Former Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz appeared together in Brooklyn federal court on Tuesday for the first time since being charged in a sports betting scandal. The ex-teammates shared a reluctant handshake after their lawyers' instructions and pleaded not guilty to the charges. Both are out on bail as their trial is tentatively set for May.
Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, both former hurlers for the Cleveland Guardians, faced federal charges related to a sports betting scandal during their initial joint appearance in Brooklyn federal court on December 2, 2025. The pitchers are accused of tipping off bettors about the specific pitches they would throw in certain game situations, enabling gamblers to place wagers with insider knowledge.
Arriving separately, Clase in a casual gray suit and Ortiz in black attire, the pair avoided speaking to each other or reporters outside the courtroom. Their attorneys eventually directed them to exchange handshakes in front of Judge Kiyo Matsumoto, resulting in what was described as a chilly interaction. Both defendants entered not guilty pleas and were released on bail pending further proceedings.
Judge Matsumoto scheduled their next court date for January 15, 2026, with jury selection tentatively set to begin on May 4 and the trial starting May 11. The case stems from allegations of misconduct that have rocked the MLB community, highlighting ongoing concerns about gambling integrity in professional sports.
No additional details on the pitchers' involvement or the broader investigation were disclosed during the hearing.