Pitcher Pirates lost in Spencer Horwitz trade under worrisome MLB investigation

UPDATE: Per MLB insider Ken Rosenthal, the suspension is related to betting activities. More details certainly to come.

Over the past offseason, the Pirates made an extremely bold move to deal from their surplus of pitching depth to help improve the offense. In their attempt, they got Spencer Horwitz, who has been a solid pickup, but due to his wrist surgery, his bat has gotten off to a slow start. Luis Ortiz was one of three pitchers sent to Cleveland in this deal, and the only one who's contributed at the Major League level thus far. On Thursday, his season took an abrupt turn, as he was placed under investigation by MLB.

There are no further details about this investigation just yet. The Guardians released this message to the public via X, stating, "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 league investigation."

Zach Meisel of The Athletic called it "non-disciplinary paid leave." As MLB investigates this, Ortiz will not be permitted to play until after the All-Star break. Ortiz was actually scheduled to pitch Thursday night against the Cubs, but now Joey Cantillo will start in his place.

Former Pirates pitcher Luis Ortiz, involved in Spencer Horwitz trade, is now under MLB investigation.

On the year, Ortiz had posted a 4.36 ERA with a 4.14 FIP and a 9.74 K/9 across 88.2 innings pitched. He has been about average this season, and fits the mold of a solid fifth starter. His numbers this year justify the Pirates' decision to deal him last offseason, despite Horwitz's start to the season.

Horwitz has now played in 38 games for the Pirates and has generated an 87 wRC+, 13% below league average, with a .681 OPS and has belted two home runs. He has been better as of recently, posting a .797 OPS in his last 15 games. His defense has been excellent too, generating a two FRV.

This trade has looked better these last few weeks. Ortiz would not have made much of an impact to the 2025 Pirates, even amid Horwitz's absence. Now that Ortiz is under investigation, it seems best that the Pirates moved on when they did.