Los Angeles Dodgers star Shohei Ohtani spoke publicly for the first time since alleging his interpreter perpetrated a "massive theft" of funds tied to gambling debts.
The two-time MVP declined to take questions from reporters but issued a statement addressing the ongoing story. He denied ever having bet on sporting events, either directly or through a third party:
"Ippei has been stealing money from my account and has told lies," Ohtani also said.
The three-time All-Star told reporters he's "completely assisting in all investigations" and "looking forward to focusing on the season.