MLBPA Discloses MLB Rejection of Prop Bet Ban in Response to Congress

The MLB Players Association (MLBPA) has told Congress it proposed a joint push with MLB to ban player prop bets and similar in-game performance contracts, but that the league has so far declined. Jeffrey Perconte, MLBPA general counsel, delivered the position in an Aug. 24 letter responding to an Aug. 10 inquiry from three Democratic lawmakers.

Perconte wrote that the MLBPA welcomes further dialogue on sports betting measures to protect players and the public from elevated problem gambling risks and harassment. The association plans to keep pressing for the prop bet prohibition despite the league’s stance.

MLBPA Proposal on Prop Bets and In-Game Contracts

The MLBPA framed the ban as a direct response to bets linked to higher rates of problem gambling and an epidemic of abuse directed at players and families. Perconte noted that MLB and its sportsbooks did tighten some rules late last year after the Cleveland Guardians pitch-rigging matter, including a $200 cap on pitch-level wagers.

The letter makes clear the MLBPA continues to view such restrictions as necessary. It also confirms the union’s intent to advance the proposal independently if needed.

Player Endorsements, VIP Programs and Congressional Scrutiny

Perconte affirmed that players should retain the right to sign sportsbook endorsements, pointing out that MLB and its clubs have entered such arrangements for years. The MLBPA maintains current league policy already permits these partnerships provided players do not urge the public to bet. The association itself struck licensing deals with Caesars Sportsbook and Hard Rock Bet in April.

At the same time, the MLBPA acknowledged its policies do not yet explicitly cover predatory VIP programs. Perconte stated the union stands ready to support collective bargaining restrictions that would ban players from personalized marketing campaigns tied to VIP or tier programs.

The inquiry came from Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-CT), Rep. Valerie Foushee (D-NC) and Rep. Paul Tonko (D-NY). It was prompted by a FanDuel video featuring Bryce Harper that was sent to a former VIP customer, Terry Thompson, who had bet more than $18.5 million and lost more than $1.5 million. The lawmakers demanded changes to policies enabling such promotions. FanDuel responded separately, citing its responsible gaming tools and monitoring systems.

This exchange, as reported by SBC Americas, leaves MLB and the MLBPA with concrete questions about where their policies align and where they must still converge to address congressional concerns.

Next Steps for Policy Alignment

Operators and leagues face a narrowing window to harmonize player marketing rules before further legislative pressure narrows commercial options. Unified restrictions on VIP-linked promotions could limit certain endorsement revenue but would reduce regulatory exposure and harassment risks that already affect player performance and family safety. The coming months will show whether MLB and the MLBPA close the gap the letter highlights or allow it to widen under continued scrutiny.

Reporting: SBC Americas

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