DraftKings and FanDuel, the two leading sportsbook operators in the U.S., have agreed to modify betting options to comply with MLB's requirements.

These new sportsbook operator policies cover 98% of the U.S. betting market and aim to reduce risks to the sport’s integrity.

This decision follows the indictment of Dominican pitchers Emmanuel Clase and Luis Ortiz of the Cleveland Guardians who were charged by federal prosecutors in New York for orchestrating a scheme to manipulate the results of specific pitches in MLB games to generate large "prop" bet payouts for bettors tipped off in advance.

Both athletes were placed on leave by MLB in July while an investigation into suspicious betting on their pitches continues.

If convicted on all counts—including fraud, conspiracy, and bribery—they each face up to 65 years in federal prison.

"This new measure targeting incentives for misconduct will greatly reduce the risks associated with these pitch-level betting markets," MLB stated in a release. "Implementing a strict betting limit on these wagers and banning their inclusion in parlays decreases potential payouts and prevents evasion of the limit."

MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred noted that since the legalization of sports betting, the league has "collaborated with industry and regulatory partners nationwide to prioritize protecting the integrity of our games for fans.

"I also praise the industry for joining efforts with us to adopt a national solution addressing risks linked to pitch-level markets, which are especially susceptible to integrity issues."

"We are committed to ongoing cooperation with all parties, including licensed sportsbooks, lawmakers, and regulators, to safeguard the integrity of our sport."

Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, whose state team the Guardians are involved in the scandal, urged other leagues to emulate MLB's actions.

"By restricting large bets on micro-prop wagers, Major League Baseball is proactively defending the game's integrity," DeWine stated. "I encourage other sports organizations to adopt similar measures following MLB's lead."

Christian Genetski, president of MLB sportsbook partner FanDuel, said the step will protect baseball’s integrity.

"The legalized sports betting sector is founded on open communication and cooperation with our league partners and the states where we operate," he added.

"This effort demonstrates our steadfast dedication to establishing a regulated market that eliminates exploitation by those aiming to compromise fair competition and harm the integrity of the sports we cherish."