Months before the world would come to a halt because of the ongoing coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, MLB was rocked by scandal when Mike Fiers went public with claims the Houston Astros electronically stole signs en route to winning the 2017 World Series.
Fiers’ remarks prompted an investigation, which indeed found the Astros guilty of impropriety. MLB levied a $5 million fine against the organization, which was the most permitted under the Major League Constitution.
Additionally, Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow, manager AJ Hinch and former assistant general manager Brandon Taubmanwere each suspended for one year. Luhnow and Hinch were subsequently fired by team owner Jim Crane.