Reports: MLB implementing new rules in attempt to curtail high-tech sign-stealing

Major League Baseball is implementing new rules in an attempt to curtail sign-stealing, according to multiple reports.

According to Sports Illustrated, which first reported the news Tuesday, the rules center around television monitors, cameras and other technology at ballparks that could potentially be used to decipher an opposing team's signs. 

The league will reportedly ban any outfield cameras that are stationed between the foul poles and unrelated to a television broadcast, for example, and mandate that television monitors in clubhouses be put on an eight-second delay.

The rules are expected to be implemented this season, according to the reports, and penalties will include the forfeiture of draft picks and/or international spending money.

SPORTS, DELIVERED: Getlatest news right to your inbox!

Follow every MLB game: Latest MLB scores, stats, schedules and standings.

MONEY TALKS: Machado's deal shocks other suitors

The changes come after a year in which technology-related sign-stealing — or, at least, the fear of it — became an unwelcome theme in baseball. In the playoffs, for example, MLB investigated claims that a Houston Astros employee was attempting to steal signs from opposing teams. However, the league determined the employee in question "was monitoring the field to ensure that the opposing club was not violating any rules."

"I think there is a paranoia about what you're doing competitively to try to be your best," Astros manager A.J. Hinch said, according to The Associated Press. "And when teams are curious about us or we're curious about other teams, it's largely a distraction away from the best part of the game, which is on the field with the players."