Pitcher Trial Delayed: Rigging Scheme Trial Pushed to November

The federal trial for Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz, accused of participating in a pitch-rigging scheme, has been postponed to November 2, 2026, by Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto. The original trial date was in May 2026.

Clase and Ortiz have pleaded not guilty to multiple charges, including wire fraud conspiracy and conspiracy to influence sporting contests by bribery. The alleged scheme involved predetermining the results of prop bets, with gamblers reportedly winning at least $450,000, and the pitchers receiving bribes. Prosecutors argue that "finger-pointing is not a basis for severance," but defense attorneys contend that separate trials are necessary to ensure fair proceedings.

Ortiz's lawyer suggested that his defense might involve asserting Clase's guilt, describing Ortiz as a "victim" rather than a willing participant. This strategy could conflict with Clase's claim of innocence, leading his counsel to argue that a joint trial would be mutually antagonistic. Clase's attorneys have also requested severance from another co-defendant, Robinson Vasquez Germosen, who allegedly acted as a middleman.

The indictment detailed how Clase allegedly colluded with bettors to predetermine at least nine pitches starting in May 2023, with Ortiz joining the scheme in June 2025. Communication between co-conspirators allegedly used code words like "rooster" and "chickens." In one instance on May 18, 2025, a text exchange suggested fixing a pitch, with Clase replying, "Yes, of course, that's an easy toss to that rooster."

Bettors reportedly wagered on pitch velocity or results, aiming for overs or unders on prop bets. The pitchers would allegedly spike sliders to guarantee specific outcomes. An incident on May 28, 2025, against the Los Angeles Dodgers resulted in a loss for bettors when a batter swung at a pitched ball, leading to a subsequent text to Clase depicting a man hanging himself. Clase responded with a sad puppy dog face GIF, despite recording a save.

In another alleged instance on September 30, 2023, Clase sent a message about fixing a pitch, but he did not enter the game that day. This was one of three occasions where Clase allegedly coordinated a fixed pitch but did not take the mound. Both pitchers and Vasquez pleaded not guilty to charges in a superseding indictment unsealed last month.

Clase's legal team had sought to keep the trial in May 2026, partly to avoid jeopardizing his $6.4 million salary for the 2026 season and future earnings. Both pitchers are currently on non-disciplinary paid leave and are prohibited from MLB facilities. The Guardians have not yet received clarity from MLB regarding their financial obligations for the pitchers' salaries in 2026, with Ortiz due the league minimum of approximately $780,000, and Clase having either a $10 million salary or a $2 million buyout for 2027.