ARLINGTON, Texas -- Texas Rangers pitcher Yu Darvish said he has never been involved in gambling activities amid a Major League Baseball investigation after the arrest of his younger brother in Japan.
On Tuesday, Darvish issued a statement through his agent to recognize MLB's need to conduct an investigation. He declined comment but said he is certain they will find he had no involvement.
"I am not and have never been involved with gambling activities," the statement read. "While I understand that Major League Baseball must conduct an investigation, I am certain that they will find that I had no involvement in this matter whatsoever. I will not comment on this matter again, out of respect for Major League Baseball's investigation, and I am focused on preparing for the upcoming season."
Sho Darvish was reportedly charged in October in Japan for running an illegal gambling ring that allegedly took about 1,850 bets on MLB games as well as professional baseball games in Japan. It was unclear if any bets were taken on games involving the Rangers.
The Japan Times said Osaka police have not accused Yu Darvish of any wrongdoing.
Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.