MLB has officially terminated umpire Pat Hoberg following an investigation that found he shared his legal sports betting accounts with a friend who placed bets on baseball games. While the investigation confirmed that Hoberg did not personally place bets on baseball or attempt to manipulate game outcomes, his involvement in account sharing and deletion of electronic messages during the inquiry led to his dismissal. The decision was recommended by MLB’s senior vice president of on-field operations, Michael Hill, and ultimately upheld by Commissioner Rob Manfred.
The investigation, which began in February 2024 after a sportsbook flagged irregular activity, revealed that between April 2, 2021, and November 1, 2023, Hoberg’s friend placed 141 baseball-related bets totaling nearly $214,000, resulting in approximately $35,000 in winnings. Despite not being directly involved in betting, MLB determined that his actions violated the league’s strict gambling policies. Manfred stated that Hoberg’s conduct, even without direct betting, “creates at minimum the appearance of impropriety that warrants imposing the most severe discipline.”
Hoberg, regarded as one of MLB’s most accurate umpires, had officiated in the league since 2014 and gained widespread recognition for his exceptional strike zone judgment. He notably achieved a perfect game in calling balls and strikes during Game 2 of the 2022 World Series, a rare and highly regarded feat in umpiring. In response to the decision, Hoberg expressed regret and took responsibility for his actions. “I take full responsibility for the errors in judgment that are outlined in today’s statement… I apologize to Major League Baseball and the entire baseball community for my mistakes,” he said.
As part of the league’s ruling, Hoberg will be eligible to apply for reinstatement no earlier than the 2026 spring training, though it remains uncertain whether he will return to MLB officiating. The league’s decision reinforces its stance on maintaining the integrity of the game, especially in an era where sports betting has become more prevalent and closely monitored.
