Rob Manfred Confirms MLB Investigation Into Astros Will Include 2018 and 2019 Seasons
By Parker White
As you can imagine, one of the only things people want to talk with MLB commissioner Rob Manfred about is the league's current investigation into the Houston Astros, who reportedly stole signs using electronics during the 2017 season.
Of course, did it stop there? Did Houston continue doing this in 2018 and 2019? According to Manfred, the investigation will involve looking into the last two seasons in an effort to determine the extent of the Astros' malfeasance.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred just acknowledged that the investigation into the Houston Astros will involve looking into the 2018 and 2019 seasons as well as 2017.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 21, 2019
The New York Yankees accused the Astros of whistling to indicate stolen signs during the 2019 ALCS, and plenty of teams have had an issue with Houston regarding the stealing of signs in recent years.
If MLB finds that the Astros used electronics to gain an edge by stealing signs in 2018 and especially 2019, after stricter rules were put in place, the penalties would be astronomical.
re: Astros investigation: I don’t think rushing is a good idea with an investigation like this, says Rob Manfred speaking at Owners Meetings, via @wfaasports
— Jason Bristol (@JBristolKHOU) November 21, 2019
You hope this investigation is wrapped up before the New Year, but with Manfred confirming that they aren't just looking at 2017, punishment could take longer to dole out than expected.