Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Ohtani Shohei says he will speak with the media on Monday for the first time since the team fired his interpreter, Mizuhara Ippei, over illegal gambling and theft allegations on Thursday.

Ohtani returned to Los Angeles after season-opening games in South Korea. He took part in a training session on Saturday that was closed to the public.

Ohtani and Will Ireton, who is temporarily serving as his interpreter, appeared at the clubhouse on Sunday afternoon before a game against the Los Angeles Angels, his former team.

Ohtani replied to calls from reporters, saying only, "tomorrow."

Asked by reporters about Ohtani's plan to speak to the media, Dodgers' Manager Dave Roberts said he believes it's the right thing to do.

The manager said, "I'm happy that he is going to speak to what he knows and give his thoughts on the whole situation." He added, "I think it will give us all a little bit more clarity."

Asked about possible distractions from the scandal, Roberts said once players are at the stadium, they just get back to work and do their thing.

He added athletes have a good ability to compartmentalize, and he doesn't anticipate anything different from the way his players are preparing.

Ohtani is expected to bat second as designated hitter in the lineup for the preseason game against the Los Angeles Angels on Sunday.

He will play at the Dodgers' home stadium for the first time since he joined the team.

The second game against the Angels will be held on Monday.