Astros Team Report By Jim Carley/Free-lance writer Contract talks with Wagner, Berkman begin November 30, 2001 The team opened discussions with one player it was expected to talk with and another that was somewhat of a surprise. The negotiations began with closer Billy Wagner, the previously acknowledged "top priority in the offseason" who is arbitration eligible. But initial conversations have also begun with second-year outfielder Lance Berkman, who is a year away from arbitration. Wagner was given a three-year offer in the $20 million range, which would nearly double his current salary. But that likely is only the first round of what could be extended talks. Insiders say Wagner is in no hurry and might not sign before February. He reportedly wants a four-year deal for similar per- season money. The emphasis on Berkman was mildly surprising since the Astros historically have not tried to wrap up players so early in their careers. Berkman surprised everyone by making the All-Star team. He finished tied for third in the league in hitting (.331) with an NL-best 55 doubles to go with 34 homers and 126 RBIs. Trying to wrap him up now is good business. If he has another monster year, the Astros might not be able to afford him down the road. ... The team appears serious about replacing Tony Eusebio as a backup catcher, something the Astros have tried to do for several years. GM Gerry Hunsicker talked with the agent representing Gregg Zaun and apparently is interested in signing him. Eusebio will be 35 and is a righthanded hitter who is extremely slow. He hit .252 in 2001, his worst in eight years with Houston, after coming off shoulder surgery the previous season. Zaun, 30, is a switch-hitter, giving the team the lefty it seeks at that backup position. And he's an adequate defender with considerable speed on the bases. ... The Astros also opened talks with reliever Doug Brocail, who missed the entire season with Tommy John surgery. No fewer than five other clubs reportedly have inquired about Brocail's health, but they expect him to re-sign with the Astros in the not-too-distant future. The team also would like to bring back reserve outfielder Orlando Merced, who is a free agent. But he reportedly is asking for much more than the Astros want to pay, so they'll back off for now. Don't be surprised to see him sign with them late in the offseason especially if they don't find another lefthanded-hitting veteran backup outfielder. Brady Anderson would fill that bill. The Astros inquired about him, but for now insiders say Anderson has expressed a desire to go somewhere he could still start. ... POSITIONAL ANALYSIS Shortstop: Team officials have announced the future is now and Adam Everett will be given every chance to win the job in spring training. Everett has been major-league ready defensively the past two seasons. But he has languished in Class AAA trying to get his bat up to speed. He hit .249 last season at New Orleans but showed some pop with 20 doubles, eight triples and 40 RBIs in the Zephyrs' spacious park. If he can hit that much at the major-league level, his glove would be a welcome addition. Everett also is a competent base stealer who could give the team a leadoff man and allow Craig Biggio to return to his preferred No. 2 spot in the lineup. If, however, Everett pulls a Tim Bogar (who was given the starting job, then hit .133 the first month of the season), the team will go back to Julio Lugo, who hit a disappointing .263 last year and led the team in errors with 22 while starting only 124 games. The Astros would like to make Lugo a utility player much like Bill Spiers was, backing up at second and short as well as making occasional starts in the outfield. They'll also have Jose Vizcaino around after re-signing the veteran to a one-year, $1.7 million contract on Friday. He will provide insurance if Everett and Lugo falter early in the season. HOT STOVE UPDATE Seeking a veteran lefty-hitting third baseman, the team has inquired about the availability of the Brewers' Tyler Houston, who plays first and third and also catches. The Astros are rumored to be willing to part with third baseman Chris Truby and/or outfielder Glen Barker for Houston. ... The agent for Mariners third baseman David Bell called the Astros and there is some interest, but he hits righthanded so the team will seek other options first. ... Among relief pitchers the team is considering is Cubs righthander Dave Weathers. http://www.sportingnews.com/baseball/teams/astros/20011130.html
Berkman is the best player on the team. I predict a big contract and a peice of **** year for berkman.
