Luis Ortiz, a 26-year-old pitcher for the Cleveland Guardians, is in his first season with the team after being traded from the Pittsburgh Pirates last December, where he has a record of 4-9 with a 4.36 ERA and 96 strikeouts over 16 starts.

His nine losses this season are tied for the most in the American League, highlighting the struggles he has faced on the mound.

Currently, Ortiz is under investigation by Major League Baseball and has been placed on nondisciplinary paid leave until July 17, 2025, with reports suggesting the leave is related to gambling activities.

The Guardians have confirmed the situation but have not provided further comments or specific details regarding the nature of the investigation.

Ortiz returned to Cleveland on the night of July 2, 2025, after being informed of his leave.

As a result of Ortiz's leave, left-hander Joey Cantillo has been recalled from Triple-A Columbus to start in his place for the scheduled game against the Chicago Cubs.

The Guardians announced this change on the morning of July 3, 2025, with Cantillo set to pitch instead of Ortiz that night.

Cantillo has a record of 1-0 with one save and a 3.81 ERA in 21 appearances this season, providing a reliable option for the Guardians.

The Guardians are currently struggling, on a six-game losing streak, with a record of 40-44, placing them 14 games behind the first-place Detroit Tigers in the AL Central.

Despite their struggles, the Guardians remain only four games back from the third AL wild-card spot, with 11 games remaining before the All-Star break.

Ortiz, originally from San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic, signed with the Pirates as an international free agent in October 2018 and made his MLB debut in September 2022.

As of now, the Guardians have not announced any further details regarding a replacement starter beyond Cantillo.