MLB Pitcher and Jockeys Linked to Illegal Cockfighting in Puerto Rico
A USA Today investigation linked Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz and Kentucky Derby jockeys Jose and Irad Ortiz Jr. to illegal cockfighting in Puerto Rico. Evidence includes social media posts showing the athletes promoting events or attending venues like Club Gallistico de Naguabo. Although federal law bans cockfighting in U.S. territories, the practice persists culturally. Animal welfare groups are demanding disciplinary action from MLB and horse racing authorities. The athletes have not publicly commented, and sports organizations currently claim limited jurisdiction over conduct occurring in Puerto Rico.
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MLB Star Edwin Diaz Allegedly Involved in Illegal Cockfighting in Puerto Rico
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz has been implicated in illegal cockfighting activities in Puerto Rico, according to a May 14 report by USA Today. The investigation, led by journalist Josh Peter, alleges that Diaz, his brother Alexis Diaz, and prominent horse racing jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr. participated in cockfighting events. Evidence cited includes Facebook advertisements from the Club Gallistico de Puerto Rico featuring Diaz in his MLB uniform, promoting tournaments dedicated to him as a honored member and cockfighter. Additionally, a March 10 report from El Nuevo Día reportedly shows Diaz at a cockfighting arena during the World Baseball Classic, where his family allegedly brought roosters to compete. Although cockfighting was banned under U.S. federal law in all territories including Puerto Rico in 2019, the practice persists due to cultural significance. Participants face up to five years in prison. The allegations have drawn significant attention given Diaz's high profile in Major League Baseball and the strict legal prohibitions against the blood sport.
yahoo sportsEdwin Diaz Facebook Posts Link Dodgers Pitcher to Cockfighting Since 2016
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz is linked to illegal cockfighting activities in Puerto Rico through a Facebook page attributed to him. The account, identified as belonging to Edwin O. Diaz Laboy, contains over 150 photos and numerous videos depicting roosters, breeding facilities, and organized fights dating back to 2016. Some footage shows birds fighting until incapacitated, while other posts feature Diaz promoting the Club Gallistico de Puerto Rico. Cockfighting is federally banned in all U.S. states and territories, including Puerto Rico. Following the publication of these findings by USA TODAY Sports, multiple animal welfare organizations have urged Major League Baseball to investigate Diaz's involvement. Both MLB and the Dodgers declined to comment, and Diaz has not responded to interview requests. The report also notes connections between Diaz and prominent jockeys Jose and Irad Ortiz Jr., who are similarly linked to cockfighting via social media. Diaz is currently on the injured list following elbow surgery. This developing story highlights potential legal and professional repercussions for the three-time All-Star pitcher amidst growing public scrutiny.
yahoo sportsAnimal Welfare Groups Demand Discipline for MLB Pitcher and Jockeys Over Cockfighting Links
Animal welfare organizations, including PETA and Animal Wellness Action, are calling for immediate disciplinary action against Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz and prominent jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr. The demand follows evidence, such as photos and videos on social media, linking the athletes to illegal cockfighting arenas in Puerto Rico. Despite a federal ban on cockfighting across all U.S. states and territories, these public figures were allegedly present at pits and promoted events. With the Ortiz brothers scheduled to compete in the upcoming Preakness Stakes, advocates argue they should be banned from racing and have their licenses suspended. Wayne Pacelle of Animal Wellness Action emphasized that participation in such cruel practices is incompatible with the responsibilities of licensed racing professionals. Letters have been sent to MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred and the Horseracing Integrity and Safety Authority (HISA) urging investigations. Critics highlight that cockfighting often intersects with other serious crimes, asserting that athletes representing major sports leagues must be held to high ethical standards regarding animal cruelty.
yahoo sportsEdwin Diaz Linked to Illegal Cockfighting Scandal in Puerto Rico
Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz is facing scrutiny following reports linking him to illegal cockfighting activities in his native Puerto Rico. A USA Today investigation revealed that Diaz’s image was used in promotional materials for the Club Gallistico de Puerto Rico, describing him as a proud cockfighter. The scandal also implicates other prominent sports figures, including jockeys Jose and Irad Ortiz Jr., Diaz’s brother Alexis, and former MLB catcher Martin Maldonado. Although cockfighting was banned in U.S. territories by federal law in 2020, Diaz has previously defended the practice as a longstanding cultural tradition. In past interviews, he described owning roosters and attending fights, comparing the animals' tenacity to his own pitching style. The article outlines the legal history of the ban, noting that despite local political pushback, the Supreme Court upheld the federal prohibition. This controversy adds to a difficult start for Diaz, who recently underwent elbow surgery after underwhelming performances. The report highlights the tension between local cultural practices and federal laws, raising questions about potential repercussions for Diaz and other involved athletes within Major League Baseball and broader sports communities.
yahoo sportsDodgers Star Edwin Diaz Linked to Illegal Cockfighting Ring in Puerto Rico
Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz has been linked to an illegal cockfighting ring in Puerto Rico, according to a report by USA Today. The investigation revealed multiple social media advertisements for a cockfighting club that utilized images of Diaz, including some where he wore a Dodgers jersey. Additionally, a March article from El Nuevo Día reportedly showed Diaz standing inside a cockfighting arena pit during the World Baseball Classic. Although cockfighting is a traditional pastime in Puerto Rico, it was outlawed across all U.S. territories by federal law in 2019, despite local legal challenges. Diaz previously stated in an interview that he viewed the practice as legal on the island. Neither the Dodgers nor Diaz’s representatives responded to requests for comment. The report also implicated other prominent figures, including jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr., Diaz’s brother Alexis, and former MLB catcher Martin Maldonado. Diaz is currently on the injured list following elbow surgery. This controversy highlights the ongoing tension between local cultural traditions and federal regulations in Puerto Rico.
New York PostEdwin Diaz Cockfighting Allegations Explained: Dodgers Closer's Involvement
Los Angeles Dodgers closer Edwin Diaz has become the subject of allegations regarding his involvement in illegal cockfighting activities. The controversy stems from an investigation by USA TODAY Sports, which uncovered photos on social media linking Diaz to cockfighting tournaments in Puerto Rico. Specifically, reports indicate that Diaz was seen advertising these events on Facebook. Although cockfighting is explicitly banned in all U.S. states and territories, including Diaz's native Puerto Rico, the practice persists. The investigation further reveals that Diaz and his family have historically entered roosters into these tournaments. The allegations also implicate jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr., who were tied to the events through similar social media evidence. As of the report's publication, attempts by USA TODAY Sports to contact Diaz through the Dodgers organization and his representation agency, THE TEAM, were unsuccessful. Additionally, a representative for Major League Baseball declined to provide comment on the matter. This article serves to clarify the nature of the allegations and the current status of responses from the involved parties.
yahoo sportsKentucky Derby Jockeys and MLB Pitcher Linked to Illegal Cockfighting in Puerto Rico
A report indicates that two Kentucky Derby-winning jockeys, brothers Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr., and Major League Baseball pitcher Edwin Diaz have been linked to illegal cockfighting events in Puerto Rico. According to an investigation by USA Today, social media posts and videos show the Ortiz brothers attending and collecting money at Club Gallistico de Naguabo, a known cockfighting venue. Additionally, Diaz was featured in advertisements for the Puerto Rico Cockfighting Club, allegedly wearing his Los Angeles Dodgers uniform to promote events. While cockfighting is illegal across all U.S. states and territories, carrying potential prison sentences for participants and spectators, it remains culturally significant in Puerto Rico with limited enforcement. Other athletes, including Alexis Diaz and Martin Maldonado, were also connected to these events. U.S. horse racing organizations stated they lack jurisdiction over the jockeys' conduct in Puerto Rico, and the Kentucky Derby investigation resulted in no action. It remains unclear if MLB will investigate the allegations, and the athletes have not publicly commented on the expose.
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