Angels take measures to block Astros from relaying signs

The Los Angeles Angels took some measures on Friday night to prevent the Houston Astros from relaying signs from second base.

Jaime Barria gave up four runs over three innings on Saturday against Houston — his previous start. He allowed three runs in the first inning before making an adjustment. He said after the game that he thought the Astros were stealing signs against him.

Jaime Barria said he believed the Astros were stealing signs in the first inning tonight. Said he changed them afterwards but the 36-pitch first drained him.

— Fabian Ardaya (@FabianArdaya) August 26, 2018

Fast forward to Friday, and Barria got the nod against Houston once again. This time he and shortstop Andrelton Simmons came prepared. According to Angels reporter Jeff Fletcher, when a runner reached second, Simmons stood in front of the runner as signs were being given from the catcher to Barria so the runner couldn’t relay them to the batter.

Jaime Barría said the Astros were tipping pitches from 2nd base last week in Anaheim. Just now, with Springer at 2nd, Barría took a long walk behind the mound. Andrelton Simmons then stood in front of Springer when the signs were being given.

— Jeff Fletcher (@JeffFletcherOCR) September 1, 2018

The results were much better. Barria pitched six scoreless innings, allowing only three hits and one walk.

He’s not the only pitcher to face the Astros recently and think they were relaying signs. All teams will probably have to do the same against Houston to avoid getting picked. As Yu Darvish could tell you, they’re very good at that.