MLB Announces Discipline for Umpire Pat Hoberg Over Gambling Incident

Major League Baseball umpire Pat Hoberg is facing discipline for a violation of the sport’s gambling policies. MLB confirmed this in a statement obtained by Sportico on Friday. The issue was first reported by The Athletic and is currently being appealed through the grievance process. The commissioner’s office, led by Rob Manfred, will handle the appeal. Hoberg, who has been a full-time MLB umpire since 2017, has not worked any games this season.

The investigation into Hoberg began during spring training, resulting in his removal from the field. While MLB’s investigation did not uncover any evidence of compromised games by Hoberg, the league decided that disciplinary action was necessary. The specific details of Hoberg’s transgressions have not been disclosed, as he has chosen to appeal the decision.

This development follows the recent suspension of five players for their involvement in betting on baseball games. San Diego Padres prospect Tucupita Marcano received a lifetime ban for betting on games in which he participated while with the Pittsburgh Pirates. The other four players, including Jay Groom, Michael Kelly, Jose Rodriguez, and Andrew Saalfrank, were suspended for a year for legally betting on games in which they had no connection.

MLB strictly prohibits gambling on baseball by any player, manager, coach, or umpire as outlined in Rule 21. Betting on other sports is allowed in states where sports gambling is legal but is strictly forbidden in states where it is not legal. MLB has stated that they will not provide further comments on the matter until the appeal process is complete.