MLB and Sportsbooks Set $200 Limit on Individual Pitch Bets
Major League Baseball (MLB) has partnered with leading U.S. sportsbooks to implement a nationwide betting limit of $200 on wagers focused on individual pitches, alongside a prohibition on including these bets in parlays. This decision, announced on Monday, aims to reduce the potential for manipulation in baseball betting, particularly following suspicious activities detected earlier this year.
The move comes after unusual wagering patterns were observed in June 2023 involving Cleveland Guardians pitcher Luis Ortiz. Following an investigation, federal prosecutors recently indicted Ortiz and teammate Emmanuel Clase for their alleged involvement in a gambling scheme related to whether specific pitches would be classified as balls or strikes, as well as betting on the velocity of those pitches. According to the indictment, gamblers reportedly profited approximately $450,000 from these bets.
MLB has been in discussions with its authorized sportsbook partners since the summer regarding potential changes to betting regulations. The league believes that by capping the amount that can be wagered on these specific markets, it can mitigate the risks of betting manipulation. MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred emphasized the importance of protecting the integrity of the game, stating, “I commend the industry for working with us to take action on a national solution to address the risks posed by these pitch-level markets, which are particularly vulnerable to integrity concerns.”
Response from Industry Leaders
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has been vocal about the need for stricter regulations, calling for a ban on micro-proposition bets following MLB’s investigation. In a statement, DeWine noted, “By limiting the ability to place large wagers on micro-prop bets, Major League Baseball is taking affirmative steps to protect the integrity of the game and reduce the incentives to participate in improper betting schemes.” He urged other sports leagues to adopt similar measures to safeguard their respective sports.
Both DraftKings and FanDuel, the two largest sportsbook operators, have committed to adjusting their baseball betting offerings in line with MLB’s requests. A representative from DraftKings stated, “In collaboration with Major League Baseball, we have adjusted certain bet types to further deter bad actors while helping maintain fairness and trust in the game.”
FanDuel President Christian Genetski echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the legal betting industry’s commitment to combating corruption. He remarked, “This initiative illustrates our unwavering commitment to building a legal and regulated market that roots out abuses by those who seek to undermine fair competition and damage the integrity of the games we love.”
As the landscape of sports betting continues to evolve, MLB’s proactive measures signal a significant step toward maintaining the integrity of the game amid the rising popularity of betting on individual player performances. The collaboration between MLB and sportsbooks highlights the ongoing efforts to create a safe and fair environment for fans and bettors alike.
