Major League Baseball (MLB) Commissioner Rob Manfred stated that despite his belief in the league's ability to "catch those who violate the gambling policies," he remains concerned about player safety related to gambling.
This statement came after Manfred claimed he was informed that players had been threatened.
"We take any threats very seriously, no matter what the source or subject," said Manfred. "Last month, a player brought this issue to my attention, expressing deep concerns, and we are discussing what measures we should take to more proactively address this issue."
Manfred believes that the league's cooperation with betting companies helps to monitor its own policies. These companies will report any misconduct to the league, which could then investigate and impose severe penalties.
Following Manfred's remarks, there were reports of players being suspended or banned for life during the season for gambling, and an MLB umpire also being investigated for similar infractions.
A case that has attracted global attention involves Shohei Ohtani of the Los Angeles Dodgers, whose former translator, Kazuya Watari, has been accused of bank fraud involving illegally transferring over 16 million dollars from Ohtani's account to illegal gambling venues.
