How Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz became central to a financial inquiry that now places their MLB careers under uncertainty

Not too long ago, Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz were just two pitchers finding their place in a lengthy MLB season. Clase, the closer for the Cleveland Guardians known for his blazing speed, had landed a multi-year contract extension. Ortiz was trying to make a name for himself. They were meant to concentrate on baseball, results, consistency, and the grind of the season. But now, their names are linked to a federal investigation looking into betting activities related to in-game pitch outcomes. Investigators have presented sequences of pitches that supposedly matched bets placed on things like called balls or pitch speed limits. Among the examples listed in the filings are two outings from June, including one against the Seattle Mariners. They're reviewing phone records, financial tra