Extended paid leave continues! Two Cleveland Guardians players suspended amid gambling investigation until further notice

Emmanuel Clase

MLB and the players' union announced today that Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz are under suspension related to a gambling investigation, with their original suspension ending on August 31 (U.S. time) now extended indefinitely until the inquiry is complete.

Clase and Ortiz were exposed for gambling involvement at the end of July. According to the gambling oversight agency, Ortiz threw clear intentional balls on the first pitch in two games during June, while the details of Clase’s involvement have not been publicly disclosed. The Guardians organization has declined to comment, but both pitchers’ lockers have been cleared out, indicating a very low chance of their return for the remainder of the season.

The 26-year-old Ortiz was traded to Cleveland from the Pirates during the offseason. He was originally scheduled to start against the Cubs on July 3 but was placed on administrative leave just before the game. This season, Ortiz started 16 games, recording a 4-9 win-loss record with a 4.36 ERA.

Clase came under investigation on July 28. He has been one of MLB’s top closers in recent years, leading the American League last year with 47 saves. This season, he posted 24 saves, a 5-3 record, and a 3.23 ERA, but now faces indefinite suspension and cannot play. Cade Smith has taken over the closer role in his absence.