Rob Manfred's First Comments on Sign-Stealing Scandal Seem Like Really Bad News for Astros
By Parker White
Major League Baseball is investigating the bombshell report about the Houston Astros stealing signs using electronics throughout the 2017 season, including the postseason.
MLB commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the investigation at the owners meetings on Tuesday, and when asked about whether other teams are involved, Manfred said he has "no reason to believe" that is the case.
As the owners' meetings begin, MLB commissioner Rob Manfred addressed the sign-stealing scandal. A few highlights.
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 19, 2019
As to whether other teams are involved as well, he said: "I have no reason to believe it extends beyond the Astros at this point in time.”
As far as potential discipline, though, Manfred made it clear he has the authority to lay the hammer if they conclude that the Astros stole signs using electronics.
It's in the Major League constitution, folks.
Manfred on potential discipline: "The general warning I issued to the clubs I stand by. It certainly could be all of those things, but my authority under the major league constitution would be broader than those things as well.”
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 19, 2019
Translation: He has the authority to hammer teams.
This sign-stealing scandal is garnering a lot of attention, but according to Manfred, it's warranted. If there are any allegations that have to do with a rule violation, especially one that has an effect on the outcome of games, it's a serious matter and deserves a thorough investigation.
Manfred on the gravity of the allegations against the Astros: “Any allegations that relate to a rule violation that could affect the outcome of a game or games is the most serious matter. ... We have ... what is going to be a really, really thorough investigation ongoing."
— Jeff Passan (@JeffPassan) November 19, 2019
Hopefully, this investigation won't last the entire MLB offseason, but this is big stuff and the punishment will be unprecedented, which will certainly get major headlines.