to repay $18 million in restitution.
No Evidence, But the Noise Continues
Despite the lack of evidence and the courts’ clearing Ohtani of wrongdoing, Guillén’s comments have sparked renewed speculation. Especially among fans who were already skeptical of how quickly MLB closed the investigation. Whether Guillén is fueled by genuine belief or just seeking headlines, his comments have once again put Ohtani’s name back in the spotlight, for all the wrong reasons.
Ballesteros, possibly half-joking, added, “They say that drunks, children, and Ozzie Guillén always tell the truth,” fanning the flames even further.
Shohei Ohtani Moves Forward, But Shadow Lingers
Meanwhile, Ohtani continues to thrive on the field as one of baseball’s biggest global stars. The Los Angeles Dodgers have done their best to move on, but Guillén’s sudden outburst reminds everyone just how fragile the sport’s public image can be.
Whether his comments are unfiltered opinion or reckless speculation, they show just how quickly old scandals can resurface, especially when stars like Ohtani are involved.
Ozzie Guillén’s remarks offer no new evidence, just a heavy dose of controversy. But in today’s click-driven media landscape, even baseless claims can dominate headlines.
For MLB and Ohtani, this may just be another public relations flare-up. But it’s also a reminder that no story in baseball is ever truly over.
Read More: Shohei Ohtani Falls Asleep in Dugout During Dodgers’ 18-2 Beatdown of Yankees
