Pitchers Who Had Their Careers Ruined in Houston in 2017 Speak Out Against Sign-Stealing Scandal

The Houston Astros rode a boisterous offense that simply stopped striking out in 2017 to a World Series title, becoming a juggernaut at home along the way.

Of course, illicit methods appear to have helped a bit in getting them to the top of the pedestal; a complex system of sign-stealing, via camera fed to a man near the dugout who'd whomp a trash can, reportedly contributed to these advantages.

For most pitchers, it's an annoyance; after all, Clayton Kershaw can move on and pick up the pieces after a road bludgeoning. But for some...that's it. Molly Knight of The Athletic found nine men who were sent down or released after poor outings in Houston in 2017, and four of them spoke out anonymously about the trouble they faced.

One pitcher said he'll never watch the game he threw in Houston again, admitting he'll likely never feel comfortable.

"I truly have no animosity or bitterness toward the situation personally,” the pitcher told Knight. “But I understand the implications it unquestionably had on some careers, mine included.”

Another hurler admitted exactly what we've known all along: Yes, Houston's harder to beat at home. Yes, their hitters take better swings. And yes, this all finally starts to explain it.

Of course, the "anonymous" tag could disappear quickly after MLB levies legitimate punishment. As one pitcher stated, "Once the allegations are solidified, I would be happy to go on the record candidly and share how it impacted my career."

The clock is once again ticking.