BREAKING: Former Angels Player Placed Illegal Bets With Same Bookie From Ohtani Case

David Fletcher, formerly of the Los Angeles Angels and now with the Atlanta Braves' Triple-A affiliate, is under investigation for his alleged involvement in illegal betting activities.

According to reports, Fletcher is said to have placed bets on various sports through a Southern California gambling ring operated by Mathew Bowyer, who is also linked to the betting scandal involving Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.

I’ve said it from the beginning .. Ohtani is lying … i can’t wait for it all to come out

i bet David Fletcher wishes he had an interpreter right about now pic.twitter.com/Q4HfPo5Num
— 𝐅𝐑𝐀𝐍𝐊𝐈𝐄 (@FrankiesTwoLoud) May 18, 2024

While Fletcher reportedly did not bet on baseball, the connection to Bowyer and the broader implications of his actions have brought intense scrutiny to his conduct and compliance with MLB regulations.

The investigation reveals that Fletcher's involvement might extend beyond personal actions, as a close friend and former minor league colleague, Colby Schultz, is implicated as well.

David Fletcher, a former Los Angeles Angels infielder currently with the Atlanta Braves' Triple-A affiliate, bet on sports with the same Southern California bookmaker who took wagers from Shohei Ohtani's longtime interpreter, according to multiple sources detailing the…
— Tisha Thompson (@TishaESPN) May 18, 2024

Schultz allegedly placed bets on baseball games, including those of the Angels during the period when both he and Fletcher were affiliated with the team.

This raises questions about the extent of the network involved in these activities and the potential for more systemic issues within the sport.

As the MLB probes deeper, the focus remains sharply on Fletcher, whose career and reputation are at risk. The league's strict policies against illegal gambling mean that Fletcher could face significant repercussions, including disciplinary action.

Photo Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports