Man, you guys are harsh. He did have a pretty good series...9-16 and 2 rbis in the last game. Although it's kinda sad that Clemens is smoking him hitting .281...I think he figured out if he was going to get some ru support he was gonna have to do it himself.
Most people have no idea how valuable Ausmus is behind the plate. That pickoff move at third yesterday was all set up by Ausmus and a turning point in the game. I'll glady take his non-existant stick for the 3 or 4 extra games he's gonna win with his head.
ESPN says Ausmus is "killing" the Astros: http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/page2/story?page=schoenfield/050705&num=0 I agree that Brad is a terrible hitter, but Rocket likes throwing to him and we don't have anyone better, so I think he's tolerable.
I think most people would think he loses more than 3 or 4 games with his stick. I want a good all around catcher. He doesn't have to be Piazza in the batter's box or Ausmus behind the plate. I just want someone who isn't a liability either place. Maybe this catcher is a mythical.
Was actually looking forward to learning what music you listen to while watching his ABs. "I told Brad after the game they ought to bottle that and send it to our Minor League catchers. He called a brilliant game." -- Clemens on 6/29, praising Brad for the umpteenth time. I suppose if you place absolutely zero stock in what the pitchers say about Brad, then you might just be of a certain opinion about his worth. The Astros organization does not share this opinion.
I worked with a guy for a while who was an Astros pitching prospect. He never got much further than low/high A, I believe, but he was talking to me about catchers one day. He said most people don't realize how much of a difference a catcher like Ausmus makes. He said his ability to frame pitches, pick up on tendencies of opposing batters, and help erase your mistakes will do wonders for a pitcher. Apparently most minor league catchers suck.
If there are 2 outs or 1 out with a runner on 1st, I go grab a beer, snack, or take a whiz. Its just not any fun watching Ass Mass.
You forgot "talk about his great butt", which is what I get to listen to when female friends and family watch the game with me.
There is no demonstrated effect that can be attributed to "calling a game", and his other defensive skills are severely diminished. The music thing was actually just a response to you know who.
