In brief
Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, pitchers for the Cleveland Guardians, have been indicted on multiple charges including bribery and conspiracy related to sports betting. Both players have been on paid leave since July as MLB investigated unusual betting patterns during their games. The indictment could lead to severe prison sentences if convicted, with Ortiz already in federal custody.
NEW YORK (AP) — Two Major League Baseball pitchers have been indicted for their involvement in a bribery scheme where they reportedly agreed to notify sports bettors in advance about the types of pitches they would throw. Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, both players for the Cleveland Guardians, are charged with multiple offenses including wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy, which could result in penalties of up to 20 years in prison.The two have been on non-disciplinary leave since July while Major League Baseball looked into irregular betting patterns that arose during their games. Ortiz's recent arrest by the FBI at Boston Logan International Airport marks a significant step in the ongoing investigation. He is expected to appear in court on Monday.Major League Baseball indicated it has been working closely with federal law enforcement since the inquiry began and its investigation remains active. In response to the indictments, the Cleveland Guardians issued a statement reaffirming their commitment to cooperating fully with ongoing investigations.Legal representatives for both pitchers have been notably quiet, with Ortiz's lawyer refusing to comment and Clase's attorney not responding to inquiries at this time.
