Tucupita Marcano Faces Potential Lifetime Ban: MLB Investigates Betting Allegations
Sportsgrid Staff
Host · Writer
San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano finds himself at the center of a Major League Baseball investigation into allegations of betting on baseball, potentially facing a lifetime ban. This revelation comes from a source familiar with the matter who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity, as the investigation is still ongoing.
The probe is specifically examining claims that Marcano placed bets on games involving the Pittsburgh Pirates while he was on their injured list last season. If the allegations are substantiated, Marcano could become the second professional athlete this year to be banned for life due to sports betting, following the NBA’s lifetime ban of Toronto Raptors player Jontay Porter in April for sharing confidential information with bettors and wagering on games.
No active MLB player has been banned for betting on baseball since 1924. Pete Rose, who accepted a lifetime ban in 1989, was retired at the time. Marcano, 24, has not played since suffering a torn right ACL on July 24 last year. The Padres claimed him off waivers on November 2, and he has been on the 10-day injured list since March 19.
The Wall Street Journal first reported MLB’s investigation on Monday, noting that four other players are also under scrutiny for betting on baseball while in the minor leagues. In a statement, the Padres acknowledged the investigation, stating, “We are aware of an active investigation by Major League Baseball regarding a matter that occurred when the player in question was a member of another organization and not affiliated with the San Diego Padres. We will not have any further comment until the investigative process has been completed."
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Similarly, Pirates senior vice president of communications Brian Warecki said, “We are aware of the matter that’s under investigation and are fully cooperating. We will refrain from further comment at this time."
Marcano’s agent, Michel Velasquez of Rimas Sports, did not immediately respond to requests for comment, and the Major League Baseball Players Association also declined to comment.
Major League Rule 21, posted in every clubhouse, strictly prohibits betting on baseball games by players, umpires, league officials, or team employees, with violations resulting in severe penalties, including lifetime bans. Betting on other sports through illegal bookmakers is also subject to disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the commissioner.
Marcano debuted in the majors on April 1, 2021, and has since maintained a .217 average with five homers, 34 RBIs, and seven stolen bases over 149 games, playing both infield and outfield positions.
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