Major League Baseball has announced that Oakland Athletics right-hander Michael Kelly and Padres infielder Tucupita Marcana have been suspended for violating the league’s sports betting rules and policies. The suspension comes after an investigation revealed that Kelly placed 10 bets between October 5, 2021 and October 17, 2021 while he was a minor league player for the Houston Astros. Despite winning five of the bets and receiving a net win of $28.30 from wagering $99.22, Kelly did not participate in any of the games on which he bet, nor did he involve his assigned team in any of the bets.
In response to Kelly’s suspension, the A’s released a statement expressing disappointment in the situation. The team emphasized their commitment to supporting MLB’s sports betting policy and ensuring all members of their organization understand and adhere to the rules. Meanwhile, Marcana has been permanently ineligible due to his violation.
Alongside Kelly and Marcana, Phillies minor leaguer José Rodríguez, Diamondbacks minor leaguer Andrew Sallfrank, and Padres minor league pitcher Jay Groome have also received one-year suspensions for their involvement in violating the league’s sports betting rules. The suspensions come as MLB continues to crack down on illegal gambling activities within its ranks, with this latest round of disciplinary action serving as a reminder that such behavior will not be tolerated.