MLB extends non-disciplinary leave of Guardians pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz

CLEVELAND — The Guardians took a hit without even throwing the first pitch in the series finale against the Mariners at Progressive Field on Sunday afternoon. Major League Baseball and the Players Association announced that they have agreed to extend the non-disciplinary leave of Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase and starting pitcher Luis Ortiz while the league continues its gambling investigation. "We have been informed of the extension and will continue to fully cooperate with the investigation," the team said in a statement. It likely ends the seasons of both Dominican pitchers, who were scheduled to be on leave until Sunday prior to the announcement. Ortiz, 26, was acquired in an offseason trade with the Pirates and made 16 starts for Cleveland — 4-9, 4.36 ERA — before the right-hander was originally placed on leave July 3. It is the second time his leave has been extended. Clase, a three-time All-Star, made 48 appearances — 5-3, 3.23 ERA, 24 saves and a 1.225 WHIP — before he was originally placed on leave July 28. It is the first time he's had his leave extended. The right-hander became Cleveland's all-time saves leader (182) last year. But it seemed likely the Guardians would move Clase at this year's trade deadline before he was placed on leave and that option was removed. Clase has a year remaining on a five-year, $20 million contract extension he signed in 2022. The Guardians own club options for 2027-28. Ortiz signed a one-year contract worth $782,600 upon being acquired from Pittsburgh. Contact Chris Assenheimer at (440) 329-7136 or cassenheimer@chroniclet.com. Like him on Facebook and follow him @CAwesomeheimer on X.