[Cobra Mgr]

In reality, there was nothing the Astros could say that would have been acceptable as an apology. And that is Manfred's fault. An apology for something of this magnitude becomes sincere when there is some kind of action that shows contrition. If Houston's players were made to suffer some kind on tangible punishment on level with the seriousness of the crime, then their words could suffice. But they haven't had any punishment. Just read some prepared statement that isn't in their own words.

At this point, the only thing I would accept from the players is hearing they are donating their 2017 salary/WS checks to charity or giving back their rings. Any words they have to say, no matter how sincere they try to make it, just reminds me they got away with it. And in their shoes, I wouldn't feel sorry for bleep if I cheated on purpose, got a ring for it, and all I had to suffer was an uncomfortable press conference.