I will give some credit to McLane for showing me he's willing to bring in a top-tier FA. I had very little faith in the Astros pulling off any kind of big move. Obviously, this would fit that mold. Now, I see the Astros winning 95+ games. This crow tastes pretty damn good!
All right. I'll admit to being pessimistic about the Astros' chances at signing Kent as well. I'll also admit that I've done my share of Drayton bashing over the past few weeks (see my "Big Surprise: Cardinals Get Better, Astros Don't" thread). Drayton hasn't completely redeemed himself here, but he has shown me he is interesting in winning a title (in addition to running a business). I'll give credit where it's due. Thanks, Drayton, for giving us Astros fans hope. Now, about that centerfielder and relief pitching quandry....
Everybody here knows that I have defended Drayton wanting to run a responsible business enterprise. I thought we'd be in the running for Kent, but thought our chances were 50-50 at best. Drayton and The Hun really made me a happy baseball fan today. I would still like to see us trade for a stud CF though. I think more deals are coming. Stay tuned.
I'll have an order of roast crow, please, cooked medium. Yum! Drayton didn't become a billionaire by ignoring the competition...more than keeping up with the Cardinals and Braves, the Astros are competing with Yao Ming and the Texans for Houston fan interest. Kudos to the team for taking a chance on an elite player and kudos to Drayton for increasing the payroll. Refman, your services as defender of Drayton may no longer be needed!
I would...but 81 games...I'd have to consider my divorce part of the ticket cost at that point. But I WILL be making 15 to 20 trips out to the ballpark next season. I'll let you know when I'll be there. We can all get together for a celebratory beer.
World series?? Not as long as Craig Biggio is still considered to be an intricate part of the Houston offense. His nightmarish clutch hitting (especially in the post-season) has always been the biggest reason the astros have lost early in the post-season. You really think a Biggio past his prime is gonna change that? Get him off the ballclub, and my feelings may change. Until then, The Astros will not go to the world series as long as Biggio is on the team. I'd love to eat some crow about my above statement next October, but I don't see that happening.
Geez, that's a hell of a thing to say about a player who's given his heart and soul for the team for years. I think he'll do well in left field. You must see the glass as half empty. I think the Astros made a great move.
Yippy!!! I'll be attending more games next year since the 'Stros did their part and got a "Big-Timer"(that's all I really wanted to see, some "committment to winning" as Drayton preaches). BUT I also agree w/ you Ref, we need a CF in the worst way!
Even if they got Kent, they still have a crappy pitching squad. They need to get some middle relievers to help out the closers and assist the starters.
