Hoberg, a well-regarded umpire who worked last season, is currently appealing the decision.

The investigation into Hoberg's alleged violation was initiated by MLB during this year's Spring Training. While the league did not uncover any evidence indicating that the games worked by Hoberg were compromised or manipulated, it deemed disciplinary action necessary. As a result, Hoberg was removed from the field pending the investigation.

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred will preside over Hoberg's appeal, and the league has refrained from providing further comments until the appeal process concludes. MLB spokesperson Glen Caplin emphasized that the league's focus is on ensuring the integrity of the game.

Hoberg, who became a full-time major-league umpire in 2017, began his umpiring career professionally in 2009. Known for his strong umpiring skills, he received the honor of umpiring in the World Series in 2022, marking a significant milestone in his career. During that particular game, Hoberg was also lauded with a perfect score by tracking site umpscorecards.com.

The incident involving Hoberg adds to the recent challenges faced by baseball due to the rise of sports gambling. Ippei Mizuhara, former interpreter for Shohei Ohtani, recently pleaded guilty to fraud, acknowledging that he had stolen money from Ohtani to settle his own gambling debts. In response, MLB banned Tucupita Marcano for life after he was found gambling on baseball, while four other players were suspended for a year.

Umpires, like players, are covered under the MLB statute known as Rule 21, which regulates gambling. Any individual involved in a baseball game who is found to have bet on the game in which they have a duty to perform can face a permanent ban from the sport. Other violations related to gambling carry varying degrees of punishment.

The situation surrounding Pat Hoberg highlights the ongoing need for MLB to uphold its rules and maintain the integrity of the game amid the challenges posed by sports gambling. With Hoberg's appeal pending, the league's attention remains focused on addressing these issues and preserving the fairness of the sport.

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