When we previously delved into this case, Ippei Mizuhara was headed to jail as he pleaded guilty to bank fraud and submitted a false tax return this summer. However, an interesting turn of events has occurred. His sentencing, which was originally scheduled for December 20th, has now been moved to January 24, 2025. The hearing, which was initially set for October 25, was continued at Mizuhara's request. Ironically, this was on the same day as Game 1 of the 2024 World Series for the Dodgers.

Not to Be Overlooked Amidst the Thanksgiving Madness

In the midst of the Thanksgiving chaos involving Blake Snell signing with the Dodgers and Tommy Edman signing a five-year extension until at least 2029, there is a legal filing by Shohei Ohtani in the Mizuhara case that often goes unnoticed. One of the details from the government's plea agreement, which was commonly overlooked, can be found on page 14. The government alleged that between January and March 2024, Mizuhara purchased around $325,000 worth of baseball cards from eBay and Whatnot. These cards featured Yogi Berra, Juan Soto, and Ohtani himself, with the intention of reselling them at a profit later. 1: The significance of these baseball card purchases lies in the fact that they became a central part of the legal dispute. Ohtani's claim to these cards added another layer of complexity to an already intricate case. 2: It shows the extent to which Mizuhara's actions extended beyond the initial bank fraud and tax return issues, involving the world of baseball cards and potential financial gains.

Government's Actions and Ohtani's Responses

On September 19, the Court entered a Preliminary Order of Forfeiture that included these baseball cards. On November 1, the government notified Ohtani of the Court's order. Ohtani argued that he had a right to this property as Mizuhara purchased the baseball cards with funds he stole from Ohtani. He also claimed that he personally signed some of the Ohtani baseball cards, making them his property. Additionally, Ohtani argued that when the government seized these cards from Mizuhara, he retained a right to possess them, which would be determined by an evidentiary hearing. 1: Ohtani's arguments were based on his ownership rights and the circumstances surrounding the acquisition and seizure of the baseball cards. 2: This aspect of the case highlights the importance of legal procedures and the determination of ownership in complex legal situations.

Hearing and Potential Outcome

At the subsequent hearing, if Ohtani could establish by a preponderance of the evidence (more likely than not) that he had a legal right, title, or interest in the identified property, the Court's order as to the baseball cards would be invalidated. This was a crucial point as it determined the fate of the baseball cards and Ohtani's claim to them. 1: The hearing presented a significant opportunity for Ohtani to prove his case and regain possession of the baseball cards. 2: It also demonstrated the importance of presenting strong evidence and legal arguments in such situations.

Considering the Staggering Amounts Involved

Considering the large amounts of wagers and money involved in this case, it might seem insignificant to seek recovery of about $325,000 worth of baseball cards. However, Ohtani's motion for a hearing made sense given the circumstances. Based on what is publicly known, these cards are likely the quickest way for Ohtani to recover anything in this case. While Mizuhara has pleaded guilty and is expected to be sentenced to jail and make restitution, the amount of money involved is likely unrecoverable. This is especially true for someone like Mizuhara who has destroyed his life through lies and deceit. 1: The value of the baseball cards in the context of the overall case is a matter of consideration. 2: Ohtani's pursuit of the cards shows his determination to recover something from the situation.

Aftermath and Final Updates

Before the publication of this essay, Ohtani's motion for a hearing became moot. On Monday, the government conceded to Ohtani's motion, stating that "Ohtani holds a valid pre-existing interest in Forfeitable Property as title to the Forfeitable Property was vested in Ohtani at the time of the commission of the acts which give rise to the forfeiture." As a result, the December 20th hearing is canceled. In its response to Ohtani's motion, the government stated that "once the forfeiture of the defendant's interest is made final at sentencing, the Government will move for an order amending the Preliminary Order of Forfeiture to reflect Ohtani's superior interest in the property." In plain English, after Mizuhara is sentenced, the government will file an amended Order of Forfeiture with the court listing everything Mizuhara stole, except for the baseball cards, which everyone concedes are Ohtani's for the reasons given above. 1: The resolution of the case regarding the baseball cards was a significant development. 2: It shows the importance of legal processes and the ability of parties to present their cases effectively.

Ohtani 50/50 Ball's New Home

As we covered in late October, the Ohtani 50/50 home run ball was sold for $4.392 million after fees. While the lawsuits in federal and state courts are still ongoing, the winning bidder for the ball was UC Capital, a Taiwan-based investment firm. On November 13, Brooks Peck of The Athletic (paywalled) reported that the ball is now on display inside Taipei 101, the tallest building in Taiwan. The ball has 24-hour security and costs about $150,000. Organizers hoped that the ball's display would promote baseball in Taiwan and attract up to 7,000 visitors per day. The exhibition is scheduled to last until March 2, 2025, and costs 420 New Taiwan dollars to attend (about $13 USD). 1: The journey of the Ohtani 50/50 ball and its new home in Taiwan is a fascinating story. 2: It showcases the global impact of such events and the efforts to promote baseball in different regions.We will provide a final update once Mizuhara is sentenced to federal prison in January.