CLEVELAND, USA – Dominican pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, key figures for the Cleveland Guardians, will remain on administrative leave without pay. This decision comes as the legal process unfolds related to an alleged illegal gambling case within Major League Baseball. The Major League Baseball (MLB) announced that this measure was agreed upon with the players’ union. It is important to note that this change of status does not imply an admission of guilt on the part of the players. Initially, both pitchers were placed on paid leave in July 2025, at which time investigations began. The situation took a new turn as the legal process advanced, resulting in their suspension and the interruption of their income. According to the accusations, Clase would be involved in the manipulation of pitches in several matches between 2023 and 2025, allegedly in collaboration with bettors. Investigations suggest that these actions would have generated profits of approximately 400 thousand dollars on betting platforms. On the other hand, Luis Ortiz would have been linked to this scheme in June 2025.
As part of the legal measures, Clase surrendered his passport, was restricted from traveling to certain states, and is under constant monitoring. This case has captured the attention of the professional baseball world, not only because of the seriousness of the accusations, but also because of the potential impact on the integrity of the game. In the sports world, Emmanuel Clase had established himself as one of the most outstanding closers in Major League Baseball, especially in the 2024 season. Luis Ortiz, for his part, had proven to be a consistent piece in the team’s pitching staff. The league has indicated that it will not issue further comments until the investigation concludes. Both players remain awaiting the court verdict.The star closer has rejected the charges and pleaded not guilty in federal court.
MLB
