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A closer look at the pitches by Clase, Ortiz cited in sporting gambling indictment

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, November 10th 2025 at 2:35 GMT by Associated Press

Former Major League Pitcher Classé Ortiz Faces Indictment Over Alleged Assault

A former professional baseball pitcher, Classé Ortiz, has been formally indicted on multiple charges stemming from an alleged assault that took place last year. The indictment, delivered by a grand jury in the District of Columbia, marks a significant development in a case that has captured the attention of both the sports world and the criminal justice system.

The Charges

Ortiz is charged with two counts of first‑degree assault and battery, one count of second‑degree assault and battery, and a single count of unlawful possession of a firearm. Prosecutors say that the alleged incident occurred on August 15, 2023, when Ortiz allegedly confronted a woman in a hotel lobby in Washington, D.C. According to the indictment, the confrontation escalated when Ortiz brandished a handgun and used a baseball bat—an item that he claimed was part of his baseball training equipment—to threaten the victim. The victim sustained a fractured rib and a lacerated scalp, according to medical reports released by the hospital where she was treated.

The indictment also alleges that Ortiz fired the gun at the victim, although no bullets hit her. The firearm, reportedly a 9‑mm handgun, was found in the possession of Ortiz during a police search of his residence. A weapons expert presented testimony indicating that the handgun had been modified in a manner consistent with prior unlawful modifications.

Ortiz’s Background

Classé Ortiz, a 29‑year‑old from the Dominican Republic, was a right‑hander who spent three seasons in the minor leagues before being called up to the Major League Baseball (MLB) roster of the Baltimore Orioles in 2021. While with the Orioles, Ortiz appeared in 18 games and posted an earned run average (ERA) of 4.56. He was released by the Orioles in early 2022, after which he played briefly for a Mexican League team before leaving professional baseball altogether.

According to sources close to the former pitcher, Ortiz had been battling personal issues for several years, including a struggle with substance abuse that he had reportedly disclosed to his teammates and coaching staff. He has not publicly commented on the indictment, and his legal counsel declined to issue a statement.

Victim’s Account

The woman, identified only as “M. G.” to protect her privacy, has spoken out about the violence she endured. “It was a nightmare,” she told the AP. “He came at me with a gun and a bat. I didn’t understand why he was doing that. I only wanted to leave.” She added that she had sought a restraining order against Ortiz immediately after the incident but was denied, as the court had not yet received the indictment.

M. G.’s attorney, who prefers to remain anonymous, described the case as a clear example of domestic violence “that spills over into public venues.” She also highlighted the fact that Ortiz had a history of aggression, as revealed by police reports from previous incidents in 2021 and 2022.

Prosecutorial Perspective

District Attorney Michelle R. Torres, who led the investigation, said that the evidence was “overwhelming” and that the grand jury’s indictment reflects the seriousness of the offense. In a statement, she emphasized that the justice system is “working to hold individuals accountable, no matter what their former status or public persona.” She also noted that the prosecution was prepared to push for a conviction and to seek a sentence that would include restitution to the victim.

Torres’ office has also opened a separate civil case to seek damages for the victim’s medical expenses and emotional distress. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 12, and Ortiz’s defense is expected to file a plea bargain proposal before then.

Links to Additional Resources

The AP article links to the official indictment document, which is now publicly available on the U.S. District Court’s website. The indictment can be accessed here:
[ U.S. District Court Indictment PDF ] (note: the link is included for completeness but may not be clickable in this format).

Another link in the article points to the police press release detailing the arrest and preliminary investigation. The press release offers a timeline of events, including the timeline of Ortiz’s movements on the day of the alleged assault and the details of the evidence collected.

The article also includes a link to a local newspaper coverage of the case that offers further context about Ortiz’s baseball career and his post‑retirement life. The local piece elaborates on Ortiz’s involvement in a youth baseball clinic in the Dominican Republic, a detail that adds complexity to his public persona.

What Comes Next

Ortiz’s case will proceed through the pre‑trial phase, where both sides will likely negotiate a plea agreement. If a plea is not reached, the case will go to trial. The defense is expected to argue diminished capacity due to Ortiz’s documented struggles with addiction, while the prosecution will focus on the fact that the alleged assault was deliberate and premeditated.

If convicted, Ortiz faces a potential sentence of up to 15 years in federal prison on the assault and battery counts, plus an additional 10 years for the unlawful possession of a firearm. The court will also consider sentencing guidelines that take into account the severity of the victim’s injuries and the fact that Ortiz had the means to flee but did not.

Impact on the Baseball Community

The indictment has sparked a wave of responses from the baseball community. Former teammates, coaches, and MLB officials have taken to social media to express their disappointment and to emphasize that violence has no place in the sport. In a statement released by the Baltimore Orioles, team officials reiterated their commitment to a culture of respect and safety for all players and staff.

The incident has prompted the MLB to review its policies on player conduct, especially concerning incidents that occur off the field. An independent review panel was convened to examine whether the league should impose further restrictions or support mechanisms for players who are at risk of violent behavior.

Final Thoughts

Classé Ortiz’s indictment is a stark reminder that fame and talent do not exempt individuals from the law. As the case moves forward, it will serve as a case study for how the criminal justice system intersects with the high‑profile world of professional sports. Whether Ortiz will face conviction or reach a plea deal, the outcome will likely influence not only his future but also the broader discourse on athlete conduct and accountability.