In a shocking development that has stunned fans and rocked the Texas Rangers organization, two-time MLB All-Star pitcher Nathan Eovaldi was arrested late Friday night in connection with an alleged insider sports betting ring, according to law enforcement officials familiar with the case.
The 35-year-old ace, who has been enjoying a dominant season with a league-best 1.61 ERA and a 0.766 WHIP, was reportedly taken into custody at his Fort Worth home around 11:45 PM. Witnesses described a “quiet but tense” arrest, with unmarked vehicles and plainclothes officers arriving at the gated residence.
The Allegations
The charges stem from a multi-agency investigation led by the Texas Department of Public Safety, in cooperation with Major League Baseball’s Integrity Unit and the FBI. Eovaldi is alleged to have had indirect financial ties to a sports betting network operating out of Las Vegas, which authorities say was placing bets on MLB games with insider injury and roster information.
According to a sealed affidavit obtained by local reporters, the pitcher was not accused of betting on games he personally played in—but may have supplied strategic locker room insights to third-party intermediaries.
“These are serious allegations that strike at the heart of competitive fairness,” said U.S. Attorney Charles H. Miller at a press briefing Saturday morning. “No player is above the law, and we intend to pursue this case vigorously.”
Club Reaction and Fallout
The Texas Rangers organization issued a brief statement early Saturday:
“We are aware of the allegations involving Nathan Eovaldi and are cooperating fully with the ongoing investigation. At this time, we have no further comment.”
Eovaldi has been placed on administrative leave pending the outcome of the case, as per MLB’s Joint Domestic Policy Agreement. This development leaves a major gap in the Rangers’ rotation, with the team already struggling with injuries to key pitchers.
A Career in Crisis
Eovaldi, known for his fiery fastball and postseason poise, was in the midst of one of his best seasons to date. His recent outing against the Yankees saw him pitch seven scoreless innings, silencing a red-hot offense and drawing praise from analysts and fans alike.
Now, that momentum may be derailed.
“I never would’ve imagined this,” said former teammate Xander Bogaerts. “Nathan’s the kind of guy who leads by example. This is just… surreal.”
What’s Next?
Eovaldi faces multiple felony charges, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud and insider misconduct related to professional sports. If convicted, he could face up to 10 years in federal prison and permanent expulsion from Major League Baseball.
A preliminary hearing is scheduled for Tuesday, May 27 at the Tarrant County Courthouse.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred is expected to make a formal statement in the coming days, as the league navigates yet another challenge to its integrity in the wake of increased sports gambling accessibility.
