MLB opened an investigation Monday into allegations that former Los Angeles Angels infielder David Fletcher gambled with an unlawful bookie, an MLB supply informed ESPN, however investigators face a major hurdle at first — the place they’ll get proof.
ESPN reported Friday that Fletcher, who’s presently taking part in for the Atlanta Braves’ Triple-A affiliate, guess on sports activities — however not baseball — with Mathew Bowyer, the Southern California bookmaker who took wagers from Shohei Ohtani’s longtime interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara.
Fletcher’s shut buddy Colby Schultz, a former minor leaguer, additionally guess with Bowyer and wagered on baseball, together with on Angels video games that Fletcher performed in whereas he was on the group, in accordance with sources.
Editor’s Picks
2 Associated
“Authorities cooperation might be essential in a case like this the place we do not have proof,” the MLB supply stated.
MLB investigators will request an interview with Fletcher in some unspecified time in the future, however he has the appropriate to refuse cooperation if he can declare he may very well be the topic of a legal investigation.
Fletcher didn’t reply to a number of requests for remark Friday.
The supply declined to say whether or not MLB has reached out to regulation enforcement for help but, however investigators are anticipated to take action.
Fletcher would possibly proceed taking part in through the MLB investigation, in accordance with the supply. He went 0-3 with a stroll Saturday for the Gwinnett Stripers, the day after ESPN’s report, and made a uncommon aid pitching look in Sunday’s recreation, giving up three runs in 1â…“ innings. Fletcher had by no means pitched professionally earlier than this season, however has made three aid appearances for Gwinnett.
MLB sources have stated that if a participant guess illegally however not on baseball, it is probably he would obtain a effective somewhat than a suspension. Any participant related to any betting on baseball video games may resist a lifetime ban.
Fletcher informed ESPN in March that he was current on the 2021 poker recreation in San Diego the place Mizuhara first met Bowyer. Fletcher stated he by no means positioned a guess himself with Bowyer’s group.
