In the area of sports, ESPN is considered the king, while ESP is often lacking. OK – maybe ESPN is the biggest self-hype organization in the sports arena, but you get the idea. The folks who log into this blog are as knowledgeable as any fans around. So, heading into this season full of such hope…

The Astros have confirmed the last of their 2016 opening day roster as Michael Feliz beat out James Hoyt for the long reliever spot in the bullpen. While the 2016 roster may morph a bit when Evan Gattis, Lance McCullers Jr and Max Stassi recover from injuries, it is still an interesting exercise to compare…

Started a tradition several years ago at the Chronicle. Over the years, it became one the favorites. Free Blog Friday is simply your turn to start the conversation. You pick the subject.  The only rules are to keep it clean and family oriented. I’ll get it started on this last Friday before the season kicks…

Prognosticators are out in full form as the baseball season is only a few days away. Some are predicting the Astros will win the AL West. Even Sports Illustrated calls the Astros the best team in the American League. Either way, while the Astros caught everyone unaware in 2015, there will be no surprises in…

Carlos Correa is in the group. So is Jose Altuve. Add George Springer and Dallas Keuchel to the mix. Possibly Ken Giles and probably Luke Gregerson. You can also include A.J. Hinch. Those guys are going nowhere. Jason Castro may be close for 2016, but not a lock. Neither is Colby Rasmus nor Tyler White. Jose…

Apparently Jason Castro is no first baseman. Apparently the Astros have considered the move. And nixed the move. Nearly two years ago, Houston said it would not move him there. “For now.” Well, despite a well-documented search for a first baseman and a slew of journeymen, prospects, also-rans, and first basemen wannabes, Castro is still…