Ex-Аngels IF David Fletcher Linked to Mizuhara Betting Scandal

David Fletcher, a former infielder for the Los Angeles Angels, has been implicated in a sports betting scandal involving a Southern California bookmaker linked to Shohei Ohtani’s former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara. Sources reveal that Fletcher, along with a friend and former minor league player, placed bets with Mathew Bowyer, a bookmaker at the center of a federal investigation.

The MLB Faces Integrity Concerns

According to a recent report by ESPN, Fletcher, a teammate and close friend of Ohtani from 2018 to 2023, reportedly placed bets on various sports through Bowyer’s operation. While Fletcher avoided betting on baseball, his friend Colby Schultz, a former Kansas City Royals minor leaguer, allegedly bet on baseball games, including some involving the Angels during Fletcher’s tenure with the team.

Although MLB has not officially commented, league insiders revealed the baseball star was allegedly under investigation. Fletcher has not yet commented on this matter and continued to play for Gwinnett in their game against the Memphis Redbirds on Friday night. Schultz, meanwhile, could not be reached. The Braves have also declined to comment on the situation.

MLB’s regulations permit players to bet on non-baseball sports but strictly prohibit dealings with illegal bookmakers like Bowyer. Players found betting with such entities face potential punishment determined by the commissioner. Specifically, players betting on baseball games in which they did not participate face a one-year suspension, while those betting on their games face permanent bans.

Illegal Gambling Remains a Pressing Issue for Leagues

Fletcher previously admitted he attended a 2021 poker game in San Diego where Mizuhara first met Bowyer. Although he denied introducing the two, Fletcher acknowledged that Bowyer was present at the poker game through an acquaintance of his. Fletcher also mentioned that he had met Bowyer while playing golf and was aware of Bowyer’s bookmaking activities.

These revelations further complicate the situation revolving around Mizuhara’s lawsuit. The court case revealed surprising details regarding Bowyer’s illegal bookmaking ring, including the involvement of “The Real Housewives of Orange County” star Ryan Boyajian. Hopefully, the new information regarding Fletcher will aid the ongoing federal investigation into illegal gambling, helping reveal other similar operations.

This scandal casts a shadow on Fletcher’s career and raises questions about the integrity of sports betting and its regulation within professional sports. As investigations continue, the full extent of the involvement and potential consequences for those implicated remains to be seen. While Mizuhara’s actions helped reveal one illegal gambling ring, it is likely far from an isolated case, necessitating decisive action by authorities.