Major League Baseball has announced plans to discipline umpire Pat Hoberg following an investigation into a potential violation of sports gambling policies. The commissioner's office revealed that Hoberg has opted to appeal the penalty. The nature of the violation and the extent of the punishment have not been disclosed by MLB.
MLB clarified that while their investigation did not uncover any evidence of compromised or manipulated games officiated by Hoberg, they deemed disciplinary action necessary. Hoberg's decision to appeal the determination has led to a pause in further comments until the appeal process concludes.
The investigation into Hoberg commenced during this year's spring training, resulting in his removal from on-field duties while the probe was ongoing. Hoberg, aged 37, officiated his first Major League Baseball game in 2014 and became a full-time staff member in 2017. Notably, he received a perfect grade for calling balls and strikes during Game 2 of the 2022 World Series between the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies.
In addition to his World Series experience, Hoberg also umpired in the 2023 World Baseball Classic and was selected to work behind home plate for the historic 'Field of Dreams Game' in August 2021, which marked the first major league game played in his home state of Iowa.
Prior to his tenure as a big league umpire, Hoberg honed his craft in the minor leagues, officiating games in the Pacific Coast League, the Texas League, and the Florida State League, among other locations.
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