NEW YORK (AP) San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano is under investigation by Major League Baseball for allegedly betting on baseball and could be subject to a possible lifetime suspension, according to a person familiar with the investigation.
MLB is investigating allegations that Marcano bet on games involving the Pittsburgh Pirates while he was on the team’s injured list last season, according to the person who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity because the investigation is ongoing.
Marcano, 24, has not played since tearing his right anterior cruciate ligament on July 24. He was claimed off waivers by the Padres on November 2 and placed on the 10-day injured list on March 19.
The MLB investigation was first reported Monday by The Wall Street Journal.
“We are aware of an active investigation by Major League Baseball into a matter that occurred when the player in question was a member of another organization and not affiliated with the San Diego Padres,” the team said in a statement. “We will have no further comment until the investigative process is complete.”
Marcano’s agent, Michel Velasquez of Rimas Sports, did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment. The Major League Baseball Players Association declined to comment.
Major League Rule 21, posted in every clubhouse, declares betting on any baseball game in which a player, umpire, league official or team employee is under no obligation to show results under a one-year suspension.
Betting on a game that a person has a duty to perform results in a lifetime ban.
Additionally, betting on other sports with an illegal bookmaker is subject to disciplinary action deemed appropriate by the commissioner of baseball.
Career hit leader Pete Rose agreed to a lifetime suspension in 1989 after an MLB investigation concluded he bet on Cincinnati Reds games while managing the team.
The last active MLB player suspended under the gambling clause appears to be New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O’Connell, banned for life along with manager Cozy Dolan in 1924 for offering a $500 bribe to the Giants’ shortstop. Philadelphia Phillies’ Heinie Sand to pitch a game in September. 27.
Marcano made his major league debut on April 1, 2021, and has a .217 average with five home runs, 34 RBIs and seven stolen bases in 149 games. He played both infield and outfield.
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AP Sports Writer Greg Beacham contributed to this report.
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