Cleveland Guardians’ All-Star closer Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through August 31 as part of Major League Baseball’s ongoing investigation into a sports-betting scandal. This places Clase among a growing list of athletes under scrutiny following MLB’s crackdown on gambling-related violations. The Guardians are one of several teams affected by this probe, with pitcher Luis Ortiz also placed on leave through August 31. The investigation, which includes potential in-game prop bets, continues to ripple through the league as MLB recently suspended five players for gambling-related violations, including a lifetime ban for San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano.
While Clase’s placement on leave is a significant development, it is part of a broader pattern of increased scrutiny in baseball regarding sports betting. MLB’s actions reflect a growing emphasis on maintaining the integrity of the game, especially with the rise of legal sports betting in the United States. The league’s decision to suspend five players earlier this year underscores the seriousness with which it is approaching these violations.
Clase, who has been a dominant force in the Majors for several seasons, has finished a major-league-leading 41 games after leading the majors in that mark for the last three seasons. His performance has been an important asset to the Guardians, contributing to their success on the field. However, the investigation into potential gambling-related activities has now placed him on paid leave, which may impact the team’s strategy and performance in the coming months.
The Ortiz investigation was related to in-game prop bets on two pitches he threw in a game against the Seattle Mariners on June 15 and the St. Louis Cardinals on June 27. A betting-integrity firm flagged the possible issue and forwarded it to MLB. These incidents, along with Clase’s situation, highlight the league’s commitment to investigating any potential violations that could undermine the integrity of the sport. The Guardians have not commented further on the matter, as the league’s confidential investigative process continues.