The 2017 Astros World Series title is forever tainted by scandal—a fact that won’t soon be forgotten, especially by Dodgers legend Orel Hershiser. In a poignant reminder of Houston’s misdeeds, Hershiser viewed the Astros’ recent 18-1 obliteration of the Dodgers through a critical lens, asserting that some of their batters appeared to know what was coming, a clear nod to their infamous sign-stealing scheme.
“Let’s not dig up old wounds, but they’re certainly swinging at those breaking balls like they have inside information,” Hershiser remarked as Houston displayed its hitting prowess. No ambiguity here; the Astros are branded as cheaters for a reason, having scandalously used technology to thieve signs throughout the 2017 and 2018 seasons. Their ill-gotten gains propelled them past the Dodgers in Game 7 of the 2017 World Series, a triumph that still stings those on the losing end.
The Astros’ tactic of using trash cans to decipher pitches was a blatant affront to the integrity of the game. Despite the overwhelming evidence of wrongdoing, they retained their 2017 championship, and several Dodgers players voiced their outrage over the situation. The resentment is palpable—former Dodgers and current Yankees outfielder Cody Bellinger has said he lost respect for players like Jose Altuve, who he believes unjustly usurped the 2017 AL MVP title from his teammate, Aaron Judge.
Old grudges die hard, and it was no surprise to see Hershiser bring up the cheating while the Astros turned the recent game into nothing short of batting practice. Dodger fans made their feelings known, audibly chanting “cheater” at Altuve during his at-bats, a clear echo of disdain that underlines the lasting damage of the scandal.
As Houston launched into its offensive onslaught, scoring twice in the first inning and extending that lead in the fourth with a double and a home run, Hershiser’s observations grew more pointed. With each extra-base hit, the narrative of dishonor resurfaced. The Dodgers’ pitching staff, particularly young starter Ben Casparius, faltered under pressure, and reliever Noah Davis’s disastrous performance only compounded the futility.
Even Dodgers manager Dave Roberts couldn’t help but insinuate the possibility of Houston’s old tactics, stating, “It seemed like they were on everything he threw up there.” His comment was a subtle yet unmistakable jab that captured the lingering suspicion surrounding the Astros.
The Astros may have walked away with their ill-gotten title, but the cloud of their dishonesty will always loom large over them. The consequences of their actions continue to resonate, and for true baseball fans, the question isn’t just about victories and losses—it’s about the integrity of the game. The cheating label is one the Astros will never shake off. They must contend with the reality that their reputation is forever marred.
