Texas Rangers Fan Baker Mayfield Doesn't Cheat, Steal Signs Like Astros
Baker Mayfield might be from the Lone Star State, but his loyalty resides with the Texas Rangers over the Houston Astros.
Following a 20-17 win over the Minnesota Vikings, the first-year Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback was accused of knowing defensive signs in the second half en route to the comeback victory. When asked about the plays, Mayfield made sure to set the record straight that he doesn't follow the method that helped Houston win its first World Series title in 2017.
“I’m a Texas Rangers fan, not a Houston Astros fan,” a jovial Mayfield said. "So we’re not going to condone that.”
Mayfield, of course, is calling out the Astros for their sign-stealing scandal in 2017 that made headlines in 2019. It was discovered the Astros illegally stole the opposing catcher's signs in games at Minute Maid Park by using cameras around the ballpark.
Based on the findings from Major League Baseball, the Astros had a camera set up in their bullpen that zoomed in on a catcher's fingers. They would bang on a trash can when it was determined a breaking ball was to be thrown by the road pitcher.
Carlos Correa, one of the leaders in the clubhouse of the cheating ring, admitted to stealing signs with the trash can approach prior to the start of the 2020 season.
The Astros fired general manager Jeff Luhnow and manager AJ Hinch, but weren't stripped of their title, a message that angered baseball purists everywhere. Houston went on to win its second title last fall — this time fairly — defeating the Philadelphia Phillies in six games.
Mayfield is a native of Austin and former No. 1 overall pick from Oklahoma. He was underwhelming in his first start for the Bucs, going 21-of-34 passing for 173 yards for two touchdowns. Minnesota actually outgained Tampa 328-169, but had three costly turnovers that allowed the Buccaneers to work their way back in.
For now, Mayfield will look to lead the Tampa Bay back to its fourth consecutive playoff appearance. Come next season, perhaps the Rangers invite their newly-proclaimed NFL fan to throw out the first pitch.
Maybe against the Astros.
