Emmanuel Clase, Luis Ortiz paid leave extended by MLB during gambling investigation

The Guardians will continue to play without closer Emmanuel Clase and starting pitcher Luis Ortiz because of Major League Baseball's ongoing gambling investigation, but just how long they'll remain sidelined is still unclear.

MLB and the MLBPA announced Aug. 31 an agreement had been reached to extend the nondisciplinary paid leave for both Close and Ortiz "until further notice" while the investigation is completed. Clase and Ortiz originally had been placed on paid leave until at least Aug. 31. Now, the Guardians will wait for the investigation's completion without any timeline for their return.

Ortiz was first placed under investigation related for possible sports gambling for two pitches in June that reportedly triggered an inquiry. On July 28, Clase was added to the investigation, and the Guardians have been without both pitchers since then.

The Ohio Casino Control Commission is also investigating the situation. The Guardians "will not comment further until the investigation has been completed," according to a statement released by the team.

Without Clase and Ortiz, the Guardians entered Aug. 30 67-66 and four games out of the final wild card spot.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: MLB extends paid leave for Guardians' Emmanuel Clase, Luis Ortiz