MLB says Astros were monitoring to ensure opponents weren't cheating

After reports that a Houston Astros employee was attempting to film in opponents' dugouts during the playoffs, the MLB says the Astros were just trying to make sure the teams weren't breaking any rules.

The league released a statement Wednesday after the Cleveland filed a complaint about an Astros employee trying to film in the Indians' dugout during Game 3 of the American League Division Series last week.

>>PREVIOUS: From the Source: Astros accused of cheating in ALCS

Another incident at Fenway Park during Game 1 of the American League Championship Series against the Red Sox was also part of what the league looked into.

>>PREVIOUS: Reports: Astros employee caught filming Sox in Game 1 at Fenway

In the statement, the league said the investigation found the employee was just "monitoring the field" to make sure no rules were broken.

The full statement can be read below:

"Before the Postseason began, a number of Clubs called the Commissioner's Office about sign stealing and the inappropriate use of video equipment.  The concerns expressed related to a number of Clubs, not any one specific Club.  In response to these calls, the Commissioner's Office reinforced the existing rules with all playoff Clubs and undertook proactive measures, including instituting a new prohibition on the use of certain in-stadium cameras, increasing the presence of operations and security personnel from Major League Baseball at all Postseason games and instituting a program of monitoring Club video rooms.

With respect to both incidents regarding a Houston Astros employee, security identified an issue, addressed it and turned the matter over to the Department of Investigations.  A thorough investigation concluded that an Astros employee was monitoring the field to ensure that the opposing Club was not violating any rules.  All Clubs remaining in the playoffs have been notified to refrain from these types of efforts and to direct complaints about any in-stadium rules violations to MLB staff for investigation and resolution.  We consider the matter closed."

The two teams will play in Game 4 of the ALCS on Wednesday night in Houston, with the Red Sox looking to improve on their 2-1 series lead.

Cox Media Group