MLB’s ties to betting have drawn negative spotlight following the involvement of Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz in a betting scandal.

To address concerns and maintain the integrity of the game, the league has partnered with U.S. sportsbook operators to implement a $200 prop bet limit. The announcement was made on Monday, introducing new measures that exclude individual pitch bets from parlays. This move aims to reduce player incentives and discourage illegal manipulation of the betting market.

“I commend the industry for working with us to take action on a national solution to address the risks posed by these pitch-level markets, which are particularly vulnerable to integrity concerns,” MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred said in a statement.

However, many fans remain critical of MLB’s gambling connections and have voiced their opinions on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter).

One user wrote:
“Bandaid solution. Sports betting is ruining the game.” – Uzi Obi @UziObi_

Another commented:
“How about you just don’t offer pitch markets? Legit the most ridiculous market available.” – BernieBets @bernie_bets

Others have called for the complete cancellation of these bets:
“They need to be canceled all together.” – Mitch Lafon @mitchlafon

Some users are skeptical of the league’s intentions:
“What a joke. Manfred is so deep in with the gambling industry. It’s not about the dollar amount at all. It’s about the ‘rush’ gamblers get. This is never going away and it won’t be the last time.” – Dano @DJDanMaui

One commenter suggested more drastic measures:
“How about setting the limit to zero.” – RH1523 @nyy1523

Reflecting broader concerns, another said:
“They can’t just get rid of it, they want your $200 still.” – Ryan Guellow @guellow23

And another pointed out risks beyond the current focus:
“And they’ll just figure out another prop to manipulate.” – krey @ActiveTL

Amid these discussions, the President of FanDuel, one of MLB’s official sportsbook partners, has expressed support for the steps taken. He emphasized the goal of building a “legal and regulated market that roots out abuses” tied to illegal betting.

### Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz’s Involvement in Sports Betting

On Sunday, Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz were indicted by prosecutors in Brooklyn for their roles in sports betting activities. Reports indicate that Clase’s participation dates back to 2023, while Ortiz joined the scheme this season.

Both players face multiple charges, including fraud and bribery conspiracies, and could face up to 65 years in prison if convicted.

In response to the scandal, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has urged other sports leagues to follow MLB’s example in eliminating gambling-related issues.

—

*Edited by Chaitanya Prakash*
https://www.sportskeeda.com/baseball/news-sports-betting-ruining-game-fans-react-mlb-s-200-limit-following-emmanuel-clase-luis-ortiz-scandal