Major League Baseball has announced its intention to discipline umpire Pat Hoberg after conducting an investigation into a potential violation of sports gambling policies. The commissioner’s office stated that Hoberg has chosen to appeal the penalty, but did not provide details on the nature of the violation or the extent of the punishment. MLB clarified that while there was no evidence of compromised or manipulated games by Hoberg, they found it necessary to take disciplinary action. The appeal process will determine the final outcome of the penalty.
The investigation into Hoberg began during spring training this year, leading to his removal from the field while the probe was ongoing. Hoberg, 37, has been umpiring in the big leagues since 2014, joining the full-time staff in 2017 after receiving a perfect grade for calling balls and strikes during the 2022 World Series Game 2 between the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies. Additionally, he has worked various postseason games, including the 2018 AL Wild Card Game and the 2021 World Series.
Hoberg has an impressive resume, having umpired in significant events like the 2023 World Baseball Classic and the 2021 “Field of Dreams Game” between the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees. Before his major league career, Hoberg spent time umpiring in the minors, working in leagues such as the Pacific Coast League, the Texas League, and the Florida State League. He hails from Iowa, where he officiated the first major league game played in the state before moving up to the big leagues. The appeal process will determine the final outcome of the disciplinary action taken by MLB against Hoberg.