In the first game of a four game set against the Nats, The Astros will attempt to build on the late inning heroics by Lance Berkman and strong pitching performance by Felipe Paulino yesterday in a 2-0 win against the Reds.
The Nats have some exciting young players and are a serious contender in the Roy O sweepstakes. So everyone put on your fake scout caps and start making out your shopping list of Nats players (Put Zimmerman on the top of mine please). The past years of crappiness have produced alot of 1st round, elite-level talent and they are in need of a veteran ace like Oswalt if they are going to make a real playoff push.
IMO, the most amazing piece of the whole scenario is that it is even a freaking possibility. The Nats are competitive, they have money to spend and they have an abundance of prospects and major leaguers they are willing to move. It just feels strange.
So with all the talk of Roy O, it only makes sense that he takes the mound today against the Nats. He has had a fantastic season throwing quality starts in every start so far this year. If not for his fickle teammates, he'd have a more impressive win-loss record than his current 3-6. He sports a sparkly 2.35 ERA and a 1.01 WHIP.
The Nats counter with rookie righthander, Luis Atilano, who hasn't done anything impressive this season except be the beneficiary of excellent run support. He is the anti-Oswalt in that he gives up runs, doesn't strike anyone out, yet continues to get wins. He is a very lucky 4-1 so far.
Predictions
WP: Roy Oswalt
LP: Atilano
HRs: Lance, Zimmerman
SB: Pence, N. Morgan
Score: Hou 7 Wash 2
My gut instinct says that during the game today, Nats fans cheer wildly for Roy O, making everyone uncomfortable. Especially, Atilano, who will be out of a job if Roy is acquired.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith