URGENT UPDATE: Major League Baseball Players Association (MLBPA) executive director Tony Clark has raised alarms about player safety amid a new NBA gambling scandal. Speaking just hours before Game 1 of the World Series at Rogers Centre, Clark emphasized the pressing need for MLB to address the growing threats players face from gambling-related activities.
Clark stated, “There is a lot of work to be done,” highlighting the escalating safety concerns as gamblers increasingly target athletes. He recalled the aftermath of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 2018 ruling that allowed states to legalize sports betting, noting that players were immediately contacted by gambling entities, expressing fears of being followed.
“It’s just a different world,” Clark added, illustrating the profound impact of gambling on sports. Each scandal raises the stakes, intensifying concerns among players and officials alike.
“We work closely with the league to ensure the safety and well-being of our players,” Clark stated. “Every time there’s a situation related to gambling, the concern doesn’t lessen—it gets greater.”
The MLB has faced increasing scrutiny over gambling practices in recent years. Notably, pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz have been on non-disciplinary paid leave since July as part of ongoing investigations. Last year, outfielder Tucupita Marcano faced a lifetime ban for betting on games, and umpire Pat Hoberg was fired for violating league gambling rules.
Clark emphasized the importance of player education regarding gambling restrictions, stating that this guidance is a “consistent and constant” effort. He underscored the need for MLB to enhance its protocols to protect player safety.
In addition to the gambling scandal, Clark also addressed the upcoming collective bargaining agreement, firmly opposing the implementation of a salary cap. He dismissed concerns that the Los Angeles Dodgers winning back-to-back titles would influence negotiations, calling such talk “a lot of chatter.” The Dodgers are vying for a championship repeat, a feat not achieved since the New York Yankees won three consecutive titles from 1998 to 2000.
“The sky was falling as the Yankees repeated,” Clark recalled. “Here we are nearly 30 years later, and the industry has grown exponentially. The idea that there is excellence among the clubs is commendable, and opportunities exist for all 30 teams to excel.”
The Dodgers’ combined payroll and luxury tax penalties this season stand at a staggering $509 million, the most in baseball, while the Toronto Blue Jays follow with a payroll of $242 million.
As the World Series unfolds, Clark’s comments underscore the urgent need for comprehensive measures to safeguard players amid the rapidly evolving landscape of sports gambling. The MLBPA’s ongoing dialogue with the league will be crucial in addressing these concerns in the coming days. Stakeholders and fans alike will be watching closely as developments continue to emerge.
