As MLB commissioner Rob Manfred continues his attempt to save grace after his failed actions surrounding the Houston Astros sign stealing scandal and subsequent punishment.
Here’s a timeline of the press conference, more analysis will be provided throughout the day.
Rob Manfred on his interviews Sunday. "I made one mistake — at least. … I referred to the World Series trophy in a disrespectful way and I want to apologize for that."
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) February 18, 2020
Manfred on calls to vacate 2017 title: "We're very concerned about opening the door to altering results that took place on the field. … I just think it's an impossible task for an institution to undertake."
— Bill Plunkett (@billplunkettocr) February 18, 2020
When asked if he could have set a new precedent
“I could have set a new precedent. I felt and continue to feel that the best thing we can do for our fans is give them the facts…I’m also very concerned about opening the door to altering results on the field”
— Mookie Pls (@brookme3) February 18, 2020
He went on
“The union wanted an immunity agreement to protect their members, so that’s how we got there”
— Mookie Pls (@brookme3) February 18, 2020
“We need to drastically restrict in game access to player personnel”
You think?
— Mookie Pls (@brookme3) February 18, 2020
On players being outspoken
“It surprised me for 2 reasons. I’ve never seen the kind of commentary on players from other players. And the 2nd seemed to be that the Houston players were not disciplined. But that was part of the agreement to protect players”
— Mookie Pls (@brookme3) February 18, 2020
Manfred: “I want to be really clear about this: Mike Fiers did the industry a service. I do believe we will be a better industry as result.” He says without Fiers, MLB would have had a very difficult time cleaning things up, it would have taken much longer.
— Susan Slusser (@susanslusser) February 18, 2020
Rob Manfred said that the #Astros banged trash cans to relay signs through the 2017 postseason, refuting what some Astros have said.
— Jorge Castillo (@jorgecastillo) February 18, 2020
This post will continue to be updated.
