San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano is under investigation by Major League Baseball for betting on baseball and could face a lifetime ban, according to multiple reports.
According to the Associated Press, MLB is investigating allegations that Marcano bet on games involving the Pittsburgh Pirates, who were on the injured list last season. The investigation is ongoing.
Marcano, 24, has not played since tearing his right ACL on July 24. He was claimed off waivers by the Padres on November 2 and placed on the 10-day injured list on March 19.
MLB’s investigation was first reported Monday by the Wall Street Journal.
The club said in a statement, “We understand that Major League Baseball is actively investigating an issue that occurred while the player in question was a member of a club other than the San Diego Padres.” “There will be no further comment until the investigative process is complete.”
Marcano’s agent, Michel Velasquez of Rimas Sports, did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The Major League Baseball Players Association declined to comment.
Major League Rule 21, posted in all clubhouses, states that a one-year suspension applies to betting on a baseball game where no player, umpire, league official or team employee is obligated to honor the result.
Betting on games that require performance will result in a lifetime ban.
Additionally, betting on other sports through illegal bookmakers will be subject to disciplinary action as deemed appropriate by the Commissioner of Baseball.
Pete Rose, the career hits leader, agreed to a lifetime ban in 1989 after an MLB investigation concluded he had bet on Cincinnati Reds games while managing the team.
The last active MLB players to be suspended under the gambling clause appear to have been New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O’Connell, and coach Cozy Dolan in 1924 for bribing Philadelphia Phillies shortstop Heine Sands $500 to throw a game on September 9. He was banned from competing for life. 27.
Marcano debuted in the major leagues on April 1, 2021, and has a batting average of 0.217 with 5 home runs, 34 RBI, and 7 stolen bases.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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