The start of the Dodgers’ season in South Korea was supposed to be a celebration, highlighted by Shohei Ohtani’s team debut. Instead, the two-game series was overshadowed by an off-field saga involving Ohtani’s interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.
Mizuhara was fired by the Dodgers hours after the season opener Wednesday, with the Los Angeles Times reporting that he allegedly committed “massive theft” against Ohtani.
The news was shocking for anyone who observed how close Ohtani and Mizuhara were during the two-time MVP’s tenure with the Angels, and it took an even more bizarre turn when an ESPN report detailed how Mizuhara found himself in severe gambling debt. Conflicting stories from Ohtani’s camp only fueled speculation about the situation, which Ohtani has yet to publicly address.
MORE: Full timeline of allegations against Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter
That will change Monday, as Ohtani is set to speak about the situation just three days before the Dodgers play their home opener against the Cardinals.
The Sporting News is tracking live updates from Ohtani’s press conference regarding his former interpreter’s gambling controversy. Follow along below with the reigning MVP’s comments.
Shohei Ohtani press conference live updates
This section will be updated closer to Ohtani’s press conference Monday.
When is Shohei Ohtani’s press conference?
Ohtani told reporters Sunday that he planned to address the media Monday. Ohtani will issue a prepared response at 4:45 p.m. ET. He will not take questions from the media.
Dodgers manager Dave Roberts agreed with Ohtani’s decision to speak out, telling reporters Sunday, “I’m happy he’s going to speak — and speak to what he knows — and give his thoughts on the whole situation. I think it’ll give us all a little bit more clarity.”
Roberts’ comments could be interpreted as an indication that the saga is still weighing on the Dodgers as they prepare to resume their regular season following the trip to Seoul. Los Angeles suffered its first loss to the Padres in the hours after the news broke, though the offense did its part with 11 runs in a slugfest.
MORE: Legal expert explains next step in Shohei Ohtani interpreter controversy
How to watch Shohei Ohtani press conference today
The Dodgers announced ahead of Ohtani’s press conference that it will be broadcast on SNLA and MLB Network. No cameras will be in the interview room during his presser.
The Dodgers play one of their final spring training games Monday, but they don’t play until 9 p.m. ET. The game will not be broadcast nationally.
