Former Astro Tony Kemp Claims He Refused to Take Part in Sign-Stealing Scandal

The Houston Astros' organization and their players have had their reputations forever tarnished by the sign-stealing scandal that has consumed the majority of the offseason.

But for all of the damage dealt to legacies and apologies issued by players, another former Astro has joined Robinson Chirinos in maintaining his innocence.

Tony Kemp has adamantly denied he had anything to do with the cheating system when he joined the team in 2017.

"Once I got there in September, the system was already in place, and I just tried to keep my head down and play hard and not really concern myself with it," said Kemp.

He ended up finishing the 2017 season with a paltry .216/.256/.243 slash line and just one extra-base hit in 39 plate appearances.

Fan-sourced data also seems to back up his claim. According to one database that attempted to log every trash can bang from Houston home games in 2017, Kemp never received a signal.

Now a member of the Oakland Athletics, Kemp admitted that the cheating was wrong, but he was also sure to emphasize that he appreciated the players' apologies. Still, he doesn't want this scandal attached to his name, and is trying to ensure he clears the air regarding his involvement.