Roberts: Ohtani more engaged without ex-interpreter

Los Angeles Dodgers manager Dave Roberts believes the dismissal of Shohei Ohtani's interpreter might wind up being a good thing for the star's relationship with his new teammates and coaching staff.

"The last couple of days, I think Shohei has been even more engaging with his teammates," Roberts said Tuesday, according to Jack Harris of the Los Angeles Times. "I think there is only upside with that."

Roberts added that it might be easier for Dodgers coaches and staff to communicate directly to Ohtani without Mizuhara acting as a "buffer." The manager described the previous communication between him and the pair as "difficult."

The Dodgers dismissed Mizuhara last week after he was accused of stealing roughly $4.5 million from Ohtani to cover a gambling debt.

Ohtani spoke through interpreter Will Ireton about the accusations for the first time Monday, claiming Mizuhara stole his money and "told lies." He added that he's never "bet on baseball or any other sports."

Ireton will work with Ohtani for at least the immediate future, a Dodgers spokesperson told The Athletic's Andy McCullough. Ireton is a long-serving member of the organization who previously interpreted for Kenta Maeda when he played for the team.