Padres’ Marcano could face lifetime baseball ban over alleged bets, say reports
San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano is under investigation by Major League Baseball for allegedly betting on baseball and could be subject to a lifetime ban, according to multiple reports.
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. MLB’s investigation has also been mentioned by the Wall Street Journal and ESPN.
The 24-year-old Marcano has not played since tearing his right cruciate ligament last July. He was claimed off waivers by the Padres in November.
“We are aware of an active investigation by Major League Baseball regarding 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 make no further comment until the investigation 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, governs betting on any baseball game in which a player, umpire, league official or team employee is not required to post results after a one-year suspension. Betting on a game where the person has a duty to perform results in a lifetime ban.
In addition, betting on other sports with an illegal bookmaker is subject to whatever discipline is deemed appropriate by the baseball commissioner.
Career hits leader Pete Rose agreed to a lifetime ban in 1989 after an MLB investigation found he had bet on Cincinnati Reds games while managing the team.
The last active MLB player to be suspended under the gambling provision was New York Giants outfielder Jimmy O’Connell, who was banned for life in 1924 along with coach Cozy Dolan for offering a $500 bribe to the shortstop Heinie Sand of the Philadelphia Phillies to call a game.
Marcano made his Major League debut in April 2021 and has a .217 average with five home runs, 34 RBIs and seven stolen bases in 149 games. He has played both the infield and the outfield.