I just started this thread today. A couple thoughts after reading through everything...
1) The batter doesn't actually have to hit the ball. He can choose to not swing and walk to 1st. I see a lot more bats on shoulders in these videos than I do swings at tough pitches to hit.
2) Given that, I'd be curious to see SnoSki look into the Astros walk totals in 2017 and OBP too.
3) Cheating is acting dishonestly to gain an advantage. Sign stealing is an understood part of the game and isn't cheating when it's done by a runner at 2nd or figuring out the 3rd base coach's signs; as has been pointed out. Those are all out in the open and both sides know anybody in the ball park can see them. In other words, it's not dishonest since it's out in the open. Using cameras changes the understanding, though. It's not uncommon for a pitcher and catcher to change signs after a runner reaches 2nd b/c they are clearly aware of the threat that the signs may be figured out. When there is no runner on 2nd and no perceived threat that signs can be seen, yet signs are being seen by a hidden camera and interpreted for immediate use that constitutes cheating. It is dishonest because the other team doesn't know and consequently can't conceal/change their signs; it also clearly yields an advantage.
4) If the Rangers are doing this too then darn em. Hit them every bit as hard as everyone else. In fact, they should probably be penalized harder b/c they can't even find success cheating.
