[Official] Astros @ Rangers

[Castor27]

Remember, no PBP in these threads and keep the chatter on topic (if it is about something other than this series, talk about it in another thread).

5-16 Shawn Chacon, RHP (0-0, 3.53) vs. Sidney Ponson, RHP (2-0, 3.16) 7:05 on FSN

5-17 Roy Oswalt, RHP (4-3, 5.05) vs. Vicente Padilla, RHP (5-2, 3.23) 6:05 on FSN

5-18 Brandon Backe, RHP (2-5, 4.62) vs. Kason Gabbard, LHP (1-0, 2.12) 2:05 on FSN

[DaDakota]

LLL

RIP - Season over.

DD

[superden]

World Wide Web

cleeean sweep!

[MadMax]

Look at those Rangers' ERA's! Wow.

Wish I could make it up there for this series. Go 'stros!

[rrj_gamz]

Rangers still suck...WWW and I hope to catch sundays game...Suppose to be beautiful weather for baseball...

[H-Town Info]

LLL

RIP - Season over.

DD

you're the new richard justice on the BBS ;)

[shawn786]

We roll over the Rangers :cool:

W - W -W

[DaDakota]

you're the new richard justice on the BBS ;)

I have magical powers of prediction concerning the Astros.

DO NOT SCREW WITH A STREAK !!!!

DD

[david12sfa]

we take the series!

W-W-L

[DoitDickau]

Didn't want to start a new thread, but here is an article I stumbled across exploring the possibility of signing Freddy Garcia for the stretch drive.

http://www.newsday.com/sports/columnists/ny-spken115682238may11,0,5333829.column



The best remaining pitcher on the free-agent market is not David Wells, it's Freddy Garcia. The righthander, who had surgery to repair his throwing shoulder on Aug. 30, will step on the mound Thursday and begin the final laps to a return that should occur sometime around the All-Star break.

Garcia could have signed with a team last winter and received paychecks during his rehabilitation. But his agents, brothers Peter and Edward Greenberg and Chris Leible, wanted to follow the trend set by Roger Clemens in 2006 and 2007, and Garcia, financially secure, blessed that strategy.

"We felt it was going to be a better situation for him moving forward," Leible said Friday in a telephone interview. "People are a lot more interested, and there's greater need than in January or February. We're hoping he's going be a big help to somebody down the stretch."

At some point soon, Garcia, who turns 33 in June, will invite teams to watch him pitch near his Miami home. As long as he exhibits good health, he figures to set off a considerable battle for his services.

Ken Davidoff Ken Davidoff Bio | E-mail | Recent columns

True, Garcia put up terrible numbers for the Phillies last year, going 1-5 with a 5.90 ERA in 11 starts. But he tried to pitch through his shoulder discomfort. Garcia's body of work - he compiled 200 or more innings in 1999, then 2001-06 - displays his reliability.

Here's one space's list of Garcia's potential landing spots, starting with the most likely and in descending order.

1. Mets. They have an obvious spot for him in their starting rotation, even if and when Pedro Martinez returns. Garcia's agents also represent Jose Reyes and Johan Santana, so they have a healthy working relationship with the front office. Garcia visited with the Mets in spring training.

2. Braves. John Smoltz's short-term future as the team's closer creates room for Garcia. With the over-40 duo of Smoltz and Tom Glavine facing possible retirement at season's end, and with Mark Teixeira set to explore free agency, the Braves have incentive to go for it this year.

3. Tigers. The veteran-heavy Tigers are built to win now, and their starting pitching stinks. Tigers third baseman Carlos Guillen is very friendly with Garcia from their Seattle days.

4. Yankees. Will Brian Cashman bid high for Garcia like he did last year for Clemens? Or will he keep using young pitchers, emphasizing development over potential short-term gain?

5. Cardinals. If they remain in contention - and this wouldn't be the first time a team led by Tony La Russa and Dave Duncan surprised people - this would make plenty of sense for Garcia.

6. Red Sox. They, like the Mets, entertained Garcia in spring training. However, they have more starting pitching depth than the teams above them on this list.

7. Astros. They traded Garcia and Guillen for Randy Johnson in 1998, they're not bringing Clemens back and they're surprisingly competitive.

8. Mariners. Garcia had his finest years in Seattle. But will they even still be in the pennant race by the break?

[msn]

Look at those Rangers' ERA's! Wow.
Exactly my thought. (And I wonder what their WHIPs are.) I had to run to the standings to make sure they still suck. Could be a tough series; I hope the Astros at least take 2 of 3.

[Smacktle]

Until the Astros show me they can't hit and are in a slump, I pick em to win at least 2 outta 3.

I mean cmon! These are the Rangers we're talking about.

[kaleidosky]

WLW.. I have a feeling Padilla will have a big game

[GlassHalfFull]

I'm just excited about the normal game times. The west coast times were killing me.

Check out these stats for league leaders:

National League Hitting Stats - All Category Leaders, May 16, 2008

Batting Average (AVG)
Player Team POS AVG
1 C Jones ATL 3B .418
2 L Berkman HOU 1B .391
3 R Furcal LAD SS .366
4 A Pujols STL 1B .357
5 M Tejada HOU SS .343

Home Runs (HR)
Player Team POS HR
1 L Berkman HOU 1B 15
2 C Utley PHI 2B 14
3 D Uggla FLA 2B 12
4 C Jones ATL 3B 11
4 N McLouth PIT OF 11

Runs Batted In(RBI)
Player Team POS RBI
1 L Berkman HOU 1B 43
2 X Nady PIT OF 34
3 N McLouth PIT OF 33
4 3 tied with 32 Runs (R)
Player Team POS R
1 L Berkman HOU 1B 45
2 C Young ARI OF 37
3 R Furcal LAD SS 34
3 H Ramirez FLA SS 34
5 3 tied with 33

Hits (H)
Player Team POS H
1 C Jones ATL 3B 61
2 L Berkman HOU 1B 59
3 M Tejada HOU SS 57
4 G Atkins COL 3B 56
5 2 tied with 52

Stolen Bases (SB)
Player Team POS SB
1 M Bourn HOU OF 17
2 W Taveras OL OF 15
3 J Pierre LAD OF 14
4 H Ramirez FLA SS 13
5 J Reyes NYM SS 12



Doubles (2B)
Player Team POS 2B
1 L Berkman HOU 1B 16
2 R Braun MIL OF 14
2 T Glaus STL 3B 14
2 B McCann ATL C 14
2 X Nady PIT OF 14

Triples (3B)
Player Team POS 3B
1 S Drew ARI SS 5
1 J Reyes NYM SS 5
3 C Jackson ARI 1B 4
3 E Velez SF 2B 4
5 5 tied with 3
10 M Tejada HOU SS 2

Slugging Percentage(SLG)
Player Team POS SLG
1 L Berkman HOU 1B .808
2 C Jones ATL 3B .705
3 C Utley PHI 2B .665
4 D Uggla FLA 2B .646
5 N McLouth PIT OF .615



Woo Hoo!!!

[leroy420]

I'm just excited about the normal game times. The west coast times were killing me.

Other than a series @ Colorado in Sept, there will be no more west coast games for the rest of the season. Between the Rockets/Utah series and all of the Astros games @ NL West teams lately, I don't think I've gotten a full night's sleep in some time.

[GRENDAL]

Heading to the game tonite and tomorrow nite as well, hoping for a sweep!

[T Rex]

Astros shake up batting order, call up Nieve from AAA

The Astros called up righthander Fernando Nieve from Triple-A Round Rock today and moved right fielder Hunter Pence into the leadoff spot in the batting order.

Nieve, who was 3-3 with a 4.20 ERA for the Astros in 2006, was moved to the minor-league bullpen for the remainder of the 2008 season Tuesday because of breathing problems. He will replace injured reliever Geoff Geary, who left Thursday's game with a strained right groin, on the 40-man roster.

Pence, batting .286 with a .335 on-base percentage this season, will take the top spot in the order from centerfielder Michael Bourn, who will be moved to the No. 8 hole. Bourn has a .188 batting average in 144 plate appearances in 2008.

[htownballa23]

Astros shake up batting order, call up Nieve from AAA

The Astros called up righthander Fernando Nieve from Triple-A Round Rock today and moved right fielder Hunter Pence into the leadoff spot in the batting order.

Nieve, who was 3-3 with a 4.20 ERA for the Astros in 2006, was moved to the minor-league bullpen for the remainder of the 2008 season Tuesday because of breathing problems. He will replace injured reliever Geoff Geary, who left Thursday's game with a strained right groin, on the 40-man roster.

Pence, batting .286 with a .335 on-base percentage this season, will take the top spot in the order from centerfielder Michael Bourn, who will be moved to the No. 8 hole. Bourn has a .188 batting average in 144 plate appearances in 2008.

I thought Bourn might have another week or so at the starting spot, but this should work out good. Why not have Pence hit number 2 behind Matsui?

[DOMINATOR]

I thought Bourn might have another week or so at the starting spot, but this should work out good. Why not have Pence hit number 2 behind Matsui?
if he hits 2nd you will take the steal out of his game... but if you want matsui to steal from lead off you take pence out of his hitting game. pence just sucks in the 2 hole lol.

[H-Town Info]

I thought Bourn might have another week or so at the starting spot, but this should work out good. Why not have Pence hit number 2 behind Matsui?

did you see the first 2 weeks of the season with pence at 2 hole? You keep the lineup the same as much as possible. Keep the 2-5 guys comfortable.

[htownballa23]

did you see the first 2 weeks of the season with pence at 2 hole? You keep the lineup the same as much as possible. Keep the 2-5 guys comfortable.

Yeah, he was in a horrible slump. Probably would still have been if he was in the #1 or #6 hole. I just like the ability to steal bases with the leadoff man. Its not so much Pence hitting second, I just like Kaz to be first. From what I read though he is more comfortable in the 2 hole though.

[RocketFan007]

Moving a run producer like Pence to lead off is border line stupid. Lee now loses protection in the 5 hole and Pence has little chance to drive in runs.

[DOMINATOR]

Moving a run producer like Pence to lead off is border line stupid. Lee now loses protection in the 5 hole and Pence has little chance to drive in runs.
protection is overrated.

[AzCkR]

Can someone who has insider post the article Buster Onley wrote on Berkman?
Muchas gracias.

[stobbartjohn]

Another error by Kaz. We really can't afford that!

[stobbartjohn]

One of these days we won't spot our oppenents a few runs lead in the first innings

[Surfguy]

Another hole to crawl out of.

[stobbartjohn]

Kaz Matsui 3
Astros and Rangers 0

[T Rex]

The way we've been going lately, I don't think our offense really even starts trying until we get down a few runs.

How good of a pickup has Erstad been?

[rocketballin]

Wait until Josh Hamilton gets a hold of one... Don't underestimate the Rangers.. We have won our last 6 series

[rocketballin]

What did I tell you??

[H-Town Info]

Where's DD? I need his "game over astros" statement

[H-Town Info]

GAME OVER

[Uprising]

WOW. This is going to be another crazy comeback if it happens.

The Rangers just LOVE to rip apart our pitching.

[stobbartjohn]

Here we come again

[stobbartjohn]

Tieing run at the plate lol

[WhoMikeJames]

King of Comebacks: Houston Astros

[HAYJON02]

Lesson learned: DONT turn off the game until the score says FINAL.

[Surfguy]

Lee out at home plate again. NEVER SEND LEE!!!! ARGH!!!!

[WhoMikeJames]

AWW! Caballo comes up short of tieing.

[cardpire]

that's a shame. they got that ball in quickly and executed the relay to perfection. anybody would have been sent there, and anybody would have gotten smoked.

this is incredible though.

[Aceshigh7]

That was a horrible decision on the third base coach's part.

[HAYJON02]

Lee not fast man. But he big man. Big man hit ball hard.

I'm channel surfing hard between the stros and the celts. Good evening.

[v3.0]

whoa that 5th was GREAT! except for Lee lumbering to get tagged out at home

who is that 3rd base coach waving in Carlos Lee? :confused: :mad:

[codell]

Did Mansalino wave him in or did Lee run through the stop sign? I couldn't tell on the replay.

[stobbartjohn]

You guys do realise that Carlos was the RECORD BREAKING run there right?

Would have guaranteed ANOTHER no decision for Chacon lol

[stobbartjohn]

Wow! Did Michael Bourn just get a hit!?

[H-Town Info]

Almost gone by Towles

[cardpire]

Did Mansalino wave him in or did Lee run through the stop sign? I couldn't tell on the replay.


he got fired last season.

[v3.0]

damn forget the mom who's the hottie beside Pence's mom? :eek:

[H-Town Info]

damn forget the mom who's the hottie beside Pence's mom? :eek:

yea nice face but most likely some plastic in that chest area.

[Surfguy]

who's the chick sitting next to hunter's mom with the black hair and big boobs? :)

edit: i see we are thinking alike.

[Surfguy]

comeback is complete. new game now. how sweet it is!

[cardpire]

jesus what a f'in AB by matsui.

congrats to chacon on the record.

[H-Town Info]

I wish got Bourn got the other hit that was called an error.

Kazou, you're awesome

[cardpire]

wonder when the last time a team came back down 6 in consecutive games was.

hopefully we'll win and find out.

[WhoMikeJames]

Congrats Shawn Chacon. Broke the record for most consecutive starts to a season without a decision.

[RocketManJosh]

this is unbelievable! Go Stros!!!!!!!

[v3.0]

yea nice face but most likely some plastic in that chest area.
I'm willing to bet when she's on top of ya and you're holding on to those puppies for dear life, it'll feel real good! ;)

[Surfguy]

WTH Wiggington! That sucked! Retard!

[cardpire]

ty wigginton is an awful 3rd baseman.

[stobbartjohn]

Damnit Wiggy

[Surfguy]

Wow. We just turned into the Bad News Bears or something. Geez.

[stobbartjohn]

WTH ARE THEY DOING OUT THERE? INNING SHOULD BE OVER FFS

[RocketManJosh]

ugh ... what a horrible defensive inning. We've had two chances to end the inning already and now we are in deep trouble

[Aceshigh7]

Wigginton sucks. He can't hit and he can't play defense. Tell me again, why did the Astros hitch their wagon on him instead of resigning Lamb? Lamb was a better hitter, and i'm inclined to say he was a better fielder as well. Not only that, but we gave up one of our better relievers to get Wig's sorry ass too.

[Surfguy]

Ummmmm....HUNTER FREAKING PENCE!!!!!!!

[stobbartjohn]

I LOVE YOU HUNTER!

[Aceshigh7]

PLAY OF THE YEAR

[dockerland]

What an unbelievable play by Pence

[ruddy]

Defensive play of the year for our boy Pence!!!! :D :D :D

[cardpire]

without a doubt the craziest scoreless half-inning i've ever seen.

also, why was the batter allowed to drop his bat in front of the plate on the towles play? seems like that should be interference. what's the rule on where you can drop your bat?

[macalu]

damn forget the mom who's the hottie beside Pence's mom? :eek:
i'm gonna guess she's hunter's sister. i know Pence looks goofy, but you can see the resemblence. quite a hottie.

[WhoMikeJames]

What an inning that was.

[HAYJON02]

Bottles and cans just clap your hands, just clap your hands.

Pence. You score at life. That lady is an f'in hottie.

[HAYJON02]

i'm gonna guess she's hunter's sister. i know Pence looks goofy, but you can see the resemblence. quite a hottie.
She's not my sister. If ya know what I'm sayin. Aoooo-gah.

[v3.0]

great catch by Pence....

but I'd still like confirmation on the hottie :D

sister...could be...sure not the SO? she kinda clapped weakly after pence's catch...

cameraman was being a penisblocker, zooming in the mom and trying to cut out the hottie :rolleyes:

and I think Berkman was thinking about her also, getting picked off at 1rst :rolleyes:

[Aceshigh7]

great catch by Pence....

but I'd still like confirmation on the hottie :D

sister...could be...sure not the SO? she kinda clapped weakly after pence's catch...

cameraman was being a penisblocker, zooming in the mom and trying to cut out the hottie :rolleyes:

and I think Berkman was thinking about her also, getting picked off at 1rst :rolleyes:

Do you think it the same girl as here?

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/2052/l40e7b072364be3cb7c98faru8.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/6779/img00761id0.jpg

[cardpire]

Do you think it the same girl as here?

http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/2052/l40e7b072364be3cb7c98faru8.jpg

http://img211.imageshack.us/img211/6779/img00761id0.jpg


yes. i'd run through a plate glass sliding door for a piece of that.

[Jeffster]

Clutchfans Token Rangers fan checking in. Been another great game in this series so far. I love Josh Hamilton. :)

[stobbartjohn]

Why the HELL didn't we walk him? Ridiculous decision

[v3.0]

Do you think it the same girl as here?

yeah I think its her, need more pics of her though for definite confirmation ;)

unfortunately rangers just scored twice

[JunkyardDwg]

Wigginton sucks. He can't hit and he can't play defense. Tell me again, why did the Astros hitch their wagon on him instead of resigning Lamb? Lamb was a better hitter, and i'm inclined to say he was a better fielder as well. Not only that, but we gave up one of our better relievers to get Wig's sorry ass too.


To be fair, Ty had a long way to go to get to that ball and wasn't completely square to the base and was moving on the throw. I can forgive a throwing error in that situation. Tejada's blunder was far more worse.

[Uprising]

Man, for being an Ex-Coke (or crack?) head Hamilton still has the skills.

[stobbartjohn]

Wigginton could have beat that out if he wasn't so fat and slow. Was expecting him to have beat it there and when the camera panned he wasn't even close!

[Uprising]

Not able to watch this one, but watching all the updated videos of the game on mlb gameday .com.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2008_05_16_houmlb_texmlb_1&mode=gameday

That catch was amazing.

[BrooksBall]

Wigginton could have beat that out if he wasn't so fat and slow. Was expecting him to have beat it there and when the camera panned he wasn't even close!

I'm not a fan of Wigginton but very few 3rd basemen would have beat that throw.

There are tons of things to pick on with Wigginton, but that wasn't one of them.

[stobbartjohn]

**** ME WHY THE HELL IS VILLAREAL IN THERE? COMMON BLOODY GREEPRQWEPR SENSE, HE WILL GIVE UP A HOME RUN. HE ALWAYS DOES FFS, WHEN WILL THEY LEARN

[cardpire]

**** ME WHY THE HELL IS VILLAREAL IN THERE? COMMON BLOODY GREEPRQWEPR SENSE, HE WILL GIVE UP A HOME RUN. HE ALWAYS DOES FFS, WHEN WILL THEY LEARN

no joke man...they leave wright in for 40 pitches, and brocail in for 5. our bench coach spotted them their 10th and 11th runs, in my opinion

[cardpire]

oh my god. make that 10, 11, and 12.

[H-Town Info]

and 12th...

[stobbartjohn]

I'LL SAY NO MORE

Apart from, please NEVER EVER EVER EVER EVER let Villareal pitch unless we have a double digit run lead

[GlassHalfFull]

We need DaDakota. I will take over his role. This is over...Goodnight.

[stobbartjohn]

What the hell is Towles playing at now? This is ridiiculous

[Surfguy]

Wow...Astros pitching has sucked hard tonite. I'm starting to doubt again after this awful pitching.

[macalu]

i don't want to watch "real basketball".

[Jeffster]

You woke up the sleeping giant that is CHRIS SHELTON. :D

[rocketballin]

Man, for being an Ex-Coke (or crack?) head Hamilton still has the skills.

Wow, talk about classless. You are pathetic for even making a comment like that.

[Surfguy]

Wow...Towles...that was pretty bad. That's what catchers do. You failed.

[stobbartjohn]

Hang your head in shame Villareal. Shouldda been 3 homers there

[cardpire]

OH MY GOD

[stobbartjohn]

FK YOU VILLAREAL.

The biggest joke is they aren't even unearned. Hope we get rid of him asap. What a complete moron

[Surfguy]

As far as I'm concerned, Villareal just lost his job...for good.

[Jeffster]

Holy crap, this game is unreal. Way to go Mikey! :cool:

[stobbartjohn]

Seriously Oscar? Seriously? 3 home runs in one buggering innings. Go take a club to your own head

[rocketballin]

I hope everyone is enjoying the game as much as I am :D THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU... Young Just hit a Homer, and Now im calling another homer by Hamilton. Give me a bat please!

[v3.0]

i was hoping for a 9th inning miracle but that pitcher made this into a blowout, he needs to be waived immediately after the game

I hope everyone is enjoying the game as much as I am :D THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU... Young Just hit a Homer, and Now im calling another homer by Hamilton. Give me a bat please!
Rangers still suck, just like the Mavs

[stobbartjohn]

Why the hell wasn't Brocail left in there? The 8th is his spot and he'd only made 5 pitches. This is just an embarassment

[BrooksBall]

Who did we give up for Villarreal?

I know Josh Anderson was part of it. Was there anybody else?

[ruddy]

Wow, VillaRReal is useless, throw him in the trash, now you see Bobrek why he doesn't deserve a pass, this guy is trash.....

[Jeffster]

I can't speak for anyone else rocketballin, but I'm enjoying it immensely. :D

[Surfguy]

i was hoping for a 9th inning miracle but that pitcher made this into a blowout, he needs to be waived immediately after the game

Seriously, how many more chances does he get? He sucks. We get it.

[stobbartjohn]

Can we at least take this useless muppet out right now before they Rangers get into triple figures?

[BrooksBall]

Cooper's just letting him dig his grave. I feel no sympathy.

[cardpire]

Holy crap, this game is unreal. Way to go Mikey! :cool:


quit trying to instigate pissed off fans dude. your franchise is a joke, and never has or will be going anywhere.

you haven't had a good pitcher since your franchise's inception, and now are all pumped about josh hamilton, even though y'all traded away this year's ROY and stud pitcher for him. congrats. enjoy your years and years of scoring runs and sub .500 records.

[stobbartjohn]

Cooper's just letting him dig his grave. I feel no sympathy.

Cooper was ejected. Not his decisions now right?

[Surfguy]

Cooper's just letting him dig his grave. I feel no sympathy.

Umm..Cooper got tossed...didn't he?

[Fiah]

They are letting him hang out to dry...when are they going to pull him??

[stobbartjohn]

I say don't pull him actually. Leave him out there to embarass himself. Can't have any complaints when he gets waived then

[BrooksBall]

Cooper was ejected. Not his decisions now right?

Whatever.

The coach is letting him dig his grave. Same point.

[codell]

6 hrs allowed, 5 errors, 16 runs

worst game of the year, especially after we made a game out of it

[stobbartjohn]

Wow, nice out Oscar. Impressive outing indeed.

[cardpire]

Cooper's just letting him dig his grave. I feel no sympathy.



cooper' long gone. runs 10-16 are all on jackie moore. honestly the most blatantly awful job i've ever seen a bench coach do after a coach's ejection.

[Uprising]

LOL, this is like the only time the Ragners play well. When the yplay us. blah. 16 runs.

[BrooksBall]

CBS Sportsline only shows 2 ERs for Villarreal. Not that it matters but he deserved a lot more than that.

Pathetic.

[Zac D]

HOU 8 12 5
TEX 16 17 1

American League baseball: It's contagious.

[stobbartjohn]

I'd say it would be a good idea to send Villareal to the minors but we don't want to make Round Rock suck totally do we? Why should they be embarassed like this?

[HAYJON02]

LOL, this is like the only time the Ragners play well. When the yplay us. blah. 16 runs.
Watch the Jazz get eliminated instead!

Damn I contradicted my earlier post! Change the channel. It's safe now.

[BrooksBall]

LOL, this is like the only time the Ragners play well. When the yplay us. blah. 16 runs.

Go check the stats. The Rangers are ahead of us in several offensive categories.

As usual in recent years, they are a good offensive team. It's their pitching that has been the problem.

Sort of like our pitching seems to becoming the problem it was expected to be.

[Surfguy]

It's their pitching that has been the problem.

Well...now that Jason Jennings is injured...he takes his 0-5 record with him. That's an improvement for the Rangers right there...just not having him start.

[rocketballin]

quit trying to instigate pissed off fans dude. your franchise is a joke, and never has or will be going anywhere.

you haven't had a good pitcher since your franchise's inception, and now are all pumped about josh hamilton, even though y'all traded away this year's ROY and stud pitcher for him. congrats. enjoy your years and years of scoring runs and sub .500 records.

And you enjoy a bleak future for your ball club. You all have one of the weakest farm systems in baseball, as opposed to ours which is easily top 5.

We have more talented pitchers than Volquez in our system so were going to be ok. As far as World Series titles, last time I checked, were even.

So it looks like were not the only ones doing things wrong. Thanks

[stobbartjohn]

And you enjoy a bleak future for your ball club. You all have one of the weakest farm systems in baseball, as opposed to ours which is easily top 5.

We have more talented pitchers than Volquez in our system so were going to be ok. As far as World Series titles, last time I checked, were even.

So it looks like were not the only ones doing things wrong. Thanks

When did this become a freaking Rangers board anyway? We're not interested in what you've got to say right now.

[Jeffster]

quit trying to instigate pissed off fans dude. your franchise is a joke, and never has or will be going anywhere.

I don't think anybody but you is taking it that way. I'm not some troll, I'm a long-time member of this site and Rockets fan. These Lone Star Series threads are the only ones I post in for the Astros section all year, it's a good-natured give and take. No animosity. I wish the Astros luck against everybody else.

you haven't had a good pitcher since your franchise's inception, and now are all pumped about josh hamilton, even though y'all traded away this year's ROY and stud pitcher for him. congrats. enjoy your years and years of scoring runs and sub .500 records.

Thank you, I do enjoy them. And Nolan Ryan wasn't a good pitcher? Come on now. ;)

[Cannonball]

Most runs they've given up since they surrendered 18 to the Padres last July. Jennings gave up 11 earned in less than an inning in that game.

[rocketballin]

When did this become a freaking Rangers board anyway? We're not interested in what you've got to say right now.

It is the Astros Rangers thread isnt it? Im sorry that not every one can think like you.

and btw Your broadcasters were calling Josh Hamilton another Mickey Mantle.. That was pretty cool.

Anyway good game guys. Goodluck tomorrow. I know were gonna need it. Roy Oswalt seems to always be money against us.

[cardpire]

Man, for being an Ex-Coke (or crack?) head Hamilton still has the skills.


i hear the cowboys are trying to find a spot for him too.

[Oski2005]

6 hrs allowed, 5 errors, 16 runs

worst game of the year, especially after we made a game out of it

It's such a huge loss I'm worried they might lose their current mojo.

[SWTsig]

why do we always struggle against that goddamn joke of a franchise?

i dont get it.

[conquistador#11]

These games shouldn't even count in the standings ugghh. I hate inter-league play.
Instead of the all star game being the deciding factor of home field, the records of all combined teams, during beer league play, should be taken into consideration.

[leroy420]

It's such a huge loss I'm worried they might lose their current mojo.

Nah...You have to get these games out of the system every once in a while. It's one of those that reminds them, "Hey, we can't come back every time. We actually have to play 9 innings to win in this league."

I see it as a good thing...sort of.

[Lonestar28]

And you enjoy a bleak future for your ball club. You all have one of the weakest farm systems in baseball, as opposed to ours which is easily top 5.

We have more talented pitchers than Volquez in our system so were going to be ok. As far as World Series titles, last time I checked, were even.

So it looks like were not the only ones doing things wrong. Thanks

The Rangers have been relevant since when?

[ryan17wagner]

I just got back from the game...we gave them toooooo many chances on our errors. I was telling Ranger fan we would come back from 8-2 and then crappy Oscar gives it right back. Oh well, Roy O. tomorrow. Astros nation was there and I expect a near sell out tomorrow.

[T Rex]

Since the series started with the Rangers-Astros, there has always been one game (for the most part) where the Rangers absolutey rip our boys apart like we've personally insulted their mothers. Now that the "blowup" game for 2008 is behind us, we can get down to business and win the next 5 games and take back the Silver Boot. (does anyone really care about that at all??)

2002: 7-2 Loss on 9/2
2003: 10-7 Loss on 6/27 (not that bad)
2004: 18-3 Loss on 7/4
2005: 18-3 Loss on 5/21
2006: 6-0 Loss on 5/20
2007: 14-1 Loss on 5/20
2008: 16-8 Loss on 5/16

[T Rex]

Since the series started with the Rangers-Astros, there has always been one game (for the most part) where the Rangers absolutey rip our boys apart like we've personally insulted their mothers. Now that the "blowup" game for 2008 is behind us, we can get down to business and win the next 5 games and take back the Silver Boot. (does anyone really care about that at all??)

2001: 16-4 Loss on 6/9
2002: 7-2 Loss on 9/2
2003: 10-7 Loss on 6/27 (not that bad)
2004: 18-3 Loss on 7/4
2005: 18-3 Loss on 5/21
2006: 6-0 Loss on 5/20
2007: 14-1 Loss on 5/20
2008: 16-8 Loss on 5/16

[BMoney]

And you enjoy a bleak future for your ball club. You all have one of the weakest farm systems in baseball, as opposed to ours which is easily top 5.

We have more talented pitchers than Volquez in our system so were going to be ok. As far as World Series titles, last time I checked, were even.

So it looks like were not the only ones doing things wrong. Thanks

Texas Rangers fans talking smack is funny.

[MadMax]

Sort of like our pitching seems to becoming the problem it was expected to be.

one bad game and you're jumping ship, huh?

[MadMax]

Nah...You have to get these games out of the system every once in a while. It's one of those that reminds them, "Hey, we can't come back every time. We actually have to play 9 innings to win in this league."

I see it as a good thing...sort of.

particularly if it means less of Oscar.

[Jeffster]

2007: 14-1 Loss on 5/20


My son and I were at that game. Good times. And the Astros' wives won the charity softball game over the Rangers' wives, so at least you had that going for you. ;)

[rocketballin]

i was hoping for a 9th inning miracle but that pitcher made this into a blowout, he needs to be waived immediately after the game


Rangers still suck, just like the Mavs

The Mavs do suck..

[Bobblehead]

JR needs to go down. .144 is unacceptable for an everyday position player.
Maybe he can get his crap together in AAA and coma back. But for now, he's clueless. And it's not like he's a gem in the field anyway.

[MadMax]

The Mavs do suck..

The Rangers would kill for the Mavs' success. Sad all the way around.

[Surfguy]

JR needs to go down. .144 is unacceptable for an everyday position player.
Maybe he can get his crap together in AAA and coma back. But for now, he's clueless. And it's not like he's a gem in the field anyway.

I agree about Towles. That guy is not getting it done. He doesn't look ready to me. When Brad Ausmus becomes the better option (especially on offense), then...Houston...we have a problem at catcher. Towles is making Adam Everett look like a good hitter. The only thing Towles has done decently is smack some HRs...but not lately and he has fallen apart at the plate.

[BrooksBall]

one bad game and you're jumping ship, huh?

Absolutely not. Just worried about our pitching.

[leroy420]

one bad game and you're jumping ship, huh?

Consider who you're talking to here...

http://bbs.clutchfans.net/showthread.php?t=141172

[Uprising]

Consider who you're talking to here...

http://bbs.clutchfans.net/showthread.php?t=141172

LAWL....every team has a debbie downer.

[Refman]

Sort of like our pitching seems to becoming the problem it was expected to be.
Out team ERA is 11th in the NL at 4.34. Yeah...it's not good. But I do believe that you can attribute last night's loss to Oscar and to some horrible defense. Errors directly contriubted to a number of Rangers runs last night.

[JunkyardDwg]

I don't think there's any reason to send Towles down while their Astros are playing decently. Give him some time to develop. The offense has been doing just fine lately without him...or Bourn.

[Refman]

I don't think there's any reason to send Towles down while their Astros are playing decently. Give him some time to develop. The offense has been doing just fine lately without him...or Bourn.
At some point having a catcher batting .143 will hurt you. He came to the plate with runners on and could not deliver them home last night. The complete tailspin that Towles is in is not likely to get better on its own. He needs to get some instruction in his mechanics and get some successful at bats. If the at bats have to be at AAA, then so be it.

[cardpire]

At some point having a catcher batting .143 will hurt you. He came to the plate with runners on and could not deliver them home last night. The complete tailspin that Towles is in is not likely to get better on its own. He needs to get some instruction in his mechanics and get some successful at bats. If the at bats have to be at AAA, then so be it.


problem is, our alternative is even worse. i'd rather watch towles fail than ausmus. we need a better catcher than either of them. and a better 3B than wigginton.

i dont mind having bourn try to play his way out of it, especially at the bottom of the order, because he provides clear positives with his defense and speed whenever he does get on base.

[MadMax]

problem is, our alternative is even worse. i'd rather watch towles fail than ausmus. we need a better catcher than either of them. and a better 3B than wigginton.

i dont mind having bourn try to play his way out of it, especially at the bottom of the order, because he provides clear positives with his defense and speed whenever he does get on base.

Worse by what margin? You can't get much worse than what Towles is showing you at the plate right now.

To me that's not even the question...and I don't think it's what Refman is saying, either. He's saying if the guy could benefit from instruction at the minor league level then maybe it makes sense to change it up and send him down. I'm not saying I know that to be true...just saying it's possible.

But I certainly wouldn't let worrying about something at the plate keep me from moving down a guy batting 60 points below the Mendoza line.

[cardpire]

Worse by what margin? You can't get much worse than what Towles is showing you at the plate right now.

To me that's not even the question...and I don't think it's what Refman is saying, either. He's saying if the guy could benefit from instruction at the minor league level then maybe it makes sense to change it up and send him down. I'm not saying I know that to be true...just saying it's possible.

But I certainly wouldn't let worrying about something at the plate keep me from moving down a guy batting 60 points below the Mendoza line.


worse by the standard of having a 6-year track record of barely being able to hit the ball out of the infield. if you're just basing who is better on their BA this season, quintero is hitting .500 in the bigs this season. .300 points ahead of both of them. i guess he's the no-brainer to start.

look, our catching situation in the organization is a mess. we have nothing in the minors, we have inexplicably passed up years and years of looking for a replacement for ausmus, and we have prematurely anointed a marginal prospect in towles to be our catcher of the future, and it's entirely possible that he's just not good.

i, for one, am over seeing ausmus as our every day catcher, and i feel like the franchise needs to move past him. he's hard to watch these days, and i feel like he's barely an upgrade over towles at his worst anyway. i'd rather watch the fresh blood, and if you're gonna send him down, i'd want quintero to be the primary starter. quintero's our best defensive catcher anyway.

[JunkyardDwg]

At some point having a catcher batting .143 will hurt you. He came to the plate with runners on and could not deliver them home last night. The complete tailspin that Towles is in is not likely to get better on its own. He needs to get some instruction in his mechanics and get some successful at bats. If the at bats have to be at AAA, then so be it.


If there's a justifiable reason to send him down for a little bit and he would be better off working out his problems in AAA than here, then certainly I'd be for it. I just don't think the team should send him down just because he's struggling.

[Ottomaton]

Before he was called up, Towels was always described when I read about him as a 'defensive catcher'. I wonder if people are judging him based on last year's .375 BA, .575 SLG, & .432 OBP. Obviously hitting a buck fiddy won't ever get it done, but I also think to expect much better than about .260, .400, .340 is expecting too much from him. Statistically, his best trait seems to be his eye. I think maybe last year's short stint may have set expectations out of whack.

For the people who want to send him down, what do you want to replace him with? Ausmus? The idea that someone wants to put Ausmus into the lineup to bolster the offense has a nice absurdity to it. I like Ausmus, but he isn't exactly change the outlook that much and he would be a one year dead-ender anyway. You'd just go into next year with an added question mark.

Who else? Humberto Quintero? He's hitting a sterling .184 in AAA. I also seem to remember some posters here talking about what a disliked guy he is in the clubhouse? Call up converted catcher Koby Clements from A ball or Max Sapp and his Low-A .239 average?

I understand that Towels' problems are troublesome and that there might be a desire to try something else, but I don't think the other available options are that much better. It might just be better to let him sink or swim here to see if you need to trade for a catcher this next offseason. Find out what you have now.

[cardpire]

Before he was called up, Towels was always described when I read about him as a 'defensive catcher'. I wonder if people are judging him based on last year's .375 BA, .575 SLG, & .432 OBP. Obviously hitting a buck fiddy won't ever get it done, but I also think to expect much better than about .260, .400, .340 is expecting too much from him. Statistically, his best trait seems to be his eye. I think maybe last year's short stint may have set expectations out of whack.

For the people who want to send him down, what do you want to replace him with? Ausmus? The idea that someone wants to put Ausmus into the lineup to bolster the offense has a nice absurdity to it. Humberto Quintero? He's hitting a sterling .184 in AAA. I also seem to remember some posters here talking about what a disliked guy he is in the clubhouse? Call up converted catcher Koby Clements from A ball or Max Sapp and his Low-A .239 average?

I understand that Towels' problems are troublesome and that there might be a desire to try something else, but I don't think the other available options are that much better. It might just be better to let him sink or swim here to see if you need to trade for a catcher this next offseason.


wow. we just simulaneouly wrote almost the exact same post.

[DoitDickau]

Before he was called up, Towels was always described when I read about him as a 'defensive catcher'. I wonder if people are judging him based on last year's .375 BA, .575 SLG, & .432 OBP. Obviously hitting a buck fiddy won't ever get it done, but I also think to expect much better than about .260, .400, .340 is expecting too much from him. Statistically, his best trait seems to be his eye. I think maybe last year's short stint may have set expectations out of whack.

I always heard just the opposite about him coming up. He was an offensive catcher that was a work in progress defensively. Not really sure why he would not be thought of as a offensive catcher. He's hit everywhere he's been. He has a 301/389/471 career minor league line over 5 levels including .346/.436/.549, .317/.382/.525, and .287/.393/.447 (combined A+, AA, AAA) the last three years respectively. If there is an issue it's that he is less than a year, and only 250 at bats, from A ball. At least one full year above A ball probably would have helped his development.

If he and Bourn continue to struggle into next month then I think the Astros should think about making some changes. They both should be playing everyday so AAA would be the answer. Part of the problem is that there isn't adequate replacements for either within the organization. For Towles i'm assuming you can bring up Quintero. Ausmus seems to hit better when rested so I'd hope they'd at least split starting duties. In center if you move Bourn, I'd look into Kenny Loften. For as well as Erstad is playing now, he's proven over the last 7 years that he's not good enough to start. Lofton would give the team a lead off hitter who can get on base in front of Berkman, Tejada and Lee. But i'm not sure there is any harm in giving them both a little more time to see if they can get out of their funks.



Who else? Humberto Quintero? He's hitting a sterling .184 in AAA. I also seem to remember some posters here talking about what a disliked guy he is in the clubhouse? Call up converted catcher Koby Clements from A ball or Max Sapp and his Low-A .239 average?

I understand that Towels' problems are troublesome and that there might be a desire to try something else, but I don't think the other available options are that much better. It might just be better to let him sink or swim here to see if you need to trade for a catcher this next offseason. Find out what you have now.

Quintero would be who they would bring up. Clemens and Sapp are years (if ever) away from being able to play a semi competent catcher in the big leagues. Such a big jump may also likely harm their development.

[Ottomaton]

I always heard just the opposite about him coming up. He was an offensive catcher that was a work in progress defensively.


Read any of the Baseball America entries on him for the last three years. He's been rated "Best Defensive Catcher" since 2005, and for the last two years, both of his 'top 10' entries talk about his need to refine his batting.

Minor league statistics are not what I would describe as an accurate indicator of skill.


Quintero would be who they would bring up. Clemens and Sapp are years (if ever) away from being able to play a semi competent catcher in the big leagues. Such a big jump may also likely harm their development.

It was a rhetorical device to indicate they have nothing. Calling up Quintero would be just as useless as calling up the learning Clements or Max Sapp, our most recent 1st round bust.

[DoitDickau]

Not sure baseball america's best of list is an accurate indicator of skills either. Hitting extremely well at every single level he has ever been at (good age/level too) is a good if incomplete indicator of skill and potential. Anyways BA certainly isn't the only scouting service they have weighed in with their opinions.

From John Sickels last year on Towles development throughout the minors:

http://www.minorleagueball.com/2008/3/5/164733/9984
"Towles has remained a very effective hitter throughout the minors, though nagging injuries have slowed his defensive progress...On defense, he features a strong arm and tons of mobility, but needs additional polish with his throwing mechanics. With the bat, he has the bat speed to hit for a high batting average with moderate power, along with decent though unspectacular plate discipline...Soto has more current defensive polish, but Towles is improving. Soto had the outstanding 2007 season, but Towles has hit at every level every year since rookie ball, not just last year."

From Kevin Goldstein:

"Towles might not be as heady a ballplyer as ausmus, and he's no more than average as a defender, but he sure can hit. The only Astros prospect on this list, and the only one who even merited consideration, Towles projects as a .280 to .300 hitter with 12 to 18 home runs a year, which puts him in rare company at his position."

From Bryan Smith
http://baseballanalysts.com/archives/wtny/

"The Astros have a catcher that is getting high marks in their minor league system named JR Towles. He always has a high average and plays almost daily in the 3 years in the minor leagues. What have you heard about this young man? The Astros need a catcher after Ausmus leaves...could he possibly be the next in line?

I am familiar with Towles, he had a good season in Lexington, where I was able to see him play during the summer. In person, Towles has one glaring need: time in the weight room. Very skinny, Towles power and health would be much improved with some added strength. He showed some good, yet crude, defense behind the plate: memorably, he threw one ball to the right field wall after attempting to throw behind a baserunner at first base. It was a good, aggressive move that displayed plus arm strength, but it also reinforced complaints about his raw ability. Towles largest positive is good plate coverage, he's a natural hitter with a propensity for contact. This bodes well for his future, as his weaknesses are more easily rectified than problems with his bat. Towles didn't get much consideration for this list, but the Astros are high on him, despite drafting Max Sapp in the first round. As far as replacing Ausmus goes, he very well could, but I don't see Towles becoming Major League ready until at least 2009."

Those are just a few quick ones i could find. I don't have a subscription to Baseball American, but just about every thing i've read on Towles the last 3 years have said about the same thing. Plus bat with moderate power. Defensively he is a good athlete behind the plate, but unpolished.

[Ottomaton]

Well, right about now Baseball America looks pretty prescient, don't they? The proof of the pudding is in the eating.

[DoitDickau]

in baseball 40 games (particularly the first 40 games on ones career) by themselves don't mean a whole lot. There's an old saying that over 100 at bats any player can hit anything. If you only looked at the first 40 games of Lance Berkman's career or the first 40 games on Berkman season last year you'd have a much different perspective on his skill level than what we know is true.

Anyways, the main point is, Towles "hype" or expectations coming into this year were not just an overreaction to his AA numbers. His entire body of minor league work indicates he has the potential to hit in the majors. He's mashed just about every where and in every season he has played. Scouts have also liked his bat as well. I would think,though, in an ideal world,( one without the astros need at catcher) Towles would have started the season in AAA.

[Refman]

The Towles discussion has gotten silly at this point. Everytime I heard anything about Towles, it was that he'd be a good hitter with average defensive skills.

If you could get Towles to hit .260 to .270 every year, one would have to be happy with that.

The bottom line is that Ausmus is hitting much better than Towles right now, and you may just have to go with that. Is it really a shock that Ausmus has seen more playing time recently?

[leroy420]

in baseball 40 games (particularly the first 40 games on ones career) by themselves don't mean a whole lot. There's an old saying that over 100 at bats any player can hit anything. If you only looked at the first 40 games of Lance Berkman's career or the first 40 games on Berkman season last year you'd have a much different perspective on his skill level than what we know is true.

Anyways, the main point is, Towles "hype" or expectations coming into this year were not just an overreaction to his AA numbers. His entire body of minor league work indicates he has the potential to hit in the majors. He's mashed just about every where and in every season he has played. Scouts have also liked his bat as well. I would think,though, in an ideal world,( one without the astros need at catcher) Towles would have started the season in AAA.

To be fair, had Lou Santangelo not gotten popped for steroids last season, Towles might not have made it to AA. He was hitting .220 in A ball before getting the call. He proceeded to go on a tear through AA, AAA, and into his Sept call up to the majors.

I agree that he needs time, but if he's not out of this funk by the All Star break, I think they need to send him down for a month and give Quintero another shot.

[BMoney]

Oswalt went to the off-speed well once too often.

[Surfguy]

The f-ing homerun derby continues.

[Uprising]

Just turned it on, didn't realize the game was already on. Hopefully no one calls 911.

[Uprising]

The f-ing homerun derby continues.

It continues longer.....

[stobbartjohn]

This is ridiculous

[WhoMikeJames]

Are you ****ing kidding me Oswalt?

I'm so tired of seeing the Rangers getting homers in right field.

All we need now is a Josh Hamilton grand slam.

[H-Town Info]

To quote DaDokata: "IT'S OVER"

[JunkyardDwg]

What the f*** Oswalt?!

Why does it feel like a home run derby every time we play the Rangers?

[v3.0]

wth is the story of them playing The Natural theme music?

[Surfguy]

At this rate, they will have another 16 runs in this game.

[insert more bitching, moaning, and pissing here]

:D :mad:

[Uprising]

Well, I'll keep watching. Yesterday became a fun game all of a sudden....then just as quickly as it got fun...it sucked ass.

[BMoney]

How about another comeback?

[Surfguy]

Oswalt has already matched his total homeruns allowed for last season.

That's incredible.

Did we just get Hamilton out? Or, am I hallucinating?

[v3.0]

The Big Puma strikes again! :D

play the natural music for him dammit

[BMoney]

Lance Berkman goes yard on a fastball that was low and on the outside part of the plate. He's awesome.

[Surfguy]

For some reason, Puma only homers whenever I think right before "Berkman needs to homer here". And, I'm more right than I am wrong on Berkman. lol

[rocketballin]

Rangers are not a bad team so you guys shouldn't feel so bad. Hamilton is a triple crown threat. Honestly I've never seen anyone as powerful, fast, big, strong armed, and smart since Ken Griffey Jr. in his early days. What a player. Lance is a really good player too.. Seems like anything he slaps off his bat just carries forever.

[v3.0]

^^^^slob over Josh's knob someplace else :rolleyes:

speaking of which rangers suck too

[BMoney]

Surfguy, you need to start thinking "Berkman needs to homer here" at every at-bat! We would all benefit!

[Surfguy]

Surfguy, you need to start thinking "Berkman needs to homer here" at every at-bat! We would all benefit!

It doesn't work that way. It has to come to me from out of the blue.

[BrooksBall]

Do we have to hear from the Rangers fan again?

[BrooksBall]

Berkman now hitting .401

[T Rex]

Berkman now hitting .401

Unbelievable.......it's Teddy Berkman.

What's up with Carlos tonight. The past few games he's looks likes he's really finding his stroke, but tonight he's just flailing away. Gotta get El Caballo going.

Also, I undertand why Coop made the switch, but I don't like Hunter leading off. I think he's perfect in the 6 hole.......he's a RBI guy, not a OBP hitter.

[BrooksBall]

Berkman can do no wrong these days.

His baseball smarts are almost as special as his hitting.

[BrooksBall]

I'm pretty sure Berkman is also leading all 1st basemen in fielding percentage or some similar defensive stat.

[Cannonball]

I'm pretty sure Berkman is also leading all 1st basemen in fielding percentage or some similar defensive stat.

He's one of 3 1st Basemen who have a 1.000 fielding %. Adrian Gonzalez and Nick Johnson are the others.

[BrooksBall]

We are going to need great pitching to get us out of this inning and some clutch hitting to pull this game out.

[DaDakota]

Oswalt is not the same, he is just giving up so many gopher balls....something is wrong, he is not getting the movement on his fastballs and they seem slower to me.

DD

[BrooksBall]

He's one of 3 1st Basemen who have a 1.000 fielding %. Adrian Gonzalez and Nick Johnson are the others.

I was talking about a different stat but that is pretty sweet, too.

I believe fielding % was part of the stat.

[DaDakota]

Bases loaded 1 out, no way we get out of this and come back to win this game.

It is over.

DD

[garthomps]

just thought i would share the link that im using to watch it online:

tvants://list.tvants.com/tvants/?k=94a7928269293e189ffe6ea424d6d32d

[BrooksBall]

He's one of 3 1st Basemen who have a 1.000 fielding %. Adrian Gonzalez and Nick Johnson are the others.

Here's the stat: http://www.hardballtimes.com/thtstats/main/index.php?view=fielding&linesToDisplay=50&orderBy=zone_rating&direction=DESC&qual_filter=1&season_filter%5B%5D=2008&league_filter%5B%5D=2&pos_filter%5B%5D=3&Submit=Submit

[BrooksBall]

How short are Nieve's arms?

It can't generally be a good physical attribute for a pitcher to have midget arms.

[BrooksBall]

Bases loaded 1 out, no way we get out of this and come back to win this game.

It is over.

DD

Failed on both r-jinx attempts.

Perhaps, to the disappointment of some, that is due to the fact that there is no such thing as a reverse jinx.

[Refman]

Oswalt is not the same, he is just giving up so many gopher balls....something is wrong, he is not getting the movement on his fastballs and they seem slower to me.

DD
Oswalt seems to be leaving the ball up in the zone WAY too much. IMO, there is something wrong with him.

[kaleidosky]

Oswalt seems to be leaving the ball up in the zone WAY too much. IMO, there is something wrong with him.

didn't watch, but it says online he left w/a strained right groin. Oswalt and his groin issues.. hopefully somehow this was lingering and it was holding him back (and when healed he'll be back to badassedness)

[msn]

Perhaps, to the disappointment of some, that is due to the fact that there is no such thing as a reverse jinx.
Everyone knows that. We're just kidding around. Chill.

[DaDakota]

There is TO such a thing as a reverse jinx.....it is all about the timing....I was too desperate in the one above to work....it has to come at the right time to work.

I let the team down, I will try harder today.

The Rangers are sure to sweep, no need to even watch the game.

DD

[AzCkR]

There is TO such a thing as a reverse jinx.....it is all about the timing....I was too desperate in the one above to work....it has to come at the right time to work.

I let the team down, I will try harder today.

The Rangers are sure to sweep, no need to even watch the game.

DD

If you're going use that as your jinx you can't watch the game or it won't work.

[Cannonball]

Why in the hell is the channel switching back and forth. I wanna watch some baseball.

[BrooksBall]

If you're going use that as your jinx you can't watch the game or it won't work.

I suggest creating a separate voodoo/jinx thread where people can discuss this nonsense.

[BrooksBall]

On a legit note, has anybody heard any updates on Oswalt's groin injury?

Edit: I just read that Oswalt is saying it's his hip, not groin.

[T Rex]

Here's a twist on who has the best 3-4-5 hitters in the league.

Is there a worse (in AL parks) 8-9-1 than Wiggy-Towles-Bourn.......UGLY

[BrooksBall]

Here's a twist on who has the best 3-4-5 hitters in the league.

Is there a worse (in AL parks) 8-9-1 than Wiggy-Towles-Bourn.......UGLY

Bad players don't deserve cute nicknames. He ain't no Miggy or Big Papi.

Call him Wiffy or just Wigginton at this point.

[BrooksBall]

Great AB by Loretta.

[BrooksBall]

Wiffy needs to crouch down more in his stance or something. His mechanics and balance are bad enough as is. Too much body movement before and after he swings.

[BrooksBall]

Towles, nice!

[Rox Addict]

Michael Bourne = Luther Head !!!!

[BrooksBall]

Michael Bourne = Luther Head !!!!

I hear you.

I was hoping to see Towles and Bourn come up with back-to-back hits.

[arif1127]

Michael Bourne = Luther Head !!!!

not quite, he never gets posted up by bigger guards, he's fantastic defensively in cf.

[BrooksBall]

Backe starts off the inning giving up his 1st hit.

Will he immediately give back the 3-run lead?

[Rox Addict]

I hear you.

I was hoping to see Towles and Bourn come up with back-to-back hits.
JD said " a knock for Bourne wuld be great here ! " I was like " Hell a damn hit for a change ! I love his speed and play in the outfield but I'd rather see Erstad out there as the regular and send Bourne to RR to get his game together ! When Bourne, Wigg and Ausmus all play on the same day its UGLY !

[BrooksBall]

Back-to-back hits given up by Backe. Men on the corners. No outs.

A 3-run lead is nothing against the Rangers.

[BrooksBall]

Can't believe that guy tried to go home on the short pop. That was possibly the worst decision to send a guy home so far this season, not that I've seem 'em all to actually know.

Nice play, either way.

That totally changed the complexion of what looked to be trouble for Backe.

[BrooksBall]

Bourn .182
Matsui .294
Tejada .343
Berkman .404
Lee .284
Pence .285
Wigginton .222
Towles .152

Black = Good to Great
Red = Bad to Horrible

Serious contrast going on between the good and bad part of this lineup.

[Rox Addict]

Can't believe that guy tried to go home on the short pop. That was possibly the worst decision to send a guy home so far this season, not that I've seem 'em all to actually know.

Nice play, either way.

That totally changed the complexion of what looked to be trouble for Backe.
Their a bit cocky !! HaHa he was out :D

[MadMax]

Bourn .182
Matsui .294
Tejada .343
Berkman .404
Lee .284
Pence .285
Wigginton .222
Towles .152

Black = Good to Great
Red = Bad to Horrible

Serious contrast going on between the good and bad part of this lineup.
Play with a glass half full for a change and note that good/great is beating sucky 5-3

[BrooksBall]

Wiffy with a pathetic dribbler to end the inning.

Overall, great inning for the Astros highlighted by beating out two throws to 1st base through sheer hustle.

[Rox Addict]

Bourn .182
Matsui .294
Tejada .343
Berkman .404
Lee .284
Pence .285
Wigginton .222
Towles .152

Black = Good to Great
Red = Bad to Horrible

Serious contrast going on between the good and bad part of this lineup.
Throw Erstad in there and you have another .300 hitter

[BrooksBall]

Play with a glass half full for a change and note that good/great is beating sucky 5-3

I play with facts. There is no glass.

[arif1127]

Bourn .182
Matsui .294
Tejada .343
Berkman .404
Lee .284
Pence .285
Wigginton .222
Towles .152

Black = Good to Great
Red = Bad to Horrible

Serious contrast going on between the good and bad part of this lineup.

Wigginton was out with a broken finger earlier in the season, and the two others are rookies(who are taking their lumps). Wigginton has a track record as a .270 hitter with 25 homer power, he will come around. As for the rookies, taking their lumps now will hopefully make them better down the line, and as long as the team continues winning, their is no reason to wring your hands about it.

[BrooksBall]

Throw Erstad in there and you have another .300 hitter

If Erstad could play 3rd base, no doubt he should be starting over Wiffy.

For now, he is doing well in a PH/spot starter role. Happy to have him and Loretta.

[MadMax]

I play with facts. There is no glass.

Man, that's exciting. How much joy you must derive from watching these games. I look forward to more of you PBP in here.

[arif1127]

If Erstad could play 3rd base, no doubt he should be starting over Wiffy.

For now, he is doing well in a PH/spot starter role. Happy to have him and Loretta.

He's played CF and 1B in his career, he isn't going to play third. Also, he's had a lot of injuries in the last few years, his body wouldn't hold up to playing everyday. He is performing great in the role Coops put him in, their is no reason to change it up at this point.

[BrooksBall]

Wigginton was out with a broken finger earlier in the season, and the two others are rookies(who are taking their lumps). Wigginton has a track record as a .270 hitter with 25 homer power, he will come around. As for the rookies, taking their lumps now will hopefully make them better down the line, and as long as the team continues winning, their is no reason to wring your hands about it.

I agree with everything you said. I was just pointing current averages of our typical starting lineup and how striking the difference was between the good and the bad.

All lineups have that contrast but our's is very likely the largest in all of baseball.

[BrooksBall]

He's played CF and 1B in his career, he isn't going to play third. Also, he's had a lot of injuries in the last few years, his body wouldn't hold up to playing everyday. He is performing great in the role Coops put him in, their is no reason to change it up at this point.

That was exactly what I just alluded to but I guess it wasn't clear enough.

[arif1127]

I agree with everything you said. I was just pointing current averages of our typical starting lineup and how striking the difference was between the good and the bad.

All lineups have that contrast but our's is very likely the largest in all of baseball.

The good won't stay that good, and the bad won't stay that bad(i hope not).

[arif1127]

i'm follwing the game on gamecast, it looks like Brandon has been ahead in the count with most hitters today, is his location that much better than usual or is it his stuff that is helping him get ahead?

[BrooksBall]

Play with a glass half full for a change and note that good/great is beating sucky 5-3

I also stated the good as much as the bad. I didn't favor the bad over the good or vice versa.

You are the one that assumed I was looking at it half empty when it was actually right down the middle and just facts.

Keep holding on to your hateful impression of me if it helps you get through your days. ;)

[BrooksBall]

Love seeing Towles and Bourn getting hits. Almost as enjoyable as watching Berkman and Tejada tear it up.

[BrooksBall]

Bogus, blown call.

Kind of like the one Everett pulled off in the playoffs a few years ago.

That ump cetainly couldn't have seen a tag because the replay showed it didn't happen.

He guessed. If you can't see a clear tag, the runner should be safe.

[arkoe]

Even watching the replay I couldn't tell on that caught stealing... looked like the call may have been good.

[BrooksBall]

Even watching the replay I couldn't tell on that caught stealing... looked like the call may have been good.

How is the reception on your TV? There was clearly no tag.

[BrooksBall]

I'd love for Backe not to have one of those imploding innings here.

He seems to still hit the wall later in his starts. I know it's a long road back for him given the injuries.

His pitch count is low though through 5.

[BrooksBall]

Very nice catch by Loretta over the Rangers dugout.

[BrooksBall]

Excellent inning by Backe!

He should be able to go 1 more inning at only 77 pitches.

I would be careful though and pull him at about 95-100 pitches. I assume that is their plan.

Hopefully, his endurance is getting close to where it used to be.

[Surfguy]

Put in Villareal

[BrooksBall]

It's hard to blame them from keeping Backe in but they may want to cap him at 6 innings for the next few starts.

He seems to fade pretty consistently late in games no matter what he's done early.

I know you've got to let him go if you want to increase his endurance but you hate to see him pitch so well and hurt his performance due to a few bad pitches that are the result of fatigue.

The heat of a day game likely didn't help his cause.

[Zac D]

So that's where Jamey Wright got to.