Guardians pitchers remain on indefinite leave amid MLB gambling probe
The MLB has extended the paid leave of two Guardians pitchers, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, until “further notice” as it continues its gambling investigation involving the pair.
Following the MLB announcement, the Guardians released a follow-up statement on X saying, “MLB and the MLBPA have agreed to extend the non-disciplinary paid leave of Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz until further notice while MLB continues its investigation. We will not comment further until the investigation has been completed.”
The investigation began after betting integrity firm IC360 flagged suspicious betting activity on pitches made by Ortiz from two Guardians games in June. By July 3, Ortiz was placed on paid leave, followed by Clase, who was placed on leave on July 28.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission announced that it would help the MLB with its investigation of the two pitchers. However, it was also starting its own investigation separate from the sporting franchise.
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has also called on the Ohio Casino Control Commission to remove prop bets from the list of legal wagers available in the state following the Guardian’s investigation.
In a statement, DeWine said he was working with sports leagues across the US to ban prop bets from all sports, citing that they cause significant damage.
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Charlotte Capewell brings her passion for storytelling and expertise in writing, researching, and the gambling industry to every article she writes. Her specialties include the US gambling industry, regulator legislation, igaming, and more.
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