Rob Manfred - MLB worried about threats to players from gambling - ESPN

ARLINGTON, Texas — Major League Baseball commissioner Rob Manfred expressed concern Tuesday for player safety as it relates to gambling while expressing confidence in the league's ability to catch personnel who violate the league's gambling policies.

Speaking hours before the All-Star Game, Manfred said he's heard from players about threats they are receiving — though he didn't get into specifics about them.

«If a player receives a threat from any source, on any topic, it is a matter of concern to us that we take really seriously,» Manfred stated. «I've had players in the last month mention this issue to me as one of concern and we're discussing what we should do to be more proactive in this area.»

Manfred's comments come on the heels of several player suspensions this season and even a lifetime ban for gambling, combined with an umpire currently under investigation for a violation as well.

It also comes just weeks after Shohei Ohtani's former interpreter, Ippei Mizuhara, pleaded guilty to bank and tax fraud charges after stealing money from Ohtani to pay off gambling debts.

Manfred is confident the league's association with gambling entities is helping police their policies. Those companies report violations to the league which can lead to investigations being opened and stiff penalties assessed. Last month, San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano was banned for life for gambling a member of the Pittsburgh Pirates last season. Four other players received one-year suspensions.

«I'm a believer that penalties and demonstration of your ability to figure what's going on serves as a deterrent,» Manfred said. «Working your whole life to get to the major leagues in whatever role and lose that over sports betting, that's a