Guardians Pitchers on Leave Amid Gambling Probe

Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis L. Ortiz have been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave and had their lockers cleared amid an ongoing MLB investigation into gambling allegations. Ortiz was sidelined after suspicious betting activity was found on pitches he threw, while Clase was later implicated, though details about his involvement remain unclear. Both players are under contract for several more years, but the clearing of their lockers signals the team does not expect their return this season. Their leave will last through at least August 31, with potential lengthy suspensions or lifetime bans if found guilty of violating MLB gambling policies. The investigation follows the trade deadline, adding uncertainty to the Guardians’ playoff aspirations. MLB’s probe highlights increased scrutiny of sports betting and its consequences for player careers.