[Official] Spring Training Thread

I’m stunned by Salazar and Julks making it over Lee and Dirden. Wowzers.

 

Have they announced the 40 man roster moves? I would assume Altuve to the 60 day IL and then someone else getting DFA'd. Maybe Madris, Bannon, or Mushinski?

 

Sounds like Diaz won the backup role for now. Being the third catcher on a roster doesn’t benefit Lee - so I get that they sent him to the minors if he didn’t win the backup role outright. Also it’s Mandy’s last year for the Astros so Lee will have a shot of winning the starting job next year. As for Julks? 5th or 6th outfielder (assuming Dubon will sub in there ) means he may get a start or two and knowing dusty he may let him pinch hit a lot to see if he can turn on a ball. Otherwise not sure why he was the pick

 

I like Mushinski. Can't imagine he's getting DFA'd when Madris and Bannon are taking up spots.

 

I think they want to give Diaz a lot of playing time at different spots. Probably want to find a way to juice up the lineup some with Altuve out.

 

It's sounds from their rational that they want these guys playing and there is just more time for Diaz to play with his versatility than Kory at the big league level since he can play catcher, first, left, and DH with his bat. Salazar is interesting though. Even though I wanted Dirden to play in the big leagues, it will fun following him in AAA. I think he is going to mash.

 

Is the game tonight televised anywhere?

 

Whitley struck out Yordan with a 92mph slider.

 

I think Diaz is the DH and Salazar is the bench catcher. DH may be Diaz's permanent home along with serving as the third catcher. Lee comes up as the starting catcher if/when Maldy is injured for more than a few days. Julks is a bench bat placeholder till Brantley returns.

 

Whitley is dominating one of the best lineups in the league right now. Mowing guys down. This is potentially massive for the organization.

 

24 pitches so far for Whitley, 18 strikes and he's hit 96 a couple of times.

 

7 swinging strikes already! And his changeup, slider, and curve all look lethal.

 

Whitley/Brown = Cole/Verlander

 

Jesus Whitley, don't do it..

 

Right now Whitley is = sexy time

 

This is honestly stunning.

 

time to manipulate Whitley service time to control him through his prime

 

Only watching via game tracker, but Whitley seemingly had Yordan struck out again but the ump missed the call, he ended up flying out.

 

I really like this power sinker he’s developed. Great way to generate fouls and ground balls. Looks like he can still elevate the 4S as needed too.

 

How are you guys watching the game?