Manfred Speaks After Gambling Scandal: MLB Acts and Looks to the Future

MLB Doesn’t Anticipate More Prop Betting Restrictions, But Is Watching Closely

Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred stated on Wednesday that the league does not foresee new restrictions on prop bets, despite recent limitations imposed by sportsbooks in the United States. These measures include a $200 limit on individual bets and the prohibition of including these bets in parlays, with the aim of reducing the possibility of manipulation.

“I think the most important thing and the basis of our relationship with the betting houses is the ability to monitor betting activity. The ability to discern inappropriate patterns is really important. We understood the prop betting problem from the beginning. I’m glad we did something about it. But the rest of the program, at this point, I think we are generally prepared to move forward under the rules we have now.”
Rob Manfred, MLB Commissioner

Manfred’s statement comes after the scandal involving Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, accused on November 9 of fraud, conspiracy, and bribery. It is alleged that both athletes altered individual pitches to benefit bettors. The same day the scandal was announced, restrictions were placed on prop bets. The Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, which oversees professional sports, sent a letter to Manfred expressing concern about the “new integrity crisis” facing professional sports in the United States and requesting information about the alleged scheme of the pitchers. Manfred assured that the league will respond to the Senate investigation “completely, cooperatively, and promptly.” In addition, he emphasized that the limitations announced this month represent “a very significant change that should reduce the incentive for someone to get involved inappropriately.” Both Clase and Ortiz could face a lifetime ban for their alleged actions. The league’s investigation is ongoing. The betting scandal tarnishes the good moment of MLB, which came from a season with high ratings, culminating in an exciting seven-game World Series between the Los Angeles Dodgers and Toronto Blue Jays. Manfred also addressed the issue of competitive balance, which remains a concern for the league, especially for small-market teams that feel at a disadvantage compared to large-market teams. The collective bargaining agreement is expected to expire on December 1, 2026. During the owners’ meetings, the labor issue was discussed, but Manfred did not offer details about it. “What I would say about the competitive balance issue is that we have a significant segment of our fans who have spoken out on the competitive balance issue and, in general, we try to pay attention to our fans. So it’s a topic of conversation,” Manfred said. Manfred reiterated his priority of avoiding a labor interruption that causes the loss of games in 2027. “Never has a game been lost since I got involved as a baseball employee and my goal is to complete the next one, keeping that record intact. There’s a lot of work to be done between now and then, but that’s my goal,” he stated.