Roosters and rocks: The shocking code language authorities say Emmanuel Clase used in pitch-rigging scheme

Federal prosecutors reveal stunning text messages showing how the All-Star closer communicated with co-conspirators.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Federal prosecutors have revealed that Cleveland Guardians closer Emmanuel Clase was allegedly involved in a pitch-rigging scheme during the 2024 postseason. Court documents show Clase communicated with co-conspirators using coded language about "roosters" and "rocks" to discuss fixing specific pitches. Clase is facing serious charges including fraud and lying to federal investigators, along with two other co-defendants.

Why it matters

This revelation has sent shockwaves through the Cleveland baseball community, as Clase was a key part of the Guardians' playoff run in 2024. The fact that he was allegedly compromising the integrity of the postseason and potentially endangering his own teammates is seen as a major betrayal. Clase can never pitch for the Guardians again, regardless of the trial's outcome, as the trust has been irreparably broken.

The details

Court documents filed on Friday show evidence that Clase deliberately threw a rigged pitch in Game 1 of the 2024 ALDS against the Detroit Tigers. The pitch was a spiked 93 mph breaking ball that caught catcher Bo Naylor off guard, forcing him to dive out of the way. Prosecutors say Clase and his co-conspirators used coded language about "roosters" and "rocks" to communicate about fixing specific pitches for betting purposes.

  • On July 4, Quinn allegedly dove onto the hood of a Waymo vehicle and covered sensors.
  • On July 29, Quinn allegedly damaged a Waymo's tires and driver's side mirror.
  • On August 11, Quinn allegedly stomped on a windshield while someone was inside.

The players

Emmanuel Clase

The All-Star closer for the Cleveland Guardians who is accused of deliberately throwing rigged pitches during the 2024 postseason as part of a pitch-fixing scheme.

Luis Ortiz

One of Clase's co-defendants who is also charged in the pitch-rigging scheme.

Robinson Vasquez Germosen

A third co-conspirator who authorities say was the middleman between Clase and bettors, arranging the illegal wagers.

Bo Naylor

The Guardians catcher who was on the receiving end of the deliberately spiked breaking ball from Clase in Game 1 of the 2024 ALDS.

Paul Hoynes

A veteran Cleveland.com Guardians beat reporter who has covered the team for decades.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.