The world of Major League Baseball (MLB) is once again under scrutiny as allegations surface against two Cleveland Guardians pitchers, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, for violating league regulations regarding cell phone use during games. This issue has emerged in the context of a broader illegal sports betting investigation, with federal prosecutors accusing the players of conspiring to manipulate their pitching performances for financial gain.
MLB has long implemented strict rules on electronic device usage, particularly in light of past sign-stealing controversies, such as the notorious Houston Astros scandal that marred the 2017 World Series. According to prosecutors, Clase and Ortiz are connected to a scheme that allegedly netted at least $450,000 for gamblers who received inside information about the pitchers’ performance during games.
The indictment revealed that Clase not only communicated via text during games but also made a phone call to an alleged accomplice while actively pitching. Reports indicate that MLB had reprimanded Clase for improper cell phone use on at least one occasion prior to the gambling allegations coming to light. While Ortiz is not directly cited for cell phone violations, he is implicated as being coordinated by Clase in these activities.
Lawyers for both players maintain their innocence, asserting that they did not engage in any wrongdoing. Should MLB find them guilty of violating its fundamental rule prohibiting players from betting on baseball, they could face lifetime bans from the sport. Prosecutors highlighted the severity of the situation, noting that MLB rules restrict player use of cellular devices during games, with few exceptions for personal use.
Relaxed Regulations and Monitoring Efforts
Despite the strict regulations, MLB recently relaxed its rules regarding cell phone usage during games. Following player complaints about overly stringent restrictions, the league allowed players to use their phones in clubhouses during games, provided it was for personal purposes only. This change, however, came with clear limitations; players could not use their phones near the dugout, bullpen, or field.
In 2023, the year prosecutors claim Clase began participating in the betting scheme, cell phone use was officially prohibited during games. Prior to the 2025 season, when Ortiz allegedly joined the scheme, the league had relaxed its stance further, allowing phones in clubhouses, with the intention of reducing the risk of sign stealing.
MLB has employed a system of game-day monitors to enforce these regulations. Three league employees are assigned to each game: one in the clubhouse, one in the video room, and a third who roams the stadium to ensure compliance and monitor equipment. Despite these efforts, it appears that not all players adhere to the rules, as some interactions with league monitors may be met with resistance.
Specific Incidents and Allegations
The case against Clase details specific incidents of alleged misconduct. On May 17, 2023, during a game against the Cincinnati Reds, it is claimed that Clase sent a text to a gambler while the game was ongoing. This message, sent at 20:24, was followed by a response confirming readiness to place a wager. Moments later, Clase threw a pitch that led to approximately $10,000 in winnings for several bettors who had anticipated a pitch out of the strike zone.
Earlier, on April 26, 2023, during a day game against the Boston Red Sox, Clase allegedly texted a gambler and then had a phone call shortly thereafter. This interaction reportedly resulted in another substantial win for bettors.
MLB’s approach to monitoring compliance with cell phone rules has been met with challenges. While officials aim to enforce the regulations, players often resist efforts to maintain order among adults, leading to tensions between players and monitors. The league’s ability to enforce these rules consistently is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the game.
As the investigation unfolds, the implications of the betting scandal extend beyond the individual players. MLB is striving to deter potential future infractions by tightening regulations surrounding betting practices. Just one day after the indictment was unsealed, the league announced changes to prop betting regulations, limiting the type of wagers that can be placed on specific pitches.
The evolving narrative surrounding cell phone use and betting in baseball highlights ongoing challenges within the sport as it navigates issues of integrity and player conduct. The outcome of this case may shape future regulations and the league’s approach to maintaining fair play.
