Major League Baseball is reportedly investigating an illegal gambling ring allegedly run by Texas Rangers pitcher Yu Darvish's brother, Sho.
The Japan Times noted that MLB confirmed its probe after Sho Darvish was arrested and charged last year for allegedly taking bets on baseball games. The pitcher’s sibling and seven others are accused of taking 18.5 million yen ($150,000), worth of bets based on the scores of several MLB games and Japanese professional baseball games.
“We are aware of this situation and are looking into it, per our standard protocols,” MLB’s vice president for communications Michael Teevan said.
On Tuesday, the Rangers right hander released a statement through his representatives denying that he was involved in any gambling ring.
"I am not and have never been involved with gambling activities," the statement read. "While I understand that Major League Baseball must conduct an investigation, I am certain that they will find that I had no involvement in this matter whatsoever. I will not comment on this matter again, out of respect for Major League Baseball's investigation, and I am focused on preparing for the upcoming season."
One source told the Forth Worth Star Telegram that MLB is only looking into the matter as it pertains to Sho and that Darvish himself is not being investigating.
The Rangers signed Darvish before the start of 2012 season. In 83 starts he went 39-25 with a 3.27 ERA. He had surgery on his arm and missed all of the 2015 season, but is expected to rejoin the team in May.