Astros Crush Dodgers 18-1 as Hershiser Revives Sign-Stealing Scandal

In a night that Los Angeles Dodgers fans will want to forget, the Houston Astros delivered a staggering 18-1 rout at Dodger Stadium, marking the worst loss in the venue's history. But it wasn’t just the scoreboard that stung—Dodgers broadcaster and pitching legend Orel Hershiser reopened old wounds by hinting at past controversies during the game.

In the third inning, as Astros outfielder Cam Smith doubled off Dodgers rookie Ben Casparius, Hershiser couldn’t resist a subtle jab. "I don’t want to open an old wound, but in some ways, they’re swinging at these breaking balls like they know what is coming," he remarked, a clear nod to the Astros’ infamous 2017 World Series sign-stealing scandal that saw them triumph over the Dodgers with the help of illicit tactics like banging on trash cans to relay pitches.

The Astros showed no signs of distraction despite the home crowd’s relentless boos and 'cheater' chants aimed at Jose Altuve, a key figure from that 2017 team. Altuve silenced the critics with a masterful performance, homering twice, reaching base five times, and driving in five runs.

Dodgers manager Dave Roberts didn’t mince words about the debacle. "Yea, that was one you want to flush as soon as possible. I don’t think there were many positives from this night," he said, acknowledging the 17-run deficit. Roberts also pointed to Casparius’ struggles, noting the pitcher allowed six runs and nine hits in just three innings. "At the end of the day, he's just got to execute better," Roberts added, hinting that Casparius might be headed back to the bullpen.

This game wasn’t just a loss; it was a reminder of lingering bitterness between these two teams. For Dodgers fans, the sting of 2017 still burns, and nights like this only pour salt on the wound.