When it rains, it pours for the Cleveland Guardians.
Just when it seemed like he was starting to hit his stride, RHP Luis L. Ortiz was placed on paid leave due to an investigation.
A betting-integrity firm reportedly flagged a part of his throws that had received unusual gambling activity.
That’s why Paul Hoynes believes that, if that’s proven to be true, his days with the Guardians might be over.
In his latest article, the Cleveland.com writer stated that it would take a lot for any of his teammates to trust him again:
“First of all, Ortiz is innocent until proven he did something wrong. Secondly, if he is found to have willingly thrown pitches to manipulate prop bets, I think he’s going to have a hard time walking back into the Guardians’ locker room. I don’t see how his teammates or the organization could trust him,” Hoynes wrote.
The league placed Ortiz on paid leave until the conclusion of the All-Star break, but they could extend it if the investigation is still open.
The Guardians acquired the 26-year-old hurler from the Pittsburgh Pirates this past offseason as part of a three-team trade.
He’s logged a 4-9 record with a 4.36 ERA as a starter in Ohio, and while he struggled with control at times, he’s also shown signs of promise and potential to be a staple in their rotation when he’s at his best.
Even so, it might take a lot to turn the narrative around about him, even if he’s found to be innocent of these delicate accusations.
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