Cardinals employee(s) who hacked into the Astros' computer system attemped to cover their tracks, but failed miserably, Michael Schmidt of the New York Times reports. The hack was traced to a Florida residence used by several St. Louis employees specializing in statistical analysis and computer programming during spring training.

Here's an update on the hacking and the attempted cover-up from Schmidt:

Whoever gained access to the Astros’ network tried to take some measures used by experienced hackers to disguise their location. But, law enforcement officials said, the intruders were not adept.

“They tried to mask themselves like an experienced hacker and failed,” said a person briefed on the investigation. “It’s clear they weren’t very good at what they were trying to do.”

The inability to properly cover tracks proved to be a significant break for the F.B.I. When the bureau opened an investigation into the breach last year, agents followed the trail of the intrusion directly to the computer that had been used at the residence in Jupiter.

Schmidt reports several high-level Cardinals employees have retained lawyers during the investigation by the FBI and the Justice Department, which makes total sense. Even if they weren't directly involved, this has legal implications and they need to protect themselves.

Several hacking attempts -- in this case hacking is defined by accessing without authorization -- were make by an unknown Cardinals employee or employees over a period of several months. The investigation is ongoing.

Cardinals GM John Mozeliak and the rest of his team is being investigated.
Cardinals GM John Mozeliak and the rest of his team is being investigated. (USATSI)