MLB Investigates Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz for Alleged Betting Scandal

Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic — Major League Baseball (MLB) is investigating pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz over alleged involvement in sports betting. The inquiry has led LIDOM, the Dominican winter league, to bar both players from joining the Estrellas Orientales ahead of the 2025-26 season.

On October 13, journalist Enrique Rojas revealed via social media that the league informed the Estrellas Orientales that Clase and Ortiz could not be included in their roster. This decision comes just two days before the season kick-off, creating a significant impact for the team.

MLB announced months ago that Clase and Ortiz were under investigation and had been placed on administrative leave by their MLB team, the Cleveland Guardians. The Guardians have been monitoring the situation closely while working to resolve the issue.

Despite no official rule barring players on administrative leave from participating in the Dominican leagues, LIDOM’s choice to prohibit the players surprised many. Several sources noted that both players had already engaged in multiple bullpen sessions in preparation for the season.

Ortiz was scheduled to pitch in the season opener against the Leones del Escogido on October 17, making their absence particularly noticeable. With their exclusion, the Estrellas Orientales will need to adjust their pitching strategy and find two replacements for the roster.

Rumors suggest that the Estrellas Orientales may consider appealing LIDOM’s decision. Nevertheless, sources indicate that the league’s choice appears final, further complicating the players’ involvement in the upcoming season.