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Guardians Prepare for Extended Leaves in MLB Betting Probe of Clase and Ortiz

Investigators are expected to keep both pitchers on paid leave past Aug. 31, pushing Cleveland to rework late‑inning plans.

SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA - JUNE 22: Luis L. Ortiz #45 of the Cleveland Guardians looks on from the dugout during the game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park on June 22, 2025 in Sacramento, California.
Aug 19, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Cleveland Guardians manager Stephen Vogt in the first inning against the Arizona Diamondbacks at Chase Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
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Overview

  • MLB placed Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz on paid administrative leave in July as it investigates suspected wagering tied to games they pitched.
  • Multiple outlets, citing USA Today, report the leave is likely to be extended into the offseason, making a 2025 return unlikely.
  • The Guardians have cleared both players’ lockers and reassigned bullpen roles, with Cade Smith taking over as closer.
  • Since assuming the ninth-inning job on July 28, Smith has four saves, two blown saves, a 3-1 record and a 2.13 ERA across 12.2 innings.
  • Players and staff say the club is moving forward, with Stephen Vogt stressing resilience and teammates including Smith, Steven Kwan and Austin Hedges acknowledging uncertainty while focusing on the roster at hand.