Things became complicated after Ohtanis handlers allowed Mizuhara to grant an interview to ESPN.
In that interview, Mizuhara said Ohtani had paid off his interpreters gambling debts with the transfers.
Watch on Deadline
So far, it appears law enforcement is not involved in any investigation.
Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles DodgersSean M. Haffey/Getty Images
Sources told ESPN that neither the California Bureau of Investigation nor the FBI was working the case.
Attorneys Office for the Central District of California declined to comment.
Ohtani can refuse cooperation as a member of theMLBPlayers Association.
MLB said in a statement that its department of investigations began formally investigating the matter Friday.
Neither Ohtani or Mizuhara have been charged with a crime.
Ohtani is expected to remain on the Dodgers active roster while the leagues investigation unfolds.
