Astros Need More Than the All-Star Break

It is frustrating as hell to watch the Astros play this year. The offense is so pathetic, so unclutch, that I am amazed they are still within in striking distance (although StL recent 8 game slide helped). The numerous blunders, poor pitching by our closer, the inability to get the big hit with the bases loaded with the game on the line, and Astros propensity to cave at the sight of the other team's big sluggers (Pujols) is difficult to bear.

Ensberg is horrible this year, reminds me of his slump late last year where he completely lost all his confidence. Taveras' number one quality is his speed/base-running but unfortunately that is negated by his utter inability to even get on base. Everett & Ausmus--God, will they ever get a hit???? The bottom of our order (especially when Ensberg is in it) is practically 1-2-3-4 automatic outs every time they come up to bat. The only real intimidating factor the Astros have is Lance Berkman, he's the only one that makes me think there is a real chance for a big hit, big homerun, big RBI in the entire lineup.

Our starting pitching, although not dominant, is still decent and is perhaps the biggest reason the Astros are still somewhat within contention. But with such a pathetic offense, Clemens, Oswalt, Pettitte, and company won't have a chance. I hate reading about how the All-Star break is something the Astros desperately need right now...that the break will somehow magically give the Astros pause to reflect on their dissappointing season and turn things around. What the Astros need is some offensive power players--plain and simple. Even more than the Rockets, the window of time is NOW. What can be done to save this season?