Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase has been placed on paid leave as part of an ongoing investigation into sports betting in Major League Baseball (MLB). This decision makes Clase the second pitcher from the Guardians to be sidelined due to this probe, following Luis Ortiz, who is also on leave until August 31.
The organization clarified that they do not anticipate any further players or personnel being affected by this investigation. Clase, who is 27 years old, has had a notable season with a record of 5-3 and 24 saves in 48 games. Though his performance has been commendable, he has also posted a career-high 3.23 ERA. He had been considered a potential trade target as the MLB trade deadline approached.
Guardians manager Stephen Vogt expressed his disappointment, saying, “I’m not happy. It’s a tough situation for our team.” He acknowledged that the emergence of sports gambling, now legalized, has changed the landscape for baseball, and having two players under investigation is disheartening.
Since the U.S. Supreme Court made a pivotal ruling in May 2018 that allowed states to legalize sports betting, MLB has intensified its focus on monitoring betting activities. The league stated that Clase’s leave was based on an agreement with the players’ union and would continue while the investigation unfolds.
Chris Antonetti, the Guardians’ president of baseball operations, was informed about Clase’s situation and promptly updated the coaching staff and players before their game against the Rockies. Vogt noted the emotional toll on the team, stating, “You’re shocked, you’re upset, you’re frustrated. But we’re ready to move forward.”
Following the recent loss to the Rockies, the Guardians’ record stands at 52-54, with pitcher Cade Smith facing challenges during the game. Smith expressed sympathy for Clase, commenting that it’s unfortunate he can’t be with the team at this time.
The investigation surrounding Ortiz is tied to unusual betting activity related to specific pitches during his games, raising concerns about the integrity of on-field performance. This comes after MLB suspended five players for gambling earlier this year, including a lifetime ban for San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano. The league has taken strict measures, including suspending players and taking action against officials involved in misconduct related to gambling.
In light of these events, the Guardians will be adopting a closer-by-committee approach until further notice. The situation serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by professional sports in the era of legalized sports betting.
