Major League Baseball has taken action against umpire Pat Hoberg for violating the league’s sports betting policies. According to MLB, the 37-year-old umpire failed to comply with the league’s regulations during Spring Training, leading to his removal from the field during an investigation.
While the investigation found no evidence that games worked by Hoberg were compromised or manipulated, the league determined that discipline was still warranted. Hoberg has chosen to appeal the decision, and MLB cannot comment further until the appeal process is completed.
Hoberg, who joined the league’s officiators in 2014, denies making any bets on baseball and said he is committed to the integrity of the game. He has called a number of high-profile games during his career, including a perfect game in 2022, and has the support of the Major League Baseball Umpires Association as he appeals the decision.
As part of the league’s policy, gambling on baseball games by personnel, including players and umpires, results in a lifetime ban for those involved in a game and a one-year ban for those not. Hoberg has not officiated any games this season and the announcement of his discipline comes amid a renewed focus on sports gambling following a recent lifetime ban issued to San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcano.
