Major League Baseball and several sportsbooks are limiting or suspending bets on specific pitcher props following federal charges against three baseball players accused of conspiring to fix games for gambling purposes.The Justice Department announced charges Tuesday against pitchers Michael Kaprielian, Jose Rodriguez, and Jay Jackson, alleging they provided inside data to an illegal sports betting operation in exchange for payouts.The crackdown comes as sports betting continues to rapidly expand across the United States, raising concerns about the integrity of games. While pitch-specific betting has gained popularity, the alleged scheme highlights vulnerabilities within the system and prompted immediate action from operators like DraftKings and FanDuel, who have temporarily disabled those markets. The case underscores the ongoing battle to safeguard the fairness of competition in professional sports amid the growing influence of legalized gambling.
Kaprielian,a pitcher for the Los Angeles Angels,Rodriguez,a former pitcher in the New York Yankees organization,and Jackson,a relief pitcher currently with the Chicago Cubs,are accused of sharing confidential information about pitching changes and game outcomes with a New Jersey-based illegal gambling operation.According to the Justice Department,the players received payments ranging from $10,000 to over $50,000 for their involvement.
The examination revealed that the players allegedly provided information that allowed the gambling operation to place bets on the total number of strikeouts a pitcher would record in a game – a popular prop bet among sports bettors. The scheme reportedly took place during the 2023 MLB season.
DraftKings confirmed it had suspended betting on MLB pitcher props, stating it was doing so “out of an abundance of caution.” FanDuel followed suit,announcing a similar suspension.BetMGM also stated it was reviewing the situation and taking appropriate steps.
“We are aware of the allegations and are cooperating fully with the authorities,” a DraftKings spokesperson said in a statement. “The integrity of our games is our top priority, and we will take all necessary steps to protect it.”
The Justice departments investigation is ongoing, and further details are expected to emerge in the coming days. The MLB has also launched its own investigation into the matter. The league stated it was “deeply troubled” by the allegations and would fully cooperate with law enforcement.The charges carry a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential for corruption in sports betting and the need for continued vigilance to protect the integrity of the game.