Index of Past Articles
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Index of Past Columns
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added // by Bob Hulsey
Bob says farewell to a baseball legend.
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added 06/30/2023 by Brandon Morrell
Guest columnist Brandon Morrell sizes up where the Astros are, heading into July, and why.
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added 04/17/2022 by Bob Hulsey
The new Space City uniforms the Astros will play in this Monday look very appealing. But Bob won't be buying any.
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added 03/13/2022 by Bob Hulsey
So what was all that fuss about? With the dust now settling, here's the framework left for Major League Baseball over the next five years.
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added 03/03/2022 by Bob Hulsey
The baseball landscape might look quite different today if a couple of things had happened 70-80 years ago.
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added 12/09/2021 by Bob Hulsey
Here's a primer how labor disputes and political pressure have been the driving force behind baseball expansion which may soon happen again.
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added 10/25/2021 by Bob Hulsey
Longtime Astros fans recognize 2021 as the year of answering old issues.
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added 08/19/2021 by Bob Hulsey
Relive the beginning of the Colt .45s had Paul Richards been given a crystal ball to work with.
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added 07/04/2021 by Bob Hulsey
Bypassing Luis Garcia's scheduled start would be the smart play for the next homestand.
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added 04/04/2021 by Hector Llorens
Hector explores the motivation behind the Astros' impressive start.
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added 01/09/2021 by Hector Llorens
Welcome new columnist Hector Llorens, aka 'Astros Fan Since 1980' who shares his view on the ballclub's future.
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added 07/22/2020 by Bob Hulsey
Despite the odds, MLB appears ready to launch a munchkin-sized 2020 season. Will fans, largely kept out of the stands, bother to care?
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added 02/06/2020 by Bob Hulsey
Childish Yankee fans can't handle that their god wasn't unanimously voted into the Hall of Fame.
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added 01/30/2020 by Pat Hajovsky
Pat returns to vent about the fallout from the sign-stealing debacle.
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added 01/14/2020 by Bob Hulsey
One Houston team wants to be the Patriots. Another Houston team already is.
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added 11/18/2019 by Bob Hulsey
Declaring guilt without hard proof is all the rage on the East Coast.
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added 11/06/2019 by Bob Hulsey
Houston's run through the regular season was magical. The postseason was nearly so.
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added 04/29/2019 by Darrell Pittman
The Houston baseball community lost a giant Saturday morning.
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added 02/16/2019 by Bob Hulsey
The National League had some storied playoff series before 1969. Somehow, this wasn't one of them.
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added 10/05/2018 by Jared Bargas
There's always room for one more on the bandwagon.
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added 01/13/2018 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros are already better now than the team that dominated last year. Adding more at this point is overkill.
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added 09/22/2017 by Bob Hulsey
Here's an overview of what the Astros accomplished and what lies ahead.
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added 09/01/2017 by Bob Hulsey
Jim Crane and Jeff Luhnow did what they had to do - go out and get the last impact pitcher on the market.
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added 07/28/2017 by Bob Hulsey
Can Jeff Luhnow find a deadline deal and still respect himself in the morning?
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added 07/01/2017 by Bob Hulsey
Anxiety closet? Houston sports fans have anxiety condos.
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added 06/01/2017 by Greg Thurston
Could starting pitching be the weak link?
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added 05/19/2017 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros have found a flair for expressing their newfound enthusiasm.
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added 04/25/2017 by Bob Hulsey
Jeff Luhnow needed lefty hitters for his lineup and, boy, have they delivered.
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added 04/13/2017 by Greg Thurston
Rough outings by Giles and Gregerson could have A.J. Hinch considering alternative measures
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added 03/31/2017 by Bob Hulsey
Remember all those multiple player trades Jeff Luhnow made when he first arrived in Houston? Now the last players from those trades are blossoming before us.
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added 02/11/2017 by Bob Hulsey
It will be a dark year for spring darkhorses in Astroland. This roster is largely set.
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added 01/13/2017 by Greg Thurston
Keuchel, Marisnick avoid Arbitration
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added 12/31/2016 by Bob Hulsey
Not one given much to oratory, Jeff Bagwell will soon have to start making speeches.
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added 12/21/2016 by Bob Hulsey
Could two old foes bury the hatchet and help the Astros' quagmire at first base?
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added 11/16/2016 by Greg Thurston
Which players might the Astros add to the 40-man roster in anticipation of the Rule 5 Draft?
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added 11/05/2016 by Greg Thurston
A look back at the ups and downs endured by an exciting 2016 Astros club
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added 10/21/2016 by Greg Thurston
How will Jeff Luhnow go about upgrading the roster over the winter?
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added 10/11/2016 by Greg Thurston
Why now? And what effect will the new configuration have on the team?
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added 09/30/2016 by Greg Thurston
A message to Astros fans who are angry about missing the playoffs
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added 09/15/2016 by Bob Hulsey
The worst is over, but do the Astros still have a chance in 2016?
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added 09/06/2016 by Bob Hulsey
The famed 2017 prediction is just a year away. Are the Astros solid enough to make it happen?
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added 08/11/2016 by Greg Thurston
Lone trade deadline deal closes the book on a sound business decision
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added 08/08/2016 by Bob Hulsey
A 2-8 tailspin leaves the Astros looking up - again.
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added 07/30/2016 by Bob Hulsey
This trade deadline exposes a plan for this year that simply didn't pan out.
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added 07/07/2016 by Greg Thurston
Failure of starters to go deep into games could ultimately blow up playoff chances
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added 07/02/2016 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros are on track for 87 wins and a wild card berth.
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added 03/29/2016 by Darrell Pittman
Darrell and Susan took a road trip to Kissimmee with some friends.
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added 03/24/2016 by Greg Thurston
1B and DH positions up for grabs
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added 12/13/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Overstocked with major league-ready talent, GM Jeff Luhnow trimmed. Now, he's in position to start adding.
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added 12/06/2015 by Greg Thurston
Luhnow in Nashville looking for relief help
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added 10/27/2015 by Greg Thurston
Why the Astros need Mr. Versatility
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added 09/28/2015 by Greg Thurston
Why have Houston relievers struggled in September?
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added 09/16/2015 by Greg Thurston
Now looking up at the Rangers in the standings, it's gut check time for ailing Astros
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added 09/06/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Bob says farewell to a baseball legend.
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added 08/23/2015 by Bob Hulsey
In case you haven't noticed, one side of the Astro equation has been lethargic this month while the other side is keeping this club in first place.
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added 08/07/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Fans are enjoying the current season but, once it's over, how do the Astros shape up for next year?
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added 07/15/2015 by Greg Thurston
I rate the first half performance of the offense, starting pitchers, bullpen, defense, manager, and front office.
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added 06/27/2015 by Greg Thurston
Commissioner Manfred needs to hand down heavy penalties to St. Louis franchise.
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added 06/25/2015 by Bob Hulsey
The Best Team Money Can Buy and the American League All-Stars pay the Astros a visit. How will they fare?
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added 06/07/2015 by Bob Hulsey
What does Luhnow do about that other burning issue in Fresno?
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added 05/28/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Too quietly, Fred Gladding passed away last week. Astros Daily remembers an accomplished and colorful pitcher.
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added 05/21/2015 by Bob Hulsey
How can a team this bad play this good?
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added 05/06/2015 by Greg Thurston
Astros outfielder being tested for concussion
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added 05/05/2015 by Pat Hajovsky
Should the Astros be trading for the 2015 pennant race?
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added 04/28/2015 by Bob Hulsey
While the Astros' current success may be fun, it's a feeling older fans have lived through before.
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added 04/20/2015 by Greg Thurston
First place Astros take the show on the road.
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added 04/19/2015 by Greg Thurston
Are the slow starts by Gattis, Carter, and Springer reason for concern?
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added 04/05/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Are these the ones Houston fans have been waiting for? Eh, not yet.
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added 03/07/2015 by Greg Thurston
Astros have better options at 1B and DH
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added 02/25/2015 by Greg Thurston
Josh Fields will be an important man in the Astros bullpen.
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added 02/22/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Perhaps the quietest part of Houston's off-season might prove the most important.
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added 02/08/2015 by Greg Thurston
How will the Astros new look coaching staff mesh with the roster?
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added 02/05/2015 by Bob Hulsey
The new-look Astros are an older group than you probably think.
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added 01/22/2015 by Bob Hulsey
Jeff Luhnow was on a roll this off-season until he made the signing he didn't need to make.
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added 01/19/2015 by Greg Thurston
Things are looking up for the Astros. Will it mean a winning season?
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added 01/01/2015 by Bob Hulsey
A new year brings hope as well as some old issues.
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added 12/17/2014 by Greg Thurston
The free agent signing of Jed Lowrie may cause more roster shakeups.
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added 12/04/2014 by Aaron Bell
Guest columnist Aaron Bell finds the rebuilding wait excruciating and disagrees with the way the Astros have done it.
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added 11/30/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Jeff Luhnow is showing great restraint with that $20 million payroll increase.
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added 11/25/2014 by Greg Thurston
Reports have the Astros pursuing the most expensive free agent closer on the market. Should they?
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added 11/04/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Perhaps the best free agent addition the Astros could make is a face already familiar to Houston fans.
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added 10/26/2014 by Greg Thurston
Transitioning to a team with expectations, the Astros build a new crew of coaches.
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added 10/13/2014 by Mike Tauser
A perennial loser. An outrageous bet. Sound familiar? Farmstros blogger Mike Tauser spins a fictional tale that's close to home.
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added 10/08/2014 by Greg Thurston
Defensively and offensively, the diminutive star is still not getting his due.
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added 10/02/2014 by Greg Thurston
New columnist Greg Thurston breaks down the Astros' managerial hiring.
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added 09/28/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Are the building blocks in place for a Worlds Championship team in 2017? Hardly.
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added 09/15/2014 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros seem to have climbed out of the basement this year but don't be so quick to credit the #process.
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added 09/04/2014 by Scott Barzilla
Calmer now, Scott analyzes the Bo Porter firing.
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added 09/01/2014 by Bob Hulsey
If either Jeff Luhnow or Bo Porter has to go, the result is obvious.
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added 08/19/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Baseball's incoming commissioner can correct one of Bud Selig's biggest mistakes and save baseball in Houston.
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added 08/07/2014 by Ben DuBose
A reader takes Bob to task about his most recent column.
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added 08/03/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Perhaps there's a bigger plan behind the PR gaffes and television blunders.
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added 07/29/2014 by Scott Barzilla
Scott feels that when the byline (or tweet) carries the name of Chronicle reporter Jose de Jesus Ortiz, consider the source.
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added 07/24/2014 by Scott Barzilla
Before the final analysis is done, this year may not be thought of as the Brady Aiken draft in Houston.
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added 07/10/2014 by Scott Barzilla
Scott finds flaws in the facade of perfection exuded by our front office.
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added 06/15/2014 by Bob Hulsey
The new ownership has certainly changed things in Astrotown. Here are their biggest hits and misses.
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added 06/03/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Want to join the Astros? Easy! Sign a cheap deal.
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added 05/15/2014 by Bob Hulsey
With the NBA and NFL no longer locally in action, Houston fans must focus on the Astros if they dare and if they can.
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added 05/08/2014 by Scott Barzilla
Seems obvious but Scott reminds us we've seen prospect droughts before.
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added 05/01/2014 by Bob Hulsey
You bet he could. So says Bryant Gumbel.
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added 04/17/2014 by Bob Hulsey
The player all of Astrodom has waited for finally made it to the majors.
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added 03/30/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Will the 2014 Astros begin the turnaround or give us more of the same?
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added 02/09/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Houston's pitching staff may leap from the league's youngest to among the league's oldest.
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added 01/30/2014 by Scott Barzilla
Scott questions the wisdom of claiming you were outbid on the last big free agent.
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added 01/09/2014 by Bob Hulsey
Astro fans were disappointed again but it might turn out better this way.
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added 01/01/2014 by Bob Hulsey
While accusations are being thrown around by Northeast sportswriters, Bob is dragging another name into the discussion.
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added 12/18/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Welcome to the Houston version of the Home Shopping Channel.
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added 12/01/2013 by Patrick Hajovsky
How valid is Jim Crane's lawsuit against Drayton McLane, Comcast and NBC Universal?
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added 11/14/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Ginning the rumor mill for the Hot Stove Season may have left the Astros with some 'splainin' to do.
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added 11/07/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Yet another great loss for Houston is lamented.
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added 10/13/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Another year of bad baseball is behind us. So where do the Astros stand?
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added 09/27/2013 by Bob Hulsey
The 2013 Astros were indeed a surprise as Jeff Luhnow promised.
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added 09/17/2013 by Bob Hulsey
What would a less drastically rebuilt Astros have looked like?
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added 09/04/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Could the Astros have handled the Forbes story better?
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added 09/01/2013 by Darrell Pittman
Darrell views an Astros game from the CSN Houston suite
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added 08/31/2013 by Bob Hulsey
You didn't need to be Dikembe Mutombo to swat down a recent Forbes.com article about Astros profits.
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added 08/26/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Scott finds the logic behind keeping George Springer in the minors difficult to defend.
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added 08/04/2013 by Anton Joe
We all know pitching prospects like Mark Appel, Mike Foltynewicz and Asher Wojciechowski but there are some other hopefuls to keep an eye on.
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added 07/07/2013 by Bob Hulsey
The Rockets stepped up and did what the Astros haven't - brought a big-budget attraction to their tv lineup.
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added 06/30/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Is Hector Ambriz all that bad? Is he all that good? Scott crunches some numbers for us.
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added 06/26/2013 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros and their new manager have survived their first crisis.
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added 06/19/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Some players overcame long odds to reach Houston which makes them easy to root for.
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added 06/13/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Some terrific pitching is being squandered by horrific hitting. Should we care?
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added 06/06/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Scott says the majors' approach to illegal drugs is completely backwards.
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added 06/02/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Have the Astros found their third baseman of the future? Yes, for now.
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added 05/30/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Besides Jose Altuve, one other Astro has played well enough to get some All-Star consideration.
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added 05/23/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Should Jose Altuve be signed to a long-term contract? You'll find two different opinions that reach the same conclusion.
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added 05/20/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Could recent events be a turning point for the Astros and their fans?
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added 05/15/2013 by Scott Barzilla
Scott recalls his face-to-face with the former Astros President and CEO when Jim Crane's sales bid was fresh.
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added 05/02/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Give Houston fans of National League baseball a chance to honor their past without leaving the state.
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added 04/25/2013 by Bob Hulsey
We should expect a sweep this week in Boston and New York, at least on paper.
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added 04/08/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Taking the pitchers out of the lineup hasn't made much difference so far for the Astros' offense.
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added 03/28/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Astros fans are hearing a common refrain whenever another wrong is done to them.
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added 02/20/2013 by Bob Hulsey
There's nothing new under the sun, particularly when it comes to Astros managers.
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added 02/14/2013 by Bob Hulsey
Before the American League and the Union force their will on National League fans, this idea might salvage some of their fun.
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added 02/07/2013 by Bob Hulsey
The fire sale has ended and now Jeff Luhnow is clearing out what's left.
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added 01/28/2013 by Bob Hulsey
The patience to wait for future stars to reach the majors will not be enough.
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added 01/14/2013 by Patrick Hajovsky
The BBWAA vote this year for the Hall of Fame reminds Patrick of another farce.
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added 01/10/2013 by Joey Milillo
Guest columnist Joey Milillo examines the credentials of Craig Biggio and wonders what the Hall of Fame voters were thinking.
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added 12/31/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Join us as we review a year that took us over more than one cliff.
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added 12/17/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The first Astros free agent addition of the winter won't hit a home run with Houston fans.
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added 11/26/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Are the Astros cheap or just exceedingly patient?
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added 09/18/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Perhaps the best managerial change is no change at all.
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added 09/08/2012 by Bob Hulsey
When I read the optimism coming from the Astros' front office, I'm reminded of a quote.
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added 09/03/2012 by Bob Hulsey
You might be surprised which team has done the most transactions with the Astros since their beginning.
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added 08/30/2012 by Glynn Ligon
Our guest columnist finds the league switch a hot topic in the hereafter.
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added 08/18/2012 by Bob Hulsey
To everything there is a season but this one is particularly tough to endure.
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added 08/06/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The end of traditional National League rivalries is beginning to hit home.
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added 08/02/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The current Phillies look vaguely familiar.
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added 07/25/2012 by Bob Hulsey
With the trade of Wandy Rodriguez, the old Astros have been completely leveled. What did we get?
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added 07/15/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The Rockets are desperately trying to land a star player. Should the Astros?
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added 07/06/2012 by Bob Hulsey
So much has been said about Carlos Lee but perhaps not this.
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added 06/29/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Fans aren't coming yet to watch this year's slightly-improved Astros. Why might that be?
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added 06/18/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The weekend in Arlington sent a message. Did you miss it?
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added 06/12/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Bob laments the encroachment of the designated hitter.
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added 06/08/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Jeff Luhnow's first draft may start a new era in Houston - and a new attitude.
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added 06/01/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Jeff Luhnow and his scouts have a big decision to make.
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added 05/24/2012 by Bob Hulsey
An off-day brings another reassessment of the Astros season to date.
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added 05/20/2012 by Bob Hulsey
After cutting payroll to the bone, the Astros may be uniquely positioned to sign the Rangers star.
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added 05/16/2012 by Patrick Hajovsky
A year has passed since the announcement that the Astros would be sold. How is Jim Crane doing?
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added 05/12/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros' third sacker gets a bad reputation among netizens. Is it fair?
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added 04/26/2012 by Bob Hulsey
A Texans draft plus a day off provides time to reflect.
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added 04/18/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Computer simulation games can help fans weather bad real-life seasons.
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added 04/11/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The new Houston owner can turn a public relations nightmare into a public relations triumph.
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added 04/08/2012 by Dennis Condu
One Astros fan replies to last week's guest column.
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added 04/03/2012 by Jared Bargas
Guest columnist Jared Bargas is done rooting for the Astros but he still can't stop looking in.
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added 03/26/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Some spring success leads to questions about the upcoming season.
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added 03/21/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The deal with Kansas City clarifies some roster decisions for the Astros. Or does it?
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added 03/18/2012 by Darrell Pittman
James Hays Quarles of the Houston Daily Post finishes his contemporary description
of the 'fan experience' afforded by the 1896 Houston Buffaloes.
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added 03/10/2012 by Bob Hulsey
One baseball fan teaches everyone a lesson.
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added 03/04/2012 by Bob Hulsey
How much of a gamble is it for the Astros to take one of their top starting pitchers and switch them to the closer role?
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added 02/19/2012 by Darrell Pittman
As Houston prepares to take in its final season of professional baseball, James Hays Quarles of The Houston Daily Post gives us a contemporary glimpse of one of its earliest: 1896.
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added 02/14/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Something will be missing from the 50th anniversary festivities this season - sartorial accuracy.
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added 02/07/2012 by Bob Hulsey
If the Astros want any credibility this year, they should keep their pitchers.
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added 01/26/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Should the "Astros" die with their league affiliation?
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added 01/23/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Who'll be in the Astros outfield on Opening Day? Nobody for certain.
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added 01/16/2012 by Bob Hulsey
Since Bob's on the subject of the two former stars, there's something else he wants to say.
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added 01/09/2012 by Bob Hulsey
The new regime chooses brains over Braun.
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added 01/04/2012 by Willie B. Lakey
Willie Lakey tries to make sense out of baseball writers and their eccentric Hall of Fame voting habits.
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added 12/16/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Was it necessary to blow up the Astros this completely?
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added 12/12/2011 by Seth Bracken
Lost in a dreadful season was an important milestone for two Astros rookies.
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added 12/01/2011 by Bob Hulsey
How angry are you at recent events and what will be your response to it?
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added 11/28/2011 by Dan Honig
Astros fan Dan Honig feels a particular pain from the news his beloved club is switching leagues.
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added 11/21/2011 by Willie B. Lakey
Willie Lakey returns to add his view of the Astros' ownership change.
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added 11/17/2011 by Bob Hulsey
The Texas Rangers are now set to dominate the Astros for decades to come.
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added 10/25/2011 by Bob Hulsey
To longtime fans, switching to the American League is like a death in the family.
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added 10/25/2011 by
For Astros fans, the latest ownership mess rates right up there with the Black Sox and Steroid Era.
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added 10/03/2011 by Glynn Ligon
Glynn takes umbrage that the original .45s were left off the 50th Anniversary logo.
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added 09/23/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Celebrating 50 years now is rather bittersweet.
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added 09/09/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Bud Selig is using the old bait-and-switch to sell Jim Crane a lemon.
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added 08/21/2011 by Bob Hulsey
A lot of this decade's building blocks are now in place. The question is which ones will flourish and which ones will fade.
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added 08/14/2011 by Bob Hulsey
It would be nice to bring Tampa Bay's GM to Houston but why stop there?
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added 08/08/2011 by Bob Hulsey
If cutting payroll was the goal behind recent trades, the Astros didn't go far enough.
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added 07/27/2011 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Dr. McCurdy takes us step by step through the ritual of losing franchises.
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added 07/18/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Excited about joining the Texas Rangers in the American League West? You shouldn't be.
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added 07/11/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Whether they are waiting for the sale to go through or not, the Astros must get busy to overhaul baseball's worst team.
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added 07/05/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Ignore the potholes. Look off into the future if you want to see where the Astros are headed.
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added 06/18/2011 by Bob Hulsey
If the Astros are switching leagues, they should exact a price to do so.
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added 06/14/2011 by Bob Hulsey
How much Astros angst is bad luck and how much is bad management?
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added 06/06/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Lack of enthusiasm in Houston for the Astros is worse than Bob anticipated,
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added 05/29/2011 by Bob Hulsey
It's not the young players that are holding back the Astros.
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added 05/26/2011 by Patrick Hajovsky
Fifty Years? Not quite, but an off day gives Pat a chance to evaluate the current squad after fifty games.
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added 05/21/2011 by Bob Hulsey
A long chapter in Astros history is soon coming to a close. Here's a thumbnail review of Drayton McLane's tenure as Astros owner.
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added 05/17/2011 by Patrick Hajovsky
Pat has a list of grievances for the new owner.
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added 05/12/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Avoiding temptations will be a key to rebuilding the Astros.
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added 05/01/2011 by Bob Hulsey
What might be on the minds of Astros fans after the first month of the season?
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added 04/18/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Bob talks about some recent life changes and expresses his thanks.
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added 04/06/2011 by Patrick Hajovsky
Pat wants to take up Bud Selig's offer to realign the majors.
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added 03/29/2011 by Patrick Hajovsky
Pat updates what has gone on in the division since last fall.
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added 03/24/2011 by Bob Hulsey
You may feel you're in a way-back machine as you watch this year's Astros.
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added 03/17/2011 by Bob Hulsey
A day off gives Bob a chance to look over the stat sheet and do some roster speculating.
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added 03/08/2011 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Houston Buff lists his eight favorite movie baseball managers.
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added 03/06/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Jason Castro's injury is one in a long line of disappointments that have befallen Astro backstops.
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added 02/28/2011 by Bob Hulsey
If you think Brett Wallace or Nelson Figueroa took the long way to get to Kissimmee, a few longshots have them beat.
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added 02/23/2011 by Bob Hulsey
MLB has a job opening. Want it?
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added 02/21/2011 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
To everyone but Tony LaRussa, this is how a batting lineup is built.
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added 02/17/2011 by Bob Hulsey
Houston fans are ready to be swept off their feet by a new Astros owner.
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added 02/09/2011 by Patrick Hajovsky
Pat describes what makes baseball great with an assist from Jackie Robinson.
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added 01/29/11 by Bob Hulsey
Do discussions about baseball salaries seem surreal in today's economy?
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added 01/23 by Bob Hulsey
Here's a handy guide to get you through the season.
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added 01/13 by Bob Hulsey
Bob sees trouble on the horizon for the Baseball Hall Of Fame no matter which way the voters try to resolve the steroid issue.
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added 01/08 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Houston Buff believes Jeff Bagwell has been caught in a Hall Of Fame tidal wave of hypocrisy.
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added 12/16 by Glynn Ligon
A Colt .45s collector goes the extra mile for one final baseball card. He invents it.
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added 12/02 by Patrick Hajovsky
Now that Jeff Bagwell is on the Hall of Fame ballot, Pat looks at his credentials.
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added 11/21 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Houston Buff will be among those sad to see Drayton McLane leave the stage when he sells the Astros.
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added 11/09 by Scott Barzilla
I have returned from my hiatus to comment on the off-season.
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added 11/08 by Bob Hulsey
You may have suspected it for a long time. Now, there's more proof.
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added 10/18 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
With the release of a new book on Astros legend Jim Wynn, Dr. McCurdy explains why his tale matters.
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added 10/04 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Houston Buff takes in the last Astros game of the season and celebrates the day.
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added 10/01 by Bob Hulsey
Bob hopes Ed Wade resists the temptation to be a big shopper this off-season.
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added 09/27 by Pat Hajovsky
Pat scopes out next season's Central Division race.
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added 09/21 by Bob Hulsey
Many off-season decisions affecting the Astros will center around the desire to spend time at home.
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added 09/16 by Michael G. Norris
Astros fan Michael Norris recounts one of his (and our) favorite games.
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added 09/13 by Mike Tauser
Mike Tauser of Farmstros recaps the Astros' minor league seasons.
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added 09/06 by Bob Hulsey
Could Brett Wallace's struggles open the door for the return of a familiar face?
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added 08/30 by Bob Hulsey
August is a dreary time for non-contenders. Except the Astros.
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added 08/23 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros took a step into yesteryear when they put five rookies on the field to play the Marlins.
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added 08/16 by Bob Hulsey
Just like in the movies, some help comes when you least expect it.
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added 08/12 by Pat Hajovsky
A new era of Astros means fans must allow time for them to live up to their predecessors.
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added 08/09 by Gene Elston
Broadcasting legend Gene Elston provides more footnotes from baseball's past.
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added 08/05 by Mike Tauser
Mike Tauser of Farmstros updates us on a farm system that saw a lot of player movement in July.
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added 08/02 by Gene Elston
Hall of Fame broadcaster Gene Elston offers footnotes from baseball's past.
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added 08/01 by Bob Hulsey
Don't mourn the loss of Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman for long. A new era is beginning.
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added 07/28 by Darrell Pittman
Darrell weighs in on the Roy Oswalt fiasco
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added 07/20 by Bob Hulsey
Carlos Lee's poor play might be just an off-year or it might not.
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added 07/16 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Dr. McCurdy has another number he'd like to see hanging from the rafters of Minute Maid Park.
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added 07/12 by Bob Hulsey
It's crunch time for Ed Wade and Drayton McLane.
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added 07/08 by Mike Tauser
Mike Tauser of Farmstros gives us an All-Star edition of his monthly farm report.
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added 07/03 by Bob Hulsey
Here's a quick guide to assess the trade possibilities Ed Wade has with regard to Roy Oswalt.
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added 06/30 by Bob Hulsey
Was his first year with the expansion Colt .45s Turk Farrell's best season or his worst?
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added 06/27 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Dr. McCurdy is very impressed with the new catcher in town and hopes more are on their way.
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added 06/23 by Pat Hajovsky
There are similarities between this season and the Astros' woeful 1991 campaign - which should bring optimism.
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added 06/20 by Darrell Pittman
The Houston Sports Museum reopened today. Unfortunately, Darrell was there, and inflicts his thoughts on us.
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added 06/15 by Bob Hulsey
Some names you may remember from farm reports last year are doing well. Others are not.
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added 06/11 by Will Bonn
Guest columnist Will Bonn previews this weekend's series against the Yankees.
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added 06/08 by Bob Hulsey
Winning a homestand was nice but the Astros still must focus on their future.
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added 06/04 by Mike Tauser
Mike Tauser of Farmstros updates the progress our prospects are making in the minor leagues.
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added 06/03 by Darrell Pittman
MLB umpiring has drawn scrutiny in recent days. Darrell takes a look at the issues involved.
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added 05/31 by Bob Hulsey
While others falter, Jeff Keppinger continues to do what he's always done.
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added 05/27 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Dr. McCurdy looks at the dynamics of Roy Oswalt's recent trade request.
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added 05/23 by Darrell Pittman
I was wrong about him before... I miss him now.
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added 05/20 by Pat Hajovsky
The middle of the order started the season poorly and still aren't intimidating anyone.
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added 05/15 by Bob Hulsey
Bud Selig refuses to be drawn into the Arizona immigration debate. For now.
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added 05/09 by Bob Hulsey
Finding new expressions for "bad baseball" can be a challenge.
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added 05/05 by Mike Tauser
Farmstros' Mike Tauser fills us in on the progress of the Astros' minor league system.
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added 05/04 by Darrell Pittman
In Darrell's world, things are never what one would expect.
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added 05/01 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
"Garbage in, garbage out," is Dr. McCurdy's reaction to a recent study which ranks fan hatred.
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added 04/26 by Bob Hulsey
How did the Astros turn it around when the heart of the order hit so poorly?
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added 04/22 by Glynn Ligon
Thought you knew everything there is to know about Houston Colt .45 baseball cards? Think again.
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added 04/19 by Bob Hulsey
Every spring, the maddening hunt to find early season Astros broadcasts in Central Texas continues.
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added 04/15 by Pat Hajovsky
There's always a rainbow if you look hard enough; even when you start the season at 0-8.
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added 04/12 by Bob Hulsey
Bob's first visit to the Crawford Boxes leads to an assortment of thoughts, past and present.
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added 04/02 by Bob Hulsey
Everybody makes predictions this time of year. Here are some guaranteed to be worth what you paid for them.
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added 03/29 by Bob Hulsey
When studying spring performances, all is not always what they seem.
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added 03/25 by Darrell Pittman
Nothing to see here... move along.
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added 03/22 by Bob Hulsey
Somebody has to jump in and bring some sanity back to the discussion of Ed Wade. It might as well be me.
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added 03/18 by Pat Hajovsky
Pat looks at baseball statistics much differently than Scott Barzilla does.
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added 03/15 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
As the Astros witness another catching battle, Houston Buff recalls the franchise's first one and who benefited most from it.
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added 03/10 by Bob Hulsey
Houston may have a new star catcher but it isn't who you are probably thinking.
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added 03/06 by Darrell Pittman
You would think 1860s baseball would be idyllic
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added 03/01 by Patrick Hajovsky
New columnist Patrick Hajovsky prepares for the new season by recalling some past ones.
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added 02/25 by Bob Hulsey
That is the question but, perhaps, there are more than two possible answers.
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added 02/22 by Cot Deal
Cot Deal discusses a Houston prospect with a Ruthian appetite.
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added 02/16 by Bob Hulsey
You could argue this either way and have a compelling argument.
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added 02/12 by Bob Hulsey
Do signs around the ballpark annoy you? Get used to them.
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added 02/08 by Cot Deal
Former coach Cot Deal discusses the injury to Dickie Thon and the story of someone who wanted to meet him.
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added 02/05 by Bob Hulsey
There are reasons why a major leaguer in his teens or early 20s is as rare as ever.
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added 02/01 by Randy Aman
In Part II of his series, Randy Aman discusses the options the Astros have for upgrading the team.
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added 01/28 by Cot Deal
Former player and coach Cot Deal has more stories to tell from his long career in baseball.
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added 01/25 by Randy Aman
Randy Aman critiques what the Astros have done this off-season and how it compares to the big picture.
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added 01/21 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Houston Buff weighs in on the Astros' present and future.
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added 01/18 by Cot Deal
Former Colts and Astros coach Cot Deal shares more nuggets from his five decades in baseball.
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added 01/14 by Bob Hulsey
Is Koby Clemens paying a price for his father Roger's fall from grace?
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added 01/11 by Cot Deal
Former Astros coach Cot Deal tells about one his players from his days managing in the minors.
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added 01/05 by Bob Hulsey
How would the last five seasons have changed if the Astros had been able to sign Carlos Beltran?
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added 12/23 by Bob Hulsey
Sometimes hope in the Astros' coming season can be found in the strangest places.
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added 12/18 by Scott Barzilla
A conversation with Alyson Footer helped crystalize where this club's mentality is.
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added 12/16 by Bob Hulsey
In an upcoming book, an internet analyst turns his SABR focus from players to managers.
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added 12/07 by Gene Elston
Gene gives a quick history of the homer. Just don't call it a "long ball".
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added 11/16 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Dr. McCurdy gives us an update on the Houston Sports Museum once located inside Finger's Furniture.
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added 11/10 by Bob Hulsey
Can you improve the Astros and cut their budget? That's Ed Wade's daunting challenge.
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added 11/02 by Bob Hulsey
Even finding a cool nickname for Brad Mills will be a challenge.
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added 10/29 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Bill McCurdy zeroes in on what may be the most important issue facing the Astros' new manager.
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added 10/25 by Bob Hulsey
Who wins the managerial derby may say something about the future direction of the ballclub.
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added 10/13 by Bob Hulsey
In four short years, the Astros went from a World Series team to a club in disarray. See how it happened.
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added 09/24 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Being a Houston Colt .45 was just the beginning for this athletic career.
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added 09/21 by Bob Hulsey
Dismissing Cecil Cooper had to happen, even if the timing is a bit curious.
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added 09/18 by Bob Hulsey
The season can't end soon enough except to see who might stick for 2010.
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added 09/15 by Scott Barzilla
Another plug for a great organization
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added 09/11 by Bob Hulsey
Once again, there's controversy about the correct age of a Dominican player.
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added 09/07 by Bob Hulsey
A questionable theory is used to try to explain our bad luck.
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added 09/04 by Bob Hulsey
Need some reasons to still be interested in this year's Astros? Here's some.
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added 09/01 by Bob Hulsey
Bob has some ideas on how the Astros can get out of the doghouse.
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added 08/30 by Scott Barzilla
A sweep of the Astros has the local weather vane talking loco.
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added 08/28 by Bob Hulsey
Could trading their ace be the best thing the Astros could do?
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added 08/24 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros have drummed to death the 10th Anniversary of Minute Maid Park but there's one aspect still to explore.
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added 08/19 by Bob Hulsey
Chris Sampson didn't get to the majors the usual way and it is the main reason he'll be coming back.
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added 08/18 by Bob Hulsey
Giving up on this year? Bob thinks 2010 will offer more of the same.
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added 08/14 by Bob Hulsey
With the season slipping away, the Astros should let their youngsters play.
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added 08/10 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros need to make their run now if they want any chance of making the playoffs.
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added 08/08 by Bob Hulsey
One loves to build bullpens; the other loves to abuse them.
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added 08/05 by David Coleman
David tells us more on two recent addition to the Astros' roster and speculates on who else might join them.
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added 08/04 by Bob Hulsey
There may be a silver lining to the Astros' recent spate of injuries.
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added 08/01 by Scott Barzilla
Scott asks fans to hold their criticism of Ed Wade before they know what the limitations were.
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added 07/30 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros continue to be a difficult team to gauge.
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added 07/25 by Bob Hulsey
Hoping the Astros will deal this week? Check the bullpen.
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added 07/20 by Jim Ransdell
A graphics designer takes a back-to-the-future approach in anticipating the Astros' next uniform style.
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added 07/18 by Bob Hulsey
What events had the best impact on the franchise? Bob ranks them.
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added 07/15 by Scott Barzilla
As usual, the Astros stand at the crossroads at the half-way point
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added 07/13 by Bob Hulsey
Optimist or pessimist, the Astros provide fuel for both.
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added 07/11 by Bob Hulsey
If you're expecting to see Miguel Tejada or Hunter Pence play a major role at this year's All-Star Game, it would be against their history.
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added 07/06 by Bob Hulsey
A consistently mediocre team, which players have tilted the balance for Houston in the first half.
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added 07/04 by Bob Hulsey
Analysis and images from the new MLB channel bring out a variety of thoughts.
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added 07/01 by Scott Barzilla
Despite their place in the standings, the Astros have no shortage of all-star candidates.
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added 06/28 by Bob Hulsey
Do Astros fans lead the league in bonehead behavior?
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added 06/24 by Bob Hulsey
Is the Astros' glass this year half empty or half full?
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added 06/23 by Michael Point
Guest columnist, Michael Point, gives his take on the Astros from Round Rock.
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added 06/19 by Scott Barzilla
This isn't nearly the worst Astros team I've ever watched, but it might be the most frustrating.
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added 06/12 by Bob Hulsey
With a new draft class now selected, what should we make of the prospects drawing praise in A-ball?
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added 06/10 by Scott Barzilla
Barzilla offers a unique spin on a recent Chronicle news piece.
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added 06/05 by Bob Hulsey
If it isn't already obvious, Astros hitters this year are often their own worst enemies.
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added 06/02 by Scott Barzilla
As we move closer to the third way mark, the same old questions keep rearing their ugly head
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added 05/31 by Bob Hulsey
If a team like the White Sox or Phillies want to acquire Roy Oswalt, their best chance may be to include Jake Peavy in their trade discussions.
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added 05/28 by Scott Barzilla
I find myself in one of the most uncomfortable places: agreeing with Richard Justice
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added 05/27 by Scott Barzilla
Scott looks at all that has happened since the last time he published an AD column
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added 05/25 by James Anderson
James reflects on when broadcasting legend Harry Kalas was a little-known Astros announcer. Included is some new audio not heard in over 40 years.
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added 05/22 by Bob Hulsey
Like a bad TV series or an American auto company, maybe it's time for the Lone Star Series to fold.
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added 05/15 by Bob Hulsey
Which guys wear the Astros out? Bob looks at "killers" past and present.
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added 05/13 by Scott Barzilla
The handling of Felipe Paulino demonstrates the Astros blind spot.
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added 05/07 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Houston Buff discusses the knuckleball and its two most successful practitioners - Joe and Phil Niekro.
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added 05/04 by Scott Barzilla
It's venting time.
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added 05/03 by Bob Hulsey
Cecil Cooper says the wagon isn't moving. Bob looks into why.
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added 04/29 by Scott Barzilla
The Astros have an abundance of important roster decisions to make.
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added 04/24 by Scott Barzilla
If you think of 2009 as a six month long spring season then you will be ahead of the game.
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added 04/23 by Bob Hulsey
Ed Wade and Cecil Cooper have some tough choices approaching about their pitching staff.
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added 04/20 by Scott Barzilla
SABR had its annual meeting at the Juicebox and it didn't disappoint.
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added 04/16 by Daniel "Tex" Cohen
Dan Cohen sees positives and negatives in the Astros' sputtering start.
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added 04/15 by Scott Barzilla
Ken Rosenthal creates some stir during the time off.
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added 04/13 by Scott Barzilla
It's a long season folks. Of course, that could mean anything.
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added 04/09 by Bob Hulsey
Nick Adenhart's tragic death isn't rare, either for the Angels or society in general.
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added 04/06 by Scott Barzilla
Enjoy ESPN's quintuple header today.
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added 04/02 by Scott Barzilla
As it turns out, Astros management didn't think Chris Johnson was ready.
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added 03/27 by Scott Barzilla
We move from general pessimism to the interesting battles for final roster spots
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added 03/24 by Scott Barzilla
Cecil Cooper's comments this spring have been comical, but you have to feel sorry for the guy.
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added 03/22 by Bob Hulsey
Ivan Rodriguez will help the Astros in ways that aren't easily measured.
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added 03/17 by Scott Barzilla
The Astros plugged a huge hole when they agreed to terms with Pudge Rodriguez.
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added 03/16 by James Anderson
There was a time when I looked excitedly toward opening day in baseball. This was a rite that exhilarated me every since I was 11 years old.
I will turn 63 this year.
There was a time when I would pour over the daily box scores like a research scientists studying his notes on his viral drug cultures in his laboratory.
I would follow the top hitters and pitchers and keep charts on what they would have to do the remainder of the season to hit that .330 batting average or reach 40 home runs or win 20 games. I did this because I had such a burning passion for the great American pastime. A game that was a woven part of the fabric of the American culture as the stars on Old Glory.
That has all changed.
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added 03/15 by Scott Barzilla
The quotes coming out of Astros camp are becoming harder and harder to believe.
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added 03/10 by Bob Hulsey
General suckiness is overshadowing some good spring performances.
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added 03/06 by Scott Barzilla
Whether I am a realist or a pessimist depends on your own outlook.
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added 03/02 by Scott Barzilla
Baseball is always a soap opera, but it has taken another turn for the worse.
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added 02/26 by Scott Barzilla
Spring Training is the ultimate time to determine what kind of fan you are.
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added 02/23 by Scott Barzilla
Baseball Prospectus cracked on the Astros again in their annual.
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added 02/17 by Scott Barzilla
The weather vane made his case against Pudge. I'm countering.
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added 02/10 by Scott Barzilla
The Arod situation shows the union and commissioner's office couldn't manage a church picnic, much less baseball.
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added 02/02 by Scott Barzilla
Since Bob got us started, I thought I'd take a look at the NL Central.
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added 01/26 by Gene Elston
Dull winter? Gene Elston tries to take your mind off it with a reflection on baseball's oddities.
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added 01/22 by Scott Barzilla
A winter of bad economics and more Yankees spending leads some to think a salary cap is in order.
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added 01/16 by Scott Barzilla
The latest round of signings clearly points a path for the Astros
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added 01/07 by Scott Barzilla
People love to use disasters as excuses for things they would do anyway.
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added 01/06 by George Pennell
An Astros fan recalls his encounters with various players as reflects what it means to him now with his own family.
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added 01/02 by Scott Barzilla
This year has to be better than last year right? In terms of the Astros it might not be that simple.
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added 12/17 by Scott Barzilla
Do the Astros get their money's worth, particularly from their hitters?
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added 12/14 by Scott Barzilla
It has been a disappointing week for Astros fans, but it is only mid December.
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added 12/10 by Bob Hulsey
Next up on our Hall of Fame disassembly line...
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added 12/08 by Scott Barzilla
Is Rice cooked in his Cooperstown bid? He would be if Scott had a vote.
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added 12/02 by Dr. Bill McCurdy
Dr. McCurdy traces the road the Astros have travelled by the numbers.
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added 11/29 by Scott Barzilla
Recent developments have some fans upset, but patience is the name of the game.
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added 11/10 by Scott Barzilla
Patience is the key this time of year.
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added 11/01 by Scott Barzilla
Can the Astros afford to trade for Jake Peavy?
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added 10/15 by Scott Barzilla
I mentioned I could do a whole column on the subject a few weeks ago, so I figured why not.
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added 10/14 by Matt Stilley
AstrosDaily.com's newest columnist gives us his background and tells us what made him an Astros fan.
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added 10/10 by Gene Elston
Gene traces the origin of the baseball broadcast - an industry that has become a staple in millions of homes worldwide.
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added 10/06 by Scott Barzilla
Every year, fans look to the post-season to see which style of play wins it.
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added 09/30 by Scott Barzilla
Now that the season is done it's time to take a long look back.
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added 09/29 by Matt Stilley
New contributor Matt Stilley takes us back through the highs and lows of Houston's 2008 season.
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added 09/26 by Gene Elston
For some major leaguers, one game was a career.
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added 09/18 by Bob Hulsey
The Astros may have lost a few baseball games but Major League Baseball lost a lot of respect.
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added 09/15 by Scott Barzilla
Commissioner Jackass rears his ugly head again.
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added 09/12 by Gene Elston
How does a four-year-old franchise stage an Old Timers Game?
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added 09/04 by Scott Barzilla
There is nothing like the end of summer to get the Astros going strong again.
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added 09/01 by Bob Hulsey
Should fielding ineptness be officially rewarded?
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added 08/29 by Scott Barzilla
Customarily, we wait until the end of the season to make evaluations, but now is as good a time as any to look at Wade's major moves.
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added 08/22 by Bob Hulsey
...when your team is out of the playoff chase.
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added 08/14 by Bob Hulsey
Do the Astros play better during the Olympics?
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added 08/11 by Scott Barzilla
As usual, our good friend the weather vane stirred the pot again.
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added 07/22 by Scott Barzilla
Randy Wolf is a ploy to keep people coming through the turnstiles.
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added 07/16 by Scott Barzilla
A lot has been made about the disappointing season. Let's see who's to blame
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added 07/07 by Scott Barzilla
Management fought the brave fight, but it's time to start over.
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added 07/02 by Scott Barzilla
Complaints about the Astros pitching have reached epic proportions, but it is the offense that has been lacking.
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added 06/25 by Scott Barzilla
Shawn Chacon exists in his own little world.
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added 06/23 by Bob Hulsey
In an up-and-down season, who has exceeded expectations and who has disappointed?
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added 06/16 by Scott Barzilla
The recent in fighting between Oswalt, Berkman, and Cooper are nice for the papers, but it doesn't amount to much.
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added 06/14 by Gene Elston
Baseball's most successful franchise can trace their dominance back to four great managers.
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added 06/12 by Scott Barzilla
People are wondering whether Berkman will eclipse Bagwell's 1994 campaign, but the comparison with 2000 has the pitching staff waking up in a cold sweat.
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added 05/31 by Gene Elston
She was 33 years old when she died in 1961. Still, thoughts remain in the minds and hearts of the many thousands of die-hard fans that passed through her turnstiles.
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added 05/27 by Scott Barzilla
Balance in an offense is very important, but there is more to balance than just power and speed.
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added 05/20 by Bob Hulsey
Jon Lester's no-hitter reminds us that something is missing in baseball today. Do you miss it?
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added 05/16 by Scott Barzilla
Lance Berkman is on pace to have the best season of anyone in an Astros uniform.
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added 05/13 by Willie B. Lakey
With both Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium closing after the '08 season, this old Texan had to get up for a last look at both.
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added 05/02 by Scott Barzilla
The onslaught of new information provides an even better backdrop for a study of team-building philosophy.
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added 04/23 by Scott Barzilla
The boards have had a nice debate on Ausmus. It's time for me to weigh in.
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added 04/17 by Scott Barzilla
A lot of sabermetricians think managers are overrated. The first tenth of the season reveals that Cooper is about to earn his money.
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added 04/12 by James Anderson
The definition of "Curator" is one who manages or oversees as in a museum. When it comes to the history of Major League Baseball in the city of Houston, Texas where the sport first made it's appearance in the Spring of 1962, Mickey Herskowitz had already been hard at work for several years campaigning to bring Major League Baseball to Houston.
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added 04/09 by Scott Barzilla
The first nine games look strangely familiar to Astros fans
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added 03/31 by Scott Barzilla
Cutting Woody Williams may not have been popular with the veterans or with Drayton McLane, but Ed Wade made the right call.
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added 03/27 by Scott Barzilla
LVP? MIP? Jim Clancy Award? Time to pass out the Kissimmee spring hardware - both good and bad.
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added 03/18 by Scott Barzilla
Woody has had a rough spring, but is it really the beginning of the end?
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added 03/15 by Gene Elston
It took a player's death and some unfortunate injuries before organized baseball used their heads to find a solution.
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added 03/10 by Scott Barzilla
BP has their predictions and we have our response.
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added 03/06 by Scott Barzilla
A continued look into Baseball Prospectus finds the culprit of their pessimistic views.
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added 03/04 by Scott Barzilla
My Baseball Prospectus 2008 came in the mail the other day and I was excited to see what they would say about the Astros.
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added 03/02 by Bryan R. Jones
FanSpeak: Down on the Astros' chances for this season? One fan says rumors of our demise are overblown.
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added 02/28 by Gene Elston
The first baseball game played under the basic rules, as we know them today, was played on June 19, 1846 when the New York Club defeated the Knickerbockers 23-1 at Elysian Fields in New York.
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added 02/24 by James Anderson
Over the years many ballplayers were given nicknames for various reasons. Several members of Astrosdaily fan forum took on the project of building the most complete list of former and current Houston Colt .45's/Astros who were given nicknames for various reasons over the years.
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added 02/21 by Scott Barzilla
There are always veterans waiting around for contracts, but this year there are a few more than normal.
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added 02/19 by Scott Barzilla
A quick look at a booming industry shows why baseball is on the right track.
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added 02/11 by Scott Barzilla
Runs, points, and wins don't matter in this league.
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added 02/01 by Scott Barzilla
Half-witted pundits take their shots at the Astros.
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added 01/25 by Scott Barzilla
The Astros are making a mistake playing hardball with Jose Valverde.
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added 01/22 by Scott Barzilla
Following media coverage of the off-season is simple. Which way is the wind blowing?
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added 01/09 by Scott Barzilla
I'm a little behind the news cycle, but this is what you get for the price you pay.
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added 12/22 by Scott Barzilla
Ty Wigginton might be the most stable player in the Astros lineup this season.
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added 12/16 by Scott Barzilla
Free agent Kaz Matsui gets the unenviable job of replacing the legendary Craig Biggio.
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added 12/13 by Scott Barzilla
Lance Berkman stands now as the senior most regular on the team.
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added 12/11 by Scott Barzilla
Despite a continued interest in pitching, the offense actually rated worse than the pitching staff last year. The Astros are introducing a new lineup next year and we will look at each position carefully.
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added 12/04 by Scott Barzilla
The Kaz Matsui deal would appear to pit traditional fans against sabermetric ones. Nothing could be further from the truth.
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added 11/19 by Scott Barzilla
The past few offseasons have been way too predictable. Good or bad, Ed Wade and company have brought the excitement back.
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added 11/12 by Gene Elston
Although there had been a few post-season playoffs in the 19th century, this first meeting between the National and American League champions was recognized as the first modern World Series.
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added 10/20 by Scott Barzilla
We turn our attention to centerfield for this edition
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added 09/30 by James Anderson
Walter Bond not only made his mark on Houston baseball and all those around him, but did so while silently battling leukemia.
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added 09/23 by Scott Barzilla
Ed Wade and Tal Smith have a lot of decisions to make this off-season.
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added 09/02 by Scott Barzilla
Garner and Purpura get the can. Was it everything their critics hoped it would be?
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added 08/12 by Gene Elston
Gene Elston, the original "Voice of the Astros", takes a look back at the significance of the home run on baseball history, and those who set the records..
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added 08/04 by Scott Barzilla
The magazine for lonely men has tabbed Phil Garner as the loneliest manager.
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added 07/31 by Scott Barzilla
Goodbye Morgan Ensberg and Dan Wheeler. Hello Ty Wigginton and...um Crash Davis?
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added 07/28 by Cot Deal
Like your milk with a twist?
The original pitching coach for the Houston Colt .45s tells the story of a
pre-game milking contest. It's an udder delight.
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added 07/26 by Scott Barzilla
This week's retirement announcement was sad on a lot of levels.
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added 07/22 by Scott Barzilla
They said this road trip was crucial. It's time to react.
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added 07/14 by Scott Barzilla
A few weeks ago we looked at the track record on big ticket free agent pitchers. Now, we look at hitters.
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added 07/12 by James Anderson
What makes a simple and commonly used phrase become important, especially one that is so common that it is uttered daily in the American English vernacular?
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added 07/06 by Scott Barzilla
The Chronicle did their share, now it's my turn.
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added 07/04 by Bob Hulsey
Amazingly, some in sports media and the blogosphere are still deniers when it comes to Craig Biggio's worthiness for Cooperstown.
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added 06/29 by Gene Elston
Gene Elston takes a look back at the 27 members of the 3,000-hit club, from Cap Anson (1897) to Craig Bigio (2007), along with some notable near-misses.
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added 06/28 by Scott Barzilla
Houston has money to spend after this year. It's time to look at the past to see where the money can be spent wisely.
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added 06/23 by Cot Deal
Houston obtained its National League franchise in 1961. The opening day of the 1962 season would be played in Houston. Interest was high. A "Name the Team" contest lured countless thousands of entrants. The stadium was sold out for the 1962 season opener before the new year arrived. The name selected was "Colt 45s."
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added 06/22 by James Anderson
It wasn't that long ago when female sports beat-writers were looked upon by their male counterparts in the same light as the carriers of the Spanish Flu that devastated the lives of millions of Americans shortly after World War I.
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added 06/15 by Scott Barzilla
It may not be the most important decision a GM must make, but it is definitely up there
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added 06/03 by Scott Barzilla
Two roster moves and lineup changes leave many to wonder what the Astros are thinking about this season.
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added 05/31 by Scott Barzilla
The Stros seem to be coming up short a lot lately. Anything on the horizon besides a speeding train?
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added 05/19 by Scott Barzilla
The Astros are clipping along at .500, but the Brewers are on pace to win more than 90 games. Are they for real?
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added 05/12 by Scott Barzilla
Comments from Burke indicate what he's been thinking all along.
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added 05/08 by Gene Elston
Interestingly, the first public mention of the possibility of Negroes playing in the major leagues came from the media on July 24, 1942.
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added 05/02 by Scott Barzilla
The performance of Morgan Ensberg and other Astros has brought some familiar debates to the forefront.
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added 04/28 by Scott Barzilla
Astros fans are divided into two camps: those that want to panic and those that want to be patient.
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added 04/18 by Scott Barzilla
Joe Morgan continued his crusade against the Astros on Jackie Robinson day.
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added 04/14 by Scott Barzilla
Every team wants to go through a season drama free. They usually don't get their wish.
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added 04/09 by Mike Capps
The day, April 7, 2007, goes down in all-time Round Rock Express history. For the first time in history, the Express had a home game rained out.
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added 04/07 by James Anderson
"The Dean of Major League Technicians" Bob Green has been instrumental in broadcasting Houston Buffs and Colt .45s/Astros baseball for 60 years.
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added 04/05 by Scott Barzilla
The peculiar situation in Houston has caused some mixed feelings about the swan songs of Brad Ausmus and Craig Biggio.
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added 04/03 by Scott Barzilla
Fans often make too much of Opening Day. Every game is important, but all of us need to get a grip.
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added 04/01 by Darrell Pittman
In a surprise move, the Texas Rangers announced Sunday that they have signed Roger Clemens.
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added 03/29 by James Anderson
Ask Hal Woodeshick about the state of pitching in the major leagues these days and the hair will stand up on the back of his neck as he ponders how to express his personal opinion on this particular topic without losing his temper.
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added 03/23 by Darrell Pittman
Faced by the rising tide of uppity player attitudes, MLB moved forcefully Thursday to restore order to the world.
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added 03/19 by Mike Capps
I'm back in Round Rock after our annual trek to what I consider one of several baseball meccas in this country, the Houston Astros Spring Training base in Kissimmee, Florida just outside Orlando.
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added 03/11 by Scott Barzilla
It's been awhile, but Spring Training always gets the blood boiling.
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added 02/23 by Gene Elston
This is the beginning of another nine months of our revered National Pastime – SPRING TRAINING has arrived and soon we will be hearing the call of PLAY BALL!
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added 02/06 by Scott Barzilla
Every once in awhile, the power brokers in the press need to be reeled in. It's Ken Rosenthal's turn.
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added 01/07 by Scott Barzilla
Mark Loretta's signing came out of the blue, but it might turn out to be Purpura's most underrated signing.
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added 12/16 by Scott Barzilla
As promised, Barzilla takes a look at the players coming in from the Rockies.
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added 12/13 by Scott Barzilla
Tim Purpura gave up a lot to get Jennings. Is he the answer to this team's problems in the rotation?
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added 12/10 by Scott Barzilla
We can picture Purpura making a Bush-like "everything is fine" speech, but things aren't really that bleak.
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added 12/02 by Scott Barzilla
The Winter Meetings begin this week. It appears the Astros attention will turn to the mound.
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added 11/25 by Scott Barzilla
After a day of mulling it over, Barzilla is still unsure as to whether Lee deserves 100 million dollars.
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added 11/05 by Scott Barzilla
With free agency quickly approaching, the off-season analysis timeline speeds up.
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added 11/01 by James Anderson
As I've had time to collect my thoughts and think about what Joe Niekro meant to the fans of Houston I was touched by a strange feeling that we fans didn't seem to really appreciate what Joe accomplished for the Houston Astros.
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added 10/24 by Scott Barzilla
Morgan Ensberg was one of the more maligned players on the Astros this season, but key numbers prove the naysayers wrong.
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added 10/23 by Daniel Cohen
Would the BBGs harbor a twenty-year grudge? Guest columnist Daniel Cohen thinks so.
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added 10/20 by Scott Barzilla
How valuable is Brad Ausmus?
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added 10/14 by Scott Barzilla
I've been away for awhile, but I haven't forgotten about the Astros.
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added 08/26 by Scott Barzilla
SABR met with Tim Purpura two weeks ago and a few important things were readily apparent.
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added 07/25 by Scott Barzilla
The Tejada talk is heating up again. The package is different this time, but the questions are the same.
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added 07/19 by Daniel Cohen
Richard Justice addressed on his blog the possibility of the Astros pulling a trade for help in the pen by grabbing Scott Linebrink for Morgan Ensberg. Linebrink has been one of the better relievers in the league over the past three years and the pen is in flailing chaos at the moment.
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added 07/16 by Daniel Cohen
You are a blue-blooded Astros fan and you have the greatest pitcher of all time on your team. The bullpen is shot and run support is lacking but the Rocket still stands ready to throw flames high and inside.
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added 07/15 by Scott Barzilla
Bringing in Aubrey Huff and saying goodbye to Gary Gaetti might help, but Purpura is still missing what is really ailing this offense.
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added 06/23 by Scott Barzilla
Now that the Rocket is back, everyone is expecting things to get better. Yet, the hitting continues to be murky.
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added 06/13 by Scott Barzilla
It's easy for some of us to get lost in the numbers, but this last week is a big reminder that this is a game played by people.
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added 06/04 by Scott Barzilla
Look who has the third highest payroll in baseball? Money might not be buying many victories these days, but it's no time to criticize.
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added 05/30 by Scott Barzilla
The worst soap opera in sports is about to come to an end. Barzilla looks at the fallout in the Astros rotation.
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added 05/18 by Scott Barzilla
Losing 34-5 in three games is a bit embarassing, but patience should be the buzz word, not panic.
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added 05/17 by John Poffenbarger
A Giants' fan tells us that the players, not the umpires, should govern play
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added 05/11 by Scott Barzilla
A 1-6 road trip should make us wonder whether Roger Clemens really is the missing piece on this team.
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added 04/30 by Scott Barzilla
Barzilla looks at the good, the bad, and the ugly from the seasons's first month.
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added 04/19 by Scott Barzilla
Possible solutions for the team's pitching woes
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added 04/09 by Scott Barzilla
Scott has a request for Roger Clemens.
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added 03/26 by Scott Barzilla
Somewhere along the way I got the Traveling Wilbury’s song stuck in my head, but regardless of whether you know the tune, everyone is thinking the same thing about Jeff Bagwell; except Jeff Bagwell.
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added 03/14/2001 by Steve Cutchen
This prescient Astros Daily article by Steve Cutchen from 2001 gives us perspective as we face the likely retirement of Astros icon Jeff Bagwell.
Steve's words rang true then, and are even truer today.
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added 03/24 by James Anderson
Gene Elston is making two public appearances within the next week to promote his new book The Wild World of Sports.
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added 03/17 by Scott Barzilla
There has been no greater chasm between statheads and traditionalists than the question of fielding.
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added 03/09 by Scott Barzilia
The World Baseball Classic is finally here. Most baseball fans have to contain their yawning as they change the dial back to their hometown nine.
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added 02/23 by Scott Barzilla
Some people are up in arms about ESPN’s latest power rankings surrounding the Astros.
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added 02/22 by Bob Hulsey
To really understand Gene Elston, the broadcaster, you have to understand Gene Elston the baseball historian.
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added 02/10 by Scott Barzilla
Baseball fans have to find something to focus on during the extended Spring Training that begins in less than a week. When you have a team that is mostly intact from the year before, you have to search for genuine competition somewhere.
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added 02/04 by Scott Barzilla
I normally don’t make it a habit to comment on the work of others. However, my ire on this day is aimed at Brian McTaggart.
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added 01/29 by Scott Barzilla
The airwaves, bulletin boards, and newspapers are buzzing about the "Jeff Bagwell controversy".
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added 01/21 by Tom Halliburton
Chad Qualls and Adam Everett considered their 2005 World Series experience far too abbreviated for their memories. Hundreds of autograph-seeking Astros fans share their sentiments exactly.
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added 01/18 by Scott Barzilla
Leave it to the Houston Astros to be creative when attempting to generate fan interest during the off-season. First, it was whether they should offer arbitration to Roger Clemens or not. Now, they are generating debate in blogsphere about what to do about Jeff Bagwell.
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added 01/11 by Scott Barzilla
We’ve been waiting a season and a half to analyze a significant deal, so it’s time to do this right. The Astros signed Preston Wilson to a one-year contract with a club option for three years.
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added 09/15 by Scott Barzilla
It warms my heart to talk about baseball again and why not jump into a huge issue while we do it. An issue was brought up on the boards that I felt needed to be addressed in this space.
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added 09/11 by Scott Barzilla
As many of you know, my second cousin, Philip Barzilla, is a pitcher with the Corpus Christi Hooks. I asked Philip and he agreed to field your questions.
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added 09/07 by
Astroday author and Astros Daily contributor John Lauck was rescued Monday, September 5.
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added 09/04 by Scott Barzilla
I hope all of you will excuse me if I put the baseball aside for the time being and discuss what is probably on all of our minds - the devastation in New Orleans.
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added 08/29 by Orlando Cepeda
It starts from the top management and so forth, but the Astros are showing that they have no confidence.
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added 08/28 by Scott Barzilla
A fan recently threw out a stat that the Astros are nearly unbeatable in August when they score five or more runs and hapless when they score four or less. Like usual, my interest was piqued and I decided to do some further study
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added 08/22 by
Astros broadcaster Greg Lucas answers the latest batch of fan questions.
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added 08/18 by Scott Barzilla
Things have been tough of late. Meanwhile, the cries for trades can be heard on every message board in Astros land.
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added 08/12 by Scott Barzilla
Once again I feel compelled to comment about something happening outside of Houston. If you haven’t been paying attention to the Larry Krueger situation in San Francisco, I’ll give you a play by play of the last week or so.
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added 08/06 by Scott Barzilla
I should be talking about the Astros and their amazing run, but I need to get this out of my system before I explode. Bud Selig has to be the worst “commissioner” this sport has ever had.
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added 08/04 by
Ray "Lee" Cunningham, the oldest former MLB and Cardinal player, was laid to rest Wednesday
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added 08/01 by Scott Barzilla
Last week I told you I would come back after the trading deadline and look at what the Astros did and what other teams did. Unfortunately, that doesn’t leave a lot of stuff for me to cover because this was the worst deadline (as far as deals done) in history probably.
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added 07/25 by Scott Barzilla
We’ve hashed and rehashed the Astros’ situation. Now it's time to take a look at the other wild card competitors and assess what they might do and what they need.
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added 07/19 by Scott Barzilla
At the all-star break it appeared as if the Astros were on the verge of completing another miracle. I was among those ready to gear myself up for another amazing run and then I remembered my old buddy Pythagoras.
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added 07/15 by Scott Barzilla
Now that the all-star game has been completed we should focus on the second half of the season, but I want to rewind to the issue that should have never been a part of all-star week in the first place: Kenny Rogers.
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added 07/11 by
FOX Sports baseball analyst and broadcaster Greg Lucas fields your questions about the Astros and baseball in general.
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added 07/10 by Scott Barzilla
There is a common debate among the baseball community about whether you can evaluate defense by watching it or by charting it statistically.
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added 07/06 by Scott Barzilla
Using RCAP as an example, Scott runs through a sabertrical primer for fans who may not be familiar with the current state of baseball statistical analysis.
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added 06/30 by Scott Barzilla
As the calendar approaches July 1st, we can see a whole host of teams on the bubble between contending and preparing for 2006. By the end of the month, we will know who is pretending and who is contending.
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added 06/27 by Scott Barzilla
Drayton McLane is doing what he does best: he’s using that PR brain of his to bring the fans into the seats. When the interleague weekend opened up this past weekend with the Rangers, McLane booked two huge events on back to back nights.
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added 06/21 by Scott Barzilla
Baseball has been more numbers driven than any other sport. Everyone knows numbers like “56”, “755”, and “511”. Unfortunately, this works against meaningful analysis sometimes.
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added 06/19 by
Treasure your time with your father; lavish time on your children
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added 06/16 by Scott Barzilla
Last time we looked at great rotations in history. This time we are going to apply those principles to the Astros.
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added 06/14 by Scott Barzilla
When your team is in last place and there seems to be no end to the bickering and fighting among fans as to why they’re in last place, it feels good to look back at history. In this edition, we will be looking at the top eight rotations in baseball history.
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added 06/08 by Scott Barzilla
This is the second of a four part series on the blueprint for the Astros success. This time we will see what the Astros need to do to bring balance to the offense.
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added 06/02 by Scott Barzilla
Being in a slump is truly a lonely place to be. In this edition we will look at successful offenses in history and the balance they have.
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added 05/31 by Scott Barzilla
This is the final edition on our series on Pythagorean record. We will simply tie up loose ends and make the data mean something for us after five editions of hard statistics.
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added 05/26 by Scott Barzilla
In this edition, we look at the affects of defense on the Pythagorean ratings.
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added 05/23 by Scott Barzilla
Conventional wisdom tells us that a good bullpen is very important in a close game. We will test that conventional wisdom in this edition.
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added 05/18 by Scott Barzilla
Scott takes issue with a recent column by Richard Justice in the Houston Chronicle and his eagerness to blame Drayton McLane for the team's current woes
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added 05/17 by Scott Barzilla
This is the third part of a six part series on the Pythagorean theory. In this edition we will see how the teams fare in terms of offensive efficiency.
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added 05/11 by
Susan and Darrell take in a minor league game in Asheville, North Carolina
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added 05/09 by Scott Barzilla
This is the second part of a six part series on the Pythagorean record. In this edition, we will look at one run games and the selection of managers as it relates to Pythagorean records.
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added 05/04 by Scott Barzilla
This is the first part of a six part series on the use of the Pythagorean method. The method is used to determine whether a team has under or overachieved in a particular season or time period.
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added 04/30 by Scott Barzilla
Baseball doesn’t lend itself to perspective in April. A sudden five game winning streak or losing streak has fans jumping ship or reserving their World Series tickets. The Astros have had both this season.
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added 04/23 by Scott Barzilla
Scott takes a look at the Astros viewing options available to fans
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added 04/20 by Scott Barzilla
Over the last couple of weeks we have heard a lot about the Astros lineup. These things usually happen when clubs are scuffling offensively and the Astros attack is certainly scuffling.
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added 04/09 by Scott Barzilla
Opening day can be a cruel mistress to a player’s psyche. If you want to inspire violence just ask John Smoltz what his ERA is.
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added 04/01 by Froback
We were World Series Favorites in 04, OH what a difference a year makes!
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added 03/25 by Scott Barzilla
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you know that the Astros signed Lance Berkman to a six year, 85 million dollar deal. With all of these deals the devil is in the details.
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added 03/17 by Scott Barzilla
I realize you guys are busy right now trying to iron out a 25 man roster, but I had a few thoughts I wanted to pass on by you.
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added 03/09 by Scott Barzilla
Every Spring we find ourselves in the same old trap. Wisdom tells us that we are better off with the devil we know, but many of us are tired of that same old devil. This is year is no different.
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added 02/27 by Scott Barzilla
With Hunsicker gone and a rookie GM in place, who's calling the shots for the Astros?
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added 02/19 by Scott Barzilla
Scott takes a look at the Astros in their current form and resolves to list the positives he see.s
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added 02/07 by Scott Barzilla
Judging by recent events and the advancement of the calendar it looks like the Astros are done. That being the case, I would like to grade the team's moves this off-season and assign blame if the case warrants.
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added 01/20 by Scott Barzilla
We’ve certainly hashed and rehashed the events of this off-season more than Jim Garrison analyzed the Zabruder footage in JFK. Mistakes were made and mistakes are still being made, but our task is to make the best of the situation as fans.
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added 01/10 by Scott Barzilla
We could spend a lot of time over what should have been done with the Carlos Beltran negotiations. From the outside looking in, it looks like the deal went dead after the Astros failed to offer Beltran an option for an eighth year and a iron-clad no-trade clause.
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added 01/02 by Scott Barzilla
I hate to resort to this, but this time of year is really made for the bullet column. Here is a list of new year’s resolutions for the Astros and Major League Baseball.
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added 12/21 by Scott Barzilla
Scott evaluates MLB's winners and losers for this year's Winter Meetings
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added 12/13 by Scott Barzilla
The Winter Meetings are in full swing and fans are anxious all around the country. You can talk about the World Series or the non-waiver deadline, but for me there are few times better than the Winter Meetings.
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added 12/06 by Scott Barzilla
Scott takes on the hot issue of the day: steroids
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added 12/01 by Scott Barzilla
Scott calls for Chronicle writer Richard Justice to be more skeptical of the financial claims made by the Astros' ownership.
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added 11/29 by Scott Barzilla
The key to building a roster is to look at the roster as a whole. Scott takes a long look at the Astros' bench and what options are available for 2005.
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added 11/25 by Trevor Williams
Phil Garner was an infielder before becoming a manager. Can his former position influence his managerial success? Guest columnist Trevor Williams looks at managers and their playing backgrounds.
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added 11/23 by Scott Barzilla
Is Beltran worth the money that Scott Boras wants? Scott Barzilla sheds light on the subject, comparing Beltran to the best centerfielders in the majors.
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added 11/19 by Trevor Williams
Is Roger Clemens the greatest pitcher ever? Guest columnist Trevor Williams analyzes where Clemens stands in baseball history.
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added 11/17 by Scott Barzilla
It seems that the Astros are making more news off the field this off-season than on the field. When Gerry Hunsicker resigned we thought there would be a new assistant hired to replace Purpura. The Astros have used the departure of Gerry Hunsicker as an opportunity to reshape their entire organization.
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added 11/14 by Scott Barzilla
It has certainly been an eventful off-season so far for the Astros. Last week, the Astros, Rockets, and Fox Sports Net ironed out an agreement that will take all three into the next decade.
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added 10/04 by Ray Kerby
A look at the prospects for the Houston Astros in their 2004 Division Series playoff against the Atlanta Braves.
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added 08/22 by Gene Elston
Baseball as we know it today had its beginning in 1845 (although the term “baseball” was first used in the United States in 1791) only 15 years after our Founding Fathers signed our Declaration of Independence in 1776
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added 06/27 by Darrell Pittman |
Susan and Darrell head to Arlington for the race to the Silver Boot. At the ballpark, we meet some friends. Rain rules.
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added 06/09 by Jeff Schneck
The Astros loaded up for the future by selecting 49 players in the 2004 draft. Come see the break down of who they took, and guess with them who might make us better!
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added 05/30 by Darrell Pittman |
A weekend indulgence at the new hotel across the street from Minute Maid Park.
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added 04/19 by Willie B. Lakey
Two weeks and 13 games do not a season make. But those first two losses to the Giants sure seem a distant memory as hot as Houston’s playing right now.
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added 04/11 by Willie B Lakey
Big crowds, new faces, old voices, long homers, strikeouts, wins, losses and injuries all part of Opening Week’s ups and downs. And, oh yeah, just who is in charge of the MLB schedule anyway?
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added 04/09 by Jared Klewein
I don’t know how it sits with other fans, but for me, an Astro-loss hurts a heck of a lot more when it takes place in front of the national media. Such was the case the previous two nights.
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added 04/09 by Susan and Darrell Pittman |
A visit to the Texas Sports Hall of Fame in Waco was a wonderful trip, especially on an off-day for the Astros.
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added 04/06 by Jared Klewein
Well ladies and gents, looks like it’s probably going to take a miracle for the Astros rise above the 1-game hole they dug themselves into Monday night. That’s right, the Cubs won and we lost….. and now we’re one game behind the team that many, including Sports Illustrated, have deemed the 2004 World Series Champs. Oh well, guess the off-season hype was fun while it lasted, right?
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added 04/05 by Susan and Darrell Pittman |
We've survived yet another occurrence of The Void!
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added 04/02 by Susan and Darrell Pittman |
The Great American Pastime goes NASCAR.
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added 04/01 by Susan and Darrell Pittman |
The Great American Pastime goes NASCAR.
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added 01/18 by Willie B. Lakey
With pitchers and catchers slated to report in about three weeks, a most tumultuous offseason is coming to a close. Never has so much bulletin board material been produced by so few in such a short time, to skewer an old quote of Churchill.
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added 12/16 by Miguel Delgado
Las estadísticas que refiero en este reporte están actualizadas hasta el día 14 de diciembre de 2003.
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added 12/15 by Jeff Schneck
After the flurry of activies this offseaon (just so far), it's time to re-adjust the Fro.
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added 11/25 by Miguel Delgado
Las estadísticas que aquí refiero, de los jugadores pertenecientes a la organización de Houston, están actualizadas hasta el día 24 de Noviembre del 2003. Comenzamos con los lanzadores y después con los jugadores de posición
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added 11/17 by Willie B. Lakey
Welcome to As Baseball’s Bottom Line Turns, the sport’s very own soap opera that pits the game’s two elite classes, the owners and the players, against each other. Playing the part of the peasants this week, and always, are the fans.
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added 11/11 by Miguel Delgado
En relación con los jugadores pertenecientes a la organización de los Astros, las noticias son bastante buenas en Venezuela. Las estadísticas que aquí refiero están actualizadas hasta el día 10 de Noviembre.
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added 11/06 by Jeff Schneck
Did the Wagner trade really free up our payroll to make any major additions... or are we doomed to searching the slag heap again to plug the holes on our team? Well I decided to pick the Fro to find the answers.
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added 11/05 by Susan and Darrell Pittman |
Unfortunately, the Astros haven't had a lot of those assets.
Look for Drayton to sell, and Hunsicker to move on, after the 2004 season when the All-Star Game is played at Astros Field.
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added 10/27 by Willie B. Lakey
The 2003 season was a long strange trip, full of stale old flavors and exciting new tastes.
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added 10/07 by Willie B. Lakey
Enos, Roger, El Sid and Pepi just a few former Astros celebrating birthdays this next week.
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added 10/04 by Miguel Delgado
Las ligas del Caribe están por comenzar. Muchos jugadores vendrán a reforzar a los equipos de los distintos países en la región del Caribe. En Venezuela, país donde vivo, han venido nombres interesantes de jugadores que han formado parte importante del equipo de los Astros.
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added 10/01 by Todd Brody |
The body isn't even cold yet, but here's my postmortem. In this week's column, I grade the Astros starting position players.
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added 09/30 by Miguel Delgado
Termina una temporada e inmediatamente se comienzan a plantear inquietudes entre los fanáticos. Este año fue realmente frustrante para los seguidores de los Astros, que hasta hace una semana eran los campeones de la división central de la liga nacional. Cuando uno sigue el día a día de un equipo se pueden observar detalles, se palpan los puntos fuertes y los débiles, se sufre, se goza, en fin se vive la pasión del baseball.
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added 09/28 by Willie B. Lakey
Houston’s race towards the 2003 postseason came up short after a very frustrating and disappointing final week to the season leaving Astros fans with the all too familiar cry of, “Wait ‘til next year!”
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added 09/25 by Todd Brody |
Have you seen the latest Astros' promotion? They want everyone to wear red. Am I the only person who sees a problem with this?
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added 09/21 by Willie B. Lakey
The Astros come home for the season’s final week just a half-game ahead of the Cubs. Standing in Houston’s way of a fifth NLC crown in the past seven years are Barry’s Giants and Bud’s Brewers.
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added 09/14 by Willie B. Lakey
The Good Guys who wear the star continued one of their finest months of September with a half-dozen wins this past week, including a sweep of the Cards that left Houston with a 2-game lead in the NLC and just two weeks to go in the season.
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added 09/07 by Willie B. Lakey
Houston opened a 10-game roadtrip with a fine 4-2 swing through LA and San Diego. With Roy O on his way back, do the Astros have enough to pull it off in the NLC?
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added 09/01 by Willie B. Lakey
Houston blew their biggest homestand with a 6-6 split that dropped them to second in the NLC. Now they embark on a 10-game roadtrip where .500 won’t get it done any longer.
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added 08/24 by Willie B. Lakey
Feast or famine, now you see it, now you don’t, here today, gone tomorrow. What’s your favorite cliché to describe the Astros’ offense?
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added 08/17 by Willie B. Lakey
Some are calling it the "Comedy Central." But the NL Central really has more drama than a Tennessee Williams play. Opening this week: Astros under a big moldy roof!
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added 08/10 by Willie B. Lakey
Houston ho-hummed it through a 3-3 homestand this week with an important week on the road looming. Can they get hot or will it be a stormy trip?
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added 08/03 by Willie B. Lakey
No Oswalt, no offense, no problem! Houston salvages a roadtrip behind a new knuckleballer.
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added 07/27 by Willie B. Lakey
Houston dropped a game to par on last week’s schedule, the series loss to the Cubs hurting most. If they’re going to win the NLC, they’ll have to battle the schedule as well as the other teams.
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added 07/21 by Willie B. Lakey
With the exception of Jason Giambi taking Billy Wagner deep in the All-Star Game, it was a perfect week for the Astros who are showing signs of taking control of the NL Central.
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added 07/14 by Willie B. Lakey
Practically given up for dead a week earlier after being swept in Pittsburgh, the Astros rebounded with a 6-1 homestand that left them atop the NL Central with 50 wins. With the starting pitching coming around and Jeff Kent coming back from the DL, can Houston maintain the momentum after the All-Star break?
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added 07/08 by Todd Brody |
Okay, Roy Oswalt is back and the Astros beat the Reds. But in your heart of hearts, do you believe that the Astros have any chance of winning the World Series this season? I don't, and here's what I think the Astros have to do going forward.
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added 07/06 by Darrell Pittman |
Susan and Darrell attend their first-ever games at the Ballpark in Arlington. It's weird when you have to drive 200 miles to get your favorite gear.
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added 07/03 by Ray Kerby
The Astros limped through a mediocre month in June, but that still didn't keep me from writing another review on the team's performance.
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added 06/06 by Mike Nixon
My 3-year old brother-in-law, that is, not the pitcher named Miller...
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added 06/04 by Ray Kerby
I take a look at the 19 players that the Astros selected on Day 1 of the 2003 draft. I make no attempt to comment on the Day 2 picks!
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added 06/02 by Ray Kerby
Beyond this link lies an unnecessarily long review of the month of May for the Houston Astros. Click at your own peril!
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added 05/13 by Brian Progar
After a month of play, the minor league system is starting to show some of its future stars and disappointments. Unlike previous years, when the system seemed to be stocked with great pitching performances, it's the position players that are the bright stars in the high minors.
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added 05/01 by Ray Kerby
A detailed look back at the team's disappointing first month of the 2003 season
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added 04/08 by Raymond Desadier |
Aint it great to be baseball season again?
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added 04/01 by Gene Elston
Opening days keep popping up quite often, and at no other time are we so clearly reminded what a source of pride a big-league team is to a city.
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Astros FanFest 2003 |
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added 02/18 by Mike Nixon |
| As promised, Saturday the missus and I took her little brother to the annual Astros FanFest at Minute Maid Park. We made it a mission to finally get Craig Biggio's autograph, and were successful in doing so.
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added 12/24 by Susan and Darrell Pittman |
...is still Pete Rose. Like it or not, he still bet on baseball, knowingly violating baseball's ultimate sanction. Why let him off now?A solo effort by Darrell.
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added 12/23 by Todd Brody |
A lot of very serviceable players were not tendered contracts by their teams and are now free agents. Given the contracts these players will ultimately receive, it looks like the Astros drastically overpayed for Jose Vizcaino and Orlando Merced.
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added 12/19 by Todd Brody |
Yeah, I predicted the Kent deal before the season even ended. But the way that Craig Biggio was treated has left a bad taste in my mouth. And, frankly, I can't figure out where Biggio is going to play next season. Maybe it will be for another team.
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added 12/15 by Greg Lucas |
Greg Lucas tackles another set of questions from hard-core Astros fans.
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added 12/08 by Gene Elston |
Gene Elston's cautionary speech at the Texas Baseball Hall of Fame banquet is presented here.
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A Little Boy’s First Baseball Game |
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added 10/22 by Mike Nixon |
| An Astro fan recounts from last July an experience many of us have enjoyed: a little boy's first baseball game.
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added 10/18 by Brian Progar |
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When the Arizona Fall league started on October 1st, the Astros had sent six farmhands to the league that claims players by the name of Garciaparra, Giambi, Pujols, Giles and Jeter among its alumni.
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October Hot Stove Baseball
added 10/14 by Todd Brody
Sure, it would be nice if the Astros were actually playing baseball. But since the Astros are spending some quality time with their families, we can get down to the business of talking off-season moves and trashing Drayton McLane.
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added 10/09 by Greg Lucas
FoxSports broadcaster Greg Lucas tackles another round of questions from hard-core Astros fans
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Hocking Gives A Teammate The Finger, And Other Thoughts
added 10/07 by John Lauck
Celebrating a victory is as risky as achieving a victory is.
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The end of a streak
added 09/25 by Todd Brody
Jeff Bagwell's amazing streak of productivity will come to an end if he doesn't score 7 runs in the next four games. Don't talk to me about a lead-off hitter. The Astros need a run-producer to hit behind Bagwell. And Mark Loretta and Geoff Blum don't fit that description.
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added 09/24 by Greg Lucas
Greg Lucas tackles another set of question from hard-core Astros fans
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Silver lining
added 09/20 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
Stick a fork in 'em, for the Astros are done for this year, but keep looking up
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What could be in 2003
added 09/19 by Raymond Desadier
An off-season shopping list including a suggested answer to the center field dilemma.
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added 09/15 by Greg Lucas
FoxSports announcer Greg Lucas tackles another round of questions from Astros fans
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added 09/04 by Greg Lucas
FoxSports announcer Greg Lucas tackles another round of questions from Astros fans
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added 08/29 by Greg Lucas
I am pleased to add this feature by answering questions, and am ready to tackle
the first submissions...
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Wrong Again
added 08/08 by Todd Brody
Not you, me. Trying to figure out the Astros has done me in. So I'm going to sit back, grab a beer, and enjoy this unbelievable run.
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Rhodes Scholars
added 07/25 by Raymond Desadier
These guys are worthy of honorary PhDs!
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Enough dilly-dallying, time to make a trade
added 07/22 by Todd Brody
Forget pitching, the Astros need hitters. So here are a few deals the Astros can make even with Drayton McLane threatening to sell the team and with a players' strike looming. Also included in this column are my thoughts about trading pitching prospects and a nice story about my brother and his kids.
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There's a train wreck comin'
added 07/19 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
In their mutual instransigence, MLB owners and players conspire to kill the game of baseball, all in the name of greed. Can't both sides just give a little, and respect the game?
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MLB's avarice raises its ugly head, yet again
added 07/05 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
In a move that would elate Gordon Gecko of the movie "Wall Street", poster boy for corporate greed, MLB and the Astros once again cut off their nose to spite their face. Apparently, they no longer want Astros fans to have an independent source of news, analysis, and opinion.
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Winning one for DK
added 06/24 by Chris Diem
Chris Diem recounts the team's emotional, 12-inning victory over the Mariners on the day that Darryl Kile passed away.
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Ivy, Schmivey
added 06/12 by Darrell Pittman
Susan and Darrell attend their first-ever games at Wrigley Field. While the "Friendly Confines" isn't all it's cracked up to be, it's still a nice place to take in a game. Darrell encounters a man of even fewer words than himself who truly shows his metal.
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Can the season be salvaged?
added 05/30 by Todd Brody
Losing eight out of ten has seriously damaged the Astros' playoff chances this season. Are the Astros done? And what can the Astros do to become competitive?
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Jimy's Danged If He Does,...
added 05/27 by Steve Cutchen
Step up, all you second guessers. All you folks that have been mad at early pulls of starters. The problem is not Jimy's pitcher tactics.
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Hitting, in a nutshell
added 05/26 by Raymond Desadier
The Astros can make even the simplest tasks look impossible.
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Crossroads
added 05/20 by Raymond Desadier
Is a time of decision fast approaching Shane Reynolds?
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Strange Brew
added 05/07 by Darrell Pittman
In their sojourn across the Upper Midwest, Susan and Darrell attend a Brewers game at Miller Park, then a "gay" square dance in Minneapolis.
The Minnesota Twins are their next victims.
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Meet the Mets, Beat the Mets
added 05/06 by Todd Brody
"Yesterday is dead and tomorrow is blind and I live one day at a time." It's always a good Monday when the Astros take a series -- especially against the Mets -- almost enough to make me forget about the Astros' season so far.
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Oh What A Relief It Aint'
added 04/24 by Todd Brody
The decision to sign Billy Wagner to a long-term deal prevented the cash-strapped Astros from signing any quality free agent relief pitchers during the offseason. By leaving middle-relief (which has become a critical part of the game) to scrubs and rookies, the Astros forgot what made the 2001 Astros so successful.
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Oh where oh where has our offense gone?
added 04/24 by Raymond Desadier
Oh where oh where can it be...??
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The Shadow Government
added 04/21 by Gene Elston
Baseball commissioner Bud Selig has turned his office into what is reminiscent of the title of a 1958 Navy submarine movie, RUN SILENT - RUN DEEP.
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Teacher?
added 04/13 by Raymond Desadier
Just what was the curriculum this spring?
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A game at "Cell Phone Park"
added 04/11 by Darrell Pittman
If you're only interested in Astros games, don't read this one. Susan and Darrell take in a Giants' game at San Francisco's Pac Bell Park.
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No one was injured
added 04/09 by Todd Brody
The Astros ended their first week with four wins and three losses. Not a bad start, except for the fact that two of the losses were against chief division rival St. Louis. Here are some observations from the first week and some comments about Craig Biggio's intention to play three more seasons.
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St. Louis will win the Central
added 04/07 by Steve Cutchen
St. Louis is simply a more fundamentally sound baseball team than the Astros. Sure, we won the game today. But probably because of the way the Cardinals were forced to use their
bullpen on Friday.
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Sinking, or swimming?
added 04/07 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
As usual, a good performance by the Astros in the Spring leads to an iffy regular season start. How will will the Good Guys do over the long haul?
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Spiers given fitting sendoff
added 04/03 by Darrell Pittman
The Great One, Bill Spiers, is honored before well-wishers at Jones Plaza in downtown Houston, and throws out the first pitch for 2002
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Sunk Costs
added 03/27 by Raymond Desadier
Like Enron, it seems Hunsicker & Co. skipped a few too many business classes.
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Will the real “Lip” stand up?
added 03/26 by Gene Elston
The heist by Ruben Rivera of Derek Jeter’s bat and glove pulled off recently in the Yankees clubhouse during spring training, not surprisingly elicited the legend of Leo Durocher’s theft of Babe Ruth’s watch in 1929.
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M&M's - back-to-back Milleniums
added 03/16 by Gene Elston
Statistics and records are two of the many things that have made the game of baseball so great. However, it has been some twenty or so years since I have seen anything in print regarding the players who have participated in the most decades.
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Disgracing Duct Tape
added 03/14 by Raymond Desadier
Gerry, you're replaceable, Billy is not.
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Astros make good with small deal
added 03/12 by Todd Brody
In a small move today, the Astros traded Chris Truby to the Montreal Expos for Geoff Blum. While Blum is a switch hitter, don't expect the Astros to platoon Blum at third. Blum, most likely, is Astros latest attempt to find the next Billy Spiers.
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How it all started
Houston Astro radio great Gene Elston kicks off a series of daily updates to commemorate the upcoming 40th anniversary reunion for the 1962 Colt .45s
Read the latest update
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Astros Field
added 03/03 by Raymond Desadier
For Heaven’s sake, LEAVE IT ALONE!!
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Early Contraction
added 02/27 by Gene Elston
There is no question the quality of our lives has improved over the last 100 years. However, very often today we hear the phrase "life used to be so simple."
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It's About the Game And Not The Names
added 02/17 by Gene Elston
It's like a waft of fresh spring air, to traditionalists like me, to hear as the baseball season returns, the names: Wrigley Field, Dodger Stadium, Veterans Stadium, Busch Stadium, Fenway Park, Comiskey Park, Yankee Stadium and Skydome.
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The Smell is in the Air
added 02/10 by Raymond Desadier
Fan Fest has fueled my anxiety for the upcoming season and the position battles that come with it.
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Done
added 02/06 by Todd Brody
These are your Houston Astros. You'd better learn to love them, because the Astros aren't going to be making any changes -- not any time soon.
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2001 'Lugie' Awards
added 01/02 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
Susan and Darrell hock up their 'Lugies' for 2001. The award, named in honor of perennially error-prone shortstop Julie Lugo, celebrates the most bone-headed moves made by baseball people this past season.
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The Heart is a Lonely Hunter
added 12/12 by John Lauck
Brian Hunter will be a good addition to the Astros. But most of us want more than that out of our off-season.
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How Much is Enough?
added 11/09 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
In a solo effort, Darrell examines the hyprocrisy of the proposed MLB contraction.
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Contraction Traction What's The Action
added 11/07 by Todd Brody
Contraction is a good idea. But isn't it just like baseball to screw it up? Here are the three contraction options being discussed right now and here is why all are fatally flawed. Oh, I tell you how contraction should really work.
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I have a dream
added 11/06 by Todd Brody
Call me crazy. Call me a fool. But the Astros can be the big winner in the off-season free agent sweepstakes. And here's how they do it.
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Dial M for Jimy?
added 11/05 by Todd Brody
His managerial decisions might drive us crazy. His press-conferences might be incomprehensible. His name might be spelled wrong. But Jimy Williams is the right man for the Astros managerial job.
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I'm A Loser Baby . . . So Why Don't You Shoot Me
added 10/29 by Todd Brody
Years of playoff losses, to teams the Astros should have beaten, have taken a toll on the veteran core of the Astros. Firing Larry Dierker was the correct move. What else can be done to removing the losing stigma that hangs over the Astros? Here's what I think.
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Keep Dierker?
added 10/12 by Susan and Darrell Pittman
To Susan, Dierker needs to go. To Darrell, it's McLane. Read their opinions, then you decide.
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Cardinals 94, Astros 92, Cubs 90
added 10/04 by Steve Cutchen
A pennant race of the most nerve-wracking kind. It will be best 2 of 3 at St. Louis for the division title. The loser could miss the playoffs. By beating the prediction for the third time in the last four series, St. Louis moves to 2 games over. Houston loses a game to the prediction for the third straight series. And the Cubs match by taking 2 from the Reds. The projection now stands at Cardinals 94, Astros 92, Cubs 90. This Knuckleball presents the update.
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Astros 93, Cardinals 93, Cubs 90
added 09/30 by Steve Cutchen
St. Louis matches the prediction sweeping the Pirates. But Houston falls by a game at Wrigley, losing 3 of 4. With 8 of the final 10 series complete, the Astros and Cardinals are both one game better than my prediction. The projection now stands at Astros 93, Cardinals 93, Cubs 90. This Knuckleball presents the update.
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Astros 94, Cardinals 93, Cubs 89
added 09/26 by Steve Cutchen
St. Louis takes 2 of 3 at Enron. The Cubs end their road play for 2001 with a 1-2 series loss to Pittsburgh. My prediction stands at Astros 94, Cardinals 93, Cubs 89. This Knuckleball presents the update.
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Astros 95, Cardinals 92, Cubs 90
added 09/23 by Steve Cutchen
Houston defends the home field, going 2-1 over Chicago. Meanwhile, the Cardinals continue to beat up on lowly competition, taking 3 of 4 from the Bucs. My prediction stands at Astros 95, Cardinals 92, Cubs 90. This Knuckleball presents the update.
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Baseball's Place as a Nation Recovers
added 09/20 by Steve Cutchen
In 1918, Baseball was ruled "nonessential" by Secretary of War Newton Baker. Yet a little over a month after Pearl Harbor, FDR said, "It would be best for the country to keep baseball going." After last week's national tragedy, and amidst great ceremony, baseball resumed Monday, contributing in part to the unifying of America.
Yes, this Knuckleball looks at the pennant races and the series just past. But it also looks at the history of baseball in times of national crisis.
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Astros 93, Cardinals 91, Cubs 90
added 09/09 by Steve Cutchen
Houston's six consecutive series win streak is broken as Milwaukee takes 2 of 4 at Enron. Meanwhile, the Cubs continue their freefall, getting swept by the Braves at Wrigley. And the Cards take the final series of the year with the Dodgers, going 2-1 at Busch. My prediction stands at Astros 93, Cardinals 91, Cubs 90. This Knuckleball presents the update.
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Is it broke? If so, fix it?
added 09/06 by Susan Evans and Darrell Pittman
Susan and Darrell examine the state of baseball today, and ponder what, if anything, is to be done. A Major League Merger is considered.
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Astros 94, Cubs 92, Cardinals 91
added 09/05 by Steve Cutchen
Houston wins their sixth consecutive series, going 2-1 over Cincinnati. Meanwhile, the Cubs fall twice in Florida, including a heartbreaking bullpen failure in game 3. And out on the Left Coast, St. Louis pitching dominates San Diego as the Red Birds sweep. My prediction stands at Astros 94, Cubs 92, Cardinals 91. This Knuckleball presents the update.
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Almonte, Little League and Play vs. Sport
added 09/04 by Steve Cutchen
Danny Almonte is big news. Is Youth Sport inherently flawed?
Should we just let kids play without us? This Knuckleball examines
the issue of 'Sport' versus 'Play.'
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Astros 93, Cubs 93, Cardinals 90
added 09/02 by Steve Cutchen
Houston takes care of business in Milwaukee. But the Cubs do great
in Atlanta. With the Dodgers taking 2 against St. Louis, my
prediction stands at Astros 93, Cubs 93, Cardinals 90. This
Knuckleball presents the update.
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Astros 93, Cubs 92, Cardinals 91
added 08/30 by Steve Cutchen
I'll be predicting the final wins for the season for the Astros, Cubs and Cardinals after each of the final 10 series of the year. After 1 series, we are at Astros 93, Cubs 92, Cardinals 91. This Knuckleball presents the calculations.
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A few thoughts for the stretch
added 08/20 by Todd Brody
With the Astros now in first place (despite losing two of three to the Cubs) it is a good time to talk about the outlook for the next few weeks, the current injury situation, the starting rotation for next year, and Drayton McLane's continued cries of poverty.
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Hunsicker and the 40 Man Roster
added 08/06 by Steve Cutchen
Folks seem to ALWAYS second guess Gerry Hunsicker's roster moves.
But Gerry is under not only salary constraints. He's also under the
pressure of the 40 Man Roster. Sometimes, you have to trim from the
top. This Knuckleball looks at trying to work within a 40-man roster.
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Beanball Bingo
added 08/05 by Steve Cutchen
Umpires are issuing warnings left and right. Batters are still
getting hit. Sometimes the pitcher goes, sometimes not. What's the
deal? This Knuckleball explores this issue of Beanball Bingo.
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Villone In For Miller
added 08/05 by Steve Cutchen
The Astros lost Wade Miller after one pitch today. A rough way to
celebrate Astros Family Day. But Villone and company filled in nicely
for a 4-1 win and an important sweep of the lowly Montreal Expos.
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Hunsicker on Baseball Tonight
added 07/31 by Steve Cutchen
Astros GM Gerry Hunsicker was interviewed on ESPN's Baseball
Tonight, covering topics such as the trading deadline and Moises
Alou. Not everyone was up this late, so I transcribed his comments
for you.
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"Just a .500 team"
added 07/29 by Raymond Desadier
No one has disagreed with this statement more than I. Until now.
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Lefty Malarkey
added 07/19 by Raymond Desadier
It’s time to get to the bottom of this “Astros need more left-handed pitching” garbage.
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Rocker Falters
added 07/17 by Darrell Pittman
The Astros stage a dramatic eighth-inning comeback off our old nemesis, John Rocker. How sweet it is!
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Redding for the Big Time
added 07/15 by Steve Cutchen
The Astros played a prototype game illustrating how to win with young starting pitching. Redding worked five innings. Then we brought in 4 closers... Cruz, Dotel, Jackson and Wagner. If we are to win with our young starting staff, we are going to need to do it like this.
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Looking Ahead
added 07/14 by John Lauck
"Don't look back," pitcher Satchel Paige once said. "Somebody might be gaining on you." Do they remember that remark in Chicago?
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Shaner's Lamer
added 07/13 by Darrell Pittman
Everyone's entitled to a bad day once in a while, but did it have to come on a day that the Cubs won? The Astros fumbled badly just when they needed to build on their recent momentum for the second-half pennant race.
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Halfway Heroes
added 07/08 by Raymond Desadier
I’d like to recognize some of the contributions and lack thereof from Pre-All Star play.
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Being Bobby Valentine
added 07/04 by Matthew Becker
With All-Star selections revealed today for the National League, most Astros fans complained about Biggio not being selected. How hard is it to pick the reserves? Here's my quest to find out the truth.
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Preparing for the stretch run
added 07/01 by Raymond Desadier
Now is the time to dedide whether the team is truly prepared to make a run for the Central and go deep in the post season.
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Jose Lima does it to us again
added 06/27 by Todd Brody
Jose Lima consistently found a way to hurt the Astros and his trade last week was nothing different. This was a bad deal for the Astros, who probably should have released Lima outright. Here is my take on the latest Smith to Smith deal as well as a few quick thoughts on the Astros.
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Photo Finish
added 06/25 by Darrell Pittman
Photo Day at Enron Field begins with taking photos of the players, meeting a new friend in the process, a lost credit card, a nice lunch, watching a ballgame together, and ends with yet another photo. And, oh... by the way... the Astros won :-)
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More Noises About Moises
added 06/24 by Steve Cutchen
Darrell and Susan's inaugural Double Play column took on the issue
of Moises Alou. I agree with their opposing views...
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Alou or Not Alou?
added 06/23 by Susan Evans and Darrell Pittman
What to do with Alou? Keep him? Trade him? Let him go free agent? Hug him? Dis him? Susan and Darrell disagree. Where do you stand?
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Astros Sweep Rockies
added 06/21 by Darrell Pittman
In their first-ever home sweep of the Colorado Rockies, the Astros are shining bright. And on Saturday, the ballpark is going to be a zoo!
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Billy the Kid is Back
added 06/20 by Darrell Pittman
After yet another impressive outing from rookie starter Roy Oswalt, veteran closer Billy Wagner returns from the DL to prove he can still close a game in style.
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Powell paying for past sins
added 06/17 by Raymond Desadier
This is for the benefit of those who did not understand the brash treatment of Jay Powell last Friday night.
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"This Could Be The Ballgame Pitch..."
added 06/17 by Steve Cutchen
That's what I told Ryan just before A-Rod poked a 3-2 pitch over
the Crawford boxes to give the Rangers the winning margin. Biggio
hits two homers in three pitches. But bad pitching and no help at the
plate spoil father's day at Enron for the Astros and their
following.
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Gunfight at Enron Corral
added 06/17 by Darrell Pittman
Tony McKnight's 2001 MLB debut was a rare pitcher's duel at Enron Field, and a jewel of a game to watch. That the Astros wind up on top 2-1 was sweeter still. As my Mom's family would say, winning was just "lagniappe".
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Dierker makes lemonade
added 06/10 by Ray Kerby
In stark contrast to Friday night's tense game between the Astros and the Rangers, Saturday's contest turned into a laugher rather quickly. Considering the lopsided score, I think that manager Larry Dierker did a fine job of minimizing the damage.
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Behind enemy lines in Arlington
added 06/09 by Ray Kerby
As a displaced Astros fan living just north of Dallas, I had a great opportunity to see the first Astros-Rangers game and also to see what it's like being the "enemy" in another team's stadium.
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Now batting 2 ½ nd, Lance Berkman
added 06/08 by Raymond Desadier
It's time to move Lance Berkman, get through Elarton's thick head and revamp the website before it's too late!!
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Draft someone capable of outdoing Hambone
added 06/06 by Raymond Desadier
Instead of rambling over Greed Hampton handing us over a defeat, I'm going to keep the wrap-up short. It is obvious that Wade Miller still lacks the Big League edge it takes to be an ace as evidenced by his 6th inning crumble after getting 2 outs. With stuff as good as his, he should not have been beaten so badly, even if he was due for a bad outing.
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Bogar?!? Gagne With a Spoon...
added 06/03 by Steve Cutchen
You'll probably hear that the pitching collapsed again. Well, the
real flop was from our bats. Castilla made the game respectable, but
Bagwell, Berkman, Alou and Hidalgo went two for fifteen in a game
Vinny Castilla almost won single-handedly.
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Oswalt Shines in Starting Debut
added 06/02 by Darrell Pittman
My sons and I witness Roy Oswalt's shining performance. In keeping with "Kids' Opening Day" at Enron Field, they write part of the article.
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Bagwell as leader? Bah. Humbug.
added 05/31 by Steve Cutchen
Today's Houston Chronicle has a story by Jose de Jesus Ortiz praising Jeff Bagwell's quiet leadership. This Knuckleball presents a differing view. Jeff is an awesome individual contributor. But leadership? A leader incites, provokes, consoles, inspires. Quiet leadership is an oxymoron.
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The Fatman Cometh?
added 05/24 by Todd Brody
During the offseason, I said that the Astros HAD to make a deal for David Wells. With trade talks increasing between the Astros and White Sox concerning the oft-misunderstood left-hander, I turn, once again to the subject of David Wells.
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Astros discover Lima sucks
added 05/21 by Todd Brody
For two years, the Astros have been telling us that Lima continues to show great improvement. The Astros now appear to be waking from this delusion and the only question remaining is how long it will take for the Astros to make a move.
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How to Lose a Ballgame
added 05/21 by Darrell Pittman
Jose Lima couldn't strike out the Ladies' Auxiliary of Old Confederate Soldiers' Home, even if they were wearing blindfolds. How much longer will the Astros allow this charade to go on?
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Can I Manage, Please? Or At Least Hit For Hayes?
added 05/21 by Steve Cutchen
My son and I got to meet Larry Dierker and get a personal tour of Enron. But our hero-worship evaporated after we watched all of the bonehead moves he made, the Astros handing the Reds the game Sunday, 6 to 5.
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93-69? Don't bet the farm!
added 05/20 by Matthew Becker
A quarter of the way through the season, the Astros' record projects to 93-69, a performance that would all but guarantee a playoff spot come September. However, the Astros fall short of the consistency required to keep this pace.
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Back in the Saddle
added 05/20 by Darrell Pittman
A gem of a win. Reporting on a home game for once. What pitching problems? Do they serve crow at Ruggles? Dancing in the aisles. Meeting a celeb.
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At the Quarter Pole
added 05/20 by John Lauck
Forty games of a baseball season is not a lot of time by which to judge how things are going, but we can begin to make a few assessments of how the Astros are performing even with this small a sample.
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Chris Truby and the Hard Facts of Baseball
added 05/16 by Steve Cutchen
The Vinny Castilla signing was the right thing to do. And by now you've seen and heard much to support it. But what of Chris Truby? Why not keep Chris and release Charlie Hayes? This Knuckleball examines both the Castilla signing and the Truby move. Once again, Gerry Hunsicker has outthought us all.
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Great Move. Yes, you are all wrong.
added 05/15 by Todd Brody
The Astros signed a third-baseman today who has more career home runs than anyone on the team with the exception of Jeff Bagwell, the Astros didn't have to give up a single player to sign him, and he is going to cost less than $200,000. And yet, you all complain. Here's why, once again, you're all wrong.
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Brower Showers Early
added 05/15 by Darrell Pittman and Susan Evans
A pitcher chased, his hopes lie waste. The wonders of Cincinnati shopping on a Sunday. Exhibitionism in the parking garage. Poetic justice. The trip home.
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Porkopolis Blues
added 05/13 by Darrell Pittman
After a rainout Friday night, the Good Guys split a twin-bill with the Reds. Susan and I find much to like in Cincy. Film at 11.
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Craig Biggio and the Hall of Fame
added 05/06 by Ray Kerby
With Craig Biggio recently picking up his 2000th career hit in Montreal, the time seems right to comprehensively evaluate his case for Hall of Fame induction.
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Just when you thought the situation was muddled...
added 05/03 by Darrell Pittman
Okay, I wasn't 'At The Game' this series. I watched the game on TV just like everyone else. But the good guys are at a critical watershed, and the situation is, in my view, even more muddled than before.
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Move Along, Nothing to See Here
added 05/02 by Todd Brody
After two games at Shea, I've seen nothing to suggest that this team is any better than last year's team. And I'm wondering whether it is really worth the abuse that I subject myself going to see the Astros play at Shea -- especially with "Drawves -- Not a Fairy Tale" showing on HBO tonight.
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One month down, five to go
added 05/01 by Ray Kerby
With a month of baseball in the ledger book, now is a good time to step back and evaluate how far the Astros have come since last year's debacle and how far they still need to go.
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Decision Time
added 04/29 by Darrell Pittman
Having personally watched Jose Lima's meltdown against the Florida Marlins on Friday night, I am convinced that it is time for the Astros to pull the plug on Lima and put him in the bullpen, and put Bottenfield in the rotation in his place.
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It's closing time for Lima time
added 04/27 by Todd Brody
Yes, it's early in the season. Yes, he has only had four starts. But it is time for the Astros to get rid of Jose Lima, regardless of how he pitches tonight. And no one will be more sad than myself because Lima is a real throwback to the time when players actually cared about the fans.
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Left-Handed Madness
added 04/25 by Todd Brody
I'm left-handed myself. I'm certainly not a self-hating lefty (although I do bat right-handed). Even my politics are left-leaning. But I simply cannot understand the fascination that Gerry Hunsicker has with left-handed pitchers. Just because a pitcher is left-handed does not make him Randy Johnson or Mike Hampton.
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USA? Meet Wade Miller!
added 04/23 by Steve Cutchen
On ESPN Sunday Night Baseball, the Astros win a series clinching
game against the Central Division rivals St. Louis Cardinals. Wade
Miller stepped on the national stage and did nothing less than pitch
great, assuming the NL lead in strikeouts. But more important, this
was a game we would probably have lost last year.
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A Tale of Two Pitchers
added 04/15 by Susan Evans and Darrell Pittman
Two very different pitchers showed up for Saturday’s Cardinals-Astros game. One started strong but got shaky. The other started shaky, but then settled in and got strong. We’ll describe the game itself later.
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ROAD TRIP!
added 04/14 by Susan Evans and Darrell Pittman
After a sudden inspiration Wednesday night, my fiancee Susan and I decided to load the car and drive up to Saint Louis to see the Astros take on the Cardinals.
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Connected To The Game
added 04/13 by John Lauck
My classmates laughed at me in 1968 when Detroit got down to St. Louis 3 games to 1 in the World Series and I said the Tigers would come back and win it, but I called it, my friends, I called it.
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Who the Heck is Aramis Ramirez?
added 04/08 by Steve Cutchen
Aramis Ramirez sees eight pitches and hits three home runs. Scott
Elarton reverts to his Spring Training form. Two 'first time'
pitchers step up for the Bucs. Pirates win 9-3. Is this Deja Vu all
over again?
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Miller Time! I'm 3 Sheets to the Wind!
added 04/05 by Steve Cutchen
OK... so I wasn't AT the game in body, but I was in spirit! I've collected some insight on this Game Three of the season from my scorecard.
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Our Predictions for 2001
added 04/01 by The Astros Daily staff
The 2001 Opening Day is imminent, meaning that it’s time for everyone to make their predictions for the upcoming season. Naturally, that includes the contributors of The Astros Daily.
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A Total Baseball afternoon
added 03/24 by Ray Kerby
I finally picked up the latest edition of Total Baseball and realized that this book may be the only one that gives the Astros greats their due. Take a look at some of the information I stumbled across while leafing through the book's 2500+ pages.
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Under the Clouds in Kissimmee
added 03/18 by David Duez
David Duez wraps up his trip to Florida with his observations from the team's 2-1 victory over the Phillies.
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Quick Thoughts from Kissimmee
added 03/17 by David Duez
Longtime Astro fan David Duez gives his first-hand observations on the Astros during his visit to Florida.
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Catcher ERA: The Sequel
added 03/16 by Steve Cutchen
In the Astros Daily Forum, David in Jackson brought up something that I posted about in my very first Knuckleball... Can a catcher's performance really affect pitcher performance? This sequel Knuckleball provides more insight.
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Hakeem. And Jeff. And Craig.
added 03/14 by Steve Cutchen
So we've seen Hakeem Olajuwon for the last time in a Rocket's
uniform. Damn.
This Knuckleball asks how great is it to experience special hometown athletes like this? And what are YOUR responsibilities, Astro Fan?
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Life on the Farm
added 03/09 by John Lauck
Last year, a lot of fans from Houston drove up to Round Rock to see the Express play. This year, if they play as well as they are capable, the Zephyrs may make a road trip to New Orleans quite worthwhile.
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The Long Grind Begins
added 03/01 by John Lauck
When he was a broadcaster for the Astros and needed to put some troublsome period for the ballclub in a broad perspective, Larry Dierker used to say of the major league baseball season that it was, more than anything else, long. Friends, ready or not, the long grind is once again upon us.
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2001 Central Division Champions: The Milwaukee Brewers??
added 02/23 by Matthew Becker
With the season upon us, and most writers only counting the Cardinals, Astros, and Reds as having a chance at winning the division, one team is constantly overlooked. Is this the year of the beer men?
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Meluskey/Ausmus Part Deux
added 02/14 by Todd Brody
It takes a big man to admit that he might be wrong, and I'm a big man. Maybe the Ausmus/Meluskey trade wasn't so bad. And because I love you so much, here's a movie review as well.
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Know Thy Enemy
added 02/14 by John Lauck
Enough about the Astros already. Any dodo knows that in a team sport, you have to spend at least some of your time paying attention to the teams you play in your own division.
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Conventional Wisdom?
added 02/11 by Steve Cutchen
The Hot Stove season is finally coming to an end, with Spring Training right around the corner. All during the off season, we at Astros Daily have posted links to the various prognostications. So what is the consensus? And did they get it right?
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An Interview with J.R.
added 01/31 by Ray Kerby
Thanks to the Honor J.R. campaign, I was fortunate enough to be put in contact with J.R. Richard himself. After a brief introduction, J.R. was gracious enough to answer a few questions and agreed to have them put up on The Astros Daily. Enjoy!
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Thunder Off The Bench
added 01/31 by John Lauck
As a player for the Astros, there's one thing about Daryle Ward of which we can be certain: when he hits the ball, it goes a long way. Trouble is, for both Ward and the Astros' management, he needs to hit the ball far more often in 2001 in order to be considered successful.
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Dotel Anybody, But Octavio's a Key Man
added 01/25 by John Lauck
With Shane Reynolds out until at least May (and perhaps longer) with a surgically-repaired knee, and Jose Lima's ability to regain his control and composure pitching at home and on the road under serious question, Octavio Dotel may emerge as the most important man in the Astros' revamped starting rotation.
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Deshaies gets his due
added 01/18 by Ray Kerby
As the Hall of Fame campaign for Jim Deshaies closes shop, criticism is now coming from all sides about Houston Chronicle writer John Lopez and his decision to cast a vote for Deshaies. Personally, I don't see what all of the fuss is about.
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Meluskey - Good Riddance!
added 01/12 by Steve Cutchen
There's been a lot of bashing by Astros hot stovers over the Meluskey for Ausmus deal. This Knuckleball is an alternative view.
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The Five Men In
added 01/11 by John Lauck
Everybody knows that, going into the 2001 season, the Astros' most obvious weakness is their pitching staff. Everybody also knows that their strength is their outfield. But while GM Gerry Hunsicker has made several moves this off-season to shore up the pitching, and is working diligently to keep the powerhouse outfield intact for the next few years, not much attention has yet been paid to another part of the ball club that may be as crucial as any other part to the fortunes of the team this year: the infield.
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Will the Astros make the playoffs next season?
added 01/09 by Todd Brody and Ray Kerby
Todd and Ray take opposing sides in the burning question at the forefront of every Astros fan's mind. Will the Astros make the playoffs? Read Todd's point and Ray's counterpoint and decide for yourself who was the most convincing.
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What to do in 2002?
added 01/07 by Matthew Becker
Does this team have any money left to compete after 2001? Here are the numbers, the solutions are a little harder to come by.
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Mirror, mirror...
added 01/03 by Ray Kerby
January is here and the Astros and their fans must certainly be welcoming the new year. After all, 2000 was certainly
nothing for Astros fans to write home about, and we are all glad that last season is behind us. Or is it?
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Nightmare on Crawford Street
added 12/27 by Matthew Becker
Looking at the lineup and the depth on this team, if Jeff Bagwell sustains any type of serious injury, the chances of Houston winning any reasonable amount of games (not to mention any shot at the division) are completely flushed down the toilet.
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Gehrig, McGwire... Bagwell?
added 12/27 by Ray Kerby
Everyone in Houston knows that Jeff Bagwell is a star, but does he really stack up well against his peers? And will he eventually earn a seat at the table of Hall of Famers? Inquiring Astros fans want to know...
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Dirty Rotten Scoundrel
added 12/19 by Ray Kerby
Tuesday was a day of contrasts. In one moment, Drayton McLane makes his "poor man" case. In another, he's signing Jeff Bagwell for $17 million a year. OK, so which is it?
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Time To Win
added 12/18 by Todd Brody
Last week when I suggested trading Wilfredo as part of a package for Wells I was told that you can't "mortage the future" for a thirty-eight year old pitcher. Well, you're wrong. And here's why.
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A Hazy Shade of Winter
added 12/13 by John Lauck
Baseball’s winter meetings used to give fans not only something to talk about over the long, cold, gray months from December to March, but also a sense of hope that their team could either defend its championship from the previous year or blossom into a contender. Not so any more.
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Just how bad does this deal suck?
added 12/13 by Todd Brody
Can't sleep? Can't eat? Trade still gnawing at your gut? Don't worry, I've hashed it all out for you. Here is why the deal sucks, and here is the only way in which the deal makes sense.
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The Catcher Swap: Who Won?
added 12/12 by Ray Kerby
My timing is terrible. Just two days ago I sat down to write my next column about the team's lack of winter activity. Given the team's poor track record in previous winters, the title was going to be "No News is Good News". And with the Meluskey trade now the latest addition to the Astros' trade lore, my gut feeling was that I couldn't have been more right. But I was wrong.
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How Uncle Alkie Saved Baseball
added 12/11 by Alkie
Contracts for more than $250M? Free agents only available for 6 defined teams? Teams trading the same players...AGAIN???
TURN BACK NOW! THIS WAY LIES MADNESS!!!
I know that no one has actually come out and formally asked me to fix the game, but I know that you all were thinking it, so here goes.
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Love is in the Air
added 11/29 by Ray Kerby
What is it with you people? I start an Astro fan site and you go bonkers! Well before everyone jumps to conclusions about the intentions of this site and its relationship to Kev & Scott's Astros Connection, let me set the record straight before any more time is wasted over this non-issue.
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A Long, Cold Winter
added 11/25 by Ray Kerby
What a difference a year makes. One winter, your team is a three-time division champion coming off of the two most successful seasons in franchise history, and then suddenly it has become a floundering team in need of a big-name free agent to merely get back to .500. What happened?
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