[Official] Astros Spring Training

[Castor27]

I'll start this off? It looks like we got a new Pitcher. According to Yahoo (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=270301105), Astros starter Woody Woodward pitched pretty effectively yesterday.

[MadMax]

Woodward was a solid addition.

His work in the Watergate thing was notable, too.

[leroy420]

Woodward was a solid addition.

His work in the Watergate thing was notable, too.

I knew he was getting up there in age but damn if he isn't in his 70's. That's pretty impressive.

[russian88]

LOL, if he was on the yanks, the article would have said "potential cy-young candidate, Woody Williams".

[Uprising]

1 more month baby! :D

[OldManBernie]

I'll start this off? It looks like we got a new Pitcher. According to Yahoo (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=270301105), Astros starter Woody Woodward pitched pretty effectively yesterday.

I'd rather have this pitcher.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/d/d8/Birddinner02.jpg/200px-Birddinner02.jpg

[russian88]

Who starts today against the Tigers?

[msn]

I'll start this off?
You're late. :p

Where have you been?

[Buck Turgidson]

I'll start this off? It looks like we got a new Pitcher. According to Yahoo (http://sports.yahoo.com/mlb/recap?gid=270301105), Astros starter Woody Woodward pitched pretty effectively yesterday.
Nice. Also, the Indians mlb.com reporter said Astros SS Carl Everett had an RBI single yesterday.

But I haven't seen him in Kissimmee this spring, so I don't think he exists.

[Groogrux]

But I haven't seen him in Kissimmee this spring, so I don't think he exists.

Awesome.

[MadMax]

Homer by Ensberg today.

[Buck Turgidson]

Homer by Ensberg today.
OK so it's early, these games are largely meaningless & all that...but it's kinda nice that the 3 most disappointing Stros last year - Lidge, Lane & Ensberg - have all shown *something* in the first 3 games.

[airbulllard]

Homer by Ensberg today.

sign of good things to come, hopefully. we need mo's bat back.

[Refman]

Woodward was a solid addition.

His work in the Watergate thing was notable, too.
I was really hoping to get Bernstein to be a backup catcher. :)

Maybe Wolf Blitzer can backup AE at short.

[MadMax]

I was really hoping to get Bernstein to be a backup catcher. :)

Maybe Wolf Blitzer can backup AE at short.

awesome! :D

[Buck Turgidson]

The Anti-Ausmus:

Yesterday, Injun catchers Martinez & Rose combined to go 5-5, with 5 runs & 5 RBI. Today, Pudge is 3-3 with at least 1 of each.

[leroy420]

Anyone else having issues with 790's streaming? I can't get a connection at home or work.

[The Cat]

Lidge gave up 4 runs on 3 hits in an inning, including a homer. At least it's early.

[NJRocket]

Lidge gave up 4 runs on 3 hits in an inning, including a homer. At least it's early.

good to see his mechanics are corrected

[Buck Turgidson]

good to see his mechanics are corrected
So maybe I spoke too soon earlier. :) Or maybe not.

Will be interesting to hear if he was working on a particular pitch today, he may have been throwing nothing but fastballs, or he may have been fiddling with his new 2-seamer/cutter/sinker for all I know Results, grain of salt & whatnot.

[JaWindex]

Is there a way to work Pence in this year?

[Lil Francis]

Is there a way to work Pence in this year?Hope so. Tell Lane and Hidalgo to hit the road and have Pence split time in center and right with Scott and Burke.

[rikesh316]

Lidge is midseason form, 1 IP, 3 H, 4 ER, 1 BB, 1 SO. Hunter Pence was 3-3 with a 3 run homer and a double. Ensberg had a solo homer and Everett had two errors.

[russian88]

Y'all sound like Cub fans.

[JaWindex]

Y'all sound like Cub fans.

Until Garner goes Lee Elia on us, I'll have to disagree :p

[JunkyardDwg]

Lidge gave up 4 runs on 3 hits in an inning, including a homer. At least it's early.

Wheeler gave up 2 runs as well so probably shouldn't put much stock into it...he very well could have been working on a particular pitch.

I'd rather the Astros suck bad right now...then carry it over into the regular season.

[BrieflySpeaking]

im guessing they are still shaking some rust off

[RocketManJosh]

Lidge has really got to bear down this Spring Training and get some confidence. I hope he is not working on "new" stuff because I just want to see that his "old" stuff is back.

[MadMax]

im guessing they are still shaking some rust off

ya think? :D

[Buck Turgidson]

I hope he is not working on "new" stuff
You're kidding, right?

In honor of a new season, and because somebody mentioned it earlier, here's the absolute greatest sports meltdown of all time. God Bless Lee Elia:

http://kenn.com/sounds/elia.wav

[Very not safe for work]

Ahhh, Cubfan. "85% of the world is working, the other 15% come here." Greatness.

[russian88]

jennings looked solid today :)

[The Cat]

2 innings, 0 hits, 0 runs, 2 Ks against the Braves' regulars... good stuff.

[russian88]

Carlos Lee had 2 Rbi's.

[russian88]

Hunter Pence is tearing up ST. He should make the team without a doubt. Too bad he can't replace ausmus. :eek:

[The Cat]

Estrada looked good also... 2 innings, 0 runs, 3 strikeouts.

[The Cat]

Another home run for Jason Lane... second in three days.

[russian88]

Braves' pitcher hitting our guys, time for some retaliation lol...

[leroy420]

Hunter Pence is tearing up ST. He should make the team without a doubt. Too bad he can't replace ausmus. :eek:

Only 3 games in. Not nearly enough. Plus, they aren't going to risk it again after what happened to Luke Scott 2 years ago.

[RocketManJosh]

You're kidding, right?


Nope ... if he doesn't do jack in March, he shouldn't be the closer to start the season. The pressure needs to be on him now because I don't want to wait for the season to start to put the pressure on him and see how he does. He hasn't earned that right.

[BigM]

Nope ... if he doesn't do jack in March, he shouldn't be the closer to start the season. The pressure needs to be on him now because I don't want to wait for the season to start to put the pressure on him and see how he does. He hasn't earned that right.


yes he has.

[RocketManJosh]

yes he has.

I suppose Jason Lane has earned the right field starting position this season based on what he did 2 years ago too right? Heck, I bet Jeriome Robertson is available. We should go get him .. he'd be perfect for the 4th rotation spot.

Not saying Lidge shouldn't be a big part of our team, but if he can't show us he can pitch in spring, he should NOT be the closer.

[Major]

I suppose Jason Lane has earned the right field starting position this season based on what he did 2 years ago too right? Heck, I bet Jeriome Robertson is available. We should go get him .. he'd be perfect for the 4th rotation spot.

Not saying Lidge shouldn't be a big part of our team, but if he can't show us he can pitch in spring, he should NOT be the closer.

Jason Lane wasn't the best closer in baseball for 2 years.

[Major]

Jason Lane wasn't the best closer in baseball for 2 years.

(Or the best right-fielder)

[The Cat]

Wandy with 2 shutout innings, 0 hits, 2 strikeouts. Given that he had to be close to a disaster this spring to not get a spot, I'd say he's on the right track for one of the final two spots.

[russian88]

Cy-wandy huh? :)

[The Cat]

Good Lidge is back... 1-2-3 inning, 0 hits, 0 walks, 1 strikeout. Both other outs on ground balls.

[The Cat]

The Astros just went off for 7 runs in the sixth, led by doubles from Pence, Lane and Lamb (bases-clearing double), as well as a triple from Burke.

Lane is 2-2 today with a walk and a double (.400 for the spring)
Pence is 1-1 today with a double and RBI (.714 for the spring)
Lee is 2-3 today with another RBI (.667 for the spring)

Albers also pitched two scoreless. Only pitcher to allow runs today is Sampson.

[BigM]

I suppose Jason Lane has earned the right field starting position this season based on what he did 2 years ago too right? Heck, I bet Jeriome Robertson is available. We should go get him .. he'd be perfect for the 4th rotation spot.

Not saying Lidge shouldn't be a big part of our team, but if he can't show us he can pitch in spring, he should NOT be the closer.


no, lidge was dominant for two straight years and had one of the best playoff runs i've ever seen from a closer.

robertson was mediocre in his best season and lane has had exactly half a season of just being good. it's not even close to a good comparison.

[WhoMikeJames]

Looks like Lee had a solid game today.

[Enron]

so is it safe to draft Pence into my fantasy teams? :)

[RocketManJosh]

no, lidge was dominant for two straight years and had one of the best playoff runs i've ever seen from a closer.

robertson was mediocre in his best season and lane has had exactly half a season of just being good. it's not even close to a good comparison.

Lidge was great as a closer for 1 and half years with one great playoff performance and one terrible playoff performance immediately followed by a terrible year. I'm sure you'll throw the number of saves he got last year at me and claim he had a good year ignoring how horrible he was for pretty much the entire season as shown by ERA and WHIP. Yeah he's earned the closers role with no questions asked and without having to perform at all this spring :rolleyes: He's been terrible for almost as long as he was good. It's not like we are talking about a guy that put 4-5 seasons of great baseball together here. Obviously, using Lane and Robertson as examples were meant to be a hyperbole, but it makes my point.

I'm all for Lidge being our closer, but I think he needs to prove to us this Spring that he is capable of being our closer. Today was a good step towards that. If he can't keep an ERA below 5 again though I'll be very disappointed if he remains our closer for months like he was last season solely based on what he did several years ago.

[Aceshigh7]

Jason Lane is looking absolutely great so far this spring.

[Bobblehead]

Jason Lane is looking absolutely great so far this spring.

Well the guy has been an MVP at every level he has been at so far. Maybe this will become his breakout season.

Then again Luke Scott was as good as the Grapefruit League MVP two seasons ago and then stunk it up in the big leagues.

You can never get too high or too low in Spring Training.

[BigM]

Lidge was great as a closer for 1 and half years with one great playoff performance and one terrible playoff performance immediately followed by a terrible year. I'm sure you'll throw the number of saves he got last year at me and claim he had a good year ignoring how horrible he was for pretty much the entire season as shown by ERA and WHIP. Yeah he's earned the closers role with no questions asked and without having to perform at all this spring :rolleyes: He's been terrible for almost as long as he was good. It's not like we are talking about a guy that put 4-5 seasons of great baseball together here. Obviously, using Lane and Robertson as examples were meant to be a hyperbole, but it makes my point.

I'm all for Lidge being our closer, but I think he needs to prove to us this Spring that he is capable of being our closer. Today was a good step towards that. If he can't keep an ERA below 5 again though I'll be very disappointed if he remains our closer for months like he was last season solely based on what he did several years ago.


lidge was terrible last season, so no need wasting anymore time responding to what you think i'd say. however he has been bad for only one season. he's been very good for another, filthy the year after that, and excellent the year after that. his success in the pro level far and away overshines his one poor season. nowhere near the "terrible as long as he's been good" analysis.

i'm not saying we should endure another season like last year but his leash in spring training shouldn't be any shorter than anyone else in the bullpens. he needs this time to sharpen up and if he gives up a few runs here and there i'm not gonna worry about it.

he's earned the closer's role on opening day as far as i'm concerned. he messes up in real games i'll be one of the first to call him out.

[RocketManJosh]

i'm not saying we should endure another season like last year but his leash in spring training shouldn't be any shorter than anyone else in the bullpens. he needs this time to sharpen up and if he gives up a few runs here and there i'm not gonna worry about it.

he's earned the closer's role on opening day as far as i'm concerned. he messes up in real games i'll be one of the first to call him out.

OK this is my last post on this because I really don't think we are that far off.

I agree right now the closers role is and should be his to lose and he has earned that. I agree that his leash shouldn't be shorter than anyone else in the bullpen. I'm not judging him on one bad performance or one good performance. All I am saying is that there should be some leash. If he just sucks it up all Spring long, I'd prefer he not be in that closers role to start the season and I think he should know that. My point is that its not like he is Roy O who has proved himself over the long haul as our #1 starter. He earned the right to be able to do whatever he wants during Spring to get himself ready. I think Lidge needs to perform decently to keep his role, but it shouldn't be a lock.

As for my numbers, I am only looking at time spent in the closers role. He was actually pretty good last year when he was not in that role and that leads me to believe that it really was the pressure that was getting to him, not that he had completely lost his stuff. I still believe in him as a key pitcher on our team, but I don't think throwing him in there as the closer if he has a bad spring and hoping he will turn it around in the regular season is the way to go.

Hopefully he will have a lot of games like he did today and this will not even be an issue to begin with.

[BigM]

OK this is my last post on this because I really don't think we are that far off.

I agree right now the closers role is and should be his to lose and he has earned that. I agree that his leash shouldn't be shorter than anyone else in the bullpen. I'm not judging him on one bad performance or one good performance. All I am saying is that there should be some leash. If he just sucks it up all Spring long, I'd prefer he not be in that closers role to start the season and I think he should know that. My point is that its not like he is Roy O who has proved himself over the long haul as our #1 starter. He earned the right to be able to do whatever he wants during Spring to get himself ready. I think Lidge needs to perform decently to keep his role, but it shouldn't be a lock.

As for my numbers, I am only looking at time spent in the closers role. He was actually pretty good last year when he was not in that role and that leads me to believe that it really was the pressure that was getting to him, not that he had completely lost his stuff. I still believe in him as a key pitcher on our team, but I don't think throwing him in there as the closer if he has a bad spring and hoping he will turn it around in the regular season is the way to go.

Hopefully he will have a lot of games like he did today and this will not even be an issue to begin with.



agreed. his stuff has always been there, i think it was just a combination of things, maybe physically tired and mentally shaken, that had his control way off. hopefully they have it figured it out and he can continue on his good spring thus far.

[NJRocket]

It'll be a good problem to have if Scott, Lane and DOggy all produce this spring

[msn]

It'll be a good problem to have if Scott, Lane and DOggy all produce this spring
I guess Richard would then be the odd man out?

[Nick]

Heading to Kississimme today for some ST fun in the sun.

[kaleidosky]

I guess Richard would then be the odd man out?

Am I missing someone? What's wrong w/carrying 5 OF's (Scott Lee Burke Lane Hidalgo) 6 IF's (Lamb Ensberg Berkman Everett Biggio Loretta) 2 C's (Ausmus Quintero), 5 SP's, 7 RP's incl a closer?

Is it just that Palmeiro's lefty contact bat is necessary off the bench?

[weslinder]

Heading to Kississimme today for some ST fun in the sun.

Have fun! I had training for work in Phoenix a couple of years ago and got to catch several Cactus League games. Spring Training is Mecca for baseball fans.

[Nick]

Is it just that Palmeiro's lefty contact bat is necessary off the bench?
He's got a guaranteed major league deal, while Hidalgo and Lane both essentially have minor league deals.

Also, Palmeiro was absolutely CLUTCH during the final winning streak of the season that got us within 1 game... he's still a great lefty bat to have on the bench.

[RocketManJosh]

Heading to Kississimme today for some ST fun in the sun.

Man I hope to be able to make it out there for Spring Training one of these years. Maybe when my kids are a bit older, I can suggest a March disney trip to the wife and I'll leave out the fact that the Astros just happen to have Spring Training right there :)

[The Cat]

Nieve looked good today... two shutout, hit-less innings against a STL lineup that featured Pujols.

Of course, Wainwright looks even better... no hits in four innings for the 'Stros.

[Austin70]

I know Pence won't be there opening day, but I am ready for him to get his Astros career started.

[weslinder]

Man I hope to be able to make it out there for Spring Training one of these years. Maybe when my kids are a bit older, I can suggest a March disney trip to the wife and I'll leave out the fact that the Astros just happen to have Spring Training right there :)

Just make sure that they are Astros fans. Then plant the seeds that they'll be able to meet the players and such. Then the kids will be more interested in Spring Training than Disneyworld. Using the kids to convince the wife is a great tactic.

[Greg M]

Is it just that Palmeiro's lefty contact bat is necessary off the bench?

Yes. Palmeiro is a good guy to have off the bench. No need to carry two all or nothing right-handed bats in Lane and Hidalgo.

[Miguel]

anyone want to be a dear and find me a direct link to the 790 stream that a can plug straight into windows media player? I'm trying to listen on my pda.

[Miguel]

...found it. LOL today is the two year anniversary of the great Brian Collins. BOOM GOES THE DYNOMITE!!!

[The Cat]

Pence 1-1 against Glavine... average up to .727.

[The Cat]

Pence 1-1 against Glavine... average up to .727.

Make that 2-2 with a triple. I know it's less than a week, but wow, he looks good.

[russian88]

Pence 1-1 against Glavine... average up to .727.

Pence is 9-12 in ST. :eek:

[rocketfat]

Make that 2-2 with a triple. I know it's less than a week, but wow, he looks good.

jesus...you aint joking. he's gotta make the team, doesnt he?

either way...cant wait till next year. subtract biggio and ausmus, add pence and one more big arm, and wow....that's gonna be a fun squad to watch.

hopefully this year will be too.

[rezdawg]

Pence is making me feel like a girl scout who has just sold a huge batch of cookies...

I want this guy on the team.

[texanskan]

Pence is making me feel like a girl scout who has just sold a huge batch of cookies...

I want this guy on the team.

Yeah, you and everyone else but Purpura. He will stay with Lane like the douch he is.

Trust me I would of not freaked out so much over the Jennings trade if I felt Pence would make the team.

Heck, I wanted to spend all our money on pitching, sign a player like Loretta and go to battle with the best starting 5 money can buy, team speed and a fast young outfield so you don't have to convince me.

[texanskan]

jesus...you aint joking. he's gotta make the team, doesnt he?

either way...cant wait till next year. subtract biggio and ausmus, add pence and one more big arm, and wow....that's gonna be a fun squad to watch.

hopefully this year will be too.

Your right about next year, this year good luck.

[Buck Turgidson]

Heading to Kississimme today for some ST fun in the sun.
Have fun, man.

My bro got married this weekend, they headed out to their honeymoon at ST Monday morning. Told him he was a very, very lucky man:

Ceremony under a tree at Zilker Park;
Reception at the Salt Lick Pavillion
Honeymoon at Astros spring training.

She's a good woman.

[No Worries]

Pence is 9-12 in ST. :eek:
Pence is not even on the 40 man roster.

[The Cat]

Pence is not even on the 40 man roster.

There's an open spot if the Astros want to add someone because of Gimenez's injury.

[No Worries]

There's an open spot if the Astros want to add someone because of Gimenez's injury.
There will be an open spot by definition if Pence makes The Bigs. Also if Pence makes it, Lane will not; thus, problem easily solved.

[texanskan]

There will be an open spot by definition if Pence makes The Bigs. Also if Pence makes it, Lane will not; thus, problem easily solved.

It should be a pretty easy move, I mean one guy is close to 30 and has never ****. The other guy is your top prospect who plays your biggest need position and since the Astros probally are not gonna be in the playoffs this season if only makes sense to put him on the roster and see what he can do from time to time since he has dominated the minors.

What will Tim do? Platoon Lane with Scott.

Seriously, next season Burke will be playing 2nd, hell maybe by June Biggio wont be and your gonna clear a roster spot for Lane? Stupid.

[The Cat]

It should be a pretty easy move, I mean one guy is close to 30 and has never ****. The other guy is your top prospect who plays your biggest need position and since the Astros probally are not gonna be in the playoffs this season if only makes sense to put him on the roster and see what he can do from time to time since he has dominated the minors.

What will Tim do? Platoon Lane with Scott.

Seriously, next season Burke will be playing 2nd, hell maybe by June Biggio wont be and your gonna clear a roster spot for Lane? Stupid.

It's unlikely Lane makes the final roster, particularly given how much Garner values Bruntlett's versatility.

[texanskan]

It's unlikely Lane makes the final roster, particularly given how much Garner values Bruntlett's versatility.

Well how many pitchers is he gonna keep? I think it's gonna be a position player with that 25th roster spot

[The Cat]

Well how many pitchers is he gonna keep? I think it's gonna be a position player with that 25th roster spot

I hope you're right. But the Astros have a history of preferring 12 pitchers, and given the uncertainty surrounding the 4 and 5 spots this season, I'd be surprised if they went away from that. But, if it were my choice, I'd definitely keep an extra position player.

[rocketfat]

Have fun, man.

My bro got married this weekend, they headed out to their honeymoon at ST Monday morning. Told him he was a very, very lucky man:

Ceremony under a tree at Zilker Park;
Reception at the Salt Lick Pavillion
Honeymoon at Astros spring training.

She's a good woman.

hah...my parents were at that wedding. small world

[Buck Turgidson]

hah...my parents were at that wedding. small world
Nice, hope they had a good time.

Friends of her family or his?

[NJRocket]

We got smoked by the Mets today....or at least Borkowski did. Pence hit a triple and started in LF..went 2 for 2 and they pitched Glavine, Sosa and Wags among others.

[Nick]

An awesome first day down here in Kissimee... got plenty of autographs/conversations with the players. Got a chance to see how big, lanky (and young looking) Hunter Pence really is... got a chance to see Chris Burke lose a couple of balls in a very tough sun... and got a chance to see Morgan Ensberg at La Forchetta after the game.

Overall, a very fun trip... even though the Astros lost. Looking forward to more fun tommorow.

[rocketfat]

Nice, hope they had a good time.

Friends of her family or his?

hers.

[JunkyardDwg]

and since the Astros probally are not gonna be in the playoffs this season if only makes sense to put him on the roster and see what he can do from time to time since he has dominated the minors.

I don't think the team grabbed a guy like Lee so they could go fishing in October.

[The Cat]

and since the Astros probally are not gonna be in the playoffs this season

Of course, many other people, including the organization, have an extremely different outlook on this.

[Joshfast]

An awesome first day down here in Kissimee... got plenty of autographs/conversations with the players. Got a chance to see how big, lanky (and young looking) Hunter Pence really is... got a chance to see Chris Burke lose a couple of balls in a very tough sun... and got a chance to see Morgan Ensberg at La Forchetta after the game.

Overall, a very fun trip... even though the Astros lost. Looking forward to more fun tommorow.

Could you yell "PENCE SHOULD START" at Garner the whole game? That would make me feel better.

[BigM]

i'd like to see pence in the big leagues but is it better for him to sit on the bench here or get consistent at bats in triple a? he can also get more work in centerfield there.

they may wait until burke takes over second full-time and then bring pence up.
we'll see how spring goes, if he continues around this pace it'll be hard to deny him a major league spot.

[The Cat]

An awesome first day down here in Kissimee... got plenty of autographs/conversations with the players. Got a chance to see how big, lanky (and young looking) Hunter Pence really is... got a chance to see Chris Burke lose a couple of balls in a very tough sun... and got a chance to see Morgan Ensberg at La Forchetta after the game.

Overall, a very fun trip... even though the Astros lost. Looking forward to more fun tommorow.

How do Pence's at-bats look? How is he with contact? (I know one of the few knocks on him going into this season was that his strikeout total was a touch high.)

Also, how did Burke's at-bats look? I've noticed he's had a terrible spring so far at the plate... does he look to be struggling, or just bad luck with placement? (And yes, I know I'm asking for a lot of detail based on one game, haha.)

[Buck Turgidson]

Could you yell "PENCE SHOULD START" at Garner the whole game? That would make me feel better.
Sincerely,

Luke Scott
April 1, 2005

[Nick]

How do Pence's at-bats look? How is he with contact? (I know one of the few knocks on him going into this season was that his strikeout total was a touch high.)

Also, how did Burke's at-bats look? I've noticed he's had a terrible spring so far at the plate... does he look to be struggling, or just bad luck with placement? (And yes, I know I'm asking for a lot of detail based on one game, haha.)

Pence looks pretty confident... when he swings, its always at something in the zone (ie - he's not getting fooled, and is taking walks instead of swinging at bad pitches).

Burke looked a little uncomfortable batting at the bottom of the lineup... took some hittable pitches, and popped up (or fouled) the hittable ones.

Time will tell on both guys... for now, lets hope they both work their ass off to do what it takes to be potential all-stars in the NL.

[NJRocket]

An awesome first day down here in Kissimee... got plenty of autographs/conversations with the players. Got a chance to see how big, lanky (and young looking) Hunter Pence really is... got a chance to see Chris Burke lose a couple of balls in a very tough sun... and got a chance to see Morgan Ensberg at La Forchetta after the game.

Overall, a very fun trip... even though the Astros lost. Looking forward to more fun tommorow.


Nick...I have 4 tickets behind homeplate (2 in row 4 and 2 in row 7) for this Saturday's game vs Phil....i planned on going but Im gonna be all the way down in Palm Bch with the family and its too far of a drive....do u want the tickets?

[DaDakota]

Is there anywhere to view preseason stats?

DD

[bobrek]

Is there anywhere to view preseason stats?

DD

For the Astros...

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/stats/sortable_player_stats.jsp?c_id=hou

[Joshfast]

Sincerely,

Luke Scott
April 1, 2005

Not really.

Luke Scott had a heck of a half season of baseball, but before that was basically an AAAA player. He's a below average defender in right field, and will turn 29 this year.

Hunter Pence is the org's best prospect, fields above average in right and needs to get to the majors imo. He's going to be 24, I think it is time to give him a shot to be our starting right fielder, were he has the tools to be there for the next 10+ years.

I understand your comment was about sample size in spring training and I like Luke Scott, he was a major reason we got hot at the end of last year, but I just don't see him as a long term solution in right. Pence has some flaws for sure, but his potential again, imo is far superior then Luke's.

None of this matters though, I have a feeling Lane has some pretty bad pics of Tim (they must be REALLY bad) and will get the starting job in right. :(

[Nick]

Nick...I have 4 tickets behind homeplate (2 in row 4 and 2 in row 7) for this Saturday's game vs Phil....i planned on going but Im gonna be all the way down in Palm Bch with the family and its too far of a drive....do u want the tickets?

Oh man... that sounds damn tempting. I'll still be in FLA, but by Saturday I'll be in Fort Myers, and like you, are facing the prospect of another long drive.

If the inspiration strikes around Thursday, I'll let you know... but feel free to offer them up to somebody else who will definitely be in the area (or stubhub/online etc.).

Thanks a lot though... looking forward to seeing the ace (Roy O) and the prodigy (Troy P) pitch some quality innings today.

The "Roy and Troy show"... ETA 2009.

[Buck Turgidson]

Not really.
Luke Scott was an afterthought in '05 ST. He went absolutely nuts & won a wide open competition for the starting LF job. Fans & media were going bonkers for the kid, screaming about how the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR LUKE SCOTT". They did, and he lasted all of 1 month in the bigs.

Hunter Pence was an afterthought going into '07 ST. He's currently going absolutely nuts....

Here's Gar's take, in essense " It's early, everybody needs to calm the hell down.":

"For young hitters, and particularly for a guy like him, it's in his favor. Pitchers aren't locating as well as they will, their breaking balls aren't as sharp as they are. It might very well be that when everybody's on track, he may be doing the same thing. But we do know pitchers get sharper. Spring Training is not a true test, although it's a good test to see what a young man can do. Certainly, he's doing very well right now."

The fans - helped in no small part by mediots like Charlie Palillo - always have their shiny new plaything that's going to solve all the team's problems. If they're successful, it's "I told you so". When they're not, well, let's just forget about that. Last year, it was Jason Hirsh, Ben Zobrist & Hunter Pence. Two of those 3 got their shot, how'd that turn out? Before that, it was Chris Burke & Luke Scott. How'd they do in '05? Combined to hit about .230. Before that, the guy that the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR", was...wait for it...Jason Lane, who now "HAS TO BE RELEASED".

There's a certain swarthy mediterranean fellow on the Rockets who fits the mold as well.

Wheels on the bus go round & round...

[Joshfast]

Luke Scott was an afterthought in '05 ST. He went absolutely nuts & won a wide open competition for the starting LF job. Fans & media were going bonkers for the kid, screaming about how the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR LUKE SCOTT". They did, and he lasted all of 1 month in the bigs.

Hunter Pence was an afterthought going into '07 ST. He's currently going absolutely nuts....

Here's Gar's take, in essense " It's early, everybody needs to calm the hell down.":

"For young hitters, and particularly for a guy like him, it's in his favor. Pitchers aren't locating as well as they will, their breaking balls aren't as sharp as they are. It might very well be that when everybody's on track, he may be doing the same thing. But we do know pitchers get sharper. Spring Training is not a true test, although it's a good test to see what a young man can do. Certainly, he's doing very well right now."

The fans - helped in no small part by mediots like Charlie Palillo - always have their shiny new plaything that's going to solve all the team's problems. If they're successful, it's "I told you so". When they're not, well, let's just forget about that. Last year, it was Jason Hirsh, Ben Zobrist & Hunter Pence. Two of those 3 got their shot, how'd that turn out? Before that, it was Chris Burke & Luke Scott. How'd they do in '05? Combined to hit about .230. Before that, the guy that the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR", was...wait for it...Jason Lane, who now "HAS TO BE RELEASED".

There's a certain swarthy mediterranean fellow on the Rockets who fits the mold as well.

Wheels on the bus go round & round...

That may fit other fans, but I stated my point on why I would like Pence in right. I understand your "taste of the month" take, but it has nothing to do with my points.

Pence is a better prospect then any of those guys mentioned, who plays a position that is filled currently by Lane/Hildalgo/Scott. It's not like he is stuck behind Biggio or Bagwell - right field SHOULD be wide open with Scott having the edge over the others because of last year. But if Pence is ready, or shot, if he is almost ready - give it to him.

[Buck Turgidson]

...but it has nothing to do with my points.
Well, your points had nothing to do with my original point, so there. ;)

It's quite possible Pence plays his way onto the team. It's quite possible he doesn't. He's getting a shot, so I really don't see what the problem is. *Starting* the season with Luke Scott & Jason Lane (I think Reeshard is done, personally, from what I've heard out of Florida) manning RF ain't exactly a disaster. I guess I'm not as down on Lane as some, he was terrible last year, but has been pretty good the rest of his career. If he can get that back, he can help this club in some capacity.

If they think Pence's future is in CF in '07, it might be a good idea to play him there everyday to start the season. Some time in AAA won't hurt him. He'll be in Houston soon enough.

[Joshfast]

...I guess I'm not as down on Lane as some, he was terrible last year, but has been pretty good the rest of his career. If he can get that back, he can help this club in some capacity.


I hear you, I've been down on Lane for awhile but for some reason I'm really optimistic that Ensberg is going for atleast 30 hr's and 90 rbi's this year. :D

[msn]

Last year, it was Jason Hirsh, Ben Zobrist & Hunter Pence. Two of those 3 got their shot, how'd that turn out? Before that, it was Chris Burke & Luke Scott. How'd they do in '05? Combined to hit about .230. Before that, the guy that the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR", was...wait for it...Jason Lane, who now "HAS TO BE RELEASED"....

Wheels on the bus go round & round...
Well done!

[WhoMikeJames]

Ensberg with another homer today.

[white lightning]

But if Pence is ready, or shot, if he is almost ready - give it to him.

It will work out much better for everyone when Biggio gets the 3000 hits. Give 2nd back to Burke and then Pence has center to himself. Loretta will still probably have a chance to get his at bats. Scott's power potential is too important to overlook, just to get Pence up a few months earlier.

[studogg]

Luke Scott was an afterthought in '05 ST. He went absolutely nuts & won a wide open competition for the starting LF job. Fans & media were going bonkers for the kid, screaming about how the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR LUKE SCOTT". They did, and he lasted all of 1 month in the bigs.

Hunter Pence was an afterthought going into '07 ST. He's currently going absolutely nuts....

Here's Gar's take, in essense " It's early, everybody needs to calm the hell down.":

"For young hitters, and particularly for a guy like him, it's in his favor. Pitchers aren't locating as well as they will, their breaking balls aren't as sharp as they are. It might very well be that when everybody's on track, he may be doing the same thing. But we do know pitchers get sharper. Spring Training is not a true test, although it's a good test to see what a young man can do. Certainly, he's doing very well right now."

The fans - helped in no small part by mediots like Charlie Palillo - always have their shiny new plaything that's going to solve all the team's problems. If they're successful, it's "I told you so". When they're not, well, let's just forget about that. Last year, it was Jason Hirsh, Ben Zobrist & Hunter Pence. Two of those 3 got their shot, how'd that turn out? Before that, it was Chris Burke & Luke Scott. How'd they do in '05? Combined to hit about .230. Before that, the guy that the Astros "HAVE TO FIND A SPOT FOR", was...wait for it...Jason Lane, who now "HAS TO BE RELEASED".

There's a certain swarthy mediterranean fellow on the Rockets who fits the mold as well.

Wheels on the bus go round & round...

Bucky, Bucky, Bucky! You sir, seem to undervalue the benefit a short stint in the majors can do for a young player. While it may not seem so from an initial statistical side, a second go round can become much more successful given a players familiarity with many of the elements associated with the big's.

Scott, for instance, talked about how overwhelmed he was on his first go round. It was all in his head, he was in the majors and couldn't piss without hitting his shoes. However, after going through a battle in the minors, he made the most of his opportunity the second time around. He was more comfortable and just playing the game he loved.

I'm not saying Pence has automatically earned a spot, but I am for him staying up if he continues to hit. Even if he doesn't pan out in the first go round, he will and we will, be better served the next time he's up.

[Buck Turgidson]

I'm not saying Pence has automatically earned a spot, but I am for him staying up if he continues to hit. Even if he doesn't pan out in the first go round, he will and we will, be better served the next time he's up.
So what do they do with Scott, the guy who's already been through that learning period you're emphasizing?

What happens if Burke gets hurt? You've got a kid sitting on the bench who's never played CF outside of summer ball as your starting CFer - during the season, in a likely pennant race. Talk about being overwhelmed.

Having Hunter Pence sit on the bench as their 4th OF would be the absolute worst thing they could do for the kid. They need somebody on the bench with some RH pop to go along with Lamb & the contact guys (OP & Loretta). Lane could be perfect for that role. Pence is not. No rookie is.

Let Pence play CF in AAA every day, if Burke/Scott/Lane fall on their face, there he is.

[studogg]

So what do they do with Scott, the guy who's already been through that learning period you're emphasizing?

What happens if Burke gets hurt? You've got a kid sitting on the bench who's never played CF outside of summer ball as your starting CFer - during the season, in a likely pennant race. Talk about being overwhelmed.

Having Hunter Pence sit on the bench as their 4th OF would be the absolute worst thing they could do for the kid. They need somebody on the bench with some RH pop to go along with Lamb & the contact guys (OP & Loretta). Lane could be perfect for that role. Pence is not. No rookie is.

Let Pence play CF in AAA every day, if Burke/Scott/Lane fall on their face, there he is.

First off, Scott has earned a spot. As a starter. Period.

In my mind, Burke has not earned that spot in center field. He is a mis-cast character being screwed by a player in his twilight trying to get a record. I am concerned that Burke's offense will be hurt because he will be struggling to keep up with the defense. And for what? So he can resume his career at second base next year? Thanks Buck, I missed out on the opportunity to season my next center fielder so you could season a stop gap.

I want Pence up if he hits. I want him getting spot starts in center and right. If he's overwhelmed, then send him back after a bit. And don't pull the "Lane is out of options, so if Pence is up, Lane is gone". Boo freakin Hoo. Lane has had one decent half season. Not even a full season. Some team may pick him up. Hopefully that team will be in the NL Central. That way, I can watch him walk with runners in scoring position and the catcher batting after him.

Let situation dictate your game plan. If we followed your rule with Bagwell, he'd have sat in triple A for a year learning to play first base.

[OldManBernie]

...
Let situation dictate your game plan. If we followed your rule with Bagwell, he'd have sat in triple A for a year learning to play first base.

I think Pence will be on the major league roster soon enough this season if he doesn't break camp with the team. It's a long season, and someone is bound to get injured (knock on wood). I'm pretty sure he'll be the first guy called up if he is hitting well in AAA.

[Major]

I want Pence up if he hits. I want him getting spot starts in center and right. If he's overwhelmed, then send him back after a bit.

If you bring him up, he has to play - full time. Unless he's destined to be a future pinch hitter / utility guy, you don't bring up young guys to have them sit. It's a waste for them - they need experience, not sitting around.

[Buck Turgidson]

You're comparing a 3rd baseman moving to first to a mostly LFer/1 year of RFer moving to center?

You might want to think about why that's a very poor comparison.

[studogg]

You're comparing a 3rd baseman moving to first to a mostly LFer/1 year of RFer moving to center?

You might want to think about why that's a very poor comparison.

so you dismiss the rest of my comment to pick on one point I was hesitant to include anyway? (obviously I'm not comparing Pence to Bagwell)

What about Burke's transition to center. You are completely ignoring that. He's had what, 20 games there? Coming up as a second baseman? You might want to rethink why that is such a good option.

[The Cat]

Jason Lane is 3-3 with a homer today. Chris Sampson pitched two shutout innings.

[bobrek]

...and Pence just hit a 2 run HR.

[Austin70]

...and Pence just hit a 2 run HR.

I am ready to see this guy everyday, I just don't want it to be to soon.

[texanskan]

LOL, I am hearing Rich Lord go freaking nuts!

Pretty soon we will hear "keep hope alive!!"

[russian88]

Great day for lane, pence and sampson. Nats however, smoked us.

Clemens shows up to watch his butt buddy, pitch last night and it's all over hells' creation.

[Rule0001]

Clemens shows up to watch his butt buddy, pitch last night and it's all over hells' creation.


I was kinda hoping Clemens would suit up and come in for relief of Andy. :(

[bobrek]

Pence's average has dropped today. He is only 2-3 with a double and an RBI.

[rezdawg]

Anyone still terrified when Lidge takes the mound? Gave up a home run today...and that lowered his era for the spring. Not sure what it is, but I really dont want that guy anywhere near the mound. He stresses me out.

[AzCkR]

Nick, or anyone else who has been to Spring Training, I'm planning on heading down to Orlando on Friday to catch the Stros play the Yanks. What's the best way to get tickets? I heard that you can't just show up and buy tickets.

[Nick]

Nick, or anyone else who has been to Spring Training, I'm planning on heading down to Orlando on Friday to catch the Stros play the Yanks. What's the best way to get tickets? I heard that you can't just show up and buy tickets.

They had signs up everywhere saying that game was sold out... but I would call some ticket brokers in the area.

Also, we were propositioned more than once by scalpers in the parking lot before the Mets game (and that game was sold out)... but you probably wouldn't want to wait till the day of the game, given the amount of Yankees fans in the area.

[DaDakota]

Anyone still terrified when Lidge takes the mound? Gave up a home run today...and that lowered his era for the spring. Not sure what it is, but I really dont want that guy anywhere near the mound. He stresses me out.


I would pay more attention to the end of spring training, I think he is trying new pitches and working on things rather than trying to lock it down.

If he is still giving up taters in the last week of spring training, I will join you on the worry wagon.

DD

[DaDakota]

They had signs up everywhere saying that game was sold out... but I would call some ticket brokers in the area.

Also, we were propositioned more than once by scalpers in the parking lot before the Mets game (and that game was sold out)... but you probably wouldn't want to wait till the day of the game, given the amount of Yankees fans in the area.


Damn Yankees !!!


How did Luke Scott look? With Pence blowing up and Lane having a fine spring, Luke needs to get busy.

DD

[The Cat]

Damn Yankees !!!


How did Luke Scott look? With Pence blowing up and Lane having a fine spring, Luke needs to get busy.

DD

Scott's doing fine... average .294, OBP of .400 and SLG of .529. While I think it's unlikely, if anyone needs to worry it's Chris Burke, considering that the Astros organization has repeatedly referred to Pence as a CF, and Burke is hitting .080.

Of course, all of these numbers are at 25 AB and under, so they're pretty meaningless.

[rikesh316]

I agree, Scott has the edge over Burke if Pence makes the opening day lineup. Burke isn't a great outfielder yet and he has to prove he can stay healthy a whole year which he has yet to do. Also remember the more playing time Burke has been giving over the years, the less production you get from him.

[AzCkR]

They had signs up everywhere saying that game was sold out... but I would call some ticket brokers in the area.

Also, we were propositioned more than once by scalpers in the parking lot before the Mets game (and that game was sold out)... but you probably wouldn't want to wait till the day of the game, given the amount of Yankees fans in the area.

Thanks Nick. I looked on ebay and there's a few options there. Will I still have a decent view of the game if I get tickets on the second level of one of the lines? That's pretty much all that's left on ebay that fits under my budget.

[arkoe]

I see the Astros have already given up on Holdzkom, the Rule V draft pick from the Cubs.

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070310&content_id=1837058&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou

That opens a roster spot back up that I wasn't expecting to be there. Pence, perhaps?

[Nick]

Thanks Nick. I looked on ebay and there's a few options there. Will I still have a decent view of the game if I get tickets on the second level of one of the lines? That's pretty much all that's left on ebay that fits under my budget.

Dude... spring training is like watching a little league game. You'll be AMAZED at how small/intimate the stadium is (and how you're literally hearing conversations amongst the players/coaches).

IOW, there's not a bad seat in the house, even if the game is sold out (otherwise I would recommend moving down and finding a seat behind the dugout, as the old people tend to stay under the shaded seats towards the back).

That was the best part about seeing the Mets game (sold out) vs. the Nationals game... the Nats game was almost like attending a major league fantasy camp (from watching Oswalt warm up in the bullpen RIGHT NEXT to him, sitting behind the dugout, hearing the ump have conversations with Ausmus, having players toss you the ball after the end of innings... it was awesome).

[russian88]

Where is Woody?

[Roxfan73]

Woody is rehabbing a sore elbow:

Link (http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/sports/4620660.html)

Astros' Williams says elbow is improving
Moehler looks good as team beats Devil Rays in St. Petersburg


By JOSE DE JESUS ORTIZ
Copyright 2007 Houston Chronicle


KISSIMMEE, Fla. — Astros righthander Woody Williams, who is making progress with the elbow tenderness he has had this spring, threw four scoreless innings against Astros minor leaguers Sunday at Osceola County Stadium.

"I felt better, getting there," Williams said. "It's not obviously right where I want to be yet. I still have a few more outings. Every time is better and better."

He and catcher Brad Ausmus benefited from working together.

"The big thing for Woody and I was to get acquainted with each other in a game situation, get our signals straight," Ausmus said. "I need to get an understanding how he likes to pitch, how he likes to attack hitters. So we accomplished that."

Williams struck out four and walked one while giving up only one hit. He also had an RBI single. He would like to work on throwing his cutters to righthanded hitters.

"I'm still not reaching out and finishing it like I need to," he said of his cutter to righthanders. "I'm just kind of leaving it in the middle of the plate instead of in the corner. I think I'm getting real close with arm strength. I haven't seen any numbers. As far as (that) the hitters will let you know."

In Sunday's spring training game, righthander Brian Moehler threw four scoreless innings against the Tampa Bay Devil Rays on Sunday in St. Petersburg, Fla.

Moehler gave up one hit and a walk and struck out three in the 5-3 victory.

Mike Lamb was 2-for-2 with three RBIs. Charlton Jimerson was 2-for-2 with two doubles.

Mike Rodriguez was 2-for-4. Hunter Pence went 0-for-2.

Paul Estrada gave up three unearned runs. Trever Miller (one inning), Ezequiel Astacio (two innings) and Jimmy Barthmaier (one inning) pitched scoreless innings.

Astacio has thrown four scoreless innings this spring.

[Austin70]

Wow, Burke is really hurting. 0 for 4 today and batting .065 for the spring. I really hope he finds his bat. Maybe he is pressing so hard because of all this talk about Pence.

[Nick]

Wow, Burke is really hurting. 0 for 4 today and batting .065 for the spring. I really hope he finds his bat. Maybe he is pressing so hard because of all this talk about Pence.

Or maybe spring sample sizes are way too small to make a decision about a player one way or the other... Burke shouldn't have to press right now, the organization is having him in CF to START the season no matter what else happens.

If he (and the team) is struggling with offense by the end of April/May... changes will be made. We all know that its never too late in baseball.

[xiki]

Or maybe spring sample sizes are way too small to make a decision about a player one way or the other... Burke shouldn't have to press right now, the organization is having him in CF to START the season no matter what else happens.

If he (and the team) is struggling with offense by the end of April/May... changes will be made. We all know that its never too late in baseball.

There are just so many hits in a bat. It's always a shame to waste them in March.

Baseball is the quintessential law of averages game.

[russian88]

todays game against atlanta is on FSN :p

[Major]

Baseball is the quintessential law of averages game.

Except it's not a law-of-averages game in the sense you're thinking. A hot streak doesn't mean you'll have a counteracting slump. Past performance has no impact on future performance. It's just that over a large sample size, you're going to regress to the mean because your future performance will be average.

For example, if you're a 0.300 batter, and you bat 0.400 for a month, it doesn't mean you're going to bat under 0.300 down the line to get to 0.300. It means you'll still be projected to bat 0.300 in the future, and as that becomes a bigger part of your season, you'll regress back towards 0.300.

That's not to say you won't have slumps, but they aren't correlated in any way to the hot streak. If you have a slump in May, you would have had that slump whether you bat 0.400 in April or 0.200.

[DaDakota]

Except it's not a law-of-averages game in the sense you're thinking. A hot streak doesn't mean you'll have a counteracting slump. Past performance has no impact on future performance. It's just that over a large sample size, you're going to regress to the mean because your future performance will be average.

For example, if you're a 0.300 batter, and you bat 0.400 for a month, it doesn't mean you're going to bat under 0.300 down the line to get to 0.300. It means you'll still be projected to bat 0.300 in the future, and as that becomes a bigger part of your season, you'll regress back towards 0.300.

That's not to say you won't have slumps, but they aren't correlated in any way to the hot streak. If you have a slump in May, you would have had that slump whether you bat 0.400 in April or 0.200.

That hurts my brain to think about...

:D

DD

[Buck Turgidson]

I see the Astros have already given up on Holdzkom, the Rule V draft pick from the Cubs.

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070310&content_id=1837058&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou

That opens a roster spot back up that I wasn't expecting to be there. Pence, perhaps?
There was still a chance the Stros could have kept him, but the Cubs took him back yesterday & sent him to their AAA team.

[Buck Turgidson]

Decent little article on NRI's by Jim Molony, with a couple of Astros mentioned.

Under 5 NRI's to watch:

Rick White, Astros. The Astros are looking for someone to take over the role held by Russ Springer last year. White could be the situational right-hander with experience to fill the bill and has impressed the staff this spring.

There is an obligatory Hunter Pence blurb as well.

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070312&content_id=1840053&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp

Mohler has also looked good this spring.

[Nick]

Just so you guys know, tonight's game is on FSN-Houston at 6pm.

Oswalt vs. Hudson

[rikesh316]

Decent little article on NRI's by Jim Molony, with a couple of Astros mentioned.

Under 5 NRI's to watch:

Rick White, Astros. The Astros are looking for someone to take over the role held by Russ Springer last year. White could be the situational right-hander with experience to fill the bill and has impressed the staff this spring.

There is an obligatory Hunter Pence blurb as well.

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070312&content_id=1840053&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp

Mohler has also looked good this spring.

Rich White will make the team IMO. He is a decent pitcher who is can pitch 2 innings something Springer couldn't do. If Moheler pitches like he did last game, he also could make the team as a reliever. I don't see him the rotation because the rotation seems to already filled with Nieve and Wandy at the end. If the Stros carry 12 pitchers, I think they Jennings, Lidge, Miller, Nieve, Oswalt, Qualls, Rodriguez, Sampson, Wheeler, White, and Williams will be locks. That leaves one spot for Borkowski, Albers, Estrada, McLemore, and Sauerbeck. Borkowski may have the edge because of last year but he is easily replaceable with Sampson and White. Estrada and Albers are better served in the minors where they will get consist innings, and Sauerbeck has been horrible this ST. That leaves it between McLemore and Moheler. Garner said he would like a 2nd lefty in the pen and McLemore fits the bill and he has good stuff but it always injured. Moheler was horrible last year but was coming back from Tommy John.

[No Worries]

My guess at the 12 pitchers is :

Starting
Oswalt
Jennings
Williams
Rodriguez
Nieve

Short Relief
Lidge
Wheeler
Qualls
Miller

Long Relief
Sampson
Moheler
White

[Nick]

Tonight's lineup SHOULD be our opening day lineup (if all goes to form)...

Biggio
Burke
Berkman
Lee
Ensberg
Scott
Everett
Ausmus
Oswalt

Again, game is on FSN... but you have to listen to the Braves announcers (talk non-stop about how optimistic they are about every single braves player).

[Bobblehead]

This is my first look at the Stros this season and I like seeing Carlos Lee in the uni. He hit a nice RBI double in the 1st.
Oswalt also looks pretty strong.
Nice triple by Luke also.
Good the see the good guys on the tube again.

[BrieflySpeaking]

hell yeah astros on tv

[BigM]

braves announcers suck.

[deadlybulb]

Man! I didn't realize Woody was that old.

[JunkyardDwg]

This is the first time I've gotten to see Pence in action...I like this guy, but I'm still betting it's better to put him in AAA to start the season because barring injury Burke will be in CF and most likely Scott in rf; but you can bet Pence will be brought up before the season is over. I'm guessin if not sooner (should Scott or Burke falter), he'll be brought up to play cf after Biggio reaches 3,000 (and if he fades).

[Nick]

Here's a thought... if Pence is truly ready (which is still a huge assumption)... what could the $100 million could have bought us had we not given it to Carlos Lee?

I guess it's just short-sighted thinking since Pence is the CF at the latest by next year... and they'd still need another OF if they didn't have Lee and Burke moves to 2B... but its still interesting to ponder.

[LonghornFan]

Loved that ninth inning.

[BrieflySpeaking]

Pence swings haaard

[rezdawg]

Yes, I know that in spring training, pitchers work on their pitches...but damn, I'd like for Lidge not to give up a run every time he steps on that mound. I hate that guy.

[BrieflySpeaking]

Lidge is going to have a horrible season again, i can just sense it, but lets hope not :(

[Nick]

Lidge is going to have a horrible season again, i can just sense it, but lets hope not :(

What else are you sensing, nostradamus?

[BrieflySpeaking]

What else are you sensing, nostradamus?
that the Astros are going all the way :cool: oh and that tomorrow you'll have a bad day at work lol

[Bobblehead]

What else are you sensing, nostradamus?

That Pupura stinks.....damn little penguin

http://img40.imageshack.us/img40/5288/purpenguin8ex.jpg

[NJRocket]

Went to the Cardinals spring training complex and saw a couple games this week....wanted to go to the Astros but it was just too far. I'll tell ya...if you have never been to Roger Dean Stadium (its in Jupiter Fla and they actually share it with the Marlins)...its a great place.

They've got tickets on sale for the "berm" on game day...its a grassy knoll (similar to the one on the Zepruder films) where they rope off the front section for kids under 12 only. My kid got to sit on the edge of the wall in right field directly behind the bench where the bullpen pitchers sit and they all sign autographs in between innings. He was wearing an Astros hat and his Lidge jersey so guess who was the first guy to come up to him.....Springer!

Anyway...got lots of sigs and 3 or 4 balls that the players toss up to the kids...a lot of fun even if it was the Cards.

[Buck Turgidson]

Rich White will make the team IMO.
I think so as well, if only to start the season. Let Estrada close in RR, kid is very impressive though.

I thought McLemore might be a dark horse to make the squad, but I'm guessing they want him to pitch more regularly, build up his arm, and make sure that his injury is behind him.

McLemore, Josh Anderson & Mike Rodriguez were optioned to AAA, Kevin Davidson (journeyman, camp fodder, future coach) was reassigned to somewhere.

http://houston.astros.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20070314&content_id=1842445&vkey=spt2007news&fext=.jsp&c_id=hou

Sauerbeck has shown next to nothing, I really like Albers as a starter, let him & Gutierrez (and maybe Patton) head up a strooooong RR rotation, see what the team's needs are in June.

I like your list, No Worries. If they go with 12 pitchers, I'd imagine it's down to Mohler & Bork for the last spot.

[macalu]

This is my first look at the Stros this season and I like seeing Carlos Lee in the uni. He hit a nice RBI double in the 1st.
Oswalt also looks pretty strong.
Nice triple by Luke also.
Good the see the good guys on the tube again.

first time i saw Lee too. can someone introduce him to a salad? preferably one that doesn't start with 'taco'.

[Buck Turgidson]

first time i saw Lee too. can someone introduce him to a salad? preferably one that doesn't start with 'taco'.
Dude is not a fatass. Dude is big. Dude has been big ever since he came into the league. Dude has averaged double digit steals since he came into the league. Dude is not slow. Dude is not a terrible outfielder. Dude is not a fatass. Dude can rake. Dude is not going to change.

[Roxfan73]

Corky Burke really had a nice game: 2-2 with a homer. He was batting .059 coming into today's game. Nice to see him get his stroke going.

[BigM]

first time i saw Lee too. can someone introduce him to a salad? preferably one that doesn't start with 'taco'.


lee = big
purpura = fat

:)

[leroy420]

From the FWIW Department...

The ESPN Radio Sportscenter update mentioned that the Red Sox are not pleased with their closer candidates and have contacted the Astros, again, about Brad Lidge.

[rezdawg]

The ESPN Radio Sportscenter update mentioned that the Red Sox are not pleased with their closer candidates and have contacted the Astros, again, about Brad Lidge.

Great news!

[Roxfan73]

Lidge and AE for Beckett and Big Papi. Make it happen. Papi can play SS.

[jopatmc]

From the FWIW Department...

The ESPN Radio Sportscenter update mentioned that the Red Sox are not pleased with their closer candidates and have contacted the Astros, again, about Brad Lidge.

Who they got to deal?

[macalu]

Dude is not a fatass. Dude is big. Dude has been big ever since he came into the league. Dude has averaged double digit steals since he came into the league. Dude is not slow. Dude is not a terrible outfielder. Dude is not a fatass. Dude can rake. Dude is not going to change.

i always knew he was big but dayum. it sure doesn't look like it's not fat.

[Joshfast]

Dude is not a fatass. Dude is big. Dude has been big ever since he came into the league. Dude has averaged double digit steals since he came into the league. Dude is not slow. Dude is not a terrible outfielder. Dude is not a fatass. Dude can rake. Dude is not going to change.

but can the Dude bowl?

http://img252.imageshack.us/img252/6775/waltercanxc0.jpg

[Bobblehead]

Can he sing?
Not like Puma!!!
http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/7575/fatelvisox3.jpg

[Hmm]

Can he sing?
Not like Puma!!!
http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/7575/fatelvisox3.jpg

"Laaawd, aaalllmiiiiiiighty! I feeel my teeeemperature.. RIIISSiiN' !"

[NJRocket]

From the FWIW Department...

The ESPN Radio Sportscenter update mentioned that the Red Sox are not pleased with their closer candidates and have contacted the Astros, again, about Brad Lidge.

on Gammons' blog, he mentioned Qualls...not Lidge

[russian88]

Wandy is going to be a blood pressure pitcher.....he is NEVER easy to watch.

[No Worries]

on Gammons' blog, ...
Ahh, a fictional account. ;)

[rikesh316]

Wandy still stinks. He had 5 walks 3.2 innings today and allowed 5 hits and 5 runs against a Marlins team without Caberera and Jacobs. I bet he still is lock to make the rotation. My rotation would be Oswalt, Jennings, Williams, Sampson, Nieve. I don't understand why Chris Sampson is not getting a real shot and the rotation. He hasn't started a game this spring so I guess they view him a bullpen arm. I like the fact they moved Ezequiel Astacio to the pen. He always had a good arm and good stuff.

[macalu]

Wandy still stinks. He had 5 walks 3.2 innings today and allowed 5 hits and 5 runs against a Marlins team without Caberera and Jacobs. I bet he still is lock to make the rotation. My rotation would be Oswalt, Jennings, Williams, Sampson, Nieve. I don't understand why Chris Sampson is not getting a real shot and the rotation. He hasn't started a game this spring so I guess they view him a bullpen arm. I like the fact they moved Ezequiel Astacio to the pen. He always had a good arm and good stuff.

b/c the astros seem to have some kind of seniority complex. no matter how much you suck, if you were here longer than the other guy, you got the job.

[sonique15]

Lidge's spring is concerning me a little....especially after a season like last year....i hope he turns it around and gets out of this funk....his ERA for the spring is 13.50...

[rikesh316]

Lidge's spring is concerning me a little....especially after a season like last year....i hope he turns it around and gets out of this funk....his ERA for the spring is 13.50...

I doubt he ever comes around with the Astros. I saw him pitch Tuesday and he looked like he did last year. No control, sliders are hanging, fastball are up. Wheeler should be the closer and Wandy should be in Round Rock.

[rezdawg]

I hate Lidge.

[russian88]

Lidge needs to be traded along with wandy. Lidge is just pathetic right now.

[BrieflySpeaking]

trade Lidge for some starting pitching!

[RocketManJosh]

If Lidge can't prove in Spring that he deserves the closers role then it is Garners responsibility to do whats best for the team. If he sticks to his stubborn ways like he did last year, it will be his job that he is hanging on the line.

[Bobblehead]

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/2453/loserlidgebu8.jpg

[redgoose]

Trade Lidge for Carr! They're both shell shocked! However, I don't think Drayton would take on the salary and the Texans wouldn't want the cap hit.

But you can trade Lidge to the Sox for the curse of the Bambino or a case of baseballs that would have gone into the Crawford boxes anyway. Then have one of our 2 farm stud pitchers close rather than start in the minors since Wandy somehow always gets a spot in the rotation.

Just make sure Adam Everett is included somehow included in the trade, even if we have to bring back Lugo and hire extra security to break up fights between him and his wife in the parking lot occasionally.

[JunkyardDwg]

I'll resere to make a judgement on Lidge until he sees some real action in the regular season, I'd imagine Gar will have him on a short leash. But until I actually hear some direct news regarding his situation, it's really hard to get a guage on what is going on with him.

[BigM]

i heard garner saying nieve was competing for the 5th spot which i guess implies that the 4th is already wandy's. how disgusting is that. it really pisses me off that sampson isn't given a shot to be a starter. he doesn't have electric stuff and he has a small sample size of major league work, but he's done nothing but produce.

[NJRocket]

I'd like to give Lidge the benefit of the doubt seeing as how he is experimenting with his cutter and not using the slider as much...but he needs to make some serious strides over the next 2 weeks or else we could be in trouble. I wonder if Lidge and Luke could fetch us a starter good enough to push Woody to the 4 spot.

[DaDakota]

Brad Lidge = Rick Ankiel

[Austin70]

It seems like Brad Lidge was at the top of the mountain at the 2005 all-star game, striking out the sides in like 11 pitches. Then he slowly started to lose it.

[Nick]

Brad Lidge = Rick Ankiel

Not even close. I was in St. Louis when Ankiel's meltdown started... the kid was 21 years old, a lefty, DOMINATING down the stretch run, ready to summon the ghosts of Koufax/Spahn/Grove/Ford all in one... and BOOM.

Could not find the plate AT ALL during a first round playoff game (actually, that's putting it lightly... he was throwing to the backstop). Then, does the same thing against the Mets in the NL freaking CS.

Then, a tommy john surgery later, he's an outfielder.

Let Lidge experiment with his cutter all he wants... but in the end, he needs to get back to harnessing the slider/not overthrowing.

[DaDakota]

Not even close. I was in St. Louis when Ankiel's meltdown started... the kid was 21 years old, a lefty, DOMINATING down the stretch run, ready to summon the ghosts of Koufax/Spahn/Grove/Ford all in one... and BOOM.

Could not find the plate AT ALL during a first round playoff game (actually, that's putting it lightly... he was throwing to the backstop). Then, does the same thing against the Mets in the NL freaking CS.

Then, a tommy john surgery later, he's an outfielder.

Let Lidge experiment with his cutter all he wants... but in the end, he needs to get back to harnessing the slider/not overthrowing.

Nick, it was more of a metaphor than a one on one comparison.

But, Lidge's biggest issue is his lack of control on his fastball. He has not been able to locate it down in the strike zone like he used to.

I understand he is experimenting with a cutter.....he used to have a great curveball...I wonder why he is not using that? Seems that would be better than a cutter...he needs an offspeed pitch.

DD

[Roxfan73]

BP writer Will Carroll thinks Lidge may have elbow problems:

"I can't tell you what's going on in his head, but I am worried about what's going on in his elbow. Lidge's come-and-go control smells like the beginnings of elbow trouble, and his recent mechanical adjustments didn't help. A new pitching coach, Dave Wallace, is tasked with fixing Lidge. That's going to be a tall order."

Link (http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=5934)

[russian88]

Biggio having a rough day in the field, 3-0 skanks.

[JunkyardDwg]

i heard garner saying nieve was competing for the 5th spot which i guess implies that the 4th is already wandy's. how disgusting is that. it really pisses me off that sampson isn't given a shot to be a starter. he doesn't have electric stuff and he has a small sample size of major league work, but he's done nothing but produce.


Without Wandy, we don't have a lefty in the rotation; So I'm guessing that's why he continues to have his chances. But then you have to ask yourself, is having a lefty with experience who is prone to the big inning and has confidence issues better than a righty with little experience but has shown some good stuff in the time he's been here?

[russian88]

Sampson looks good in relief of Woody. 5k's no runs

[jopatmc]

Sampson looks good in relief of Woody. 5k's no runs

Sampson should be #4 of #5. Forget all that Wandy lefty mess. What good is a lefty if they have an era of 6?

[NJRocket]

Sampson should be #4 of #5. Forget all that Wandy lefty mess. What good is a lefty if they have an era of 6?


not to mention....we dont exactly play in the most condusive park to lefties to begin with

[Bobblehead]

Why is Pence continously being used as a damn PH in these Spring Training games when Lane is getting 3ABs???? ARRRRHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!

[msn]

Even Pence is on record as saying he knows he's headed to ST and he's OK with that. It seems the only people outraged about Hunter Pence not starting April in the big leagues are fans and mediots.

[RocketManJosh]

This is why I didn't want Garner back at the end of the year last year. He is a great players coach and gets a lot out of his players because they know he believes in him. However, I think his stubbornness is his biggest downfall, and giving Wandy the 4 spot and Lidge the closers role with little to no questions asked to start this season is a huge disservice to the team.

He did it last year by sticking with Lidge way too long and countless other mistakes that pretty much all happen as a result of his being stubborn.

I respect him as a manager and I believe he is a great guy, but he has major downfalls IMO.

I hope everything works out great and Wandy and Lidge prove many of us wrong, but I'm not real confident in it. Time will tell, and I believe Garner is putting his job on the backs of Wandy and Lidge. Not the smartest move IMO.

[DaDakota]

Why is Pence continously being used as a damn PH in these Spring Training games when Lane is getting 3ABs???? ARRRRHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!


Cause the games don't matter and they are tying to find out if Lane can be a player again.

DD

[xiki]

Interesting note:

http://www.boston.com/sports/baseball/redsox/extras/askedes/03_16_07/

Gordo, Thanks for the update on Jonathan Papelbon's shoulder last week. Perhaps you should have become an orthopedic surgeon instead of a sports writer. My question now pertains to our closer situation, or lack thereof. I keep reading about the usual suspects: Mike Timlin, Brendan Donnelly, Julian Tavarez, and Joel Pineiro or going and getting Chad Cordero. Let's just trade Craig Hansen and Jon Lester or Manny Delcarmen for Brad Lidge and be done with it. Your thoughts?
Larry D., Allentown, Pa.

A: Nice strategy, Larry, except for one minor detail…the Sox asked about Lidge last winter, and were told the Astros aren't moving him.

[russian88]

I would love to have bobby cox as our manager. He starts rookies and minor leaguers, lol...

[Aceshigh7]

Wandy needs to be in the bullpen or AAA. He's never been any good for us.

Lidge need to be our closer, despite the knee jerk fans on this board. He's still one of the better closers in the league. He saved 11 out of 13 down the stretch last year after regaining the closers role. So he's having a bad spring, it's spring training after all. How bout waiting till the season freaking starts before piling on him?

[JunkyardDwg]

I don't think Garner is resting his future with the franchise on Wandy and Lidge...he can be stubborn, to a fault sometimes; but last year at least showed he was willing to move in a different direction for the sake of the team. Wandy has been in and out of the rotation, Lidge lost his job a few times; if either falter coming out of the gate they'll lose their job. The good thing about this club this year is that the club has a number of weapons. We don't have to ride guys simply because there is no else to replace them.

[RocketManJosh]

Wandy needs to be in the bullpen or AAA. He's never been any good for us.

Lidge need to be our closer, despite the knee jerk fans on this board. He's still one of the better closers in the league. He saved 11 out of 13 down the stretch last year after regaining the closers role. So he's having a bad spring, it's spring training after all. How bout waiting till the season freaking starts before piling on him?

Just because he got the saves doesn't mean he was doing well. Looking at ERA and WHIP are far better stats than saves or save percentages, and he was terrible all year last year. With Lidge its pretty easy to see how he is doing. If he is throwing strikes he'll be good, otherwise he'll be terrible. And I havn't seen him throw strikes consistently in over a year now.

[arkoe]

Just because he got the saves doesn't mean he was doing well. Looking at ERA and WHIP are far better stats than saves or save percentages, and he was terrible all year last year. With Lidge its pretty easy to see how he is doing. If he is throwing strikes he'll be good, otherwise he'll be terrible. And I havn't seen him throw strikes consistently in over a year now.

Agreed. We're way past knee jerk reactions here. He should be in the pen, but not as a closer for now.

[RocketManJosh]

Agreed. We're way past knee jerk reactions here. He should be in the pen, but not as a closer for now.

Definitely ... I think he is going to have to play a meaningful role in the pen for us to win this season. I just want to see him in the 6th, 7th inning role for a good month or two. If he does well, then hopefully his confidence will be built up, and he will be ready to go back into the closers role. Until he shows me he can throw strikes, I think we are playing with fire having him be the closer.

[Aceshigh7]

Just because he got the saves doesn't mean he was doing well. Looking at ERA and WHIP are far better stats than saves or save percentages, and he was terrible all year last year. With Lidge its pretty easy to see how he is doing. If he is throwing strikes he'll be good, otherwise he'll be terrible. And I havn't seen him throw strikes consistently in over a year now.

You must not have been watching down the stretch last season after Lidge started closing games again after being removed from the role. (Although Garner did not officially name him the closer again, he was the only one brought in to close each game). He was lights out again and very impressive for about 5 or 6 weeks. He saved 11 out of 13 in pretty dominating fashion. The slider had the movement. He was striking people out. He was throwing fewer balls.

Of course he ran into trouble in a couple of games after that stretch right near the end of the season and you guys just forget about the preceeding month and a half when he was Lights Out Lidge.

[arkoe]

He was shaky all year. And even if he was his old self for "11 of 13 games," which I never saw, that was less than a quarter of the games he was in last year. He's averaged a little over 70 games a year for the last four years. You want me to get hopeful over 11 games when he was in 70?

It looked like he was lucking out in those 11 games. He was walking people and creating pressure situations all by his lonesome.

[JunkyardDwg]

He saved 11 out of 13 in pretty dominating fashion.


See, if he was truly dominating and back to his old "Lights Out" self, we would have saved 13 of 13 games.

There was a stretch there after he essentially resumed the closer's role that he was performing well and LOOKED like he was on his way back up, but then he started struggling again. There was really no solid stretch of games the whole season where I think you could say that Lidge was back to his old self.

[Aceshigh7]

It looked like he was lucking out in those 11 games. He was walking people and creating pressure situations all by his lonesome.

Actually, you are wrong. During that stretch he was dominant. Generally retiring the side in order with a couple of K's, occasionally allowing one runner on and getting the next few guys out. His walks were way down. I attended every home game and watched all the road games on television. And yes, a 6 week period of excellence after his rough first half is very meaningful, expecially when the team was trying to get something started in regards to a playoff chase.

All it seems you remember is his first half and the last week of the season when he was struggling (even then he was getting the job done for the most part). How bout actually knowing what you're talking about before responding?

[DaDakota]

What exactly does 11 of 13 games mean anyway?

So, he was good for 11 but crap for 2?

You can't single out an 11 for 13 stretch....he stunk in 2 of them.

That is not dominant....that is pedestrian.

Lidge was shaky ALL YEAR long last year......and right now, confidence is NOT high in Lidge for 2007.

And it looks like Lane is struggling again as is Hidalgo, so Scott is probably safe as the starting RFer.


DD

[RocketManJosh]

All it seems you remember is his first half and the last week of the season when he was struggling (even then he was getting the job done for the most part). How bout actually knowing what you're talking about before responding?


Dude I watched 98% of the games last year and at no point did I feel he was back whatsoever. Your "first half and last week" are extreme exagerations. I remember where he put 2-3 games together. Then had a rough game or two (where he might have gotten the save). At no point did he put 11 straight good games together retiring the side in order.

[arkoe]

How bout actually knowing what you're talking about before responding?

This statement is funny for two reasons. First, people are agreeing with me and not with you on this matter. Second, people never agree with your opinons. So, who knows what they're talking about again?

[DaDakota]

Lane has crumbled back to about .260 now, and Scott is still hitting .300ish...while Hidalgo is around the Mendoza line.

Scott should lock up the starting RF spot fairly soon.


Did you guys see that Loretta started at SS today? I wonder if they are truly considering that because of Everett's horrid bat?

It would be nice to have an offensive player at SS and maybe put in Everett as a late inning replacement on some nights.

DD

[The Cat]

Did you guys see that Loretta started at SS today? I wonder if they are truly considering that because of Everett's horrid bat?

It would be nice to have an offensive player at SS and maybe put in Everett as a late inning replacement on some nights.

DD

Everett's had some back stiffness the last two days and sat out as a precaution. He's not going anywhere.

[DaDakota]

Everett's had some back stiffness the last two days and sat out as a precaution. He's not going anywhere.

I would like to see him replaced but if not permanently having someone that has an offensive game to give the team an option would be nice.

Can Loretta play SS? Or is he only a 2Bman?

DD

[armyman789]

Actually, you are wrong. During that stretch he was dominant. Generally retiring the side in order with a couple of K's, occasionally allowing one runner on and getting the next few guys out. His walks were way down. I attended every home game and watched all the road games on television. And yes, a 6 week period of excellence after his rough first half is very meaningful, expecially when the team was trying to get something started in regards to a playoff chase.

All it seems you remember is his first half and the last week of the season when he was struggling (even then he was getting the job done for the most part). How bout actually knowing what you're talking about before responding?
i remember that stretch he was dominant too. But they were all against crappy teams too lol.

[JunkyardDwg]

I would like to see him replaced but if not permanently having someone that has an offensive game to give the team an option would be nice.

Can Loretta play SS? Or is he only a 2Bman?

DD

Loretta can play all infield positions.

[DaDakota]

Loretta can play all infield positions.

Good, I wonder if the organization is thinking about replacing Everett at least some of the time with a more offensively gifted player?

I sure hope so as having Ausmus and Everett and the pitcher in the lineup everyday means that 33% of your at bats are easy outs...

DD

[The Cat]

Good, I wonder if the organization is thinking about replacing Everett at least some of the time with a more offensively gifted player?

I sure hope so as having Ausmus and Everett and the pitcher in the lineup everyday means that 33% of your at bats are easy outs...

DD

He might can technically play all infield positions, but he's played three games at SS since 2003. Given the lack of offensive productivity at that position, if he had it in him to be a regular SS, you can bet someone would've played him there. Also, his range seemed to decrease significantly at 2B last season. He might can play there in a pinch - maybe a game a week if we get lucky - but under no circumstances is Loretta a realistic starting option at SS.

[JunkyardDwg]

Everett will be the mainstay at SS to be sure...but I know Garner has mentioned givng Loretta plenty of playing time and at bats and essentially using him all around the infield, not just at second base.

[RocketFan007]

Roy O with 5 no hit innings today. A hit batter was his only blemish.

[BrieflySpeaking]

whats the score

[Houston Native]

whats the score
Right now, Stros 4 Toronto 3, end of 6th.

[russian88]

4-3 final Stros

Roy O threw only 50 pitches through 5 innings and allowed no runs. He was also throwing his "new" changeup. Lee drove in 2 RBI's.

[TMac640]

i remember that stretch he was dominant too. But they were all against crappy teams too lol.

yeah, i'm not sure how dominant you can be against the elite junior high teams such as the Pittsburgh Pirates lol

[Buck Turgidson]

Miguel Asencio was optioned to AAA, Scott Sauerbeck was sent to minor league camp. More roster moves later today, per the broadcast.

Lane hit a bomb in the 2nd off Scott Olsen, Nieve pitched well.

[Buck Turgidson]

Lane just hit his 2nd bomb of the day. 3 run job off Mike Koplove, 4-1 Stros.

[AzCkR]

Miguel Asencio was optioned to AAA, Scott Sauerbeck was sent to minor league camp. More roster moves later today, per the broadcast.

Lane hit a bomb in the 2nd off Scott Olsen, Nieve pitched well.

Are these the only roster moves that have been made so far, aside from offering our rule 5 pick back to the Cubs?

[Buck Turgidson]

Are these the only roster moves that have been made so far, aside from offering our rule 5 pick back to the Cubs?
No, they've sent a dozen or so guys to minor league camp.

Rick White went another 2 scoreless innings today (10 scoreless total this spring) against the Fish regulars. He's pretty much secured his spot in the bully, I'd think. If I were Bork, I'd be nervous.

[white lightning]

5 HRs for Lane so far this Spring. Seems he'll make the team, or maybe he upped his trade value enough to get something back for him.

[studogg]

5 HRs for Lane so far this Spring. Seems he'll make the team, or maybe he upped his trade value enough to get something back for him.

Few things (in regards to the Astros) scare me more than Lane having a good spring. I just don't think he's a major league player. His mentality and skillset caps at AAA.

On Friday, 610 ran a sound bite from Lane where he intimated that he was a scapegoat last year, and that if you looked at his numbers, his production was on par with the previous year. He was completely oblivious to the fact that his strikeouts were up, and power production was down coupled with the fact that he couldn't hit the side of a barn. But, oh yeah, his walks were up.

[Aceshigh7]

Few things (in regards to the Astros) scare me more than Lane having a good spring. I just don't think he's a major league player. His mentality and skillset caps at AAA.

On Friday, 610 ran a sound bite from Lane where he intimated that he was a scapegoat last year, and that if you looked at his numbers, his production was on par with the previous year. He was completely oblivious to the fact that his strikeouts were up, and power production was down coupled with the fact that he couldn't hit the side of a barn. But, oh yeah, his walks were up.

His power production wasn't down. He got far fewer AB's last season.

In effect, he's right though. He struggled and shortly thereafter he started being yanked in and out of the lineup, never knowing when he's going to get playing time. Pretty hard to work your way out of a slump when the leash is that short.

Ensberg on the other hand stunk it up and they kept trotting him out there time and time again before they finally started benching him. He was given far more time than Lane.

[studogg]

His power production wasn't down. He got far fewer AB's last season.

recheck his slugging pct.

[Aceshigh7]

He had a sucky season, but his power numbers were NOT down.

2005

517 AB 26HR 78 RBI

2006

288 AB 15HR 48 RBI

[studogg]

slugging percentage (which I find to be more reliable than just hr's) went from .499 down to .392. His swing was just horrible, but he was still powerful enough that when he did make contact, he hit some out.

[The Cat]

His power production wasn't down. He got far fewer AB's last season.

In effect, he's right though. He struggled and shortly thereafter he started being yanked in and out of the lineup, never knowing when he's going to get playing time. Pretty hard to work your way out of a slump when the leash is that short.

Ensberg on the other hand stunk it up and they kept trotting him out there time and time again before they finally started benching him. He was given far more time than Lane.

Of course, "stinking it up" with an OPS of .850+ is very different from "stinking it up" with an OPS of .710.

[Buck Turgidson]

More roster moves later today, per the broadcast.
Lou Santangello, Pah-ool Estrada, and Brooks Conrad were also reassigned to minor league camp.

[The Cat]

Pretty bold statements from Purpura:

"I was asked about Lidge the other day by a Boston scout," Astros general manager Tim Purpura told FOXSports.com on Sunday. "I didn't say, 'No.' I said, 'Hell no.'

"One of the main decisions we made going into the off-season was that we're going to keep our core (relievers) together. That hasn't changed."

So, not only is the right-handed Lidge off-limits to the Red Sox and other clubs, but so are righties Dan Wheeler and Chad Qualls and lefty Trever Miller.

"Everyone thinks they can pick our pockets," Purpura said. "We don't have any glaring needs that I would go out and trade those guys for. It's fools' gold. We're not going to do it. They're the strength of our team."

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6581210

[NJRocket]

Pretty bold statements from Purpura:



http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/6581210

No glaring needs? I'd say that if we could fetch a #2 or #3 starter for one of those guys, it would fill a need imo. Maybe he knows something we dont about Roger.

[Buck Turgidson]

No glaring needs? I'd say that if we could fetch a #2 or #3 starter for one of those guys, it would fill a need imo. Maybe he knows something we dont about Roger.
Not sure you could get a decent starter for Lidge/Wheels/Qualls. Don't think Roger factors in this early. Pretty sure, after this winter, Purp has a pretty good idea of what the market is for Lidge...hence the "pick our pockets" line".

Besides that, what decent starter is Boston willing to offer? All the rumors out of Boston mentioned minor league OFers. No thanks.

[DaDakota]

Fools gold?

What was Lidge's ERA last year? 6+?????

That is not fools gold, it is a fool who rides the train into the ground.

If someone offered something decent for Lidge, he should jump at it, specifically a good hitting SS or catcher.

DD

[VesceySux]

"I was asked about Lidge the other day by a Boston scout," Astros general manager Tim Purpura told FOXSports.com on Sunday. "I didn't say, 'No.' I said, 'Hell no.'

http://img117.imageshack.us/img117/112/freelidgekz7.jpg

Quick and dirty.

What? You know you were thinking the same thing.

[JunkyardDwg]

Fools gold?

What was Lidge's ERA last year? 6+?????

That is not fools gold, it is a fool who rides the train into the ground.

If someone offered something decent for Lidge, he should jump at it, specifically a good hitting SS or catcher.

DD

But then wouldn't we have a glaring hole in the bullpen? Yeah I know lidge was far from dominant last year, but the tandem of Qualls, Wheeler and Lidge still managed to do what their jobs required them of doing; and that's close games out. Despite Lidge's struggles, I don't know if I wanna mess with that success (however shaky) unless they were to find another setup man (and slide Wheeler into the closer's role) or closer.

[JunkyardDwg]

Not sure you could get a decent starter for Lidge/Wheels/Qualls. Don't think Roger factors in this early. Pretty sure, after this winter, Purp has a pretty good idea of what the market is for Lidge...hence the "pick our pockets" line".

Besides that, what decent starter is Boston willing to offer? All the rumors out of Boston mentioned minor league OFers. No thanks.


I think the "pick our pockets" line should defnitely not be overlooked. So teams have some interest in lidge, that doesn't mean his value is high enough to warrant getting anything substantial in return. And I'd rather the club keep him and allow him to try regain his dominance then to ship him off for pennies on the dollar.

[russian88]

Stros are on FSN tonight 6:05

And Matsuzaka pitches today against the buccos 12:05 (ESPN). I want to see what this overhyped pitcher has.....