Jim Crane Expecting Astros' Scandal to Blow Over by Spring Training Proves He's Clueless

Houston Astros owner Jim Crane has had a less-than-ideal offseason. After the team was found to have used electronics to steal opponents' signs during their 2017 championship season, Crane has done almost nothing right in the effort to rehabilitate the organization's public image amid all the fallout.

That might never have even been much of a priority in his eyes anyway, as Crane clearly thought the problem would take care of itself in short order. According to a report from Bob Klapisch of the New York Times, when Crane was warned about the oncoming backlash for his club's actions, he disregarded it, claiming that the situation would "blow over by Spring Training."

Really, Jim? What person could possibly believe that?

Spring Training has started, of course, and the situation has only gotten more heated. Crane, who majored in industrial safety at Central Missouri State University, clearly never took any classes relating to public relations.

Crane has shown an unusual and concerning disregard for his team's public image. He might earn himself a reputation of being one of the most out-of-touch owners in the recent history of sports at this rate.

The damage done to his organization's reputation feels irreparable. Fans, players and media outlets across the country -- not just in Texas, not just in baseball, but the country -- have grilled him and his team for over a month, and he seems to be unfazed. Don't expect the grilling to stop.