Cleveland. — Dominican pitcher Emmanuel Clase, star closer for the Cleveland Guardians, has been placed on paid non-disciplinary leave until August 31, while Major League Baseball (MLB) continues an investigation related to sports betting, according to a statement issued by the league this Monday.
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With this measure, Clase becomes the second Guardians pitcher to receive a license of this type within the framework of the same investigation. Luis Ortiz, the team’s starting pitcher, was placed on non-disciplinary leave on July 3, and his suspension was also extended until August 31.“According to an agreement with the MLBPA, Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave until the games of August 31, while MLB continues its investigation into sports betting. We will make no further comment until the investigation has been completed,” detailed MLB.
The Cleveland Guardians briefly commented after the announcement:
During the leave period, both Clase and Ortiz can stay in contact with the organization, although they do not have access to the team’s facilities. Class, in his fifth season with Cleveland, has recorded an ERA of 3.23 in 47.1 innings pitched in 48 appearances so far this season. MLB has not confirmed additional details, and no further official statements are expected until the investigation is concluded.“We have been notified by MLB that, as part of its sports betting investigation, Emmanuel Clase has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave under an agreement with the Players Association. We have been informed that no other players or club personnel are expected to be affected. The Guardians are not authorized to make further comment at this time and will respect the league’s confidential investigation process as we continue to fully cooperate.”
