Emmanuel Clase’s lawyer makes a strong statement following the pitcher’s indictment

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Emmanuel Clase proclaims his innocence after being indicted by federal prosecutors in Brooklyn, New York, for his alleged role in the MLB betting scandal. Class’s attorney, Michael Ferrara, issued a strong statement on Sunday denied the charges, saying: “Emanuel Klasse has dedicated his life to baseball and is doing everything in his power to help his team win. Emanuel is innocent of all charges and looks forward to clearing his name in court.”

According to ESPN’s Jeff Pasano, Klase and another Guardians pitcher, Luis Ortiz, were also charged on charges of fraud, conspiracy and bribery for allegedly participating in a scheme to influence betting outcomes at certain venues. Prosecutors allege the two intentionally threw balls so gamblers could place pitch-by-pitch bets and profit from inside knowledge.

The 23-page indictment alleges that Clase began the scheme in May 2023 and that Ortiz joined two years later. Prosecutors say Clase facilitated communication between the bookies and Ortiz and that both pitchers received payments — including $5,000 each for a June 15, 2025, rigged pitch and $7,000 apiece for another incident on June 27. In total, the scheme reportedly netted gamblers about $450,000.

Emmanuel Clase accused of gambling

“The defendants have deprived the Cleveland Guardians and Major League Baseball of their fair dealing,” said US Attorney Joseph Nocella Jr. “They defrauded online betting platforms and betrayed America’s pastime. Integrity, honesty and fair play are part of the DNA of professional sports.”

Ortiz was arrested in Boston on Sunday and will appear in court on Monday, while Klase remains out of custody. Both face up to 65 years in prison if convicted on all counts – including wire fraud, money laundering and conspiracy to influence sports events.

Ortiz’s attorney, Chris Georgalis, also denied the allegations, saying his client “has never, and never will, improperly influence a game.” He added that the government’s case is “weak and circumstantial.”

Major League Baseball confirmed that it has fully cooperated with federal authorities since the investigation began. “We are aware of the indictment and today’s arrest, and our investigation is ongoing,” MLB said in a statement.

Clase, a three-time All-Star and two-time Player of the Year, was one of the best players in baseball before MLB placed him on leave in July when irregular betting patterns were flagged. His legal team remains confident that the case against him will not stand.