Carlos Beltrán says Hall of Fame nod 'doesn't define' him despite Astros scandal

At Cooperstown after his Hall of Fame election, Carlos Beltrán acknowledged his connection to the Houston Astros' 2017 sign-stealing scandal will follow him but said it does not define his life or career.

Carlos Beltrán visited the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown for the first time since his election this week. At his introductory news conference he acknowledged that his connection to the Houston Astros' 2017 sign-stealing scandal will follow him. He said that the scandal "doesn't really define the person that I am" and described it as a moment of his career. Beltrán also spoke about his 20-year playing career and the high school he established in Puerto Rico. Key points: - Beltrán was elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame and made his first visit to Cooperstown since that election. - He acknowledged his association with the Astros' 2017 sign-stealing scheme and said the issue will remain attached to his name but does not define who he is. - MLB commissioner Rob Manfred's report identified Beltrán by name as a central figure; he was the only player named in the report. - The report and subsequent coverage note that Beltrán and the New York Mets "mutually agreed to part ways" in 2019 before he managed a game. - MLB's findings described the Astros' 2017 scheme as involving in-stadium video and real-time noise (banging a trash can) to relay signs, and characterized it as different and more extensive than baserunner systems punished on other teams. Summary: Beltrán's Hall of Fame induction is a major career milestone that comes amid continued attention to his role in the Astros' 2017 sign-stealing scheme. He emphasized other aspects of his life, including community and educational work in Puerto Rico, as part of his legacy while acknowledging the lasting association with that season. Undetermined at this time.