In a developing story that has rocked the sports world, animal welfare organizations are demanding disciplinary action against Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher Edwin Diaz and champion jockeys Jose Ortiz and Irad Ortiz Jr. for their alleged ties to illegal cockfighting operations in Puerto Rico.
The controversy erupted after a USA TODAY Sports investigation uncovered photos and videos on social media showing the athletes present at cockfighting arenas across the island. Diaz, a three-time MLB All-Star known for his electric fastball, and the Ortiz brothers—who finished first and second in this year's Kentucky Derby—all hail from Puerto Rico, where cockfighting has deep cultural roots but remains illegal under federal law.
Federal legislation bans cockfighting in all 50 states and U.S. territories, making participation a federal offense. The Ortiz brothers are currently scheduled to compete in the Preakness Stakes on May 16, the second leg of horse racing's prestigious Triple Crown. Animal rights groups argue this should not be allowed.
"Horse racing must stop operating in a vacuum—its players aren't above federal law," said Kathy Guillermo, senior vice president at PETA. "Right now, Irad Ortiz and Jose Ortiz should be banned from tomorrow's Preakness day races. All the states that license the Ortiz brothers should immediately suspend their licenses and launch serious investigations into their involvement in cockfighting."
The call for action extends beyond PETA. Animal Wellness Action and the Center for a Humane Economy issued a joint press release on May 15 urging horse racing authorities and federal prosecutors to intervene. Wayne Pacelle, president of both organizations, didn't mince words about the severity of the allegations.
"Cockfighting is a sadistic and cruel practice that inflicts slash wounds and stabbing injuries for the thrill of bloodletting and illegal gambling," Pacelle said. "Along with dogfighting, it's among the most severely and widely criminalized forms of animal cruelty. Participation in such conduct is fundamentally incompatible with being a professional athlete in any sport."
For fans of Major League Baseball and horse racing alike, this story raises serious questions about the off-field conduct of celebrated athletes. As the investigation unfolds, the sports world will be watching closely to see how MLB and horse racing authorities respond to these disturbing allegations.