New York City, November 10, 2025
Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, pitchers for the Cleveland Guardians, face federal charges for allegedly rigging pitches in MLB games. The unsealed indictment includes charges of wire fraud and bribery, with potential sentences of up to 65 years in prison if convicted. The scheme, which began in May 2023, involved providing bettors with insider information on pitches, leading to significant fraudulent winnings. Both players are currently on paid leave as investigations continue, highlighting the ongoing integrity issues in professional sports amid rising sports betting activity.
New York, NY – Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz have been indicted on federal charges for allegedly participating in a scheme to rig pitches during Major League Baseball (MLB) games, enabling sports bettors to place fraudulent wagers. The indictment, unsealed on November 9, 2025, in the Eastern District of New York, includes charges of wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery, and money laundering conspiracy. If convicted, each defendant faces up to 65 years in prison.
According to the indictment, Clase, 27, began the scheme in May 2023, providing bettors with advance information about specific pitches he would throw, often communicating via cellphone during games. This allowed bettors to place fraudulent wagers, resulting in at least $400,000 in winnings. Ortiz, 26, joined the scheme in June 2025, agreeing to throw intentional balls in exchange for bribes. In one instance, he received $5,000 for throwing a ball on a specific pitch during a game against the Seattle Mariners, leading to at least $60,000 in fraudulent winnings for the bettors.
Both players have been on non-disciplinary paid leave since July 2025, pending MLB’s investigation into unusually high in-game betting activity during their appearances. MLB has been cooperating with law enforcement since spring 2023 and has placed both players on paid leave pending further investigation. The indictment highlights the serious nature of the charges, emphasizing the impact on the integrity of professional sports and the trust placed in athletes by fans and the public.
As the legal process unfolds, MLB and the Guardians organization have stated their commitment to fully cooperating with law enforcement and Major League Baseball as their investigations continue. This case underscores the ongoing challenges professional sports face in maintaining integrity amid the growing influence of sports betting.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the charges against Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz?
Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz have been indicted on charges including wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery, and money laundering conspiracy. If convicted, each faces up to 65 years in prison.
When did the alleged scheme begin?
The scheme allegedly began in May 2023, with Emmanuel Clase providing advance information about specific pitches he would throw, allowing bettors to place fraudulent wagers.
What was Luis Ortiz’s involvement in the scheme?
Luis Ortiz joined the scheme in June 2025, agreeing to throw intentional balls in exchange for bribes, leading to at least $60,000 in fraudulent winnings for the bettors.
What is the current status of Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz?
Both players have been on non-disciplinary paid leave since July 2025, pending MLB’s investigation into unusually high in-game betting activity during their appearances.
How is Major League Baseball responding to the situation?
MLB has been cooperating with law enforcement since spring 2023 and has placed both players on paid leave pending further investigation. The league emphasizes its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport.
What impact does this case have on professional sports?
This case underscores the ongoing challenges professional sports face in maintaining integrity amid the growing influence of sports betting, highlighting the need for vigilance and strict adherence to ethical standards.
Key Features of the Case
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Defendants | Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, pitchers for the Cleveland Guardians |
| Charges | Wire fraud conspiracy, honest services wire fraud conspiracy, conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery, and money laundering conspiracy |
| Potential Sentence | Up to 65 years in prison if convicted |
| Scheme Details | Providing advance information about specific pitches to bettors, leading to fraudulent wagers totaling at least $460,000 |
| MLB’s Response | Placed both players on non-disciplinary paid leave since July 2025; cooperating with law enforcement in the investigation |
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