MLB: Marlins' Cosart did not bet on baseball

New York, NY (SportsNetwork.com) - Major League Baseball has ruled that Miami Marlins pitcher Jarred Cosart did not bet on baseball.

The league, however, did fine him Friday for violating rules that prohibit illegal gambling.

MLB issued the following statement:

"Major League Baseball has completed its investigation into Jarred Cosart's possible connection to sports-related gambling. The investigation did not reveal any evidence to suggest that Cosart, who fully cooperated with the investigation, bet on baseball. Cosart has received an undisclosed fine for violations of Major League Rule 21(d)(3) that were revealed during the investigation.

"Major League Rule 21(d)(3) prohibits players from placing bets with illegal book makers, or agents for illegal book makers. This rule is strictly enforced and applies to gambling with illegal bookmakers on any sport or event."

Cosart also issued out a statement via the MLB Players Association:

"I have never, nor would I ever, bet on the great game of baseball," he said. "Major League Baseball conducted a thorough investigation, and I cooperated fully with them and their investigators throughout that process. I'm sorry for any distractions this may have caused the Marlins, my teammates, coaches, and our incredible fans. I'm glad to bring closure to this situation before Opening Day and I look forward to a great season."

Cosart allegedly exchanged multiple direct messages with a gambling expert via his Twitter account a few weeks ago. He then deleted his account after screen shots of the conversation hit the internet.

The 24-year-old right-hander went 4-4 with a 2.39 ERA in 10 starts with the Marlins after begin acquired from Houston before the July 31 non-waiver trade deadline.