Over six years after Jose Altuve’s heroics helped the Houston Astros land the World Series in 2017, the scandal surrounding the win still remains fresh in the memory of MLB fans.

Many across the country believe that the Astros should have been stripped of the title and that Altuve stole a AL MVP award that belonged to Aaron Judge. However, despite all the conspiracy theories in the aftermath of the scandal, MLB insider Jeff Passan backed Altuve’s performance and rubbished rumors that he wore a wire, in January 2021:

“Of all the reporting that I’ve done on the subject, and it’s a lot, I found no evidence that there was a wire on any of them.”

Jose Altuve signed with the Houston Astros as an undrafted free agent in 2007 and went on to make his major league debut with them in 2011.

He has since grown into one of the most decorated players of the franchise, playing a crucial role in their World Series titles in 2017 and 2022. However, he has been surrounded by conspiracy theories throughout his career as fans cast a shadow of doubt on his achievements.

The sign-stealing scandal surrounding the Houston Astros broke out in November 2019, which confirmed that the team had used illegal means in their run to the World Series title in 2017. Following the scandal, both the general manager and manager were fired, and the Astros were fined $5 million and lost several draft picks.

That was followed by several conspiracy theories from fans, one of which accused Jose Altuve of wearing a wire on his shoulder. Despite all the rumors surrounding him, Altuve remains one of the best sluggers in the league.

Jose Altuve gives 11-year-old superfan his bat after blasting two-run homer vs Orioles

While haters may have a lot to say about his achievements, Houston Astros second baseman Jose Altuve continues to win the hearts of fans across the country.

During Friday’s 7-5 loss to the Baltimore Orioles, the Venezuelan slugger hit a home run in the third inning and handed his bat to 11-year-old fan Chris DiSalvo Jr. Speaking to a reporter after getting the his hero’s bat, DiSalvo Jr. said:

“He’s my idol plus. … it was my favorite thing of my life.”

The Astros went on to tie the four-game series against the Orioles with a 6-3 win on Sunday to remain atop the AL West. Next up, they travel to face the Philadelphia Phillies in a three-game series at Citizens Bank Park.