Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz Under MLB Scrutiny for Illegal Gambling
Major League Baseball (MLB) is investigating Dominican pitcher Emmanuel Clase and his teammate Luis Ortiz for alleged illegal gambling. The investigation has revealed that Clase had already been previously sanctioned for the improper use of his cell phone during games, according to sources close to the case.
According to reports, Clase would have received financial compensation to coordinate actions with bettors on behalf of Ortiz. MLB has chosen not to comment on the matter, while the lawyers of both players have publicly declared their innocence.Background and Strict Surveillance
MLB has increased its monitoring of cell phone use by players, especially after electronic sign-stealing scandals. During the 2023 and 2024 seasons, cell phone use was prohibited during games, but before the start of the 2025 season, the policy was relaxed, allowing their use inside the clubhouse for personal use.Possible Severe Sanctions
The consequences for Clase and Ortiz could be serious. If it is determined that they violated the rule prohibiting betting on baseball games, they could face lifetime sanctions. In addition, possible infractions related to the misuse of electronic devices are added.
According to prosecutors, on May 17, during a game against the Cincinnati Reds, Clase allegedly sent a text message to a bettor asking if he was “ready.” Minutes later, several bettors allegedly won nearly $10,000 when the pitcher deliberately threw a pitch outside the strike zone.
A similar episode would have occurred on April 26th in front of Boston, when Clase would have even made a phone call during the development of the match.A Challenge to Baseball’s Integrity
The case has revealed how regulations originally designed to combat sign theft now serve to uncover an even more delicate problem: the influence of sports betting within the playing field.
MLB faces the challenge of protecting the integrity of the sport in an era where technology, money, and illegal gambling converge in an increasingly dangerous way.
