Angels infielder David Fletcher involved in Ohtani-Mizuhara gambling scandal

David Fletcher Implicated in Ohtani-Mizuhara Gambling Scandal

The Angels infielder David Fletcher has been linked to the gambling scandal involving Shohei Ohtani and Ippei Mizuhara, according to a report by ESPN. Fletcher is alleged to have placed bets with the same bookmaker, Mathew Bowyer, who was at the center of the scandal. Sources claim that Fletcher's involvement was primarily in non-baseball sports, but even so, placing bets with illegal bookmakers is prohibited by MLB. As a result, Fletcher is expected to face an MLB investigation.

David Fletcher's MLB Stats

Year	AVG	OBP	SLG	HR	RBI
2018	.267	.329	.382	3	22
2019	.290	.344	.407	4	30
2020	.284	.340	.395	2	24
2021	.259	.296	.327	6	32
2023	.256	.301	.320	4	28

Fletcher's Role in the Scandal

Fletcher's involvement in the scandal is believed to have begun when he introduced Bowyer to Mizuhara at a poker game in 2021. Mizuhara, who was Ohtani's interpreter at the time, allegedly went on to lose $17 million to Bowyer through illegal gambling. Fletcher is not accused of any wrongdoing in the gambling itself. However, his association with Bowyer and Mizuhara has raised questions about his judgment and the culture within the Angels organization.

Fallout for Fletcher and the Angels

Fletcher's involvement in the scandal is likely to have a negative impact on his career. The MLB investigation could result in a suspension or other disciplinary action. The Angels, who have already been embroiled in a drug scandal that led to the death of pitcher Tyler Skaggs, could also face further scrutiny as a result of Fletcher's involvement in this latest incident. The fallout from this scandal is still unfolding, but it is clear that David Fletcher's reputation and career are at stake.