Report: MLB probes D-Backs coach use of smart watch vs. Rockies

The MLB has reportedly launched a probe into the use of an electronic watch by the Arizona Diamondbacks during the National League Wild Card game Wednesday night, according to the New York Post.

Joel Sherman, a columnist for the New York Post and MLB Network Insider, reports that the league office is investigating Diamondbacks coach Ariel Prieto’s use of the watch in question during his team’s 11-8 win over the Colorado Rockies

In a photo sent to the New York Post, Prieto can be seen wearing what looks like a smart watch, similar to the Apple Watches the Boston Red Sox reportedly used to steal signs from the New York Yankees earlier this season.

Commissioner Rob Manfred issued a fine in mid-September for an undisclosed amount to the Red Sox for violating the league’s rules on the use of an electronic device to decode signals.

At the time, Manfred issued a warning to the remaining clubs that more “serious sanctions” could follow with future violations.

“All 30 Clubs have been notified that future violations of this type will be subject to more serious sanctions, including the possible loss of draft picks,” Manfred said in a release on Sept. 15.

Despite a late rally, the Rockies fell short in the one-game playoff series, 11-8.

Colorado trailed Arizona after three innings 6-0, with starting pitcher Jon Gray taking the bulk of the battering, giving up four earned runs and seven hits in just 1 1/3 innings.

The Rockies were able to climb back into the game with a four-run fourth inning, and got as close as one run in the seventh, but the Diamondbacks pulled away late with two runs in the bottom of that inning and three in the eighth.

Follow digital content producer Johnny Hart on Twitter: @johnnyhart7.