Following a high-profile gambling scandal that has drawn widespread attention, Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced a new policy to curtail the financial incentives for players to manipulate pitch-level betting. The move came after the indictment of Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, who are accused of participating in a scheme involving illegal wagers tied to pitch outcomes. MLB, in partnership with major U.S. sportsbook operators, has established a $200 betting cap on individual-pitch prop bets, a significant step to mitigate the risks of match-fixing and ensure the integrity of the sport’s games.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred acknowledged the collaborative effort between the league and sportsbook partners, highlighting that the measures are part of a broader initiative to safeguard the integrity of baseball. The regulation not only limits wager amounts but also prevents such bets from being incorporated into parlays, a move that is intended to diminish the financial rewards of manipulating the market. The decision comes after months of discussions that began in the summer, when Clase and Ortiz were placed on administrative leave amid an ongoing gambling investigation.
The scandal has sparked a broader conversation about the intersection of sports betting and integrity. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who has been a vocal advocate for regulatory reforms, expressed support for MLB’s actions while also suggesting more drastic measures, such as a complete ban on pitch-level betting. DeWine emphasized that such actions are essential to uphold the credibility of the sport and protect fans from the consequences of market manipulation. The state’s involvement underscores the seriousness of the issue, as sports betting has become increasingly embedded in the American sports landscape.
The indictment unsealed by federal prosecutors reveals that Clase and Ortiz allegedly conspired with bettors to rig specific pitches, giving them an advantage in placing illegal wagers. According to the charges, they received bribes through third parties, further complicating the ethical and legal implications of the scheme. The indictment details that from May 2023 to June 2025, Clase allegedly agreed to throw strategically planned pitches, and Ortiz joined the scheme in June 2025. These actions are alleged to have resulted in approximately $450,000 in illicit profits, highlighting the scale of the financial incentives at play.
While MLB has taken steps to address the immediate risks, the broader implications for the sports betting industry remain significant. Fanatics Sportsbook, one of the leading legalized sports betting operators, has expressed its support for the collaborative approach and emphasized that the changes align with their commitment to maintaining a safe and transparent betting environment. The league’s decision has also drawn attention from other sports organizations, with calls for similar measures to be adopted across the sector. As the investigation continues, the actions taken by MLB underscore the growing need for regulatory oversight in the rapidly evolving world of sports betting.