San Diego Padres player Tucupita Marcano is being investigated for betting on MLB games

By David Close and Kevin Dotson, CNN

(CNN) — Major League Baseball is investigating San Diego Padres shortstop Tucupita Marcano for betting on baseball games, a league spokesman told CNN.

The alleged bets took place last season when Marcano was a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates and on the injured list, according to the Wall Street Journal, which first reported the story.

Marcano is still on the injured list in 2024, this time as a member of the San Diego Padres.

MLB players are allowed to bet on other sports, but betting on baseball is strictly prohibited.

CNN has reached out to Marcano’s representative for comment. The MLB Players Association declined to comment.

The Padres issued a statement Monday saying the team “is aware of an ongoing investigation by Major League Baseball regarding a matter that occurred while the player in question was a member of another organization and not affiliated with the San Diego Padres. We will have no further comment until the investigative process is complete.”

The Pirates are also “aware of the matter under investigation,” said Brian Warecki, senior vice president of communications, in a statement, “and are fully cooperating.”

“We will refrain from further comment at this time,” Warecki said.

Four other players may face disciplinary action from MLB for betting on baseball games in the minor leagues, the Journal reported, citing unnamed sources.

According to MLB rules, a player found guilty of betting on baseball games involving teams other than his own will receive a one-year suspension. A player found guilty of betting on games involving his own team will receive a lifetime suspension.

Marcano has a career batting average of .217 in 149 major league games, but has not played for the Padres this season.

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