Naylor testifies in pitchers’ betting trial
Bo Naylor testified in Brooklyn federal court on November 5 about pitch selection and execution during the sports betting trial of former Cleveland Guardians teammates Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz. Called by the defense, the catcher described how ordinary game planning can affect the type and location of individual pitches.
Naylor explained that pitchers and catchers study opposing hitters before games and agree on strategies for getting them out. When shown recordings from the 2025 season, he acknowledged that even highly skilled pitchers cannot ensure every delivery reaches its intended location. He also confirmed that pitchers can reject a catcher’s suggested pitch.
During cross-examination, Assistant U.S. Attorney James Simmons asked whether Naylor had known gamblers could wager on individual pitches. “I didn’t know that before,” Naylor said. “I didn’t know that until the situation.” The Associated Press reported the testimony, which addressed Naylor’s knowledge rather than determining what the defendants knew or intended.
Prosecutors allege advance information and payments
The federal trial concerns allegations that the pitchers accepted payments connected with bets on individual deliveries. Prosecutors say Clase began providing information to gamblers in 2023 and recruited Ortiz in 2025. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty and remain free on bail.
Prosecutors allege that Clase manipulated 18 pitches across 17 games, while Ortiz deliberately threw balls on two occasions. Court reporting distinguishes those allegations from ordinary changes in pitching strategy. Naylor also acknowledged seeing Clase use his phone in the clubhouse; prosecutors allege some communications with gamblers occurred during games.
Defense lawyers dispute the government’s interpretation of the players’ relationships and communications with bettors. Reporting on opening statements described arguments that bettor Enoc Pena falsely represented his access to inside information. Both pitchers remain on unpaid, non-disciplinary leave while the prosecution proceeds; their alleged participation has not been established by a verdict.
