We're not going to be good, nobody's is arguing that. But if this early patience at the plate sticks, you have to re-evaluate your projections. It was assumed this team was going to have abysmal plate discipline, but this team has been extremely patient so far, 7th in all of baseball, also 8th in fewest strikeouts. Last 2 years we finished dead last, comfortably. It has been a major organizational problem, but Luhnow and Co. have wisely made it a priority. If Schafer, Altuve, and J.D. keep this up, they will all be damn good players. If it sticks this team could easily win 70 plus, which considering our cataclysmic predictions is damn good. Plus we finally have some firepower coming up through the system, you can almost see daylight.
I don't have any misconceptions about this team winning this season and going to the playoffs like the Rays did a few years ago as a young unknown team. They have had a good first week, but have not played any quality teams yet. But Crane and company have already made a believer out of me and this is the first season in a while that I have actually paid attention the first week and are really liking what I am seeing. Will they lose 100? I doubt it and that's an improvement in my book. The future is looking brighter and if anything, more fun to watch.
Not to pick nits...but coming into the season, did anyone think the Rockies and Braves weren't quality teams? Weren't the Marlins seen as potential NL East contenders, if not wild card contenders?
Defensively he was very good last year. Even before they moved him to 1st he was playing LF better than he had his entire Astros career. Last season he actually tied for the highest WAR of his career thanks to a robust 2.1 dWAR. I think we will find him a new home this year.
I've been pissed about Mills putting Lowrie in the 2 hole instead of Altuve. Altuve better be in that 2 spot today.
If the astros can stay at .500 ball how's to say that the stros don't sign a marquee free agent. This team has no quit, I wouldn't put anything past them.
The Astros have been really impressive so far. I love the effort I'm seeing. While a lot of people gave up on the team before the season even started, the team themselves definitely aren't just going through the motions. They believe in themselves and are putting the effort. It's great to watch, and see what they're doing. There are still errors, a hole or two in our pitching, but I think so far they've exceeded expectations. They've definitely earned my respect.
Annnnnnnd Mills has Bogusevic hitting 5th again. The guy really needs a day off to get his mind back on track.
I'm fine with Lowrie in the 2 hole. And that pretty much means Altuve goes to 8...which is fine. Need him for the lineup turnover
I remember a couple of games ago the announcers talking about the bunting of Schafer when he's bunting for a hit vs. bunting for a sacrifice. It seems like they have a point. I hope he can straighten that up
Time to drop him in the order. I know Mills wants the RLRL combo going, but we can't afford our 5 whole hitter playing this bad while everybody in front of him is hitting over .300.
