Cheating in baseball isn’t just a modern-day scandal; it’s a well-worn chapter in the sport’s storied history. From doctoring balls with saliva to using performance-enhancing substances, players have long sought ways to bend the rules for an edge.
Even legends like Gaylord Perry, who pitched for 22 seasons, admitted to doctoring balls in his book Me and the Spitter.
These acts of deception, whether it’s altering equipment or stealing signs electronically, have sparked endless debates about the integrity of the game. While some see it as strategic gamesmanship, others argue it tarnishes the sport’s reputation.
Understanding the various methods and motivations behind cheating can give you a deeper insight into baseball’s complex relationship with its own rules.