Carlos Beltrán Reflects on Sign-Stealing Scandal as He Enters Hall of Fame
Carlos Beltrán, the newly elected Hall of Famer, has spoken out about his involvement in the 2017 Houston Astros’ sign-stealing scandal, stating that it does not define who he is as a person. Beltrán, who was the only player mentioned by name in the scandal, acknowledged his role in the team’s use of electronics to steal signs during their run to the 2017 World Series championship.
Beltrán, who received 358 out of 425 votes (84.2%) from the Baseball Writers’ Association of America, will be joined by Andruw Jones and Jeff Kent in the Hall’s Class of 2026. The nine-time All-Star and three-time Gold Glove winner played for several teams during his 20-year career, including the Royals, Mets, Giants, Cardinals, Yankees, and Rangers. He hit.279 with 2,725 hits, 435 homers, 1,582 runs, and 312 stolen bases, making him one of four players to reach 2,700 hits, 400 homers, 1,500 runs, and 300 steals, alongside Barry Bonds, Willie Mays, and Alex Rodriguez.
A Complex Legacy
Beltrán’s legacy is complex, with his on-field accomplishments often overshadowed by the sign-stealing scandal. However, he has since worked to grow baseball in his native Puerto Rico, where he has a school that provides developmental and educational opportunities. “Perfection is part of no one’s life,” Beltrán said, reflecting on his career and the scandal. “As a group and as an organization, we also felt being able to find a way to take advantage of the opposing team is something that every team will do whatever it takes to win in baseball.”
Beltrán’s comments come as he prepares to be inducted into the Hall of Fame, an honor that he believes is not just a recognition of his individual achievements, but also a testament to the hard work and dedication of his family, teammates, and coaches. “I will encourage baseball fans to come to Cooperstown and understand the story of baseball,” Beltrán said. “The story of baseball is not about one player. It’s about multiple players, different nationalities, different backgrounds, understanding where the game began and where the game is today.”
A New Chapter
As Beltrán looks to the future, he is focused on giving back to the game that has given him so much. His school in Puerto Rico is just one example of his commitment to growing the game and providing opportunities for young players. With his induction into the Hall of Fame, Beltrán hopes to inspire a new generation of players and fans, and to leave a lasting legacy that goes beyond his on-field accomplishments. “Honestly, I know that’s part of my story,” Beltrán said, reflecting on the sign-stealing scandal. “But that doesn’t really define the person that I am.”
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
