Major League Baseball (MLB) has launched an investigation into San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano, who is suspected of betting on baseball games, including those involving the Pittsburgh Pirates, during the period he was on the injured list last season. The 24-year-old Venezuelan player is at risk of receiving a lifetime suspension from professional baseball if the allegations are proven true, which would make him the first active MLB player to be banned for life since 1924. This potential ban comes amid MLB’s broader crackdown on sports betting within the league, as at least four other players are also under investigation for betting on minor league baseball games and follows the NBA’s recent disciplining of Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter for a similar offense .The Padres have acknowledged the ongoing investigation but have refrained from further comment until its conclusion. Marcano’s agent, Michel Velásquez, and the MLB Players Association have not yet issued statements regarding the matter. Marcano, who made his major league debut on April 1, 2021, has a career batting average of.217 with five home runs, 34 RBIs, and seven stolen bases in 149 games. The investigation is a significant moment for MLB as it grapples with the integrity of the sport amid the rising influence of sports betting.
Key points
- San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano is under investigation by MLB for allegedly betting on baseball games.
- If found guilty, Marcano could face a lifetime ban, marking a historic punishment in MLB since 1924.
- At least four other players are also being investigated for potential betting on minor league games.
