The Houston Astros have become the face of cheating in the MLB- whether they like it or not- after their sign-stealing scandal from their World Series-winning 2017 season came to light, resulting in punishment levied by the league. Even after the scandal, other teams such as the New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox, were accused of stealing signs, though no transgression has drawn the ire of the league and fans quite like Houston's. Ever since the Astros were caught, other teams have been vocal in their criticism of the franchise, most notably, the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Yankees. Astros owner Jim Crane, known for being outspoken, has a 5-word warning to other cheaters around the league, as reported by Bob Nightengale of USA Today.

Per Nightengale, Crane, speaking directly to other cheaters around the MLB, said that he'd “keep his mouth shut” if he were them. Could the Astros owner be aiming his fiery message at the Yankees, Dodgers or Red Sox?

Or was it a general warning to other teams, perhaps even those who are cheating and have yet to be caught in the act? Either way, Crane clearly doesn't appreciate the criticism from other teams, especially considering the success of the Astros post-cheating scandal.

Since the 2017 season, the Astros have won 95 or more games three times, excluding the pandemic-shortened season. That's why Crane is feeling emboldened to call out Houston's haters.