Category: Astros
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Astros’ relievers: Morphing from oxymoron to reality
In looking at the Houston Astros’ bullpen – I decided to pull up the dictionary.com definition of the word “reliever”. Reliever: a person or thing that relieves…..well that is not too helpful. How about the definition of “relieves”. Relieve: to free from anxiety, pain, fear, etc. OK now we are getting somewhere.
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Jerome Williams: What exactly are the Astros getting?
So the Astros have added Jerome Williams to the pitching equation. Not exactly the next coming of Masahiro Tanaka. But not exactly a reprisal of the Russ Ortiz or Mike Hampton 2009 signings either. Not exactly. What exactly are the Astros getting in the pitcher who started 25 games for the Angels last season? Obviously,…
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Astros’ DH may take the merry-go-round again in ’14

Sixteen different players served in the role of designated hitter for the Astros in 2013. Don’t expect much different in 2014 as the Astros work through a revolving door that involves first base, some outfield positions as well as a day off here from position rigors from time to time. While many contenders and other…
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Catcher, Conspiracy Theories and Castro’s Position

Brian T takes a look behind the plate as our Astros’ 2014 outlook continues. Past outlooks: First Base • Second Base • Shortstop • Third Base. • Outfield. • •• ••• •• • Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone. The moon landings were real. And Jason Castro will play catcher. There, I debunked three conspiracy theories for you. To expect anyone other…
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Fans, city could use a Rookie of the Year chase
If Jim Crane and Jeff Luhnow want to infuse some excitement for fans this season, let Bo Porter write the name George Springer on the opening day lineup. Against the Yankees. In Minute Maid Park. April 1. It doesn’t seem likely the Astros will be chasing a pennant or even the playoffs in 2014. But…
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Berkman Retires: Should the Astros retire his #17?

Lance Berkman announced his retirement from major league baseball after a stellar career. He played on some of the best — and worst — Astros’ teams in history. He ranks among the Top 5 in almost every offensive category for the Astros. At .410, he has the best OBP of any player while they were…
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2014 Astros Outfield: The Only Way to Go is Up
Our look at the 2014 Astros continues today with Dan’s take on the outfield. Past outlooks: First Base • Second Base • Shortstop • Third Base. • •• ••• •• • Looking back at the 2013 Astros oufield, I am reminded of a scene from the movie Crocodile Dundee. Paul Hogan as the famous Aussie croc hunter has arrived…
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Astros hope for more, but Villar likely the bridge to the SS future

When the off season began, the Astros had their sights set on improving the bullpen, upgrading the rotation, finding a middle-of-the-order bat and perhaps finding a solution for first base. Jeff Luhnow apparently considered some positions checked off his list. Or, at the very least, much lower priority. Shortstop is one of those positions. No…
