What Happened?
The Astros scored seven runs in the first two innings and then rode it out for an 11-2 win over the Nationals to improve their Spring record to 7-6.
Why They Won
Spotting Wandy a 7-0 lead was enough to get Wandy back on track. Michael Bourn broke his Spring-long slump with a 3x3, three run day, and the Astros got multi-hit games from Pence (2x3, 2RBI), Johnson (2x4, 3RBI), and Quintero (2x3, 2RBI). Four of the Astros 13 hits were for extra bases (doubles by Johnson, Quintero, and Lee; and a homer by Michaels).
Astros pitching
Wandy got it back together, throwing a 4IP, 4H/2ER, 7K:0BB line. The bullpen threw another five scoreless IPs, and Gustavo Chacin threw 2IP, 0H/0ER, 3K in an impressive outing. But it's obviously Wandy who was the story today. Both Nationals runs came off the long ball, allowing solo shots to Taveras and Willingham in the 3rd and 4th innings, respectively. Still, Wandy recorded 12 outs amongst 16 batters, got seven Ks, with three groundouts and two flyouts.
Astros batting
Big days by Bourn, Pence, Johnson, and Quintero paced the offense, and the Astros were 7x17 with RISP today. The Astros also drew more walks than strikeouts again today (6K:7BB), with Kaz drawing three walks in three plate appearances, and scoring two runs as a result.
0-fers (more than one AB): Shelton (0x2, 1RBI), Esposito (0x2), Manzella (0x3)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Quintero: 2x3, 2RBI (.273)
Esposito: 0x2, (.167)
OF5
Sullivan: 0x1 (.143)
Bourgeois: 0x1, RBI (.077)
IF6
Maysonet: 1x2 (.421)
Shelton: 0x2, RBI, 2K (.190)
Johnson: 2x4, 3RBI, BB (.333)
Navarro: 1x2, K (.273)
Man of the Match
Chris Johnson. With 2x4, 2R, 3RBI, and a walk it's hard to ignore that he's doing more with the bat than Chris Shelton or Oswaldo Navarro. If Blum is going to be playing 1B while Lance is out, I realize Keppinger can slide over and play some 3B, but Johnson's hot bat (/snickering) is looking good (/full out laughing). He's a long shot, but credit where it's due.
Goat of the Game
Jason Bourgeois has got to start doing something. He survived the first cut, lasting longer than Alex Romero, but he's hitting .077 this year. It was brought up that Bourgeois can play some infield, which may make him more attractive, but he needs to step it up.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
How far away is this magical Realm of Possibility?
Alden Gonzalez' article on Berkman's rehab explains that Berkman, while he can "barely walk", still thinks it's within the realm of possibility that he could be ready for Opening Day:
Gonzalez:
The 34-year-old first baseman believes it's "still within the realm of possibility" that he can be ready by Opening Day, which for the Astros is April 5 against the Giants. But before he can progress from simple leg raises and quad-tightening exercises, Berkman is waiting for the swelling in his knee to go down, and he estimated it's about 10 days post-surgery before that happens.
Okay. So...ten days post-surgery means that it'll be next Wednesday before he can do anything involving his lower body. Next Wednesday is -12 days to Opening Day. Can Berkman do it? I'm sure he'll try. Is it realistic? I don't know. I've never had knee surgery. But I do think it's unlikely that the Astros will push him to be ready for the Giants.
Mills:
We're going to have to see. I can't sit here and say he's going to need three games, four games, a week. You can't say that, because you don't know exactly how he's going to feel, how he's going to heal and how the knee is going to be going. So we're going to just have to wait and see with how it goes and make sure he's 100 percent, both physically and baseball-wise, if he's ready to play."
Gonzalez:
The 34-year-old first baseman believes it's "still within the realm of possibility" that he can be ready by Opening Day, which for the Astros is April 5 against the Giants. But before he can progress from simple leg raises and quad-tightening exercises, Berkman is waiting for the swelling in his knee to go down, and he estimated it's about 10 days post-surgery before that happens.
Okay. So...ten days post-surgery means that it'll be next Wednesday before he can do anything involving his lower body. Next Wednesday is -12 days to Opening Day. Can Berkman do it? I'm sure he'll try. Is it realistic? I don't know. I've never had knee surgery. But I do think it's unlikely that the Astros will push him to be ready for the Giants.
Mills:
We're going to have to see. I can't sit here and say he's going to need three games, four games, a week. You can't say that, because you don't know exactly how he's going to feel, how he's going to heal and how the knee is going to be going. So we're going to just have to wait and see with how it goes and make sure he's 100 percent, both physically and baseball-wise, if he's ready to play."
The Biz of Baseball: Stop looking at service time for arbitration comparisons
The Biz of Baseball has a lesson in comparing arbitration-eligible players: Service time comparisons are useless. And writer Joe Tetreault uses Hunter Pence as a comparison:
A multi-year deal for Hunter Pence is absolutely the prudent course of action. But...Pence's starting point is significantly higher than that of either Denard Span or Arizona's Mark Reynolds who just signed a long term contract as well.
Because neither would be arbitration eligible until after the season Span and Reynolds are more comparable...
...Constructing a reasonable contract for Pence needs to be based on his service time, his performance and comparable players. Luckily, we can project Pence’s progression with a similar player who is one year ahead of Pence in the arbitration process. The Dodgers Andre Ethier provides a near ideal roadmap for what lies ahead.
(Ed. Note: Ethier-as-roadmap was something we examined on January 15)
...Using Ethier as a guide, if Pence maintains his current rate of production, he should expect no less than $6.5 million in 2011 (Ethier is getting $6 million next season and Pence has a higher starting point) and better than $10 million in 2012 (Ethier is getting $9.25 million). To buy out the balance of his arbitration eligibility will likely cost Houston close to $30 million over three seasons on top of the $3.5 Pence will earn this year.
So chalk this up to "Maybe Ed Wade Knows What He's Doing."
A multi-year deal for Hunter Pence is absolutely the prudent course of action. But...Pence's starting point is significantly higher than that of either Denard Span or Arizona's Mark Reynolds who just signed a long term contract as well.
Because neither would be arbitration eligible until after the season Span and Reynolds are more comparable...
...Constructing a reasonable contract for Pence needs to be based on his service time, his performance and comparable players. Luckily, we can project Pence’s progression with a similar player who is one year ahead of Pence in the arbitration process. The Dodgers Andre Ethier provides a near ideal roadmap for what lies ahead.
(Ed. Note: Ethier-as-roadmap was something we examined on January 15)
...Using Ethier as a guide, if Pence maintains his current rate of production, he should expect no less than $6.5 million in 2011 (Ethier is getting $6 million next season and Pence has a higher starting point) and better than $10 million in 2012 (Ethier is getting $9.25 million). To buy out the balance of his arbitration eligibility will likely cost Houston close to $30 million over three seasons on top of the $3.5 Pence will earn this year.
So chalk this up to "Maybe Ed Wade Knows What He's Doing."
First round of cuts in place
The Astros cut 12 today, none of them big surprises. Let's get to the list:
Pitchers
Fernando Abad
Evan Englebrook
Chia-jen Lo
Matt Nevarez
Polin Trinidad
Jose Valdez
Henry Villar
Obviously all of these pitchers were minor-leaguers, so they'll head to minor-league camp to play in games where they can get more consistent playing time.
Outfielders
Brian Bogusevic
Yordany Ramirez
Alex Romero
Infielder
Wladimir Sutil
Catcher
Lou Santangelo
Romero was the only player cut who was a non-roster invitee who had a legitimate shot at making the roster, and now he needs a job. Same thing applies to these players as the pitchers. Nevertheless, it looks as though OF5 is down to Jason Bourgeois and Cory Sullivan.
Mills:
“A lot of the guys need to get consistent work, so they're going to go down to the minor league level and get consistent work. With Alex, it's an opportunity for him to get on maybe with another ballclub ... It just didn't look like it was a fit here, so maybe it will be a fit somewhere else.”
Pitchers
Fernando Abad
Evan Englebrook
Chia-jen Lo
Matt Nevarez
Polin Trinidad
Jose Valdez
Henry Villar
Obviously all of these pitchers were minor-leaguers, so they'll head to minor-league camp to play in games where they can get more consistent playing time.
Outfielders
Brian Bogusevic
Yordany Ramirez
Alex Romero
Infielder
Wladimir Sutil
Catcher
Lou Santangelo
Romero was the only player cut who was a non-roster invitee who had a legitimate shot at making the roster, and now he needs a job. Same thing applies to these players as the pitchers. Nevertheless, it looks as though OF5 is down to Jason Bourgeois and Cory Sullivan.
Mills:
“A lot of the guys need to get consistent work, so they're going to go down to the minor league level and get consistent work. With Alex, it's an opportunity for him to get on maybe with another ballclub ... It just didn't look like it was a fit here, so maybe it will be a fit somewhere else.”
'77 Astros destroyed by Dodgers
Over at Play That Funky Baseball, your Astros County-managed '77 Astros were destroyed by the Dodgers, thanks to four Astros errors:
Dodgers 15
Astros 5
At least old Sherman should be whistlin in the morning. Reggie Smith with a grand slam early, and Tommy John gets the first 13 ‘Stros before Cliff Johnson takes him out. Just plain skanky all around.
W-John
L-Andujar
HRS: Smith, Johnson, Cabell
Record: 5-5
GB: 1.5
Dodgers 15
Astros 5
At least old Sherman should be whistlin in the morning. Reggie Smith with a grand slam early, and Tommy John gets the first 13 ‘Stros before Cliff Johnson takes him out. Just plain skanky all around.
W-John
L-Andujar
HRS: Smith, Johnson, Cabell
Record: 5-5
GB: 1.5
Youngstros and Energy
The Chronicle's one-man show filed another report on the youth of the Astros (funnily referring to the 2009 team as the "GeriAstros."):
Mills:
“Any time that you have a young guy, you're going to get a lot of energy and a lot of enthusiasm because they're just now starting to go through it. Any time that you have a ballclub like this, you try to keep a good mix together.”
Manzella, who is young:
“Younger players are more eager to impress with work ethic because they are still trying to figure out what they need to get ready for the season. Usually you'll see a little bit more intensity, a little more hop in their step, especially in practices.”
Levine:
As Berkman and Oswalt near the end of their contracts with their futures uncertain, the Astros are looking for a group to form a new younger core.
A weak farm system has prevented a groundswell of players from breaking in at once, but the Astros are hoping this slight movement is a start to a young homegrown base.
Mills:
“Any time that you have a young guy, you're going to get a lot of energy and a lot of enthusiasm because they're just now starting to go through it. Any time that you have a ballclub like this, you try to keep a good mix together.”
Manzella, who is young:
“Younger players are more eager to impress with work ethic because they are still trying to figure out what they need to get ready for the season. Usually you'll see a little bit more intensity, a little more hop in their step, especially in practices.”
Levine:
As Berkman and Oswalt near the end of their contracts with their futures uncertain, the Astros are looking for a group to form a new younger core.
A weak farm system has prevented a groundswell of players from breaking in at once, but the Astros are hoping this slight movement is a start to a young homegrown base.
Lyon will pitch tomorrow, despite not being 100%
Zach Levine is telling us that Brandon Lyon will make his Spring debut tomorrow against the Tigers. But he ain't 100%.
Lyon:
“I still don't feel like I'm up to 100 percent strength-wise, but I'm to the point where I can start pitching, and that's just going to come with time."
I'm guessing this has as much to do with the fact that Lindstrom has looked sharp, and if Lyon doesn't get it together and start showing some things, he'll be even farther behind in the Closer race. It's going to happen at some point, where Lyon gets on the mound, and we should all keep a level head if he goes out and gets Sheets-ed.
Lyon:
“I still don't feel like I'm up to 100 percent strength-wise, but I'm to the point where I can start pitching, and that's just going to come with time."
I'm guessing this has as much to do with the fact that Lindstrom has looked sharp, and if Lyon doesn't get it together and start showing some things, he'll be even farther behind in the Closer race. It's going to happen at some point, where Lyon gets on the mound, and we should all keep a level head if he goes out and gets Sheets-ed.
A tale of two pitchers
You have Roy Oswalt. And you have Brian Moehler. And you have two very different results. Zach Levine has some reaction:
Oswalt:
"I actually feel better mechanics than I did all year last year. The ball is coming out of my right...It's been great, the guys have been great, the new guys coming in with Brad (Mills) and Arnie, the pitching coach, have been great. There's a better life around the clubhouse, and it's been fun coming to the park."
Moehler:
"I felt much better today than I felt last time out, so I was pleased with it. A couple pitches I'd like to have back, but overall, I felt good with everything."
Mills, on Moehler's next start:
"With our other split-squad game coming up, we're going to see where we lie with our pitching. We're not going to really make comments on that right now because we're still in the early process of doing that right now."
Oswalt:
"I actually feel better mechanics than I did all year last year. The ball is coming out of my right...It's been great, the guys have been great, the new guys coming in with Brad (Mills) and Arnie, the pitching coach, have been great. There's a better life around the clubhouse, and it's been fun coming to the park."
Moehler:
"I felt much better today than I felt last time out, so I was pleased with it. A couple pitches I'd like to have back, but overall, I felt good with everything."
Mills, on Moehler's next start:
"With our other split-squad game coming up, we're going to see where we lie with our pitching. We're not going to really make comments on that right now because we're still in the early process of doing that right now."
Recap for ST12: Astros v. Yankees
What Happened?
A.J. Burnett's control was shaky through 2.1IP, but Segovia, Rivera, and Phil Hughes shut the Astros down, and Moehler had a pretty rough outing as the Yankees beat the Astros 4-1 last night.
Why They Lost
The Astros had tied the game up 1-1 in the third, but Brian Moehler gave up two runs (finishing the day with 6H/3ER in 3IP) including a homer to Mark Teixieriarasarxxaa. Combine that with the fact that the Yankees' pitching held the Astros to six hits (but hey, six walks, too). A.J. Burnett gave up 2H/1ER, but the bullpen threw 6.2IP, 4H/0ER. And the Astros were 0x11 with RISP, leaving 11 on base, and with two GIDPs.
Astros pitching
We're not going to talk about Moehler, other than that he got four groundouts to three flyouts, and Moehler's Spring ERA is now 7.20. Casey Daigle wins the Reliever of the Day award, throwing 2IP, 0H/0ER, 3K. Chris Sampson and Josh Banks also threw perfect innings, while Shane Loux got tagged for two hits and a run. The Astros held the Yankees to 2x8 with RISP.
Astros batting
This is pretty easy to take care of. Hits came from Yordany, Keppinger, Pence, Blum, Castro, and Sutil. Keppinger got on base in all three plate appearances, with a hit and two walks. Jason Michaels left seven on base by himself in an 0-fer performance. Hunter Pence was 1x2 (double) with a walk and the lone RBI
0-fers (more than one AB): Bourgeois (0x3), Navarro (0x2), Romero (0x2), Feliz (0x2), Michaels (0x3), Maysonet (0x3)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Castro: 1x2, BB (.467)
Cash: 0x1 (.143)
OF5
Bourgeois: 0x3 (.083)
Yordany: 1x2 (.455)
Romero: 0x2 (.364)
Bogusevic: 0x4 (.071)
IF6
Navarro: 0x2 (.222)
Maysonet: 0x3 (.412)
Man of the Match
Casey Daigle. After Moehler got pulled having allowed six hits in 3IP, Casey Daigle comes in and strikes out three, allowing no baserunners in 2IP.
Goat of the Game
Let's give this one to Jason Bourgeois. Batting leadoff, he didn't get on base, struck out, and dropped his average to .083 (1x12, 2K:0BB).
A.J. Burnett's control was shaky through 2.1IP, but Segovia, Rivera, and Phil Hughes shut the Astros down, and Moehler had a pretty rough outing as the Yankees beat the Astros 4-1 last night.
Why They Lost
The Astros had tied the game up 1-1 in the third, but Brian Moehler gave up two runs (finishing the day with 6H/3ER in 3IP) including a homer to Mark Teixieriarasarxxaa. Combine that with the fact that the Yankees' pitching held the Astros to six hits (but hey, six walks, too). A.J. Burnett gave up 2H/1ER, but the bullpen threw 6.2IP, 4H/0ER. And the Astros were 0x11 with RISP, leaving 11 on base, and with two GIDPs.
Astros pitching
We're not going to talk about Moehler, other than that he got four groundouts to three flyouts, and Moehler's Spring ERA is now 7.20. Casey Daigle wins the Reliever of the Day award, throwing 2IP, 0H/0ER, 3K. Chris Sampson and Josh Banks also threw perfect innings, while Shane Loux got tagged for two hits and a run. The Astros held the Yankees to 2x8 with RISP.
Astros batting
This is pretty easy to take care of. Hits came from Yordany, Keppinger, Pence, Blum, Castro, and Sutil. Keppinger got on base in all three plate appearances, with a hit and two walks. Jason Michaels left seven on base by himself in an 0-fer performance. Hunter Pence was 1x2 (double) with a walk and the lone RBI
0-fers (more than one AB): Bourgeois (0x3), Navarro (0x2), Romero (0x2), Feliz (0x2), Michaels (0x3), Maysonet (0x3)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Castro: 1x2, BB (.467)
Cash: 0x1 (.143)
OF5
Bourgeois: 0x3 (.083)
Yordany: 1x2 (.455)
Romero: 0x2 (.364)
Bogusevic: 0x4 (.071)
IF6
Navarro: 0x2 (.222)
Maysonet: 0x3 (.412)
Man of the Match
Casey Daigle. After Moehler got pulled having allowed six hits in 3IP, Casey Daigle comes in and strikes out three, allowing no baserunners in 2IP.
Goat of the Game
Let's give this one to Jason Bourgeois. Batting leadoff, he didn't get on base, struck out, and dropped his average to .083 (1x12, 2K:0BB).
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Astros still rumored for sale
The New York Times has an article on how the economic downturn is affecting the sale of teams. But as the economy turns around, the market may be heating up again:
Now that the economy seems to be on the mend, owners who held off selling during the downturn are seeking to unload their teams. According to sports bankers, the teams thought to be for sale include the Atlanta Hawks, the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors and the Detroit Pistons in the N.B.A; the Stars, the Atlanta Thrashers and potentially the Columbus Blue Jackets in the N.H.L.; and baseball’s Houston Astros.
This is obviously something we knew. But as the economy makes its way back to "normal," maybe we have a clue as to why Drayton isn't interested in selling the team: He's waiting for his $600 million...
Now that the economy seems to be on the mend, owners who held off selling during the downturn are seeking to unload their teams. According to sports bankers, the teams thought to be for sale include the Atlanta Hawks, the Memphis Grizzlies, the Golden State Warriors and the Detroit Pistons in the N.B.A; the Stars, the Atlanta Thrashers and potentially the Columbus Blue Jackets in the N.H.L.; and baseball’s Houston Astros.
This is obviously something we knew. But as the economy makes its way back to "normal," maybe we have a clue as to why Drayton isn't interested in selling the team: He's waiting for his $600 million...
Astros sign Michael Garciaparra
Noticed earlier that there was a Garciaparra playing in the Astros/Red Sox game today, and I couldn't figure it out. NESN is reporting that the Astros have signed infielder Michael Garciaparra to a minor-league contract. Which makes more sense.
Garciaparra will be 27 on April 2, and is 6'1, 160 - approximately the weight of my left leg.
In 2056 career minor-league ABs, Garciaparra has hit .262/.352/.342 with a 425K:227BB.
NESN:
Michael is an infielder and a former first-round pick, like his older brother. Michael has never appeared in a major league game, but he will provide Houston a reliable option at the minor league level.
Garciaparra will be 27 on April 2, and is 6'1, 160 - approximately the weight of my left leg.
In 2056 career minor-league ABs, Garciaparra has hit .262/.352/.342 with a 425K:227BB.
NESN:
Michael is an infielder and a former first-round pick, like his older brother. Michael has never appeared in a major league game, but he will provide Houston a reliable option at the minor league level.
Recap for ST11: Astros v. Red Sox
What Happened?
Astros pitching shut down the Red Sox' bats in a 3-0 win over the Fightin' Franconas.
Why They Won
Jon Lester wasn't quite as sharp as Roy Oswalt. Roy threw 4IP, 2H/0ER, 1K:1BB, facing 13 batters to get 12 outs as the Astros rolled up two double plays on the day. Carlos Lee managed to avoid not keeling over as he ran the final 90 feet to score on Jon Lester's wild pitch to provide the winning run in the 4th.
Astros pitching
Oswalt enjoyed the best start of the Spring by any Astro starter, but the bullpen of Lindstrom, Fulchino, Gervacio, Majewski, and Wright held the Red Sox to two hits over the final five innings. Best news of the day: Astros pitchers struck out six and only walked two. Gervacio helped himself out by picking off Sheely at first base. If Gervacio can keep this up, he'll find himself on the Big Team while Wesley Wright goes to Round Rock to turn himself into a starter, even though that would only leave one LHP in the bullpen.
Astros batting
There wasn't a whole lot going on with the Astros' bats, but they did enough to win - which is going to have to be a theme in 2010. The Astros got hits from Matsui, Kata, two from Towles, and one from Esposito, Lee, Sullivan, and Quintero.
0-fers (more than one AB): Bourn (0x2), Johnson (0x2), Shelton (0x3), Manzella (0x3)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Towles: 2x3 (.550)
Esposito: 1x1 (.250)
Quintero: 1x3 (.211)
OF5
Sullivan: 1x3 (.150)
Man of the Match
Roy Oswalt.
Goat of the Game
Hard to say, this was a good performance all around. Bourn was 0x2 to drop his Spring average to .115, but did draw a walk (as did Chris Johnson). How about we give it to Chris Shelton - 0x3 with two Ks and a GIDP.
Astros pitching shut down the Red Sox' bats in a 3-0 win over the Fightin' Franconas.
Why They Won
Jon Lester wasn't quite as sharp as Roy Oswalt. Roy threw 4IP, 2H/0ER, 1K:1BB, facing 13 batters to get 12 outs as the Astros rolled up two double plays on the day. Carlos Lee managed to avoid not keeling over as he ran the final 90 feet to score on Jon Lester's wild pitch to provide the winning run in the 4th.
Astros pitching
Oswalt enjoyed the best start of the Spring by any Astro starter, but the bullpen of Lindstrom, Fulchino, Gervacio, Majewski, and Wright held the Red Sox to two hits over the final five innings. Best news of the day: Astros pitchers struck out six and only walked two. Gervacio helped himself out by picking off Sheely at first base. If Gervacio can keep this up, he'll find himself on the Big Team while Wesley Wright goes to Round Rock to turn himself into a starter, even though that would only leave one LHP in the bullpen.
Astros batting
There wasn't a whole lot going on with the Astros' bats, but they did enough to win - which is going to have to be a theme in 2010. The Astros got hits from Matsui, Kata, two from Towles, and one from Esposito, Lee, Sullivan, and Quintero.
0-fers (more than one AB): Bourn (0x2), Johnson (0x2), Shelton (0x3), Manzella (0x3)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Towles: 2x3 (.550)
Esposito: 1x1 (.250)
Quintero: 1x3 (.211)
OF5
Sullivan: 1x3 (.150)
Man of the Match
Roy Oswalt.
Goat of the Game
Hard to say, this was a good performance all around. Bourn was 0x2 to drop his Spring average to .115, but did draw a walk (as did Chris Johnson). How about we give it to Chris Shelton - 0x3 with two Ks and a GIDP.
Vallejo outrighted to Round Rock
This is hardly surprising, but Jose Vallejo was outrighted to Round Rock, where he had to clear waivers to do so. He did. Apparently 29 MLB teams aren't interested in picking up a guy who got pwned by a dead pig.
Vallejo will head off to rehab in Triple-A, so that clears up one spot on the 40-man roster, which the Astros will need as they separate the sheep from the goats this week.
Vallejo will head off to rehab in Triple-A, so that clears up one spot on the 40-man roster, which the Astros will need as they separate the sheep from the goats this week.
Lyon being pushed up
Zach Levine tweeted that Brandon Lyon's simulated game has been pushed up to today.
Right now, mainly because of the two-week head start, Lindstrom is in line to be our CL1. Lyon could make a late push but for now Lindstrom should get the first crack at closing games. We've all heard that the closer position will be a fluid spot for a while, though Brad Mills is in favor of defining a role. Looks like that's what will happen...
And Levine is now tweeting that Lyon will make his Spring Training debut on Thursday. Hooray.
Right now, mainly because of the two-week head start, Lindstrom is in line to be our CL1. Lyon could make a late push but for now Lindstrom should get the first crack at closing games. We've all heard that the closer position will be a fluid spot for a while, though Brad Mills is in favor of defining a role. Looks like that's what will happen...
And Levine is now tweeting that Lyon will make his Spring Training debut on Thursday. Hooray.
Lineup for Red Sox & Yankees
Arguably the hardest day in Astros' Spring Training history (pause for yawning) as the Astros take on the Red Sox and the Yankees today.
Lineup vs. Boston:
Bourn (CF)
Matsui (2B)
Towles (C)
Lee (LF)
Johnson (3B)
Shelton (1B)
Sullivan (RF)
Quintero (DH)
Manzella (SS)
Lineup vs. Yankees:
Bourgeois (CF)
Keppinger (2B)
Pence (RF)
Blum (1B)
Feliz (3B)
Michaels (LF)
Castro (C)
Maysonet (SS)
Bogusevic (DH)
Lineup vs. Boston:
Bourn (CF)
Matsui (2B)
Towles (C)
Lee (LF)
Johnson (3B)
Shelton (1B)
Sullivan (RF)
Quintero (DH)
Manzella (SS)
Lineup vs. Yankees:
Bourgeois (CF)
Keppinger (2B)
Pence (RF)
Blum (1B)
Feliz (3B)
Michaels (LF)
Castro (C)
Maysonet (SS)
Bogusevic (DH)
Zach Levine's Cliff's Notes
Zach Levine has the short version of what we should be keeping our eye on this Spring.
A couple of things of note:
-Is there concern about Wandy Rodriguez?
There is none. Wandy Rodriguez and the Astros believe his struggles are not injury-related, and he's working out some kinks. But he's someone to watch closely after nine runs in five innings.
-Wesley Wright's role
Wesley Wright could be squeezed out of the bullpen mix if Sammy Gervacio or any other young pitcher emerges as a candidate.
Cuts will be made on Sunday, and there are some high-profile games with the Red Sox and Yankees to play this week, so if someone is going to distinguish themselves, it needs to happen soon.
A couple of things of note:
-Is there concern about Wandy Rodriguez?
There is none. Wandy Rodriguez and the Astros believe his struggles are not injury-related, and he's working out some kinks. But he's someone to watch closely after nine runs in five innings.
-Wesley Wright's role
Wesley Wright could be squeezed out of the bullpen mix if Sammy Gervacio or any other young pitcher emerges as a candidate.
Cuts will be made on Sunday, and there are some high-profile games with the Red Sox and Yankees to play this week, so if someone is going to distinguish themselves, it needs to happen soon.
Everybody hearts Brad Mills
Maureen Mullen of the Daily Item has a really long piece about Brad Mills and the Astros playing the Red Sox today. But long story short, everybody loves him.
Wade:
"I can honestly say from the very first day of pitchers and catchers workout that [Mills has] been as advertised. His enthusiasm. His passion for the game. The way he cares about players. His attention to detail. The way he's utilized and folded in his staff, not only the big league staff but all the other guys we have in camp right now serving as instructors, they all have a role. Things have been clearly defined. They're having fun. There's a pace and a tempo to it. And it really is a result of the trend that he established from the very first day."
Mills, on his biggest challenge:
"Being the one in the seat. I could talk to Terry about all kinds of moves and things and we could discuss it. But you know what? He's the one who had to pull the trigger and make the choice. And that experience was immeasurable, but now I'm the one that has to pull the trigger and make the choice. I think getting used to that, there's no doubt."
Wade:
"I can honestly say from the very first day of pitchers and catchers workout that [Mills has] been as advertised. His enthusiasm. His passion for the game. The way he cares about players. His attention to detail. The way he's utilized and folded in his staff, not only the big league staff but all the other guys we have in camp right now serving as instructors, they all have a role. Things have been clearly defined. They're having fun. There's a pace and a tempo to it. And it really is a result of the trend that he established from the very first day."
Mills, on his biggest challenge:
"Being the one in the seat. I could talk to Terry about all kinds of moves and things and we could discuss it. But you know what? He's the one who had to pull the trigger and make the choice. And that experience was immeasurable, but now I'm the one that has to pull the trigger and make the choice. I think getting used to that, there's no doubt."
Hey, so if Blum can keep hitting .450, we might be okay
Zach Levine's article tells us that the lineups we're seeing are starting to look more like the lineups we'll see come April 5. Of course, Berkman's readiness on Opening Day is a question, and that's forcing Geoff Blum to be more flexible.
Levine:
The major question is whether first baseman Lance Berkman is healthy enough to return for opening day.
In his absence, Geoff Blum started in the No. 5 spot in the lineup Sunday, giving protection to Hunter Pence and Carlos Lee, who batted third and fourth, respectively.
Manager Brad Mills said Sunday's lineup that scored eight runs in the first four innings didn't definitely represent the one he would write in on opening day, but he said he could see it as a possibility.
Mills:
“We're still playing around with that. If he continues to swing the bat well, I think everyone could see why I'd want him in that fifth spot."
I'm okay with Blum hitting fifth - if he hits like a #5 hitter. Maybe not at the first sign of struggle, but at least at the second or third sign of struggle, I would hope that Mills shakes it up.
Levine:
The major question is whether first baseman Lance Berkman is healthy enough to return for opening day.
In his absence, Geoff Blum started in the No. 5 spot in the lineup Sunday, giving protection to Hunter Pence and Carlos Lee, who batted third and fourth, respectively.
Manager Brad Mills said Sunday's lineup that scored eight runs in the first four innings didn't definitely represent the one he would write in on opening day, but he said he could see it as a possibility.
Mills:
“We're still playing around with that. If he continues to swing the bat well, I think everyone could see why I'd want him in that fifth spot."
I'm okay with Blum hitting fifth - if he hits like a #5 hitter. Maybe not at the first sign of struggle, but at least at the second or third sign of struggle, I would hope that Mills shakes it up.
Galveston Daily News is not happy
The Galveston Daily News wins the Eeyore Award of the Day for Evan Mohl's column about how depressed he is with the 2010 Astros:
Baseball is one of my favorite sports. I grew up playing, and it was the first sport I fell in love with, combing over box scores every morning in the paper before school.
And nothing compares to the chess quality of baseball. There are so many possibilities and combinations that go into one pitch. It’s a game of nuance and complexity that, to me, is unparalleled.
So when pitchers and catchers report, I get giddy. It means baseball season is coming, summer is near and hope for every team.
Except the Houston Astros.
I can’t get excited about the Astros. I’ve tried. I look up and down the roster, combed the minor league system and researched statistics...
...I’ll be surprised if the Astros win 75 games.
If I can’t find anything to like, with my rose-colored glasses, than it’s really bad. It’s depressing.
Baseball is one of my favorite sports. I grew up playing, and it was the first sport I fell in love with, combing over box scores every morning in the paper before school.
And nothing compares to the chess quality of baseball. There are so many possibilities and combinations that go into one pitch. It’s a game of nuance and complexity that, to me, is unparalleled.
So when pitchers and catchers report, I get giddy. It means baseball season is coming, summer is near and hope for every team.
Except the Houston Astros.
I can’t get excited about the Astros. I’ve tried. I look up and down the roster, combed the minor league system and researched statistics...
...I’ll be surprised if the Astros win 75 games.
If I can’t find anything to like, with my rose-colored glasses, than it’s really bad. It’s depressing.
Bagwell impressed with Pence
But really, what else was he going to say? The Austin American-Statesman a Nocturnal Emissions-worthy piece on Hunter Pence's rising star.
Bagwell:
"I'm very impressed with his work ethic. He goes as hard as anybody I've seen. He's in the weight room and batting cage every single day during the offseason just trying to get better. You have to appreciate that from a kid his age."
Berkman:
I'd like to see him become more of a run-producer. I'd like to see him hit a few more home runs and drive some more guys in. I think that's the next step in his evolution, is to move from that 70 or 80 RBI plateau up to 100 RBIs and be a consistent 30 home-run hitter. I think he's capable of doing it."
Pence:
"I know what my potential is. I don't worry about pressure or expectations. I probably have higher expectations for myself than anyone else. I use it drive myself."
Bagwell:
"I'm very impressed with his work ethic. He goes as hard as anybody I've seen. He's in the weight room and batting cage every single day during the offseason just trying to get better. You have to appreciate that from a kid his age."
Berkman:
I'd like to see him become more of a run-producer. I'd like to see him hit a few more home runs and drive some more guys in. I think that's the next step in his evolution, is to move from that 70 or 80 RBI plateau up to 100 RBIs and be a consistent 30 home-run hitter. I think he's capable of doing it."
Pence:
"I know what my potential is. I don't worry about pressure or expectations. I probably have higher expectations for myself than anyone else. I use it drive myself."
Monday, March 15, 2010
Greenies in the clubhouse
First of all, it should be noted that my friends over at the had the link to this first.
But over at Morgan Ensberg's (excellent) blog, a commenter asked a question:
Stuart:
“Did you use PED’s and did you see others using them? A simple yes or no will not do.”
Ensberg:
Stuart I am pumped up that you asked me that! I didn’t use steroids or anything else that helped build muscle.
The only thing I saw in the clubhouse was “greenies” which I have done about 10 times. Greenies are basically “uppers” and they didn’t do anything to me. I am not sure if that is a good thing.
I drink a ton of coffee and would drink something like 2 redbulls before a game if I felt sluggish.
I always use this analogy. In Hermosa Beach, where I grew up, there were a bunch of kids who smoked weed. I was asked if I wanted to smoke, but I said no and that was the end of it.
I eventually smoked in college about 30 times and I liked it. But I noticed that it made me eat a lot and I didn’t need any help in that department.
Back to the point, I didn’t smoke so I wasn’t in “that club”. If you are not in the group then you have no idea what guys are doing it. The same thing happened in college with cocaine. I have never done cocaine, but some of my buddies did and I had no idea. I just thought that they were really hyper.
My opinion is this. I can’t fault anyone for doing steroids because they are trying to do everything they can to get to the big leagues. I played in the Dominican and Venezuela and nothing you say will change my opinion on a guy making a decision to feed his family. This isn’t apples and apples.
I don’t even think that those guys who did do steroids pushed me out of the game. I had the ability to play the game at the highest level and that is really cool to me.
Okay. So once I get the link to the post, I'll link it, and remove this sentence. But let's make note of a few things:
1. This is something that HOVG already said, but it bears repeating: this is incredibly ballsy for Ensberg to say.
2. Now that's out of the way: There were greenies apparently in the clubhouse. We don't have a year, or a team. So that's either in the five seasons he was with the Astros or the season and a half he was with the Padres and Yankees.
3. If we're all trying to move past the issue of enhancers (which will never go away), then what we can do here is shrug our shoulders and go, "Huh."
But over at Morgan Ensberg's (excellent) blog, a commenter asked a question:
Stuart:
“Did you use PED’s and did you see others using them? A simple yes or no will not do.”
Ensberg:
Stuart I am pumped up that you asked me that! I didn’t use steroids or anything else that helped build muscle.
The only thing I saw in the clubhouse was “greenies” which I have done about 10 times. Greenies are basically “uppers” and they didn’t do anything to me. I am not sure if that is a good thing.
I drink a ton of coffee and would drink something like 2 redbulls before a game if I felt sluggish.
I always use this analogy. In Hermosa Beach, where I grew up, there were a bunch of kids who smoked weed. I was asked if I wanted to smoke, but I said no and that was the end of it.
I eventually smoked in college about 30 times and I liked it. But I noticed that it made me eat a lot and I didn’t need any help in that department.
Back to the point, I didn’t smoke so I wasn’t in “that club”. If you are not in the group then you have no idea what guys are doing it. The same thing happened in college with cocaine. I have never done cocaine, but some of my buddies did and I had no idea. I just thought that they were really hyper.
My opinion is this. I can’t fault anyone for doing steroids because they are trying to do everything they can to get to the big leagues. I played in the Dominican and Venezuela and nothing you say will change my opinion on a guy making a decision to feed his family. This isn’t apples and apples.
I don’t even think that those guys who did do steroids pushed me out of the game. I had the ability to play the game at the highest level and that is really cool to me.
Okay. So once I get the link to the post, I'll link it, and remove this sentence. But let's make note of a few things:
1. This is something that HOVG already said, but it bears repeating: this is incredibly ballsy for Ensberg to say.
2. Now that's out of the way: There were greenies apparently in the clubhouse. We don't have a year, or a team. So that's either in the five seasons he was with the Astros or the season and a half he was with the Padres and Yankees.
3. If we're all trying to move past the issue of enhancers (which will never go away), then what we can do here is shrug our shoulders and go, "Huh."
FanGraphs unsurprisingly ranks Astros #30
FanGraphs' Dave Cameron listed the Astros 30/30 in his Organizational Ranking index. Because why not - the target is a mile wide.
The Astros probably aren’t the worst team in baseball. With a couple of solid drafts of late, they may not have the worst farm system anymore. And, thanks to the guys up in KC, they aren’t the worst run organization either. But their combination of a bad roster full of old players with large contracts and a management that is either unwilling to admit that a rebuild is necessary or unwilling to commit to one makes them the franchise that needs more help than any other.
Oh, and did you know that Jason Castro, Jiovanni Mier, and Jordan Lyles aren't "franchise players?":
There is some hope on the farm, but it’s mostly a few years away, and there’s not a lot of depth there. It falls off quickly after Castro, Mier, and Lyles, none of whom are franchise players. They spent too many years ignoring both Latin America and the draft, and even with a recent reconversion back to building from within, the years of neglect have left them in bad shape going forward. The core of the next good Astros team is not yet in the Houston organization, requiring them to make a lot of savvy moves to bring in some high quality young players.
Oh, and you should read the comments. They're pure gold.
The Astros probably aren’t the worst team in baseball. With a couple of solid drafts of late, they may not have the worst farm system anymore. And, thanks to the guys up in KC, they aren’t the worst run organization either. But their combination of a bad roster full of old players with large contracts and a management that is either unwilling to admit that a rebuild is necessary or unwilling to commit to one makes them the franchise that needs more help than any other.
Oh, and did you know that Jason Castro, Jiovanni Mier, and Jordan Lyles aren't "franchise players?":
There is some hope on the farm, but it’s mostly a few years away, and there’s not a lot of depth there. It falls off quickly after Castro, Mier, and Lyles, none of whom are franchise players. They spent too many years ignoring both Latin America and the draft, and even with a recent reconversion back to building from within, the years of neglect have left them in bad shape going forward. The core of the next good Astros team is not yet in the Houston organization, requiring them to make a lot of savvy moves to bring in some high quality young players.
Oh, and you should read the comments. They're pure gold.
Holy Crap.
Buster Olney's Pujols-for-Howard rumor made everybody guano crazy for a few days, but the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Joe Strauss has some relevant information for us Astros fans.
First, we see that the rumor has really pissed off Tony LaRussa which, I think we can all agree, is satisfying.
Second, we see that the Astros are on his list of teams to which he would approve a trade:
Pujols said last month any talks regarding an extension will be placed on hold once the season starts. The narrow window for a deal has led to a widespread belief that the matter will push into next winter. Pujols currently enjoys partial no-trade protection that allows him to specify each November fewer than 10 teams to which he will accept a trade. Pujols cited the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Los Angeles Angels, the Houston Astros and the Florida Marlins as teams on his current list.
Good God...
But let's make a clarifying note: there is no way the Astros could pull this off. Cardinals fans would riot in the streets if they traded Pujols to Houston, and didn't get big-league talent in return. Even if the Astros traded Roy, plus the entire 2008 draft class, they would still have to sign him to that extension - around $300 million. An organization like the Astros, who are trying to contend and rebuild isn't doing both, even if they had the pieces to trade.
First, we see that the rumor has really pissed off Tony LaRussa which, I think we can all agree, is satisfying.
Second, we see that the Astros are on his list of teams to which he would approve a trade:
Pujols said last month any talks regarding an extension will be placed on hold once the season starts. The narrow window for a deal has led to a widespread belief that the matter will push into next winter. Pujols currently enjoys partial no-trade protection that allows him to specify each November fewer than 10 teams to which he will accept a trade. Pujols cited the Los Angeles Dodgers, the Los Angeles Angels, the Houston Astros and the Florida Marlins as teams on his current list.
Good God...
But let's make a clarifying note: there is no way the Astros could pull this off. Cardinals fans would riot in the streets if they traded Pujols to Houston, and didn't get big-league talent in return. Even if the Astros traded Roy, plus the entire 2008 draft class, they would still have to sign him to that extension - around $300 million. An organization like the Astros, who are trying to contend and rebuild isn't doing both, even if they had the pieces to trade.
Bobby Valentine: Mentor
Nice article from Brian McTaggart on Tommy Manzella's Japanese lessons, to better communicate with Kaz.
"I've been picking up on it pretty good, but just the basic stuff..."[Valentine] said it goes a long way as far as your relationship if they see you, not only them trying to make an effort to learn your language, but you making an effort to learn their language. That's the kind of people they are. They show that as a sign of respect. He said take a couple of words every day and, by the time you realize it, you have a vocabulary of 50, 60 words."
Matsui's translator, Yoshitaka Ono:
"He obviously tries to communicate with Kaz. I don't know if he's going to do it with Japanese on the field, but it's good enough, and to see the effort to try to communicate makes Kaz feel more comfortable. He learned how to say little general words and count one through 50 and some baseball terms. The basic stuff."
First class.
"I've been picking up on it pretty good, but just the basic stuff..."[Valentine] said it goes a long way as far as your relationship if they see you, not only them trying to make an effort to learn your language, but you making an effort to learn their language. That's the kind of people they are. They show that as a sign of respect. He said take a couple of words every day and, by the time you realize it, you have a vocabulary of 50, 60 words."
Matsui's translator, Yoshitaka Ono:
"He obviously tries to communicate with Kaz. I don't know if he's going to do it with Japanese on the field, but it's good enough, and to see the effort to try to communicate makes Kaz feel more comfortable. He learned how to say little general words and count one through 50 and some baseball terms. The basic stuff."
First class.
Berkman as a fantasy stud
Tristan Cockcroft takes on Lance Berkman's fantasy value, and has some things to say:
To say that Berkman might need longer than four weeks to return to the playing field, not to mention be at high risk for another visit to the disabled list, is fair. If you're looking for a projected number of games played, his 136 from last season might actually be on the high side of his scale.
Berkman's performance when healthy last season also regressed, especially his performance versus left-handers. A switch-hitter, Berkman managed only .231/.293/.418 (AVG/OBP/SLG) numbers from the right side of the plate in 2009, resulting in his worst OPS (.711) in any full big-league season. That alone doesn't condemn him in the talent department, but it's a trend that bears watching, being that it has been a relative weakness for his entire career and seemed most noticeable last season. It might portend a downslope of his career that extends the next couple of years and deepens each passing season.
It's not all bad, but it's certainly not all good.
To say that Berkman might need longer than four weeks to return to the playing field, not to mention be at high risk for another visit to the disabled list, is fair. If you're looking for a projected number of games played, his 136 from last season might actually be on the high side of his scale.
Berkman's performance when healthy last season also regressed, especially his performance versus left-handers. A switch-hitter, Berkman managed only .231/.293/.418 (AVG/OBP/SLG) numbers from the right side of the plate in 2009, resulting in his worst OPS (.711) in any full big-league season. That alone doesn't condemn him in the talent department, but it's a trend that bears watching, being that it has been a relative weakness for his entire career and seemed most noticeable last season. It might portend a downslope of his career that extends the next couple of years and deepens each passing season.
It's not all bad, but it's certainly not all good.
McTaggart's projected Opening Day roster
Brian McTaggart projects the Astros' 25-man Opening Day roster. Who are the surprises?
Catcher: J.R. Towles
Both Towles and Castro are swinging good bats this spring, but this won't be an offensive position. They want someone to catch and handle the pitchers, etc. Eventually, that guy is going to be Castro, but considering he hasn't played above Double-A I think he'll start the season in Round Rock but will be starting at some point.
IF6: Edwin Maysonet
I'm putting the versatile Maysonet in this spot over Lance Berkman, who could begin the season on the disabled list after undergoing minor knee surgery. Berkman's goal is to be back, but the Astros are not going to rush him. If he needs a few extra days at the beginning of the season, he'll get them. Thus, Maysonet makes the club out of spring.
OF5: Cory Sullivan
I see Sullivan winning this job over Jason Bourgeois, Yordany Ramirez, Brian Bogusevic and Alex Romero. Sullivan has more experience in the Majors, he can run (not as well as Bourgeois, but he's not slow) and he hits left-handed, which is desperately needed off the bench.
SP5: Felipe Paulino
I could have just as easily put Brian Moehler here, but Paulino is coming off a good outing and, man, does he have a great arm. At the end of the day, the Astros want him in the rotation, and Moehler can pitch out of the bullpen.
BP7: Alberto Arias
The final spot in the bullpen is very much wide open. Arias has shoulder inflammation, so who knows how that will unfold? Sammy Gervacio is pitching pretty well and could just as easily be in this spot as well, but remember that Arias is out of options. They like his arm when healthy.
It's hard to argue with any of these...
Catcher: J.R. Towles
Both Towles and Castro are swinging good bats this spring, but this won't be an offensive position. They want someone to catch and handle the pitchers, etc. Eventually, that guy is going to be Castro, but considering he hasn't played above Double-A I think he'll start the season in Round Rock but will be starting at some point.
IF6: Edwin Maysonet
I'm putting the versatile Maysonet in this spot over Lance Berkman, who could begin the season on the disabled list after undergoing minor knee surgery. Berkman's goal is to be back, but the Astros are not going to rush him. If he needs a few extra days at the beginning of the season, he'll get them. Thus, Maysonet makes the club out of spring.
OF5: Cory Sullivan
I see Sullivan winning this job over Jason Bourgeois, Yordany Ramirez, Brian Bogusevic and Alex Romero. Sullivan has more experience in the Majors, he can run (not as well as Bourgeois, but he's not slow) and he hits left-handed, which is desperately needed off the bench.
SP5: Felipe Paulino
I could have just as easily put Brian Moehler here, but Paulino is coming off a good outing and, man, does he have a great arm. At the end of the day, the Astros want him in the rotation, and Moehler can pitch out of the bullpen.
BP7: Alberto Arias
The final spot in the bullpen is very much wide open. Arias has shoulder inflammation, so who knows how that will unfold? Sammy Gervacio is pitching pretty well and could just as easily be in this spot as well, but remember that Arias is out of options. They like his arm when healthy.
It's hard to argue with any of these...
FanGraphs apologizes to Jason Castro, and tells us to prepare for The Bleak
FanGraphs has a new post on the Astros' future talent, and while the sun is shining, it's apparently going to be stormy until 2013.
First, an apology to Jason Castro:
we have to give Heck credit for choosing his Best Player Available without fail, never pausing to consider their ETA. This insulation mentality of drafting began immediately, when Heck took Jason Castro from Stanford ten to twenty picks before anyone thought he would go. But we were wrong, because Castro is going to be a very solid Major League catcher to guide this team into their next era. With quick feet and good contact skills, Castro has the essential foundation for Major League success.
The future:
After 2012, Carlos Lee is off the books, along with Roy Oswalt, Brandon Lyon. Berkman and Wandy Rodriguez come off after 2011. By then, the meat of Heck’s first drafts will be ready for the Major Leagues, perhaps just as Hunter Pence and Bud Norris are ready to hit their peak. Before that happens, it’s going to get worse in Houston. A lot worse.
I don't know about "A lot worse." The next two seasons are going to be rough, but I look at 2009 as The Dark Age for Astros baseball.
First, an apology to Jason Castro:
we have to give Heck credit for choosing his Best Player Available without fail, never pausing to consider their ETA. This insulation mentality of drafting began immediately, when Heck took Jason Castro from Stanford ten to twenty picks before anyone thought he would go. But we were wrong, because Castro is going to be a very solid Major League catcher to guide this team into their next era. With quick feet and good contact skills, Castro has the essential foundation for Major League success.
The future:
After 2012, Carlos Lee is off the books, along with Roy Oswalt, Brandon Lyon. Berkman and Wandy Rodriguez come off after 2011. By then, the meat of Heck’s first drafts will be ready for the Major Leagues, perhaps just as Hunter Pence and Bud Norris are ready to hit their peak. Before that happens, it’s going to get worse in Houston. A lot worse.
I don't know about "A lot worse." The next two seasons are going to be rough, but I look at 2009 as The Dark Age for Astros baseball.
Bleacher Report: Astros should sign Jermaine Dye
The Bleacher Report is apparently a fan of signing as many 2005 Chicago White Sox to the 2010 Houston Astros as possible, and this article says the Astros should sign Jermaine Dye:
What is somewhat unclear is whether he still has anything in the tank. Dye, 36, suffered through a miserable second half last season that has scared off all potential suitors this winter. After leaping out to first half numbers that included 20 home runs and a .302 average, Dye fell into a slump that lasted the remainder of his season. After the All-Star break, he hit just .179, and slugged less than .300.
With such a well-established performance record, however, it would behoove several teams to at least consider giving the two-time All-Star a chance to prove himself. Dye has said this off-season that he would be open to a move to first base, so the Astros could use him as a fourth outfielder (current stop-gap Jason Michaels is an unsatisfactory choice), a top-tier pinch-hitter and a good back-up option to Berkman, allowing the switch-hitting slugger to stay fresh as the season wears on.
There are two big "Ifs" here: (1) If Dye would take a bench role, and (2) if Dye would take a LOT less money. I don't see it happening, I don't think the Astros are interested, and I would be very surprised if Dye was, too.
What is somewhat unclear is whether he still has anything in the tank. Dye, 36, suffered through a miserable second half last season that has scared off all potential suitors this winter. After leaping out to first half numbers that included 20 home runs and a .302 average, Dye fell into a slump that lasted the remainder of his season. After the All-Star break, he hit just .179, and slugged less than .300.
With such a well-established performance record, however, it would behoove several teams to at least consider giving the two-time All-Star a chance to prove himself. Dye has said this off-season that he would be open to a move to first base, so the Astros could use him as a fourth outfielder (current stop-gap Jason Michaels is an unsatisfactory choice), a top-tier pinch-hitter and a good back-up option to Berkman, allowing the switch-hitting slugger to stay fresh as the season wears on.
There are two big "Ifs" here: (1) If Dye would take a bench role, and (2) if Dye would take a LOT less money. I don't see it happening, I don't think the Astros are interested, and I would be very surprised if Dye was, too.
Fixler Files, Vol. 2
Over at Farmstros, Jonathan Fixler has been providing updates from Spring Training. Here's a pull from Fixler on Tyler Lumsden and Chris Salamida:
This afternoon, one of the pens I caught was for Tyler Lumsden. He appears to be at full strength (last years suffering from some arm soreness) and with his clean bill of health he is throwing with greater velocity, had great control over his off speed pitches, and seems to be right on track for the season. The first day of live batting practice I was extremely impressed with Chris Salamida. In the past year Sal has changed his arm slot to throw from underneath, and it is apparent he has grown more comfortable, having become more precise with the location of his fastball and increased the depth on his slider.
Good stuff - so head over to Farmstros and check out the previous post.
This afternoon, one of the pens I caught was for Tyler Lumsden. He appears to be at full strength (last years suffering from some arm soreness) and with his clean bill of health he is throwing with greater velocity, had great control over his off speed pitches, and seems to be right on track for the season. The first day of live batting practice I was extremely impressed with Chris Salamida. In the past year Sal has changed his arm slot to throw from underneath, and it is apparent he has grown more comfortable, having become more precise with the location of his fastball and increased the depth on his slider.
Good stuff - so head over to Farmstros and check out the previous post.
'77 Astros Update
Over at Play That Funky Baseball, your '77 Astros performed in the following manner:
Cubs 6
Astros 13
My dead bubbie could pitch better than Bill Bonham does here for the Cubs, and Broberg, Moore and Lamp come on to take turns taking ones for the team.
W-Lemongello
L-Bonham
HR: Cedeno
GWRBI-Puhl
Cubs 6
Astros 5
After Joe Niekro’s super first start he walks nine Cubbies in this one, five in the first inning. Houston ties it up off Burris eventually, but Ontiveros wins it with a solo pop in the 9th.
W-Sutter
L-K. Forsch
HR-Ontiveros
GWRBI-Ontiveros
Record: 5-4
GB: 1
Cubs 6
Astros 13
My dead bubbie could pitch better than Bill Bonham does here for the Cubs, and Broberg, Moore and Lamp come on to take turns taking ones for the team.
W-Lemongello
L-Bonham
HR: Cedeno
GWRBI-Puhl
Cubs 6
Astros 5
After Joe Niekro’s super first start he walks nine Cubbies in this one, five in the first inning. Houston ties it up off Burris eventually, but Ontiveros wins it with a solo pop in the 9th.
W-Sutter
L-K. Forsch
HR-Ontiveros
GWRBI-Ontiveros
Record: 5-4
GB: 1
Rotation Stats
Here's your latest pitching stats so far this Spring for the rotation candidates! These stats only take into account "A" games, and two straight rainouts affected Roy and Moehler, but here's what we've got.
Rotation
Rotation
| Name | IP | ERA/WHIP | H/ER | K:BB |
| Oswalt | 2 | 0.00/2.00 | 1/0 | 2:3 |
| Wandy | 5 | 12.60/2.40 | 9/7 | 2:3 |
| Myers | 9 | 6.00/2.00 | 11/6 | 9:7 |
| Norris | 5 | 5.40/1.80 | 5/3 | 3:4 |
| Paulino | 3 | 6.00/2.67 | 5/2 | 2:3 |
| Moehler | 2 | 4.50/3.00 | 4/1 | 0:2 |
Fulchino is way more comfortable this year
Jeff Fulchino is a little more comfortable this year, in that when he gives up two runs in an inning, he doesn't start looking for apartments in Round Rock.
“Instead of being like ‘hey, I have to make the team' and going with my best stuff, I think this year I have the luxury of being able to work on stuff a little bit more instead of worrying about my stat line. To make the team, it was about throwing up zeros last year.”
“Instead of being like ‘hey, I have to make the team' and going with my best stuff, I think this year I have the luxury of being able to work on stuff a little bit more instead of worrying about my stat line. To make the team, it was about throwing up zeros last year.”
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Updated Offensive Stats
Here's your latest offensive stats, and we'll hit up the pitching stats a little later (notice we won't be including Lance in this, but he's - obviously - a lock)
Lineup Locks
Catcher
IF6 Candidates
OF5 Candidates
Lineup Locks
| Name | AB | Avg/OBP/SLG | K:BB | XBH-RBI |
| Matsui | 21 | .238/.304/.429 | 2:2 | 2-3 |
| Feliz | 21 | .524/.524/.762 | 3:0 | 3-3 |
| Manzella | 21 | .381/.381/.476 | 4:0 | 2-0 |
| Lee | 15 | .267/.313/.667 | 1:1 | 4-3 |
| Bourn | 24 | .125/.125/.125 | 5:0 | 0-3 |
| Pence | 19 | .474/.545/1.158 | 1:3 | 6-8 |
Catcher
| Name | AB | Avg/OBP/SLG | K:BB | XBH-RBI |
| Castro | 13 | .462/.500/.538 | 3:2 | 1-2 |
| Towles | 17 | .529/.600/.941 | 1:0 | 6-2 |
| Quintero | 16 | .188/.235/.188 | 1:1 | 0-0 |
IF6 Candidates
| Name | AB | Avg/OBP/SLG | K:BB | XBH-RBI |
| Shelton | 16 | .250/.316/.500 | 3:2 | 2-3 |
| Johnson | 21 | .333/.364/.762 | 5:1 | 5-5 |
| Maysonet | 14 | .500/.467/.643 | 3:0 | 2-3 |
| Navarro | 7 | .286/.375/.286 | 2:0 | 0-2 |
OF5 Candidates
| Name | AB | Avg/OBP/SLG | K:BB | XBH-RBI |
| Bogusevic | 10 | .100/.100/.200 | 3:0 | 0-0 |
| Bourgeois | 9 | .111/.111/.333 | 1:0 | 1-0 |
| Yordany | 9 | .444/.500/.778 | 1:1 | 1-4 |
| Romero | 9 | .444/.444/.444 | 1:0 | 0-0 |
| Sullivan | 17 | .118/.167/.118 | 4:1 | 0-1 |
Recap for ST?: Astros v. Braves
What Happened?
The Astros got 16 hits - four for extra-bases - in an 8-5 win over the Braves.
Why They Won
The 6-run 4th inning had a whole lot to do with it, with back-to-back homers by Pence and Carlos Lee (Lee's first of the year, and Pence's first since the two-HR-in-one-inning game to open the Spring). Errors by McCann and Linares led to three unearned runs for the Astros (all three in those homers).
Astros pitching
Myers had his longest outing of the Spring with 4IP, allowing 6H/2ER, and dialing up an impressive 6Ks to go with 3BB. Five relievers followed with one IP each, and everybody got out unscathed, except for Tim Byrdak who allowed 3H/3ER, 1K:2BB, including a homer for Brian McCann, who also hit a homer off Myers. Roy Corcoran gave up three hits, but got out of the jam, while Evan Englebrook had a perfect inning, followed by scoreless outings by Abad and Wilton Lopez.
Astros batting
We've already talked about the big days by Pence and Lee, but Tommy Manzella was 2x3 with a run scored as Mills ran out a preview of what the Opening Day lineup could look like without Berkman. And it was as follows: Bourn, Matsui, Pence, Lee, Blum (1B), Feliz, Manzella, Quintero, and the pitcher's spot. In a somewhat-troubling statistic, Astros batters struck out eight times and only drew one walk (captip, Jason Michaels).
0-fers (more than one AB): Shelton (0x2)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Quintero: 1x3, run (.188)
Santangelo: 1x1 (.333)
OF5
Sullivan: 0x1 (.118)
Romero: 1x2 (.444), picked off first
IF6:
Navarro: 1x2 (.286)
Shelton: 0x2 (.250)
Johnson: 1x1 (.333)
Maysonet: 1x1 (.500)
Man of the Match
Hunter Pence! 2x3 with 3RBI
Goat of the Game
Tim Byrdak: 1IP, 3H/3ER + 2BB.
The Astros got 16 hits - four for extra-bases - in an 8-5 win over the Braves.
Why They Won
The 6-run 4th inning had a whole lot to do with it, with back-to-back homers by Pence and Carlos Lee (Lee's first of the year, and Pence's first since the two-HR-in-one-inning game to open the Spring). Errors by McCann and Linares led to three unearned runs for the Astros (all three in those homers).
Astros pitching
Myers had his longest outing of the Spring with 4IP, allowing 6H/2ER, and dialing up an impressive 6Ks to go with 3BB. Five relievers followed with one IP each, and everybody got out unscathed, except for Tim Byrdak who allowed 3H/3ER, 1K:2BB, including a homer for Brian McCann, who also hit a homer off Myers. Roy Corcoran gave up three hits, but got out of the jam, while Evan Englebrook had a perfect inning, followed by scoreless outings by Abad and Wilton Lopez.
Astros batting
We've already talked about the big days by Pence and Lee, but Tommy Manzella was 2x3 with a run scored as Mills ran out a preview of what the Opening Day lineup could look like without Berkman. And it was as follows: Bourn, Matsui, Pence, Lee, Blum (1B), Feliz, Manzella, Quintero, and the pitcher's spot. In a somewhat-troubling statistic, Astros batters struck out eight times and only drew one walk (captip, Jason Michaels).
0-fers (more than one AB): Shelton (0x2)
Positional Battles
Catcher
Quintero: 1x3, run (.188)
Santangelo: 1x1 (.333)
OF5
Sullivan: 0x1 (.118)
Romero: 1x2 (.444), picked off first
IF6:
Navarro: 1x2 (.286)
Shelton: 0x2 (.250)
Johnson: 1x1 (.333)
Maysonet: 1x1 (.500)
Man of the Match
Hunter Pence! 2x3 with 3RBI
Goat of the Game
Tim Byrdak: 1IP, 3H/3ER + 2BB.
Lyon getting closer, and Myers gets stretched out
In McTaggart's afternoon update, we see that Brandon Lyon is getting closer to being ready for game action.
Ed Wade:
I know both Arnsberg and Mills were really happy with what they saw. It seems like he's on schedule at this point. Brad Arnsberg was really raving about his command, not just this outing but overall. He said he could throw his curveball for strikes at will. He was really complimentary of his overall command."
And Brett Myers threw 78 pitches today - 51 for strikes - in his longest outing of the Spring today (4IP, 6H/2ER, 6K:3BB):
"There's plenty of time to get everything working. I'm happy with the way my changeup's coming around and my fastball location is pretty good. I'm pretty happy with the way it went overall because it's getting better from the first time to second time and this."
Ed Wade:
I know both Arnsberg and Mills were really happy with what they saw. It seems like he's on schedule at this point. Brad Arnsberg was really raving about his command, not just this outing but overall. He said he could throw his curveball for strikes at will. He was really complimentary of his overall command."
And Brett Myers threw 78 pitches today - 51 for strikes - in his longest outing of the Spring today (4IP, 6H/2ER, 6K:3BB):
"There's plenty of time to get everything working. I'm happy with the way my changeup's coming around and my fastball location is pretty good. I'm pretty happy with the way it went overall because it's getting better from the first time to second time and this."
Berkman remains hopeful for Opening Day
Zach Levine has an update on Berkman's optimism for Opening Day, balanced with a healthy dose of caution.
Berkman:
I can't promise it, but certainly that's my goal. Opening day is great, but it is just a game, so I'm not going to jeopardize two or three weeks of the season just if I don't feel like I'm ready to go on opening day. I either will be ready on opening day, or it will be shortly thereafter...
...In two weeks, I'll be able to do pretty much everything. I'm not sure they're going to want me to play in a game at that point, but I think two weeks, and I think I should be pretty much back to normal."
Berkman:
I can't promise it, but certainly that's my goal. Opening day is great, but it is just a game, so I'm not going to jeopardize two or three weeks of the season just if I don't feel like I'm ready to go on opening day. I either will be ready on opening day, or it will be shortly thereafter...
...In two weeks, I'll be able to do pretty much everything. I'm not sure they're going to want me to play in a game at that point, but I think two weeks, and I think I should be pretty much back to normal."
Catching up
We're going to act as though you've read everything in AstroWorld since the last post, as I've now returned from another travel weekend. Let's get to it.
Yorman Bazardo left yesterday's game with tightness in his rotator cuff, and will be evaluated on Tuesday.
Bazardo is a long shot to win the SP5 job, but could be in the mix if one of the rotation goes down for an extended period of time.
Yorman Bazardo left yesterday's game with tightness in his rotator cuff, and will be evaluated on Tuesday.
Bazardo is a long shot to win the SP5 job, but could be in the mix if one of the rotation goes down for an extended period of time.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Lyon threw to real, live batters
Zach Levine has some info on Brandon Lyon, who threw 25 pitches in minor-league camp to hitters:
Lyon:
"The weather obviously wasn't cooperating where I could go outside and get in a game situation, but as far as the way my arm felt, everything felt good. I think it's a good stepping stone to the next step. I started working everything in. Fastball, curveball, cutter, changeup.”
Arnsberg:
"All of his pitches are pretty tight. He threw a couple sliders that he got underneath, but he stayed in mechanics real well.”
Lyon:
"The weather obviously wasn't cooperating where I could go outside and get in a game situation, but as far as the way my arm felt, everything felt good. I think it's a good stepping stone to the next step. I started working everything in. Fastball, curveball, cutter, changeup.”
Arnsberg:
"All of his pitches are pretty tight. He threw a couple sliders that he got underneath, but he stayed in mechanics real well.”
With or Without Lance
Zach Levine has an interesting, and by "interesting" I, of course, mean "Depressing" look at the lineup should Berkman miss Opening Day and beyond.
McTaggart has Matsui batting second and Feliz batting fifth, to which Levine responds:
The point is that although I think McTaggart nailed where the Astros will go with it, this lineup is unsightly. This appears, naturally, considerably worse than the lineup that was third worst in the league last year.
With Berkman back in the lineup, Levine proposes putting Pence in the #2 hole, Castro/Towles hitting fifth, and the pitcher hitting 8th.
It also asks too much of the young catcher to protect Carlos Lee from walks, but I'd almost rather Castro or Towles do it than Feliz.
Towles projects for an OPS 20 points higher than Feliz according to Baseball Prospectus, and Castro will at least have his handedness to offset some of the pitch-around tendency against a righty.
Whatever happens, and I currently have all the faith in the world in Brad Mills that he'll put something together that makes sense, but the Berkman injury takes 2010 to a different level.
If Berkman comes back healthy - and there's no reason to think that he won't - and struggles, then the decision to pick up his 2011 option becomes easier. If he is injury riddled, and struggles, then it's a little bit more difficult. I would imagine that, unless Berkman hits .320 with 35 HRs and 120 RBI, Wade would lean towards the buyout, and then bringing him back at a reduced rate. Because after last year's numbers, and presuming a down year, he's not a $15 million player.
I also think that we, as Astros fans, are prepared for a down year, but not for this reason. There is no clear back-up plan for life without Lance.
McTaggart has Matsui batting second and Feliz batting fifth, to which Levine responds:
The point is that although I think McTaggart nailed where the Astros will go with it, this lineup is unsightly. This appears, naturally, considerably worse than the lineup that was third worst in the league last year.
With Berkman back in the lineup, Levine proposes putting Pence in the #2 hole, Castro/Towles hitting fifth, and the pitcher hitting 8th.
It also asks too much of the young catcher to protect Carlos Lee from walks, but I'd almost rather Castro or Towles do it than Feliz.
Towles projects for an OPS 20 points higher than Feliz according to Baseball Prospectus, and Castro will at least have his handedness to offset some of the pitch-around tendency against a righty.
Whatever happens, and I currently have all the faith in the world in Brad Mills that he'll put something together that makes sense, but the Berkman injury takes 2010 to a different level.
If Berkman comes back healthy - and there's no reason to think that he won't - and struggles, then the decision to pick up his 2011 option becomes easier. If he is injury riddled, and struggles, then it's a little bit more difficult. I would imagine that, unless Berkman hits .320 with 35 HRs and 120 RBI, Wade would lean towards the buyout, and then bringing him back at a reduced rate. Because after last year's numbers, and presuming a down year, he's not a $15 million player.
I also think that we, as Astros fans, are prepared for a down year, but not for this reason. There is no clear back-up plan for life without Lance.
Other Meat Wagon updates
Some updates on the injury front:
Alberto Arias' trapezius injury is solely inflammation, and he could get back to throwing today.
In the same article, we see that Jason Castro is back and feeling better after being out for two days with a stomach bug, with a 102-degree fever.
You may have already seen this, but yesterday Zach Levine assessed the threat level of various injuries within the organization. This was posted obviously before Berkman's surgery, but let's take a look:
Jose Vallejo: The second baseman acquired last year tops the list not because he was going to be a big leaguer this year but because he's the only one whose career appears to be in jeopardy.
Brandon Lyon: Unless we hear that there's been a setback, this is being treated as just a late start to the season.
Jiovanni Mier and his sore shoulder: The top pick from the Astros' 2009 draft class has resumed a throwing program, but general manager Ed Wade said "it's still not progressing the way we want it to."
We also see that Matt Nevarez is experiencing some shoulder soreness, though not on the level that Mier is, apparently; and that Jon Gaston has an "undisclosed foot injury," and has been sent to Houston for an examination and to get a pad to wear on the inside of his cleats.
All in all, we're not the Mets (and I think we can all thank God for that), but it's not a whole lot of fun.
Alberto Arias' trapezius injury is solely inflammation, and he could get back to throwing today.
In the same article, we see that Jason Castro is back and feeling better after being out for two days with a stomach bug, with a 102-degree fever.
You may have already seen this, but yesterday Zach Levine assessed the threat level of various injuries within the organization. This was posted obviously before Berkman's surgery, but let's take a look:
Jose Vallejo: The second baseman acquired last year tops the list not because he was going to be a big leaguer this year but because he's the only one whose career appears to be in jeopardy.
Brandon Lyon: Unless we hear that there's been a setback, this is being treated as just a late start to the season.
Jiovanni Mier and his sore shoulder: The top pick from the Astros' 2009 draft class has resumed a throwing program, but general manager Ed Wade said "it's still not progressing the way we want it to."
We also see that Matt Nevarez is experiencing some shoulder soreness, though not on the level that Mier is, apparently; and that Jon Gaston has an "undisclosed foot injury," and has been sent to Houston for an examination and to get a pad to wear on the inside of his cleats.
All in all, we're not the Mets (and I think we can all thank God for that), but it's not a whole lot of fun.
Berkman is damaged, but not too bad
Good news on the Berkman front as Big Lance had his left knee surgery today, and no ligament or meniscus damage was found:
Mills:
"From what I understand, they were able to clean everything up and there was no cartilage damage and he's fine. The level of concern has gone way down because of that. The doctor says he's fine, so we'll just go off of him and getting him ready and strong."
The projected return seems to be the same: 2-4 weeks.
Mills:
"From what I understand, they were able to clean everything up and there was no cartilage damage and he's fine. The level of concern has gone way down because of that. The doctor says he's fine, so we'll just go off of him and getting him ready and strong."
The projected return seems to be the same: 2-4 weeks.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Berkman needs surgery, could miss Opening Day
So says Brian McTaggart. This is a huge blow - obviously - with major impact on the organization. Let's look (whilst I have a break):
1. The Astros now need a first baseman. Because, and I have no information to back this up, but I'm guessing this is not a 2-week injury - which is the soonest McTaggart says he can come back. So Blum could be seeing a lot more time in the lineup. And this could impact the IF6 spot, as well.
2. This impacts the possibility of the Astros picking up Berkman's option in 2011. $2m is a lot more attractive than $15m if Berkman has a dodgy knee.
What do you think?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
What is fluid on the knee?
According to Dr. Jonathan Cluett, Berkman's knee water is troubling.
Draining the fluid just means it will come back, as we've seen from the previous post that Berkman has had the knee drained twice in under two weeks.
Cluett:
For example, meniscus tears and ligament injuries can cause fluid to collect. Furthermore, tearing of small blood vessels can cause fluid to accumulate within the knee, this is commonly seen in patients with an ACL tear.
Excess fluid around the joint can accumulate in the bursa, a condition called prepatellar bursitis. While the fluid is not actually within the knee joint itself, prepatellar bursitis also causes swelling, or water on the knee.
Ultimately Berkman's knee will need surgery, as it's pretty much syringes (for draining - don't get any ideas) and cortisone shots from here on out.
Draining the fluid just means it will come back, as we've seen from the previous post that Berkman has had the knee drained twice in under two weeks.
Cluett:
For example, meniscus tears and ligament injuries can cause fluid to collect. Furthermore, tearing of small blood vessels can cause fluid to accumulate within the knee, this is commonly seen in patients with an ACL tear.
Excess fluid around the joint can accumulate in the bursa, a condition called prepatellar bursitis. While the fluid is not actually within the knee joint itself, prepatellar bursitis also causes swelling, or water on the knee.
Ultimately Berkman's knee will need surgery, as it's pretty much syringes (for draining - don't get any ideas) and cortisone shots from here on out.
Berkman's knee has more fluid than what was on the field in Viera today
According to McTaggart, Lance has had to have his knee drained twice since jacking it up in camp last week. He'll be examined by team physician David Lintner.
And Lintner will be busy, as he also will be examining Alberto Arias' back, and now apparently Jiovanni Mier, who is experiencing from shoulder discomfort.
And Lintner will be busy, as he also will be examining Alberto Arias' back, and now apparently Jiovanni Mier, who is experiencing from shoulder discomfort.
ST8: Astros v. Nationals
Today's Spring Training game between the Astros and Nationals has been rained out.
McTaggart says that Oswalt will throw BP in Kissimmee in order to get work in because of said rain out.
In other, who-knows-if-it's-related news, Felipe Paulino will start Saturday's game at St. Louis instead of Wesley Wright.
McTaggart says that Oswalt will throw BP in Kissimmee in order to get work in because of said rain out.
In other, who-knows-if-it's-related news, Felipe Paulino will start Saturday's game at St. Louis instead of Wesley Wright.
Jake Goebbert is a lot more comfortable
The Northwest Herald has a piece about 2009 13th-round pick Jake Goebbert:
Goebbert:
“It’s a struggle, especially when you’re used to getting at least one hit a game. You just have to deal with the bumps and bruises of pro ball the best that you can...
...It taught me a lot. Each month, I feel like I made progress. I learned a lot about the weaknesses in my swing and I was able to work on those. I’m very excited, I’ve gotten a lot more comfortable.”
Goebbert:
“It’s a struggle, especially when you’re used to getting at least one hit a game. You just have to deal with the bumps and bruises of pro ball the best that you can...
...It taught me a lot. Each month, I feel like I made progress. I learned a lot about the weaknesses in my swing and I was able to work on those. I’m very excited, I’ve gotten a lot more comfortable.”
Were you feeling optimistic? Read this
Zach Levine's article on the Astros' search for 15 more wins. I'm not even going to pull anything, just read it.
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