As the New York Yankees prepare for their first World Series appearance since 2009, general manager Brian Cashman couldn’t resist revisiting one of the most controversial moments in recent baseball history—the 2017 Houston Astros sign-stealing scandal. Speaking with MLB Network, Cashman made it clear that the Yankees still feel robbed of a legitimate chance to reach the World Series that year.
Yankees GM Brian Cashman takes aim at Astros ahead of World Series
The Yankees’ postseason run in 2017 ended in a hard-fought seven-game American League Championship Series (ALCS) against the Astros. But Cashman remains convinced that without the Astros’ illegal sign-stealing, the Yankees would have been the team advancing to the World Series.
“I hate the 15-year thing because it completely forgets and discounts that some other organization cheated us when we were already at the end,” Cashman remarked. “If you knew what was going on, I don’t think they would be advancing during that time. I think we would have been advancing.”
The Yankees’ frustrations stem from the revelation that the Astros used a video replay room to decode opposing teams’ signs and communicate them to their hitters by banging on trash cans during games. The scandal, which broke in 2019, led to severe penalties for Houston’s management, including suspensions for then-manager A.J. Hinch and general manager Jeff Luhnow. The Astros also forfeited draft picks and paid a $5 million fine, but no players were suspended, which has remained a sore point for many, including Cashman.
Despite the controversy, the Yankees are now focused on their upcoming challenge: the 2024 World Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers. The Yankees enter the series confident but aware of the offensive firepower the Dodgers bring to the table. New York will rely on its deep pitching rotation and key hitters like Aaron Judge to compete for their first championship in 15 years.
Starting the series in Los Angeles, the Yankees face a significant test as the Dodgers have one of the most potent lineups in the league. However, with a healthy roster and momentum on their side, the Yankees believe they have the tools to win it all.
Cashman’s comments underscore the Yankees’ determination to rewrite their recent postseason history, even as memories of the 2017 scandal continue to fuel their quest for redemption. Whether 2024 becomes the year the Yankees reclaim their place as World Series champions will soon be determined, but the Astros’ shadow looms large as New York aims to end its 15-year title drought.
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We know, we know, we know. But Manfred did nothing about it, let Clark bully him, and didn’t even say ‘Shame on the voters who voted for Altuve for MVP that year, but no one has yet to say post the findings they’d vote for Judge if they got to do their vote over.