Pete Rose Weighs in on Astros' Sign-Stealing Scandal and Had a Lot to Say

The MLB dropped the proverbial hammer on the Houston Astros Monday when it announced what punishments would be handed down for the team's controversial sign-stealing scandal. In addition to the $5 million fine and forfeiture of first- and second-round draft picks in 2020 and 2021, GM Jeff Luhnow and manager AJ Hinch were suspended for one year, and then fired shortly after.

Well, Pete Rose, who was banned from the MLB for life after getting caught betting on games, has given his two cents on the situation.

Per Randy Miller of NJ.com, Rose said, "I was wrong, but I didn't taint the game." He continued on to say, "But this (Astros' situation) is a little different. It's a lot different, actually, and I think that's why the commissioner came down so hard."

While Rose doesn't deny his wrongdoings, he feels his actions are far less severe than those of the Astros.

Amid the Astros' scandal, only Luhnow and Hinch were disciplined for their actions, while current Red Sox manager Alex Cora is also expected to be punished. Rose, however, fears the league could set a dangerous precedent by opting against punishing players.

"But what about the players who were behind this and taking the knowledge? Should they get off scot-free?" Rose asked.

For someone who's facing a lifetime ban for gambling, Rose's actions feel a lot less damning than that of the Astros.