I did a double take when I heard this and had to rewind the broadcast:

https://twitter.com/BrodesMedia/status/1586526220141105152?t=X0brH-FIZuz4ff4nvqGx_Q&s=19

So, technically he broke the rules and is indeed a cheater. We’re gonna log this as another instance of the Houston Astros being dirty fucking cheats! Can’t trust these guys.

Two things –

1) yes, the Phillies won Game 1, so people on Facebook are gonna respond with “who cares” or “why is this news?”

2) but Maldonado had an RBI on Friday night, so I’m gonna go ahead and say it’s because of the illegal bat with the larger barrel. it’s science. clearly he gained an advantage there! (somewhat sarcastic, not entirely though)

The other incredibly stupid thing is that Albert Pujols was using a bat that was “grandfathered in” 12 years ago. That’s quite possibly one of the dumbest things I’ve ever heard of. Imagine if Brandon Graham was allowed to lead with the crown of his helmet because he started playing before the rule was changed. What if Patrick Rafter was able to use a different sized tennis racquet? It sounds so ridiculous.

Anyway, the Astros are cheating bastards. It’s indisputable.

EDIT – lol look at this:

https://twitter.com/MarlyRiveraESPN/status/1586533857490149376?s=20&t=6wRsAI_XCAZ_mKnLQMjMAw

Total nonsense. If it was really about “player safety,” then nobody would be swinging these bats. Not Maldonado, not Pujols, not anyone.