Guardians’ Clase and Ortiz Indicted on Betting Charges: Reports
Two pitchers from Major League Baseball, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, have been indicted for their alleged involvement in a sports betting scandal. Both players, who previously played for the Cleveland Guardians, face serious charges connected to bribery and fraudulent betting practices.
Indictment Details
The indictment was announced on Sunday, with both Clase, 27, and Ortiz, 26, facing multiple charges. These include:
- Wire fraud conspiracy
- Honest services wire fraud conspiracy
- Conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery
- Money laundering conspiracy
The maximum penalty for the top charges could reach 20 years in prison if convicted.
Investigation Background
The Cleveland Guardians placed Clase and Ortiz on non-disciplinary paid leave in July as MLB initiated an investigation into suspicious betting activities. These activities were particularly noted during games where the two pitchers participated.
Ortiz was arrested at Boston Logan International Airport on the same day of the announcement and is expected to appear in federal court shortly. Major League Baseball confirmed their cooperation with federal law enforcement during the investigation, focusing on the unusually high betting patterns for specific pitches.
Previous Gambling Scandals
This incident follows a series of gambling-related suspensions in Major League Baseball. In June 2024, the league suspended five players for violating betting regulations:
- Tucupita Marcano, banned for life, placed 387 bets totaling over $150,000.
- Michael Kelly received a one-year suspension.
- Minor leaguers Jay Groome, Andrew Saalfrank, and José Rodríguez were also suspended for a year.
Additionally, umpire Pat Hoberg was dismissed by MLB earlier in the year after sharing gambling account details and deleting crucial messages related to the investigation.
Current Situation
The Guardians have acknowledged the ongoing investigations and stated their commitment to cooperate fully with the appropriate authorities and Major League Baseball. As the situation develops, both pitchers await further legal proceedings.
