URGENT UPDATE: Major League Baseball (MLB) has just announced a nationwide $200 betting limit on wagers focused on individual pitches, effective immediately. This decisive action aims to combat the growing risk of manipulation in baseball betting as concerns rise following a recent indictment involving Cleveland Guardians players.
The new regulations, confirmed by MLB on Monday, prohibit bets on individual pitches from being included in parlays. This decision comes in response to alarming betting patterns observed during games involving Luis Ortiz, a starter for the Guardians, who was implicated in a scheme that reportedly netted gamblers approximately $450,000 in suspicious wagers.
In an indictment unsealed on Sunday, federal prosecutors charged Ortiz along with Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase, highlighting their alleged roles in a betting scheme focused on the outcomes of specific pitches. The indictment details that bets were placed on whether individual pitches would be classified as balls or strikes, as well as on the over/under for pitch velocity.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the importance of preserving the integrity of the game, stating, “I 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.” This initiative, he added, is a critical step in protecting fans and the sport itself.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, who had urged for a ban on micro-proposition bets amid the investigation that began in July, supported MLB’s new regulations. “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,” DeWine stated.
Leading sportsbooks, including DraftKings and FanDuel, have already agreed to adjust their betting menus to comply with MLB’s requests. A DraftKings spokesperson remarked, “In collaboration with Major League Baseball, we have adjusted certain bet types to further deter bad actors while helping maintain fairness and trust in the game.” FanDuel President Christian Genetski echoed this sentiment, asserting their commitment to combating corruption in the betting industry.
This latest move is crucial not only for maintaining the integrity of baseball but also for protecting fans and bettors alike from potential manipulation. As the sports betting landscape continues to evolve, MLB’s proactive stance sets a precedent for other leagues to follow.
As this situation develops, all eyes will be on how these new regulations impact betting behavior and the ongoing efforts to ensure fair play within America’s pastime. Stay tuned for further updates as more information becomes available.
