Major League Baseball is investigating Cleveland Guardians’ starting pitcher Luis Ortiz following a series of unusually erratic wild pitches, amid concerns over potential gambling-related misconduct.
Ortiz threw four wild pitches over the course of a single inning during a recent game against the Detroit Tigers. The sequence raised eyebrows league-wide, prompting MLB to initiate a review of game footage, pitch data, communications, and betting activity connected to the game.
Sources say MLB officials are examining whether Ortiz’s performance may have been influenced by external factors tied to wagering patterns. The investigation will also assess whether the pitcher had appropriate internal support—coaches, analysts, or teammates—to address performance issues as they emerged.
Guardian management has cooperated with MLB’s efforts, issuing a statement emphasizing their commitment to transparency: “We are working with the league’s review to ensure the integrity of our game.” Ortiz has been placed on administrative leave while the investigation is ongoing.
MLB’s integrity office maintains strict rules against gambling and any behavior that could compromise competitive fairness. The outcome of the review could range from a cleared record to disciplinary actions, depending on what is uncovered.
No official findings have been released, and Ortiz remains available on the club’s disabled list pending further review. The league has declined to comment on whether any betting irregularities surfaced during the game, noting that confidentiality is important during ongoing investigations.
With input from Fox News.
