Yasiel Puig convicted of obstruction and lying to federal investigators in gambling probe
Former Dodgers outfielder faces maximum 20-year prison term with sentencing set for late May
Yasiel Puig exits Los Angeles federal courthouse following guilty verdict announcement.
A federal jury found Yasiel Puig guilty on two counts of making false statements and one count of obstruction of justice Thursday.
Puig testified over three days in the Los Angeles trial connected to an illegal sports betting ring. Prosecutors presented evidence he lied about involvement with bookmaker Matthew Bowyer.
The Cuban defector denied placing bets or paying off losses during 2019 meetings with investigators. Jurors deliberated less than four hours before reaching the verdict.
Puig last played MLB that season across 149 games with Cleveland and Cincinnati. He hit .267 with 24 homers before exiting the league.
Post-MLB stops included Mexican League, Dominican winter ball, Venezuelan winter ball and a shortened KBO stint last summer. Shoulder injury sidelined him early with Kiwoom Heroes.
Trial testimony detailed Puig's .418 average during 2023-24 Venezuelan campaign. He helped Tiburones de La Guaira win Caribbean Series title.
Puig remains free on bond pending May 26 sentencing before Judge Gee. Maximum penalty carries 20 years incarceration.
