The Houston Astros’ cheating scandal is now making its way through the legal system.
Former Toronto Blue Jays pitcher Mike Bolsinger filed a civil suit Monday in the Los Angeles Superior Court, accusing the Astros of unfair business practices, negligence and intentional interference with contractual and economic relations.
Last month, the Astros were found to have used a camera to steal opponents’ pitching signs, which were then relayed to Houston’s batters, often using the “bang” of a trash can throughout the 2017 season and for a portion of 2018.
Bolsinger, who is seeking $31 million in damages, was sent back to the minors shortly after giving up four runs, four hits and three walks in 1/3 of an inning against Houston on Aug. 4, 2017. Bolsinger says he’ll use that money for charity.
The $31 million represents the amount of bonuses the Astros earned for winning the World Series in 2017.
“There’s a message to be sent to youth out there,” Bolsinger said in an interview with USA Today. “Especially athletes, more specifically baseball players. It was awesome to (grow up and) watch game played the right way. We’ve kind of drifted from that. It’s something we can really express to these kids: You don’t have to cheat to get to where you want to go.
“This kind of stuff doesn’t need to happen.”
The Astros have not commented on the lawsuit.
Bolsinger has not played in a MLB game since.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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