First Bud Norris was traded, Then, Lucas Harrell was banished to the bullpen. Now, the team’s elder statesman (Erik Bedard) will spend the rest of the season pitching in relief. The pitchers who have started half the team’s games (65) in 2013, are no longer part of the rotation. What does that leave? Exactly what…

In the continuing back-and-forth, Dan and Chip provide a point/counterpoint on Sunday’s pre-season game between the Texans and Saints. Saints and Texas play Sunday. Here are Chip’s and Dan’s predictions, along with a quick series of lightning round questions. Look for more as a followup on Monday after the game. • •• ••• •• •…

The Astros are bad in so many areas and good in so few, it’s hard to isolate which area is in the worst condition. Starting pitching has been a highlight, even a bright light in recent weeks, but that one area hasn’t been enough to improve a poor team, much less carry it. Obviously, the…

Chip and Dan introduce a new category of entries today on chipalatta.com. With football season close to the kickoff and an I-10 battle between the Texans and Saints this weekend, today’s point/counterpoint features a faceoff. • •• ••• •• • Today’s point/counterpoint: Which commissioner is more hated by which fan base – Bud Selig by…

From skeptic, cynic and head shaker to upbeat, excited and hopeful. All in one 24-hour period. That’s what someone like Jarred Cosart can do for fans. And for a team struggling toward another 100-loss season. This kid can pitch. Without television, it’s the first time I’ve seen him pitch as a major leaguer. He’s not…

Yep, cynical headline while wondering how many people are actually paying attention. Left the house when the Astros were down 2-1. When I come back, it was 12-1 and I figured it was in the fifth or sixth. Only a few very random thoughts after watching the debacle of a baseball game tonight in Arlington.…

Sure would like to get a look at Jeff Luhnow’s blueprint. Wonder if it’s in pristine condition or whether it looks more like Bo Porter‘s lineup card? You have to figure that the Astros aren’t following the script that Jeff Luhnow wrote. Even the outline he and Porter brainstormed in spring training. You have to…