Luis Ortiz made his move to Cleveland Guardians via a trade in December 2024. Since his arrival, he has established himself as one of the crucial players for skipper Stephen Vogt's starting rotation this season.
Luis Ortiz on paid leave amid MLB investigation
But, it appears that Vogt will have to get used to be without Ortiz for the foreseeable future. The Dominican has been placed under 'non-disciplinary paid leave' until after the All-Star break due to an MLB investigation. The reason is still unknown.
The Cleveland Guardians posted a statement on Thursday informing about Luis Ortiz's situation.
The Guardians have been notified by Major League Baseball that Luis Ortiz has been placed on leave per an agreement with the Players Association due to an ongoing investigation. The Guardians are not permitted to comment further at this time, and will respect the league's confidential investigative process, the Guardians' statement read.
If Luis Ortiz will be out for a long term, then it would be a daunting prospect for the Guardians, as they were struggling for consistency this season. With a 4.07 average ERA, Cleveland's pitching staff ranks 19th among the 30 big league franchises for this season.
Joey Cantillo to replace Luis Ortiz
With a 4-9 record to his name, along with 4.36 ERA and 96 total strikeouts this season, Luis Ortiz was a great addition to the pitching staff for the Cleveland Guardians in the ongoing season. He was set to take part in Thursday's clash against the Chicago Bulls but now that looks unlikely to happen.
However, with Luis Ortiz missing the clash against the Bulls, the franchise have called up Joey Cantillo from the Columbus Clippers, the Triple-A affiliate of the Cleveland Guardians.
Cantillo has played in the major league as he made his debut in July 2024. He has a 3-4 record to his name, along with 4.43 ERA and 80 total strikeouts. In the Triple-A level this year, he has a 0-0 record, along with 3.86 ERA and 15 total strikeouts.