With the regular-season opener in Japan approaching, both the Los Angeles Dodgers and Chicago Cubs are making final preparations. The Dodgers are particularly focused on Shohei Ohtani, who is recovering from shoulder surgery but has showcased impressive hitting during spring training, batting .357 with a home run. Manager Dave Roberts is optimistic about Ohtani returning to pitching duties by May, but for now, he will serve as designated hitter in Tokyo.

The Dodgers' pitching lineup for the Japan series will feature rookie Roki Sasaki and Yoshinobu Yamamoto. Meanwhile, the Cubs' Shota Imanaga has also shined on the mound during spring training. Imanaga looks ready to start in the opener against the Dodgers, supported by Justin Steele in the second game. Although second baseman Nico Hoerner remains in the U.S. recovering from injury, Chicago aims to leverage their depth, particularly with Seiya Suzuki expected to be the designated hitter in Tokyo.

Shohei Ohtani's charm and humility were evident during his MLB recruitment, particularly in a heartfelt gesture toward Oz Ocampo, the Astros' former international scouting director. Ohtani sent Ocampo a note of thanks accompanied by an Ohtani jersey, which Ocampo treasures. This sentiment is a stark contrast to Ocampo's critiques of the Dodgers' spending strategies, as he expressed frustration on social media regarding the financial decisions made by the team. Despite these issues, the Dodgers have thrived by building a competitive roster without excess expenditure.

Ohtani, who signed a groundbreaking 10-year contract with the Dodgers worth $700 million, had a remarkable season, leading the National League in multiple categories, including home runs and runs. His recovery from a second elbow surgery did not hinder his performance, displaying his resilience and talent.

The former interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, Ippei Mizuhara, is facing sentencing after pleading guilty to bank and tax fraud, having embezzled nearly $17 million from the star player. Prosecutors are seeking a lengthy prison sentence, citing Mizuhara's betrayal of trust while he exploited the language barrier to isolate Ohtani. The case has garnered significant media attention, especially as it links to a larger investigation into illegal sports gambling in Southern California. Mizuhara admitted to gambling debts and expressed remorse for his actions.

Federal prosecutors accuse Mizuhara of a calculated betrayal, emphasizing the emotional toll on Ohtani, who remains an unknowing victim. Mizuhara's access to Ohtani’s bank account, secured through deception, enabled him to fund his gambling habits, showcasing a tragic fall from grace. Ohtani’s achievements, including recent World Series success and MVP awards, starkly contrast Mizuhara's illicit actions.