Houston Astros Sign-Stealing Scandal (2017)

The Astros' sign-stealing scheme deployed a center-field camera and live video feed to decode opponents' signs, then relayed pitches via trash-can bangs — over 1,900 audible signals during the 2017 season alone. MLB's investigation fined the team $5 million and stripped draft picks, but no player faced a single suspension. This breach runs deeper than #4 Black Sox because it corrupted the game's core integrity through technology, affecting every 2017 playoff opponent. The scheme's success rate: Astros hitters posted a .286 batting average at home with the system versus .245 on the road, a 41-point statistical boost that directly secured their championship.