Michael Kelly suspended for one year for violating MLB’s sports betting rules
A major league investigation has found that Kelly bet on baseball in 2021 while a minor league player for the Astros
Major League Baseball announced Tuesday that Oakland Athletics right-hander Michael Kelly is one of five players to be suspended for violating the league’s sports betting rules and polices. Kelly’s suspension is for one year.
An investigation revealed that Kelly placed 10 bets from October 5, 2021 through October 17, 2021 while he was a minor league player for the Houston Astros. Kelly wagered $99.22 and won five of the bets and received a net win of $28.30. Further, the investigation revealed that Kelly did not appear in any of the games on which he bet and did not make any bets involving his assigned team.
The A’s released the following statement in regard to Kelly.
The A’s were disappointed to learn of the matter involving Michael Kelly. While we cannot comment on the details, this violation occurred prior to Michael joining the A’s organization and we fully support MLB’s sports betting policy and the need to adhere to all provisions of Rule 21. We will continue to educate all members of our organization regarding their obligations under the policy.
Oakland claimed Kelly off waivers from the Cleveland Guardians last November. He has appeared in 28 games with the club while posting a 2.59 ERA and a 3.81 FIP in 31 1⁄3 innings.
Others suspended include Padres infielder Tucupita Marcana, who was declared permanently ineligible. Phillies minor leaguer José Rodríguez, Diamondbacks minor leaguer Andrew Sallfrank and Padres minor league pitcher Jay Groome all received year long suspensions.