As MLB continues its investigation of the Houston Astros in regards to allegations they electronically stole signs from their opponents at Minute Maid Park during the 2017 season, many players have chimed in with their thoughts on how the league should proceed.
Some believe that MLB should drop the hammer on Houston if enough evidence is found, suggesting unprecedented punishments such as record-breaking fines, the loss of draft picks and lengthy suspensions.
Other players have countered with proposals on how MLB can combat sign stealing once and for all. Los Angeles Dodgers closer Kenley Jansen believes the league should censor catchers’ fingers on broadcasts to ensure teams can’t intercept signs.
Though, Jansen’s idea wouldn’t necessarily be a solution to the Astros’ alleged wrongdoings. Their video feed was sourced from a camera the team is said to have set up — not that from the broadcast.
Meanwhile, Joc Pederson shared he believes MLB was aware of the sign stealing that was taking place and therefore took action taken, “The Petros and Money Show” on AM 570 L.A. Sports:
“They know what’s going on. I think that’s why this year you saw an eight-second, minimum, delay on all feeds. Because of that. They knew what was going on, so they did something to try and protect it. With a delay, it wouldn’t have been possible to do what [the Astros] did — or were accused of doing.”
While Pederson offered his theory on how MLB is attempting to reduce the likelihood of teams’ signs being stolen going forward, he additionally said he is no longer concerned with the outcome of the 2017 World Series.
Former Dodgers pitcher Yu Darvish echoed similar sentiments and believes the Astros would have won their matchup against L.A. — regardless if they stole signs or not.
While Darvish most notably struggled during the Fall Classic, Pederson enjoyed an excellent showing at the plate, batting .333/.400/.944 with three home runs, six runs scored and five RBI in six games.
Had the Dodgers won the deciding Game 7, one can make a case that Pederson likely would have been named MVP.
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