MLB Umpire Pat Hoberg Faces Discipline for Alleged Gambling Violation

The announcement comes ten days after the league imposed a lifetime ban on a player for gambling and suspended four others for one year. While the exact nature of Hoberg’s discipline is undisclosed, he has not umpired a game this season and is currently appealing the decision.

Details of the Investigation

According to MLB, an investigation into Hoberg began during Spring Training regarding a potential violation of the league’s sports betting policies.

MLB removed Hoberg from the field during the investigation but found no evidence that games officiated by him were compromised or manipulated.

Despite this, the league determined that discipline was warranted. Hoberg has denied betting on baseball and is appealing the decision, supported by the Major League Baseball Umpires Association.

Hoberg’s Response

In a statement, Hoberg expressed his commitment to the integrity of baseball and emphasized his lifelong dedication to umpiring. He stated, “I am appealing Major League Baseball’s determination that I should be disciplined for violating the sports betting policies. While that appeal is pending, it would not be appropriate to discuss the case.”

MLB’s Rule 21 stipulates severe penalties for those involved in gambling. If Hoberg were found to have bet on games he officiated, he would face a lifetime ban.

Betting on games not officiated by him would result in a yearlong suspension.