Guardians face turmoil as pitchers are sidelined in MLB gambling probe

In Cleveland, Ohio, on August 31, 2025, the Cleveland Guardians' postseason aspirations remain at risk following the indefinite paid leave of two pitchers, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz. This decision came amid a Major League Baseball (MLB) investigation into alleged gambling activities related to the two players. Ortiz's leave was initiated on July 3, 2025, just before a scheduled start against the Chicago Cubs, when the league began scrutinizing potential influences on prop bets during games he pitched. Clase was placed on leave later, on July 28, as the scope of the league's investigation expanded to include him as well. While the Guardians are currently 68-66, they sit three games behind the Boston Red Sox for the last American League wild-card spot. This season has not been as prosperous as the previous year, with the team encountering various challenges, including the loss of key players to the ongoing investigation. The Guardians have been resilient in coping with these setbacks, recently experiencing a significant turnaround after a tough stretch where they lost nine out of ten games. Their recent win streak demonstrates their determination to push through this difficult season. Stephen Vogt, who earned the AL Manager of the Year title in his debut season as manager last year, deflects credit, emphasizing the players' perseverance through adversity. The team won four consecutive games leading up to their series against the Seattle Mariners. A potential sweep of the series could have propelled them closer to the wild card position. The absence of Clase has been felt in the bullpen, with Cade Smith stepping up as the primary closer, managing to secure a save during this critical stretch of games. The Guardians seem to be focused on teamwork and maintaining a steadfast resolve, trusting their collective strengths rather than fixating on individual challenges. As they continue their season, they demonstrate an unwavering commitment to their goal of reaching the postseason, despite the lingering uncertainties surrounding their pitchers. The MLB’s investigation complicates these ambitions, as the future of both Clase and Ortiz remains unclear while the Guardians maintain their focus on the games ahead.