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Cleveland Guardians right-hander Luis Ortiz has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave by Major League Baseball through at least the All-Star break. The decision, made in coordination with the MLB Players Association, comes as Ortiz is reportedly under investigation in connection with potential gambling activity.

Sudden Exit from Rotation

Ortiz was originally scheduled to start in the Guardians’ series finale against the Chicago Cubs. However, he was abruptly removed from the lineup. Left-hander Joey Cantillo will now take the mound in his place.

Nature of the Leave

MLB emphasized that the move is not a disciplinary action at this stage. Both the league and the Cleveland Guardians have declined to comment further, citing the confidential nature of the ongoing investigation.

While the league has not confirmed the subject of the probe, multiple sources have reported that the investigation may involve gambling-related conduct. MLB’s rules strictly prohibit players from betting on baseball at any level, even as legalized sports betting has expanded across the United States. Last year, several players received lengthy suspensions or lifetime bans for violating the league’s gambling policy.

Luis Ortiz: Season Snapshot

Luis Ortiz, 26, has been a regular part of the Guardians’ starting rotation this season. In 16 starts, he holds a 4–9 record with a 4.36 ERA. He’s pitched 88 2/3 innings, recording 96 strikeouts and issuing 42 walks.

Ortiz joined Cleveland in December 2024 as part of a multi-team trade. Prior to that, he spent three seasons with the Pittsburgh Pirates, where he compiled a career 16–22 record and a 4.05 ERA across 75 appearances.

Guardians Face On-Field Challenges

The Guardians are currently on a six-game losing streak and sit at 40–44, trailing the AL Central-leading Detroit Tigers by 12.5 games. The team is now facing mounting pressure to stabilize both its rotation and standings position ahead of the All-Star break.

What’s Next?

Luis Ortiz is expected to remain on paid leave until at least July 17. The outcome of the MLB investigation could result in no further action or, depending on the findings, lead to disciplinary measures. For now, Ortiz's future with the Guardians remains uncertain.

With their rotation tested and postseason hopes in question, the Luis Ortiz Guardians situation adds another layer of complexity to an already challenging season.