Overview

• The OCCC has begun drafting a rule to ban in-game, player-specific microbets such as first-pitch wagers after a request from Gov. Mike DeWine, with new regulations requiring regulatory approval before a legislative vote.
• MLB continues a confidential investigation into unusual betting patterns on first pitches by Guardians pitchers Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase, both of whom remain on non-disciplinary paid leave with no new players implicated.
• MLB commissioner Rob Manfred has described microbets on individual pitches as unnecessary and vulnerable under Article 21, which allows penalties up to lifetime bans for wagering on one’s own game.
• The American Gaming Association argues that banning microbets would drive wagering underground and urges education and deterrence to maintain oversight and protect players.
• Some offshore sportsbooks such as BetOnline.ag already omit first-pitch markets to avoid exploitation by betting syndicates.