In a shocking development that has rocked the baseball world, Major League Baseball has officially discharged Seattle Mariners co-owner John W. Stanton from his role within the league. The decision comes after revelations emerged linking Stanton to a controversial and unauthorized appearance at a high-profile gambling event in Las Vegas during the 2025 MLB Spring Training period.
According to multiple sources with direct knowledge of the matter, Stanton attended a private, high-stakes sports betting summit that took place at a luxury resort just off the Las Vegas Strip. The event, which included prominent figures from international gambling circles, was not sanctioned by MLB and, more critically, violated league protocols related to ownership involvement in sports wagering environments.
MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred issued a formal statement late Tuesday evening, confirming Stanton’s expulsion. “Major League Baseball has a zero-tolerance policy for any league personnel—especially those in ownership positions—participating in or associating with unauthorized betting entities or events. After reviewing the evidence, we have determined that Mr. Stanton’s actions constitute a breach of trust and a violation of league ethics.”
Stanton’s expulsion has triggered immediate legal and financial fallout. Reports indicate that the Mariners organization has convened an emergency board meeting to address leadership succession and potential impacts to their financial standing with league partners. In the interim, his voting rights and ownership decision-making power have been suspended indefinitely.
For fans and insiders, this bombshell is almost too surreal to process. John W. Stanton has been one of the most visible faces of the Mariners’ ownership group since taking over majority control in 2016. Under his leadership, the franchise expanded its scouting, revamped its analytics department, and reconnected with its regional fanbase through heavy community involvement.
However, this scandal now overshadows everything.
MLB insiders have confirmed that an internal investigation began weeks ago after Stanton’s name surfaced in emails exchanged among event coordinators and VIP attendees. A whistleblower within one of the event’s partner companies reportedly tipped off the league’s integrity unit, which quickly mobilized an inquiry.
As more details are expected to surface, questions remain about whether this is an isolated case—or part of a broader pattern of behind-the-scenes improprieties involving other figures around the league. One high-ranking league official, who requested anonymity, said, “This is just the beginning. Stanton’s presence at that event wasn’t the only thing the investigation found. There could be ripple effects.”
The Seattle Mariners now face a period of deep instability. Losing a key owner during a pivotal phase of team development, especially after their star center fielder departed for the Dodgers, has left the franchise reeling.
What happens next could redefine the course of Mariners baseball. What’s certain is that MLB’s message is loud and clear: No one is above the rules—not even the people writing the checks.