MLB announces new betting restrictions
Major League Baseball has introduced new limits after two pitchers were charged in relation to an alleged micro-prop betting scheme.
US.- Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced the introduction of new limits on pitch-level markets after two Cleveland Guardians pitchers were charged in relation to an alleged micro-prop betting scheme. Operators must now cap wagers on pitch-level markets at $200 and exclude those bets from parlays. The measure is effective immediately.
The safeguards “are intended to mitigate integrity risks and maintain the transparency and data access benefits that the regulated sports betting market provides,” the league said.
On Sunday, ESPN reported that pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis L. Ortiz had been indicted by prosecutors in Brooklyn, New York, on charges related to an alleged scheme involving specific pitches in games.
Commissioner Rob Manfred said: “Since the Supreme Court decision opened the door to legalized sports betting, Major League Baseball has continuously worked with industry and regulatory stakeholders across the country to uphold our most important priority: protecting the integrity of our games for the fans.”
“I commend Ohio Governor DeWine for his leadership on this issue over the last several months. I also commend the industry for working with us to take action on a national solution to address the risks posed by these pitch-level markets, which are particularly vulnerable to integrity concerns. We look forward to continuing to work with all stakeholders, including licensed sports betting operators, elected officials and regulators, to ensure we are always protecting the integrity of our game.”
Governor Mike DeWine commented: “By limiting the ability to place large wagers on micro-prop bets, Major League Baseball is taking affirmative steps to protect the integrity of the game and reduce the incentives to participate in improper betting schemes. I urge other sports leagues to follow Major League Baseball’s example with similar action.”
The Guardians said they will “continue to fully cooperate with both law enforcement and Major League Baseball as their investigations continue.”
Earlier this year, MLB fired umpire Pat Hoberg for violating the league’s gambling rules. The original decision was made in May 2024 and upheld following an appeals process under the league’s collective bargaining agreement with the MLB Umpires Association (MLBUA).
