Shohei Ohtani’s Troubled Relationship with Longtime Translator Exposes Weaknesses in CAA’s Protective System

In an effort to provide Shohei Ohtani with a strong support system, CAA promised to provide him with various professionals, including a bookkeeper, financial manager, accountant, sports marketing expert, and a lead agent. However, despite the infrastructure put in place by CAA, former longtime translator Ippei Mizuhara’s behavior was not accounted for.

Lindsey Adler of the WALL STREET JOURNAL noted that Ohtani’s relationship with Mizuhara held significant power. Mizuhara served as a liaison for Ohtani with his teammates, coaches, and the media. In addition to these roles, Mizuhara also acted as a spokesperson for Ohtani on matters related to CAA.

However, the criminal complaint filed against Mizuhara revealed how Ohtani’s lead agent, Nez Balelo, often communicated with Ohtani through Mizuhara rather than directly. This reliance on Mizuhara by various parties ultimately compromised the protective fortress that CAA had built around Ohtani, showcasing the vulnerability that existed when one person held so much influence in the player’s inner circle.