Guardians Star Emmanuel Clase Pleads Not Guilty to Pitch Rigging Conspiracy

Cleveland Guardians star pitcher Emmanuel Clase, 27, pleaded not guilty Thursday, November 13, 2025, in Brooklyn federal court to charges of taking bribes to rig pitches. The three-time All-Star and Guardians' all-time saves leader was released on a $600,000 bond, surrendering his passport and agreeing to GPS monitoring, limited travel, and no gambling. Clase, who is on non-disciplinary paid leave since July due to an MLB investigation, is accused of accepting thousands to help gamblers win over $460,000 by providing pitch information and intentionally throwing balls. Prosecutors allege he began sharing info in 2023, sought payoffs this year, and even spoke to a bettor before an April Red Sox game, leading to an $11,000 win. His lawyer maintains his innocence, noting Clase voluntarily returned to the U.S. He is due back in court December 2, facing charges that carry up to 20 years in prison.