MLBPA Proposes Ban on Player Prop Bets in New Labor Talks

As the new collective bargaining agreement in Major League Baseball is being discussed, the Major League Baseball Players Association has proposed that prop bets on individual players be banned, according to ESPN. 

Prop bets are among the most popular betting markets in all of sports, and banning them would be one of the biggest changes to the sports-betting experience in baseball.

This ban would include all player props before or during a game. These markets cover various types of bets, such as the number of strikeouts by a pitcher or if someone will hit a home run. 

Of course, MLB has dealt with some players' gambling. In 2025, Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase, who allegedly participated in pitch-rigging. He is accused of taking bribes to help gamblers win prop bets, such as the result of his next pitch. He's highly unlikely ever to make a return to baseball. 

MLBPA Also Seeks Changes to Betting Rules

Not only that, but the MLBPA, per ESPN, has asked the league "to clarify that players may engage in endorsements and sponsorships from legal betting operators, including prediction markets." ESPN says the current CBA prohibits players from doing this and from using their name, uniform number, image, or likeness "to advertise, promote or encourage betting on (for or against) any baseball game or event."

Furthermore, the MLBPA is pursuing adjustments to how sports betting investigations and the process of players returning from gambling punishments are handled. 

The MLBPA proposal states that any player under investigation is placed on administrative leave. It also asks that those punished for sports betting violations be allowed to go on a "15-day unpaid rehabilitation assignment in the minor leagues near the end of their suspension."

Prop Bets Represent a Significant Betting Market

ESPN also notes that, per "multiple sportsbook sources," prop bets can make up to 30% of the total amount wagered on a specific game. 

Going back to the Clase's alleged violations, MLB and partner sportsbooks implemented a new rule that placed a $250 limit on first-pitch prop bets, which cannot be included in parlay wagers.