Cleveland Guardians' Luis Ortiz Placed on Leave Amidst MLB Investigation

 Cleveland, Ohio – July 3, 2025

Cleveland Guardians pitcher Luis Ortiz has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave by Major League Baseball amid an ongoing investigation, the league announced Thursday. The move, which comes just ahead of Ortiz’s next scheduled start, adds a layer of uncertainty to both the pitcher’s season and the Guardians’ rotation plans.

MLB confirmed the leave is being implemented “per an agreement with the Players Association,” and it will extend through the All-Star break. The league and the Guardians declined to provide details about the nature of the investigation, citing the confidential nature of the process. Both parties emphasized their commitment to respecting the integrity of the inquiry.

Ortiz, 26, joined the Guardians during the offseason in a trade with the Pittsburgh Pirates. In his debut season with Cleveland, the Dominican right-hander has made 16 starts, compiling a 4-9 record with a 4.36 ERA and 96 strikeouts across 88.2 innings. His absence leaves a noticeable gap in the Guardians’ pitching staff as they aim to stay competitive in the American League Central.

In response to Ortiz’s leave, the team is expected to call up left-hander Joey Cantillo from Triple-A Columbus. Cantillo will likely take the mound in Ortiz's place against the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field, a crucial matchup as the Guardians approach the All-Star break.

The investigation adds uncertainty to Ortiz's future, and with no further comments permitted at this time, fans and analysts alike are left waiting for more clarity in the coming weeks.

Related Questions and Answers

Q1: Why was Luis Ortiz placed on leave by MLB?
A1: Ortiz was placed on paid leave due to an ongoing MLB investigation, with no disciplinary action yet taken. The nature of the inquiry remains confidential.

Q2: How does this affect the Guardians’ pitching rotation?
A2: Ortiz’s absence opens a spot in the rotation, with Joey Cantillo expected to be recalled from Triple-A to start in his place.

Q3: What are Ortiz’s stats for the 2025 season so far?
A3: He has a 4-9 record with a 4.36 ERA and 96 strikeouts over 88.2 innings in 16 starts.