MLBPA proposing unprecedented ban on MLB prop bets during CBA negotiations

The Major League Baseball Players Association has proposed eliminating all prop bets tied to individual player performances as part of the ongoing collective bargaining negotiations with MLB, per ESPN’s David Purdum and Jeff Passan.

Under the proposal, sportsbooks, daily fantasy operators, and prediction markets would no longer be permitted to offer wagers or event contracts based on individual player performances. The suggested ban would apply to all player-specific prop bets placed before or during games, including popular markets such as whether a player will hit a home run.

The proposal comes as legalized sports betting has expanded rapidly, bringing increased scrutiny and harassment toward players from bettors upset over losing wagers. Several MLB players have previously spoken about receiving criticism and abuse from gamblers who blamed them for unsuccessful bets tied to their on-field performances.

In addition to seeking restrictions on prop betting, the MLBPA asked the league to clarify that players would still be allowed to enter endorsement and sponsorship agreements with legal sports betting operators and prediction markets.

The issue is one of several being discussed as MLB and the players’ union continue negotiations on a new collective bargaining agreement. If the two sides fail to reach an agreement before the current CBA expires on Dec. 1, the league could face a lockout.

The proposal also addresses broader concerns surrounding gambling’s impact on professional sports. Recent betting-related incidents have highlighted those risks, including former college quarterback Brandon Sorsby admitting to a gambling addiction that involved betting on games featuring teams he played for while attempting to reach the NFL.

Major League Baseball has also dealt with gambling-related investigations. Last season, Cleveland Guardians pitchers Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase were indicted on charges connected to an alleged pitch-rigging scheme in which intentional balls were allegedly thrown to influence first-pitch prop bets.

Although negotiations remain ongoing and no agreement has been reached, the proposal demonstrates the union’s effort to reduce the negative consequences associated with legal wagering on individual player performances.

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