We’re now three weeks into MLB’s new enforcement policy regarding pitchers’ use of foreign substances. Of course, these developments are at least partially the result of Mike Shildt forcing the league’s hand with his press conference following Giovanny Gallegos Hatgate.
“Is our house 100% clean? I certainly hope so,” Shildt said in the aforementioned presser. “Am I creating more of an opportunity—because I just spoke to our pitchers—am I creating more awareness to our group? Potentially.”
I think the working assumption among Cardinals fans was that St. Louis’ pitching staff had to be at least relatively ‘clean’ for Shildt to go public with his remarks like he did.