Rob Manfred Trusts in MLB’s Ability to Address Betting Offenses

Major League Baseball (MLB) commissioner Rob Manfred is wary of the betting industry’s impact on the sport. Speaking on the matter before Tuesday’s All-Star Game, he expressed concern about gambling violations committed by and against athletes.

According to ESPN, Manfred discussed the ongoing harassment issue that has seen countless sour bettors threaten sports players online. The commissioner highlighted that such threats, coming from any source, are a matter of concern to the entire league. He added that league officials are already considering a more proactive approach.

Manfred also addressed recent cases of insider betting and said that he is confident that the league has the capacity to address violations and take action against wrongdoers. This could include the suspension of athletes who place illegal bets or even lifetime bans in cases of more serious violations.

Manfred regretted that some players are willing to throw out all of their efforts to become professionals because of gambling. However, he added that now that gambling is legal, identifying violators is much easier.

True to Manfred’s words, the MLB recently hit Tucupita Marcano with a lifetime ban over wagering offenses. In addition to that, the league suspended four other players.

MLB Is Considering Ways to Let Athletes Participate in 2028’s Summer Olympics

In the meantime, Manfred also addressed the possibility of MLB players taking part in the Summer Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028. He said that he is open-minded on the topic and will see what could be done.

In order to allow players to participate, the MLB might have to either shorten the 2028 season or lengthen it significantly. One idea going around is pausing the 2028 MLB season for 10 days, allowing interested players to experience both the MLB and the Olympics.  

According to Tony Clark, executive director of the MLB Players Association, there is a huge interest in the Olympics, which is why the league will try to devise solutions.

Speaking of solutions, the league is considering permitting players to wear their team uniforms for the All-Star Game instead of the controversial new uniforms it introduced in 2021.