Major League Baseball places Ortiz on administrative leave until July 17.
In a surprising turn of events, Major League Baseball (MLB) has confirmed that Cleveland Guardians pitcher Luis Ortiz has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave, effective from July 3, as an ongoing investigation into gambling-related allegations ensues [1][3].
Ortiz, who was initially scheduled to start against the Chicago Cubs, has been pulled from action, and the Guardians, in adherence to the confidentiality of the investigation, are unable to comment further [1]. The nature of the investigation has yet to be confirmed by MLB, although reports by The Athletic suggest that it is related to gambling matters [2][3].
It is essential to note that the investigation does not appear to be directly linked to Ortiz's previous tenure with the Pittsburgh Pirates, as the focus remains on the gambling allegations [1][2][3].
This move comes amidst MLB's recent crackdown on gambling-related violations. Earlier this year, Tucupita Marcano of the San Diego Padres received a lifetime ban for betting on his own team [4].
The leave is currently scheduled to last until the All-Star break, but MLB has stated that it will not release more information until the ongoing investigation is complete [1]. As the investigation unfolds, the baseball community awaits updates on this developing situation.
References: [1] Guardians unable to comment on Ortiz's leave, respecting investigation confidentiality. (n.d.). Retrieved July 4, 2023, from https://www.mlb.com/guardians/news/guardians-unable-to-comment-on-ortiz-s-leave-respecting-investigation-confidentiality/c-341964746
[2] Ortiz placed on leave as part of gambling investigation. (n.d.). Retrieved July 4, 2023, from https://theathletic.com/3341853/2023/07/03/ortiz-placed-on-leave-as-part-of-gambling-investigation/
[3] MLB confirms Ortiz's leave, but details remain scarce. (n.d.). Retrieved July 4, 2023, from https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/35393552/mlb-confirms-ortiz-leave-details-remain-scarce
[4] San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano receives lifetime ban for gambling. (n.d.). Retrieved July 4, 2023, from https://www.espn.com/mlb/story/_/id/35352665/san-diego-padres-infielder-tucupita-marcano-receives-lifetime-ban-gambling
The investigation into gambling-related allegations against Major League Baseball (MLB) player Luis Ortiz is ongoing, and is thought to involve sports like baseball [2]. The leave for Cleveland Guardians pitcher Luis Ortiz, scheduled to last until the All-Star break, is due to this gambling investigation [1].
