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yesterday

Guardians Block Emmanuel Clase From Venezuelan Winter League as MLB Betting Probe Continues

Team consent is required for foreign winter leagues under MLB rules, prompting Cleveland to withhold approval during the investigation.

Jul 26, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Cleveland Guardians relief pitcher Emmanuel Clase (48) delivers a pitch against the Kansas City Royals in the ninth inning at Kauffman Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Denny Medley-Imagn Images
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 21: Emmanuel Clase #48 of the Cleveland Guardians pitching in the bottom of the ninth inning at Sutter Health Park on June 21, 2025 in Sacramento, California. (Photo by Justine Willard/Athletics/Getty Images)
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Overview

  • MLB and the MLBPA placed Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz on non-disciplinary paid leave in July and extended it on Aug. 31 with no public timeline for resolution.
  • LIDOM barred both pitchers from the Dominican winter league, and Clase has filed a lawsuit against the league and its president, Vitelio Mejía.
  • The Tiburones de La Guaira pursued Clase for Venezuela’s LVBP, and MLB notified the club that Cleveland would not grant the required permission.
  • Guardians officials cited the ongoing probe, months without contact, unknown training status, and the possibility of discipline as reasons to deny the request; both pitchers are now on the restricted list after the season.
  • The investigation was triggered by suspicious wagering activity flagged to MLB, including prop bets tied to specific Ortiz pitches reported by a betting-integrity firm and regulators.