Guardians Pitcher Luis Ortiz Placed on Leave Amid MLB Gambling Investigation

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Luis Ortiz has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave by Major League Baseball due to an ongoing investigation related to gambling activities, as reported by multiple sources including ESPN's Jeff Passan. Ortiz, who was scheduled to start against the Chicago Cubs, will be replaced by Joey Cantillo for the foreseeable future. The Guardians and MLB have refrained from providing further details, citing confidentiality and the ongoing nature of the investigation. Ortiz, acquired from the Pittsburgh Pirates last offseason, has posted a 4.36 ERA with a 4-9 record this season and had been a key part of the Guardians' rotation. The team has expressed respect for the league's investigative process and has not commented beyond official statements. Ortiz’s absence leaves uncertainty around the Guardians’ pitching rotation as MLB continues its inquiry.