Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz called 'cheaters' as gambling case opening statements begin in court

Cleveland Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz were in a Brooklyn court on Wednesday during opening statements in their gambling case.

The relievers are accused of rigging their own pitches during games to benefit bettors. Both have pleaded not guilty to conspiracy charges and are on non-disciplinary leave from the club without pay while facing prosecution. They were arrested in November 2025 and have been free on bail since.

The pitchers were described by Assistant U.S.