Major League Baseball (MLB) has announced plans to discipline umpire Pat Hoberg for a potential violation of sports gambling policies. Despite evidence suggesting that no games were compromised or manipulated by Hoberg, MLB determined that discipline was still necessary.
The investigation into Hoberg began during spring training this year and led to him being removed from the field while it was ongoing. The 37-year-old umpire made his big league debut in 2014 and became a full-time staff member in 2017. He has officiated several postseason games, including the 2022 World Series where he received a perfect grade on calling balls and strikes for Game 2 between the Houston Astros and Philadelphia Phillies.
Before making it to the major leagues, Hoberg spent time in various minor leagues like the Pacific Coast League, the Texas League, and the Florida State League. He hails from Iowa and was chosen to work the plate for the historic “Field of Dreams Game” in August 2021 between the Chicago White Sox and New York Yankees. Hoberg also umpired in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Hoberg has decided to appeal the penalty imposed on him, but further comments from MLB are on hold until the appeal process is concluded.
