In an unbelievable blog post by JJO, the sum of whose knowledge could fill the fabled Library of Alexandria thrice over, he says Wilton Lopez should have thrown the pitch he wanted to throw.
Now, remember, following last night's game, Astros County (that's right: 3rd person) pointed out that JJO pretty much hung Lopez out to dry.
Listen to this, as a follow-up, from JJO:
Wilton Lopez had wanted to throw a sinker with the bases loaded, nobody out and the score tied at 1. Dewey Robinson visited the mound and told him to throw a slider.
Not wanting to disobey his boss, Lopez threw a first-pitch slider. Now, to be clear, Robinson didn't tell Lopez to hang the slider. Whatever the case, Lopez's first-pitch slider was crushed over the left field wall for a grand slam that gave the Phillies a 5-1 lead in a game they won by three runs, 7-4.
A more established pitcher would have likely gone with his instincts.
There's an old-time baseball word that comes to mind, and that's "Bullcrap."
You're asking a 26-year old pitcher, who was in Double-A 32 days ago, to "trust his instincts" and defy his pitching coach. There's a little anecdote to lead the post about how Roy told Wandy earlier this season to throw what he wanted to throw, despite what fingers Pudge put down. There's a big difference when Wandy, who has been in the Majors for five years now, shakes off his catcher, and when Wilton Lopez, who was making his first career Major League start, goes against his Major League pitching coach.
This now qualifies as the Worst Idea Ever.
Dave Clark:
"He's the one that's out there. He knows what pitch he has a real good feel for that particular night and what's working for him. Again, like we said earlier, this is definitely a work in progress for him. I'm not going to get into an argument on what he should have thrown or what he should not have thrown. The thing is it's his game and he's got to realize that if this is what's working for me tonight and this is my best pitch of the night then that's what I'm going to go with."
Horse**** (this is a family blog, after all). He's making his first career start. The bases are loaded. I don't care if he's facing Moonlight Graham, he's going to be keyed up, and whomever comes out of the dugout and tells him what to throw, he'll throw it. Dewey could have said, "What I want you to do here is throw a fastball about 30 feet in front of the plate," and Lopez probably would have done it. In your first career start, you're not going against anybody to throw "what you want to throw."
It's fine if it's Roy or Wandy. It doesn't fly with a rookie.
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
Thursday, October 1, 2009
Bourn's four stolen bases
As you're aware, Michael Bourn is four stolen bases short of the franchise record (Gerald Young - 65). Is it on his mind?
Bourn:
"If I'm on, I'm going to go. As far as [the club record] being in my mind, it's not on my mind to where it's going to bug me. It's in my mind because I know what the record is. If I got the opportunity to get it, I'm going to try to get it. I'm going to try to tie and break it. That's only if the opportunity presents itself and how much I get on base. We'll see what happens the last few games."
On his approach:
"I'm more laid back and let Lance or Carlos drive the ball. It makes it easier on them to make contract with the ball and drive it to the outfield or hit the ground ball and I can get in either way. Just have it in the pitcher's mind that I might go, so he can't concentrate on Lance and Carlos and he might leave a pitch up."
Bourn told McTaggart that he's looking to steal third base more often in 2010.
Bourn:
"If I'm on, I'm going to go. As far as [the club record] being in my mind, it's not on my mind to where it's going to bug me. It's in my mind because I know what the record is. If I got the opportunity to get it, I'm going to try to get it. I'm going to try to tie and break it. That's only if the opportunity presents itself and how much I get on base. We'll see what happens the last few games."
On his approach:
"I'm more laid back and let Lance or Carlos drive the ball. It makes it easier on them to make contract with the ball and drive it to the outfield or hit the ground ball and I can get in either way. Just have it in the pitcher's mind that I might go, so he can't concentrate on Lance and Carlos and he might leave a pitch up."
Bourn told McTaggart that he's looking to steal third base more often in 2010.
On Towles
Towles, who enjoyed his first multi-homer game last night, was jealous of the Phillies:
"I was a little jealous. I wanted to be out there with them. All the hard work they put in paid off, and hopefully one day we can get to where they're at right now."
(Note: what would have happened if Towles had decided to jump the railing and get out on the dogpile? Hilarity.)
On those homers:
"I am getting my confidence back, and Clarkie told me to just go up there and swing the bat and have fun. That's what I was trying to do, to get something I can hit and put a good swing on it. Fortunately, they're starting to drop for me."
Clark, on Towles:
"It was just a matter of time. I've always said this kid can hit. It's just about him really getting that confidence back again. Hopefully with a game like tonight, he'll get that confidence back and he'll get a chance to catch two or there more games before the season is over. It's really good to see him going well."
"I was a little jealous. I wanted to be out there with them. All the hard work they put in paid off, and hopefully one day we can get to where they're at right now."
(Note: what would have happened if Towles had decided to jump the railing and get out on the dogpile? Hilarity.)
On those homers:
"I am getting my confidence back, and Clarkie told me to just go up there and swing the bat and have fun. That's what I was trying to do, to get something I can hit and put a good swing on it. Fortunately, they're starting to drop for me."
Clark, on Towles:
"It was just a matter of time. I've always said this kid can hit. It's just about him really getting that confidence back again. Hopefully with a game like tonight, he'll get that confidence back and he'll get a chance to catch two or there more games before the season is over. It's really good to see him going well."
Paronto probably won't be pitching this weekend
This morning's Notes column gives us an update on the chances of Paronto pitching this weekend (again, "Why the heck not" is generally a poor rationale.)
Dave Clark:
“It doesn't look good. I know the hamstring pull was pretty severe. We're talking about a guy who's 270 pounds. He wasn't that easy trying to get off the field (Tuesday) night. You can only imagine how long it's going to take a body like that to heal from a hamstring injury. I'm sure we're going to probably shut him down for the rest of the year.”
-
And who has any idea about who pitches on Sunday? Nobody!
“We're going to try to stay status quo unless Chad can't come back." What happens if Paronto is done? Wilton Lopez might not start, and the Astros might "empty out the bullpen."
I'm confused.
Dave Clark:
“It doesn't look good. I know the hamstring pull was pretty severe. We're talking about a guy who's 270 pounds. He wasn't that easy trying to get off the field (Tuesday) night. You can only imagine how long it's going to take a body like that to heal from a hamstring injury. I'm sure we're going to probably shut him down for the rest of the year.”
-
And who has any idea about who pitches on Sunday? Nobody!
“We're going to try to stay status quo unless Chad can't come back." What happens if Paronto is done? Wilton Lopez might not start, and the Astros might "empty out the bullpen."
I'm confused.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
Levine's Minor League notes
Some notes from Levine on the minor league front.
-The Instructional League, consisting of lower-level minor-leaguers, runs through October 17.
-Jay Austin, who missed time with hamstring problems, will be working on baserunning and baserunning.
-Tanner Bushue, out with stress fractures in his back, is about a week behind everyone else in the program.
-Drew Locke, out with a broken hand, is now expecting to play Winter Ball.
-The Arizona Fall League begins October 13 (which is later than anyone on the Big Club will be playing), and runs through November 21.
-The Instructional League, consisting of lower-level minor-leaguers, runs through October 17.
-Jay Austin, who missed time with hamstring problems, will be working on baserunning and baserunning.
-Tanner Bushue, out with stress fractures in his back, is about a week behind everyone else in the program.
-Drew Locke, out with a broken hand, is now expecting to play Winter Ball.
-The Arizona Fall League begins October 13 (which is later than anyone on the Big Club will be playing), and runs through November 21.
Recap for G158 - Astros @ Phillies
Well, at least the Astros made it tough for the Phillies. Wait. The Astros had the lead, twice. But in the end, the Phillies scored the last nine runs of the game, and...well, the Astros aren't built to come back from seven down. Phillies win, and clinch the NL East, with a 10-3 win. (Did you see Matt Diaz get thrown out at third, with the bases loaded, and the Braves down by one, in the bottom of the 9th, scurrying like a freaking rat to get back to third on a wild pitch, when he could have scored the tying run, and kept their playoff chances alive? Get that guy a skirt. Maybe a scrunchie.) ESPN noted that Brian Moehler is now 8-22 for his career in September, and 1-13 in September since 2002. Let's do the thing:
Moehler: 4.1IP, 6H/7ER, 1K:3BB, 15/22 first-pitch strikes, 17/45 non-contact strikes (15 called:2 swinging)
Wright: 0.2IP, 1/2 FPS, 0/2 NCS
Gervacio: 1IP, 2H/1ER, 1K, 2/4 FPS, 4/8 NCS (2c:2s)
Byrdak: 1IP, 1H/2ER, 0K:2BB, 3/6 FPS, 2/8 NCS (1c:1s)
Valverde: 1IP, 1BB, 4/4 FPS, 4/10 NCS (3c:1s)
Interesting to note that the Phillies swung and missed at six pitches all night, out of 126 total pitches. And that's two straight disaster starts for Moehler, and the symmetry is disgustingly gorgeous, as his first two starts to 2009 were also of the diaster variety. Like his last two of 2009. It's also his 9th start of 2009 in which Moehler didn't make it to 80 pitches. Here's hoping Wesley Wright blows them away in Winter Ball.
Offensively, once again, the Astros had their chances, actually having the lead twice this game. In the first inning, the Astros had the bases loaded with one out. Blum struck out swinging, Pence walked, and Matsui flied out to right. Seven batters, one run. In the 3rd inning, Lee doubled to lead it off, and Blum grounded out, Pence struck out looking, and Matsui flied out to center. Okay, that's pretty much it for chances.
Tejada was 2x5, extending his hit streak, and giving him 194 hits on the season, needing six hits in the last four games to get to 200 (because the math is free here at Astros County). And Bourn stole his 61st base of the season, moving him into 2nd place for all of MLB (unless Carl Crawford stole a base tonight, I didn't check), and within four stolen bases of tying Gerald Young's franchise stolen base record.
But the story for the offense was J.R. Towles, whose two homers almost doubled his career home run total - which, before tonight, stood at three. It also means that he has five hits in last 12 ABs, before which he had one hit in 21 ABs.
There were a few 0-fers tonight: Bourn (0x5), Pence (0x3), Matsui (0x3).
Man of the Match: J.R. Towles. Hopefully he can build on this.
Goat of the Game: Brian Moehler. Are you kidding me? Are we sure he's locked up a 2010 SP spot?
Moehler: 4.1IP, 6H/7ER, 1K:3BB, 15/22 first-pitch strikes, 17/45 non-contact strikes (15 called:2 swinging)
Wright: 0.2IP, 1/2 FPS, 0/2 NCS
Gervacio: 1IP, 2H/1ER, 1K, 2/4 FPS, 4/8 NCS (2c:2s)
Byrdak: 1IP, 1H/2ER, 0K:2BB, 3/6 FPS, 2/8 NCS (1c:1s)
Valverde: 1IP, 1BB, 4/4 FPS, 4/10 NCS (3c:1s)
Interesting to note that the Phillies swung and missed at six pitches all night, out of 126 total pitches. And that's two straight disaster starts for Moehler, and the symmetry is disgustingly gorgeous, as his first two starts to 2009 were also of the diaster variety. Like his last two of 2009. It's also his 9th start of 2009 in which Moehler didn't make it to 80 pitches. Here's hoping Wesley Wright blows them away in Winter Ball.
Offensively, once again, the Astros had their chances, actually having the lead twice this game. In the first inning, the Astros had the bases loaded with one out. Blum struck out swinging, Pence walked, and Matsui flied out to right. Seven batters, one run. In the 3rd inning, Lee doubled to lead it off, and Blum grounded out, Pence struck out looking, and Matsui flied out to center. Okay, that's pretty much it for chances.
Tejada was 2x5, extending his hit streak, and giving him 194 hits on the season, needing six hits in the last four games to get to 200 (because the math is free here at Astros County). And Bourn stole his 61st base of the season, moving him into 2nd place for all of MLB (unless Carl Crawford stole a base tonight, I didn't check), and within four stolen bases of tying Gerald Young's franchise stolen base record.
But the story for the offense was J.R. Towles, whose two homers almost doubled his career home run total - which, before tonight, stood at three. It also means that he has five hits in last 12 ABs, before which he had one hit in 21 ABs.
There were a few 0-fers tonight: Bourn (0x5), Pence (0x3), Matsui (0x3).
Man of the Match: J.R. Towles. Hopefully he can build on this.
Goat of the Game: Brian Moehler. Are you kidding me? Are we sure he's locked up a 2010 SP spot?
The Astros are in no way America's Team
That's according to a Sacred Heart University poll in which they ask which MLB team is "America's Team."
The Yankees won in a landslide, with 41.6% of the vote. However, the Astros didn't get a single vote. That's exactly two votes less than the Blue Jays. Who, as you know, play in Canada. That's cold.
The Yankees won in a landslide, with 41.6% of the vote. However, the Astros didn't get a single vote. That's exactly two votes less than the Blue Jays. Who, as you know, play in Canada. That's cold.
Crasnick: Berkman/Lee have "prospered"
Crasnick's Starting 9 today deals with players who have prospered in losing situations. Somehow, Berkman and Lee are on this list.
Still, Berkman and Lee capped off a decade of all-around hitting excellence with their production. It's a tribute to Berkman's craftsmanship at the plate when he can have a season that's considered a disappointment by his standards, and he still ranks 14th in the National League with a .911 OPS.
According to ESPN Stats & Information, Houston shortstop Miguel Tejada also did something special this season. He's closing in on 1,578 games this decade, which would tie him with Brooks Robinson in the 1960s for the second-most games played in a decade. The record belongs to Pete Rose, who appeared in 1,604 games in the 1970s.
Here's my question. It IS a tribute to Lance that he can lead the team in Goats and still have an OPS as high as it is. But at what point do we proclaim that Berkman isn't paid to take walks. It's great to have his OPS, but Berkman needs to be an RBI guy, as well. Am I right? Or am I wrong?
Still, Berkman and Lee capped off a decade of all-around hitting excellence with their production. It's a tribute to Berkman's craftsmanship at the plate when he can have a season that's considered a disappointment by his standards, and he still ranks 14th in the National League with a .911 OPS.
According to ESPN Stats & Information, Houston shortstop Miguel Tejada also did something special this season. He's closing in on 1,578 games this decade, which would tie him with Brooks Robinson in the 1960s for the second-most games played in a decade. The record belongs to Pete Rose, who appeared in 1,604 games in the 1970s.
Here's my question. It IS a tribute to Lance that he can lead the team in Goats and still have an OPS as high as it is. But at what point do we proclaim that Berkman isn't paid to take walks. It's great to have his OPS, but Berkman needs to be an RBI guy, as well. Am I right? Or am I wrong?
Manzella learning from Tejada
Astros Notes column today talks about how Manzella is learning from Tejada this month. The Astros have apparently asked for adjoining lockers for Manzella and Tejada.
Manzella:
“I just try to pay attention to just little things that (Tejada) does. You don't really want to mimic your game after anybody. I'm a pretty firm believer that you grew up playing a certain way, and that's probably a large reason why you're successful. You don't really want to make any major changes to what makes you a good player. But I think there's a lot of little things you can learn from Miggy and watching players like Jimmy Rollins, who is right there on the other side of the field. Miggy's a real open guy, always willing to share information and just toss ideas around and not really forcing any ideas on you but just giving you a lot of good things to think about. Any information he wants to give me I definitely will keep in mind.”
Miggs:
“I always try to teach them what I do well. I've always concerned myself with trying to help younger players. I do it because when I got to the majors I got a chance to play with a team where there were a lot of good players with good hearts. They did it for me and I have to do it for the youngsters.”
-
And Ed Wade hasn't really started the managerial search yet, so you still have time to get your references in order:
“We really haven't done anything of consequence. We're still having internal discussions, which are a little bit disjointed with us being on the road. I would assume at this point that nothing of consequence will occur until the season is over. Most if not all the people that we would consider on the first list of candidates would require us to ask permission to talk to them. It's something that could stretch out into postseason. We haven't really formalized our approach yet, but we will.”
Manzella:
“I just try to pay attention to just little things that (Tejada) does. You don't really want to mimic your game after anybody. I'm a pretty firm believer that you grew up playing a certain way, and that's probably a large reason why you're successful. You don't really want to make any major changes to what makes you a good player. But I think there's a lot of little things you can learn from Miggy and watching players like Jimmy Rollins, who is right there on the other side of the field. Miggy's a real open guy, always willing to share information and just toss ideas around and not really forcing any ideas on you but just giving you a lot of good things to think about. Any information he wants to give me I definitely will keep in mind.”
Miggs:
“I always try to teach them what I do well. I've always concerned myself with trying to help younger players. I do it because when I got to the majors I got a chance to play with a team where there were a lot of good players with good hearts. They did it for me and I have to do it for the youngsters.”
-
And Ed Wade hasn't really started the managerial search yet, so you still have time to get your references in order:
“We really haven't done anything of consequence. We're still having internal discussions, which are a little bit disjointed with us being on the road. I would assume at this point that nothing of consequence will occur until the season is over. Most if not all the people that we would consider on the first list of candidates would require us to ask permission to talk to them. It's something that could stretch out into postseason. We haven't really formalized our approach yet, but we will.”
Astros attendance versus other teams who can't get their crap together
Richard Justice's blog post this morning talked about the vicious cycle of baseball revenue/payroll/attendance (The economy sucks, so fans don't come to the ballpark, which hurts revenue, which hurts payroll, which hurts the standings, which hurts the attendance, because the team sucks, and so on. At least for a team with no real plan in place.) Anyhow, there is a question in the comments field from "justbob" wondering about how the Astros' attendance compares to other teams that sucked in 2009. So let's take a gander:
The Astros are 73-84 and have completed their home schedule for this season. Other NL teams under .500 include: Mets, Nationals, Brewers, Reds, Pirates, Padres, and Diamondbacks. This is organized by drop in per game attendance from 2008 to 2009.
It's worth noting that the Reds, Padres, and Mets still have home games remaining.
The fact that the Mets moved into a smaller ballpark almost eliminates them from consideration here, as they have the sixth-best attendance in the Majors.
But note that the Astros have the third-highest total attendance and the third-lowest per game drop for the eight NL teams under .500. It's not particularly surprising that the top five teams for total attendance have already locked up playoff spots. I'm probably most surprised by the Brewers attendance from 2008 to 2009, as they made the playoffs last year, and haven't been within five games of the division lead since August 9.
The Astros are 73-84 and have completed their home schedule for this season. Other NL teams under .500 include: Mets, Nationals, Brewers, Reds, Pirates, Padres, and Diamondbacks. This is organized by drop in per game attendance from 2008 to 2009.
| Team | Attendance | Per Game | Diff from 08 |
| Mets | 3,055,282 | 39,170 | -10,593 |
| Nationals | 1,793,282 | 22,416 | -6,589 |
| Padres | 1,816,544 | 23,591 | -6,484 |
| D-Backs | 2,509,924 | 26,281 | -4,706 |
| Reds | 1,963,107 | 21,873 | -3,957 |
| Astros | 2,521,076 | 31,124 | -3,619 |
| Brewers | 3,068,908 | 37,499 | -388 |
| Pirates | 1,609,076 | 19,480 | -385 |
It's worth noting that the Reds, Padres, and Mets still have home games remaining.
The fact that the Mets moved into a smaller ballpark almost eliminates them from consideration here, as they have the sixth-best attendance in the Majors.
But note that the Astros have the third-highest total attendance and the third-lowest per game drop for the eight NL teams under .500. It's not particularly surprising that the top five teams for total attendance have already locked up playoff spots. I'm probably most surprised by the Brewers attendance from 2008 to 2009, as they made the playoffs last year, and haven't been within five games of the division lead since August 9.
Let's talk velocity
I got curious about the velocity of the pitching staff. When I get curious, you have something to read. All figures are courtesy of FanGraphs. In the off-season, we'll look at changes from 2008 to 2009, and what we might be able to expect in 2010. For the time being, let's just look at the velocity of pitchers based on four pitch types.
FB = Fastball
CB = Curveball
CH = Changeup
SL = Slider
Biggest change in velocity from fastball to changeup goes to Alberto Arias with a -12.5mph drop.
FB = Fastball
CB = Curveball
CH = Changeup
SL = Slider
| Pitcher | FB Vel | CB Vel | CH Vel | SL Vel | |
| Arias | 93 | 81.4 | 80.5 | 82 | |
| Bazardo | 92.1 | - | 83.1 | 83.4 | |
| Brocail | 89.2 | 75.9 | 84.5 | 85.3 | |
| Byrdak | 89.4 | - | 82.7 | 82.4 | |
| Fulchino | 92.9 | 82.1 | 84.8 | 83.2 | |
| LaHawk | 94.1 | 80.6 | 86 | 88.2 | |
| Moehler | 87.6 | 77.6 | 81.2 | 82.9 | |
| Norris | 93.5 | - | 86.5 | 87.5 | |
| Oswalt | 93.1 | 72 | 83.4 | 84.1 | |
| Paulino | 95.2 | 81.9 | 85.2 | 85.8 | |
| Valverde | 95.8 | 84.1 | 85.3 | 85.8 | |
| Wandy | 90.1 | 76.9 | 84 | 79.6 | |
| Wright | 91.2 | 78.9 | 84.9 | 83 |
Biggest change in velocity from fastball to changeup goes to Alberto Arias with a -12.5mph drop.
Yeah, I sent my resume
McTaggart has word that 60-70 applicants have inquired about becoming the next Astros manager. I'm one of them. Hey, I got five votes in the Approval Rating poll.
Paronto and his hamstring
Chad Paronto left last night's 7-4 loss in the 7th inning thanks to a strained left hamstring:
"It felt like it pulled and just was all knotted up. There's a giant knot back there now. I told [head athletic trainer] Nate [Lucero] that's really the first leg injury I've ever had in my career. It's one of those things. I don't know if I slipped or what it was. I saw the pitch and then I planted my foot and after that... They said Jamie had a problem [with footing], too, so I don't know."
Will he pitch again this year?
"I don't know what they'll tell me, but I plan on being out there tomorrow. I don't know if that's realistic or not, but that's the way I'm going to approach it. I know it's going to be sore, but with [five] days left, what the heck?"
I think that's a short-sighted decision.
"It felt like it pulled and just was all knotted up. There's a giant knot back there now. I told [head athletic trainer] Nate [Lucero] that's really the first leg injury I've ever had in my career. It's one of those things. I don't know if I slipped or what it was. I saw the pitch and then I planted my foot and after that... They said Jamie had a problem [with footing], too, so I don't know."
Will he pitch again this year?
"I don't know what they'll tell me, but I plan on being out there tomorrow. I don't know if that's realistic or not, but that's the way I'm going to approach it. I know it's going to be sore, but with [five] days left, what the heck?"
I think that's a short-sighted decision.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
A hanging slider, or hanging Lopez out?
Wilton Lopez didn't want to throw the slider.
Lopez, on the AB that gave the Phillies a 5-1 lead:
“I had dominated (Feliz) with sinkers. That’s what I had to look for because I was thinking about getting a double play because it doesn’t matter if they score a run, but at least they don’t hit a home run like when the slider stayed up."
JJO might have put Lopez in an awkward situation by letting him continue to talk, and then publishing what he said:
After loading the bases in the fourth inning Tuesday night, Wilton Lopez was willing to trade a run for two outs. He wanted to try for a double play with a sinker. Then, pitching coach Dewey Robinson visited the Citizens Bank Park mound and told him to throw a slider to Pedro Feliz.
Lopez:
“As they say, I’m getting started and I have to pay attention to the pitches they tell me because if I don’t obey and I throw another pitch and they hit me with the pitch they asked for them I’m making a mistake. I’m new at this. I have to keep learning like today’s start. That happened, and I have to work hard for my next outing. Whether it’s starting or in relief I have to prepare.”
So, JJO. Thanks for that. Hopefully Lopez doesn't have to avoid eye contact with Dewey for the rest of the year.
Lopez, on the AB that gave the Phillies a 5-1 lead:
“I had dominated (Feliz) with sinkers. That’s what I had to look for because I was thinking about getting a double play because it doesn’t matter if they score a run, but at least they don’t hit a home run like when the slider stayed up."
JJO might have put Lopez in an awkward situation by letting him continue to talk, and then publishing what he said:
After loading the bases in the fourth inning Tuesday night, Wilton Lopez was willing to trade a run for two outs. He wanted to try for a double play with a sinker. Then, pitching coach Dewey Robinson visited the Citizens Bank Park mound and told him to throw a slider to Pedro Feliz.
Lopez:
“As they say, I’m getting started and I have to pay attention to the pitches they tell me because if I don’t obey and I throw another pitch and they hit me with the pitch they asked for them I’m making a mistake. I’m new at this. I have to keep learning like today’s start. That happened, and I have to work hard for my next outing. Whether it’s starting or in relief I have to prepare.”
So, JJO. Thanks for that. Hopefully Lopez doesn't have to avoid eye contact with Dewey for the rest of the year.
Recap for G157 - Astros @ Phillies
So that streak ended, and another continued. The Phillies broke their five-game losing streak against Houston this season with a 7-4 win, but Miguel Tejada continued his 16-game hitting streak and his Race to 200 hits with a 1x5 night, bringing him to 192 with five games left.
The night didn't go so well for Wilton Lopez. Or Chad Paronto. Let's do the thing:
Lopez: 3.2IP, 6H/5ER, 2K:2BB, 8/19 first-pitch strikes, 12/33 non-contact strikes (9c:3s)
Wright: 1.1IP, 1H/2ER, 2K:1BB, 1/6 FPS, 8/14 NCS (6c:2s)
Paronto: 1.1IP, 1H, 3/5 FPS, 3/12 NCS (3c)
Fulchino: 0.2IP, 1K, 0/2 FPS, 2/4 NCS (1c:1s)
Gervacio: 1IP, 1K, 1/3 FPS, 6/8 NCS (5c:1s)
Lopez served up a real nice grand slam in the 4th to Pedro Feliz, and Chad Paronto left with a leg injury - as did Jamie Moyer - which makes me wonder about the pitcher's mound. I mean, Jamie Moyer could hurt his leg going to get a LuAnn Platter at Luby's Cafeteria, but when Chad Paronto gets hurt in the same game? Come on.
Yep, it really got away from Lopez in the 4th, with the game tied 1-1. Ryan Howard reached on an infield single to lead off the inning. Raul Ibanez singled to center. Jayson Werth walked. And Happy Pete sent a big fly to left. That's all with nobody out. Lopez recovered to get Bako to ground out to first and Happ to fly out to center. But a Jimmy Rollins single later, and Lopez is gone. After 57 pitches. Five games from the end of the season. Again, why risk an injury to a reliever (that happened in the 6th)? To save Lopez' 9.42 ERA? To keep him rested for the final start against the Mets on Sunday? Nope, instead, Wright throws 27 pitches, Paronto gets hurt, and it takes two more relievers after that to close out the loss. The 84th loss of the season.
Offensively, it wasn't a bad night, even though the Astros were 3x11 with RISP. Berkman got himself his 25th homer of the year; Matsui, his 9th. Lopez had a chance to break it open in the 1st with the bases loaded, but grounded out to 2nd to end the inning. Matsui (2x5), Berkman (2x4), Lee (2x5), Pence (2x4), and Towles (2x3) all had multi-hit games, with Pence and Towles recording the only two walks for the Astros all game. The Astros had the tying run at the plate with Ryan Madson on the mound in the 9th. Matsui and Berkman singled to left, and with one out, Lee struck out swinging, and Pence struck out looking to end the game.
This is the fourth straight year Berkman has had 25 homers, and the 8th season out of ten (and in 2005, he had 24). In all, Berkman has hit 20+ homers in every season in which he has played (not counting the 34-game 1999).
Man of the Match: I guess it's Matsui, much as I'm afraid Ed Wade will read this and not trade him for eight foreskins and a busted resin bag. 2x5, 2RBI to cut the deficit to 7-4.
Goat of the Game: Hard to give it to a guy who threw one bad pitch, and who was pitching in Double-A this season. But I'm gonna. Wilton Lopez, get your goat.
The night didn't go so well for Wilton Lopez. Or Chad Paronto. Let's do the thing:
Lopez: 3.2IP, 6H/5ER, 2K:2BB, 8/19 first-pitch strikes, 12/33 non-contact strikes (9c:3s)
Wright: 1.1IP, 1H/2ER, 2K:1BB, 1/6 FPS, 8/14 NCS (6c:2s)
Paronto: 1.1IP, 1H, 3/5 FPS, 3/12 NCS (3c)
Fulchino: 0.2IP, 1K, 0/2 FPS, 2/4 NCS (1c:1s)
Gervacio: 1IP, 1K, 1/3 FPS, 6/8 NCS (5c:1s)
Lopez served up a real nice grand slam in the 4th to Pedro Feliz, and Chad Paronto left with a leg injury - as did Jamie Moyer - which makes me wonder about the pitcher's mound. I mean, Jamie Moyer could hurt his leg going to get a LuAnn Platter at Luby's Cafeteria, but when Chad Paronto gets hurt in the same game? Come on.
Yep, it really got away from Lopez in the 4th, with the game tied 1-1. Ryan Howard reached on an infield single to lead off the inning. Raul Ibanez singled to center. Jayson Werth walked. And Happy Pete sent a big fly to left. That's all with nobody out. Lopez recovered to get Bako to ground out to first and Happ to fly out to center. But a Jimmy Rollins single later, and Lopez is gone. After 57 pitches. Five games from the end of the season. Again, why risk an injury to a reliever (that happened in the 6th)? To save Lopez' 9.42 ERA? To keep him rested for the final start against the Mets on Sunday? Nope, instead, Wright throws 27 pitches, Paronto gets hurt, and it takes two more relievers after that to close out the loss. The 84th loss of the season.
Offensively, it wasn't a bad night, even though the Astros were 3x11 with RISP. Berkman got himself his 25th homer of the year; Matsui, his 9th. Lopez had a chance to break it open in the 1st with the bases loaded, but grounded out to 2nd to end the inning. Matsui (2x5), Berkman (2x4), Lee (2x5), Pence (2x4), and Towles (2x3) all had multi-hit games, with Pence and Towles recording the only two walks for the Astros all game. The Astros had the tying run at the plate with Ryan Madson on the mound in the 9th. Matsui and Berkman singled to left, and with one out, Lee struck out swinging, and Pence struck out looking to end the game.
This is the fourth straight year Berkman has had 25 homers, and the 8th season out of ten (and in 2005, he had 24). In all, Berkman has hit 20+ homers in every season in which he has played (not counting the 34-game 1999).
Man of the Match: I guess it's Matsui, much as I'm afraid Ed Wade will read this and not trade him for eight foreskins and a busted resin bag. 2x5, 2RBI to cut the deficit to 7-4.
Goat of the Game: Hard to give it to a guy who threw one bad pitch, and who was pitching in Double-A this season. But I'm gonna. Wilton Lopez, get your goat.
This could turn into a long night...
Phillies manager Charlie Manuel conducted a closed-door team meeting prior to this evening's game against the Astros.
The Phils’ skipper closed the doors and booted out all outsiders from the clubhouse hours before Tuesday night’s game against the Astros at the Bank in order to give the team a little pep talk and accent the positives. Mostly, Manuel wanted to inform his slumping team that a playoffs bid is there for the taking.
All they had to do was go get it.
If it's at all like the Astros' team meetings, someone's going to apologize, someone's going to get weepy, and the home team will lose, 10-3.
The Phils’ skipper closed the doors and booted out all outsiders from the clubhouse hours before Tuesday night’s game against the Astros at the Bank in order to give the team a little pep talk and accent the positives. Mostly, Manuel wanted to inform his slumping team that a playoffs bid is there for the taking.
All they had to do was go get it.
If it's at all like the Astros' team meetings, someone's going to apologize, someone's going to get weepy, and the home team will lose, 10-3.
Lineup for G157 - Astros @ Phillies
Here's your lineup for tonight's game.
Matsui 2B
Tejada SS
Berkman 1B
Lee LF
Pence RF
Keppinger 3B
Michaels CF
Towles C
W. Lopez P
Come on. If you're going to leave Tejada in to get to 200 hits, take into account that Bourn needs six SBs to get the stolen base record...
Matsui 2B
Tejada SS
Berkman 1B
Lee LF
Pence RF
Keppinger 3B
Michaels CF
Towles C
W. Lopez P
Come on. If you're going to leave Tejada in to get to 200 hits, take into account that Bourn needs six SBs to get the stolen base record...
Chat Wrap with Ed Wade
Earlier this afternoon, Ed Wade and Richard Justice participated in a live chat. Some highlights:
On the plans for adding personnel in the off-season:
Our preference is to fold as many young players into our mix as we possibly can. We'll be as resourceful as possible to improve the club. I don't want to have the oldest opening day roster again.
On Miggs' return in 2010:
I love Miggy and what he brings to a club. We still have to sit down at season's end and determine what we will be able to accomplish with our payroll for 2010. But he's been great.
On whether Matsui is 2B1 come 2010:
I believe he will be. It's been an up-and-down season for Kaz. But he's been healthy for the past couple of months and he has played at the level that we anticipated when we signed him; his numbers aren't that different from what he put up in Colorado in 2007. That said, we will pay close attention to Keppinger, Maysonet and others.
Paulino still hasn't locked up an SP spot:
Felipe has all the weapons to be a Zambrano type pitcher in the major leagues and I told him that in a meeting last week. He needs to dedicate himself to a conditioning program this off-season and come to Kissimmee prepared to force us to hand him the baseball every fifth day for the rest of his career. He can be very good.
Whether Carlos Lee mails it in on his way to first base:
I expect him to be in better shape next year. But the reality is that Carlos is a big man and is never going to be a burner. What some perceive as lack of effort is really just a case of a really big man going as hard as he can.
Maysonet's role in the future:
I really like Edwin Maysonet's versatility and we're trying to get him some work in the outfield during BP to enhance his value.
On the Lexington Four skipping Lancaster:
Even with that happening, we still have to exhibit the patience that allows them to develop, so we're still looking years vs. months.
On a Bagwell/Biggio managerial position:
Both Craig and Jeff were huge contributors as players and they can be great contributors down the road if they choose to do so. But I don't envision either of them factoring into our managerial decision.
Wesley Wright's rotation chances:
Wesley is going to winter ball in the Domincan Republic and he'll be a starter down there...Wes wants to start and we would love to have him battling for a spot in spring training.
On Chia-Jen Lo's Astros uniform in 2010:
Glen Barker did a great job signing CJ and we expect him at the big leagues at some point, maybe even out of the gate in April '10.
On Yordany Ramirez:
This kid's defense is otherworldly. He is off our grading charts with regard to his outfield play and throwing arm. He also runs well. If the bat comes, he's a star.
On 2010 payroll:
It probably will be lower than this year's app. $107 million as a result of the economy and other factors that have impacted on the entire sports industry.
On Koby Clemens:
Koby had an absolutely incredible season at Lancaster and everyone in the organization is proud of the way he's handled himself. No, he won't make the club out of spring training. We need to find the right position for him to play. Bobby Heck has stressed letting him play first base exclusively and I think his rationale makes a lot of sense.
Matsui back at 2B. Maysonet in the outfield. Koby at 1st. What's the biggest surprise for you?
On the plans for adding personnel in the off-season:
Our preference is to fold as many young players into our mix as we possibly can. We'll be as resourceful as possible to improve the club. I don't want to have the oldest opening day roster again.
On Miggs' return in 2010:
I love Miggy and what he brings to a club. We still have to sit down at season's end and determine what we will be able to accomplish with our payroll for 2010. But he's been great.
On whether Matsui is 2B1 come 2010:
I believe he will be. It's been an up-and-down season for Kaz. But he's been healthy for the past couple of months and he has played at the level that we anticipated when we signed him; his numbers aren't that different from what he put up in Colorado in 2007. That said, we will pay close attention to Keppinger, Maysonet and others.
Paulino still hasn't locked up an SP spot:
Felipe has all the weapons to be a Zambrano type pitcher in the major leagues and I told him that in a meeting last week. He needs to dedicate himself to a conditioning program this off-season and come to Kissimmee prepared to force us to hand him the baseball every fifth day for the rest of his career. He can be very good.
Whether Carlos Lee mails it in on his way to first base:
I expect him to be in better shape next year. But the reality is that Carlos is a big man and is never going to be a burner. What some perceive as lack of effort is really just a case of a really big man going as hard as he can.
Maysonet's role in the future:
I really like Edwin Maysonet's versatility and we're trying to get him some work in the outfield during BP to enhance his value.
On the Lexington Four skipping Lancaster:
Even with that happening, we still have to exhibit the patience that allows them to develop, so we're still looking years vs. months.
On a Bagwell/Biggio managerial position:
Both Craig and Jeff were huge contributors as players and they can be great contributors down the road if they choose to do so. But I don't envision either of them factoring into our managerial decision.
Wesley Wright's rotation chances:
Wesley is going to winter ball in the Domincan Republic and he'll be a starter down there...Wes wants to start and we would love to have him battling for a spot in spring training.
On Chia-Jen Lo's Astros uniform in 2010:
Glen Barker did a great job signing CJ and we expect him at the big leagues at some point, maybe even out of the gate in April '10.
On Yordany Ramirez:
This kid's defense is otherworldly. He is off our grading charts with regard to his outfield play and throwing arm. He also runs well. If the bat comes, he's a star.
On 2010 payroll:
It probably will be lower than this year's app. $107 million as a result of the economy and other factors that have impacted on the entire sports industry.
On Koby Clemens:
Koby had an absolutely incredible season at Lancaster and everyone in the organization is proud of the way he's handled himself. No, he won't make the club out of spring training. We need to find the right position for him to play. Bobby Heck has stressed letting him play first base exclusively and I think his rationale makes a lot of sense.
Matsui back at 2B. Maysonet in the outfield. Koby at 1st. What's the biggest surprise for you?
Valentine "committed" to ESPN
Dave Sheinin of the Washington Post participated in a conference call with newest ESPN employee Bobby Valentine.
Since it's in the Post, it focuses mainly on the Nationals' managerial opening, though Sheinin graciously notes that Houston needs a manager, too. On that ESPN out clause though, Norby Williamson, ESPN's Executive VP of Production, says:
"Teams, at some point, would be crazy not to approach Bobby to manage their teams... I'm OK with that. People's aspirations change."
This "Norby" also says that he expects Valentine to be employed by ESPN through 2010.
An excerpt:
Asked whether he would be willing to step into a rebuilding situation, such as that of the Nationals, who have lost 100-plus games in back-to-back seasons, Valentine said he was more interested in a team's future direction than its past mistakes.
"I don't know about 100-loss seasons," said Valentine, "But I do know about a No. 1 draft choice [pitcher Stephen Strasburg] that was signed. I don't necessaily know about the baseball culture of many cities, other than the ones I've worked in. But I can tell you what would draw me to any job would be the people I would be working with day in and day out, who would have to be on same page, pulling in the same direction."
That could, or could not, be Houston.
Since it's in the Post, it focuses mainly on the Nationals' managerial opening, though Sheinin graciously notes that Houston needs a manager, too. On that ESPN out clause though, Norby Williamson, ESPN's Executive VP of Production, says:
"Teams, at some point, would be crazy not to approach Bobby to manage their teams... I'm OK with that. People's aspirations change."
This "Norby" also says that he expects Valentine to be employed by ESPN through 2010.
An excerpt:
Asked whether he would be willing to step into a rebuilding situation, such as that of the Nationals, who have lost 100-plus games in back-to-back seasons, Valentine said he was more interested in a team's future direction than its past mistakes.
"I don't know about 100-loss seasons," said Valentine, "But I do know about a No. 1 draft choice [pitcher Stephen Strasburg] that was signed. I don't necessaily know about the baseball culture of many cities, other than the ones I've worked in. But I can tell you what would draw me to any job would be the people I would be working with day in and day out, who would have to be on same page, pulling in the same direction."
That could, or could not, be Houston.
What does Tejada deserve?
JJO has himself a blog post explaining that Miguel Tejada "deserves" to play the last few games of the 2009 season.
Tejada has bought suits, given girl advice, and is apparently an all-around good guy. But what about Manzella?
Some people would rather start to see what Tommy Manzella can do in the majors, and that is completely understandable. Yet, when Miguel Tejada is really the one willing this club to make sure they don't mail it in, well, he needs to remain in the lineup. Tejada will give the final drop of energy he has for his paycheck. And if you've been paying attention to the Astros lately, you know not everybody is doing that.
Did you see the nasty look and shake of the head he gave Lance Berkman Monday night when Berkman refused to slide when he was tagged out at home plate? Tejada knew the play was going to be close and urged his teammate to slide. Berkman didn't and got thrown out.
The games may not mean anything in the standings, but Tejada knows he owes it to you Astros fans and to Drayton McLane to play hard. As Dave Clark said Monday night, if you have a young player wanting to see how to play in the majors, have him look at Miguel Tejada.
Oh, and of course, JJO would resign Tejada to play third base, The Astros need his presence in the clubhouse more than you'll ever know.
I almost forgot how much knowledge JJO has. He has forgotten more than we could ever learn. We, as readers, sit and bathe in the sunlight of his favor.
This sounds like it's right out of a Chris Rock skit ("You're not supposed to beat your kids!" You're supposed to play hard every game.) Still, just because Berkman is playing like he'd rather be anywhere else doesn't mean Tejada deserves to be resigned. Tejada might as well play the last six games of the season, because we're not going to find anything out about how Manzella can play now. If the Astros weren't already committed to $3.8 billion in payroll for 2010 (approximately), maybe. But they've been hamstrung by bad contracts, and Tejada in 2010 would be a bad contract. Anything beyond would be a disaster. So what does Tejada "deserve?" Tejada deserves the $13 million he has already been paid, and nothing more.
Tejada has bought suits, given girl advice, and is apparently an all-around good guy. But what about Manzella?
Some people would rather start to see what Tommy Manzella can do in the majors, and that is completely understandable. Yet, when Miguel Tejada is really the one willing this club to make sure they don't mail it in, well, he needs to remain in the lineup. Tejada will give the final drop of energy he has for his paycheck. And if you've been paying attention to the Astros lately, you know not everybody is doing that.
Did you see the nasty look and shake of the head he gave Lance Berkman Monday night when Berkman refused to slide when he was tagged out at home plate? Tejada knew the play was going to be close and urged his teammate to slide. Berkman didn't and got thrown out.
The games may not mean anything in the standings, but Tejada knows he owes it to you Astros fans and to Drayton McLane to play hard. As Dave Clark said Monday night, if you have a young player wanting to see how to play in the majors, have him look at Miguel Tejada.
Oh, and of course, JJO would resign Tejada to play third base, The Astros need his presence in the clubhouse more than you'll ever know.
I almost forgot how much knowledge JJO has. He has forgotten more than we could ever learn. We, as readers, sit and bathe in the sunlight of his favor.
This sounds like it's right out of a Chris Rock skit ("You're not supposed to beat your kids!" You're supposed to play hard every game.) Still, just because Berkman is playing like he'd rather be anywhere else doesn't mean Tejada deserves to be resigned. Tejada might as well play the last six games of the season, because we're not going to find anything out about how Manzella can play now. If the Astros weren't already committed to $3.8 billion in payroll for 2010 (approximately), maybe. But they've been hamstrung by bad contracts, and Tejada in 2010 would be a bad contract. Anything beyond would be a disaster. So what does Tejada "deserve?" Tejada deserves the $13 million he has already been paid, and nothing more.
Minor League Player of the Year
MLB.com's Jonathan Mayo is leading a discussion regarding the Minor League Player of the Year:
Mayo lists six nominees for hitters: Oakland's Chris Carter, Oakland's Grant Desme, Seattle's Alex Liddi, San Francisco's Buster Posey, and our very own Koby Clemens and Jon Gaston.
There's a disclaimer about hitting in Lancaster, but what do you think?
Mayo lists six nominees for hitters: Oakland's Chris Carter, Oakland's Grant Desme, Seattle's Alex Liddi, San Francisco's Buster Posey, and our very own Koby Clemens and Jon Gaston.
There's a disclaimer about hitting in Lancaster, but what do you think?
Brocail doesn't know what to do
Doug Brocail is waiting on the results of an MRI on his shoulder to take place next week before deciding what to do about 2010.
"It all depends what the MRI says at the end of the season. I've had a good run of luck lately, but health is the main concern. If I'm healthy, I'd like to play again. If not, I'll see...
..."They're going to look at the shoulder and make sure everything is fine and I haven't ripped it up due to [compensating for] the leg and everything. Hopefully that will help me make up my mind....
..."I'm going to get input from the guys [on the team] and the coaching staff and see if they think I still have it. If I still have it, then I'm going to continue. If the majority says, 'Man, you need to listen to your body,' and then I don't know. I don't have a plan yet."
The Astros can either exercise Brocail's $2.85 million option for 2010, or buy him out for $250,000. Which is my vote.
"It all depends what the MRI says at the end of the season. I've had a good run of luck lately, but health is the main concern. If I'm healthy, I'd like to play again. If not, I'll see...
..."They're going to look at the shoulder and make sure everything is fine and I haven't ripped it up due to [compensating for] the leg and everything. Hopefully that will help me make up my mind....
..."I'm going to get input from the guys [on the team] and the coaching staff and see if they think I still have it. If I still have it, then I'm going to continue. If the majority says, 'Man, you need to listen to your body,' and then I don't know. I don't have a plan yet."
The Astros can either exercise Brocail's $2.85 million option for 2010, or buy him out for $250,000. Which is my vote.
Bobby Valentine returning to ESPN
Bobby Valentine, who has spent the last six seasons managing Chiba Lotte in Japan, is returning to Baseball Tonight as an analyst.
Why is this important? He's a trendy name for Manager 16. However:
Valentine, who previously worked for ESPN in 2003, will take on expanded duties in 2010. He will appear on "Baseball Tonight" and 1050 ESPN Radio in New York, and contribute to ESPNNewYork.com, the local ESPN sports site that launches next year.
Does this disqualify him? Not necessarily, as Yahoo's Gordon Edes explains Valentine could have an out clause in his contract should he be offered a managerial position.
Why is this important? He's a trendy name for Manager 16. However:
Valentine, who previously worked for ESPN in 2003, will take on expanded duties in 2010. He will appear on "Baseball Tonight" and 1050 ESPN Radio in New York, and contribute to ESPNNewYork.com, the local ESPN sports site that launches next year.
Does this disqualify him? Not necessarily, as Yahoo's Gordon Edes explains Valentine could have an out clause in his contract should he be offered a managerial position.
Miguel Tejada and the Elias Rankings
Besides the question of Who Will Be Manager, perhaps the biggest off-season decision the Astros have to make is regarding the status of Miguel Tejada. Should Ed Wade sign him to a new contract, or let him walk as a free agent?
Obviously, the Astros would like to get something in return for Tejada, should they let him walk. This is where arbitration comes in. If the Astros offer Tejada arbitration and he signs with another team, the Astros would be entitled to extra draft picks in the 2010 June Draft. Problem is, Tejada has apparently fallen in love with Tha 832/713/281, and is fervently hoping to return to Houston.
There's no way the Astros will resign him at his previous contract's rate, but as an experiment, Jon Heyman got together with an agent and a GM to predict the market value of some key free agents, Tejada included. They each separately pegged Tejada in the $9-10 million range. Tejada has had such a great year offensively that his arbitration case would probably be in that range, as well.
One of the keys to this is what type of free agent will Tejada will be named. Trade Rumors has Tejada currently listed as a Type B free agent - meaning the Astros will receive one draft pick from a team who signs him away. Is running the risk of Tejada accepting arbitration worth $10 million for one draft pick? Me say no.
Obviously, the Astros would like to get something in return for Tejada, should they let him walk. This is where arbitration comes in. If the Astros offer Tejada arbitration and he signs with another team, the Astros would be entitled to extra draft picks in the 2010 June Draft. Problem is, Tejada has apparently fallen in love with Tha 832/713/281, and is fervently hoping to return to Houston.
There's no way the Astros will resign him at his previous contract's rate, but as an experiment, Jon Heyman got together with an agent and a GM to predict the market value of some key free agents, Tejada included. They each separately pegged Tejada in the $9-10 million range. Tejada has had such a great year offensively that his arbitration case would probably be in that range, as well.
One of the keys to this is what type of free agent will Tejada will be named. Trade Rumors has Tejada currently listed as a Type B free agent - meaning the Astros will receive one draft pick from a team who signs him away. Is running the risk of Tejada accepting arbitration worth $10 million for one draft pick? Me say no.
Clark to work on Towles' confidence
It seems as though J.R. Towles needs a little confidence boost, and Dave Clark is more than happy to oblige. Towles will be starting the next two games on this road trip.
“More so than anything it could possibly be a confidence thing with him. You look back and you can even go back to this year at Triple-A. He was hurt a little bit and he didn't get a whole lot of at-bats at Triple-A and the fact that we're getting him here and he's not playing on an everyday basis. He's going to be given an opportunity to be our guy. That's what I believe in. That's what I'm going on.”
Of course, with Jason Castro on the horizon, there's a decision to be made with the C3 spot - Quintero, or Towles.
“More so than anything it could possibly be a confidence thing with him. You look back and you can even go back to this year at Triple-A. He was hurt a little bit and he didn't get a whole lot of at-bats at Triple-A and the fact that we're getting him here and he's not playing on an everyday basis. He's going to be given an opportunity to be our guy. That's what I believe in. That's what I'm going on.”
Of course, with Jason Castro on the horizon, there's a decision to be made with the C3 spot - Quintero, or Towles.
Recap for G156 - Astros @ Phillies
Oho! I bet Phillies fans are pissed! Congratulations to Yorman Bazardo, who recorded his first win of the season in an 8-2 win at Philadelphia. Miguel Tejada had his 6th 4-hit game of the season (best in the Majors), as part of a 15-hit attack on Cole Hamels. Let's do the thing:
Bazardo: 5.2IP, 2H/2ER, 4K:4BB, 14/22 First-pitch strikes, 24/45 non-contact strikes (16 called:8 swinging)
Gervacio: 0.1IP, 0/1 FPS, 2/3 NCS (2s)
Byrdak: 2IP, 1H, 1K, 6/8 FPS, 10/19 NCS (6c:4s)
Brocail: 1IP, 1H, 1/4 FPS, 4/12 NCS (3c:1s)
Bazardo settled down after allowing a single and a stolen base for Rollins, and a sac fly to put Philly up 1-0. Walks were really the only aspect of Bazardo's outing that would qualify as "troubling." Jayson Werth led off the 2nd with a walk, but Bazardo got Ibanez to GIDP. Things got a little hairy in the bottom of the 6th, when Victorino doubled to right and Utley moved him over to third. With two outs, and the Phillies down 3-1, Bazardo balked, scoring Victorino, and then walked Howard. Gervacio came in for the final out and got Jayson Werth to fly out to right.
Offensively, it was going on. Bourn was 2x5, Tejada 4x5, Berkman was 0x1 but had three walks, Lee was 2x5, Pence was 2x4, Keppinger was 3x5. Carlos Lee added 2RBI, pushing him over the 100-RBI mark for the seventh time in the last eight seasons (2004 was the exception, and Lee had 99 RBI). The big inning came in the 7th, when the Astros got five hits - four singles - to string together five runs. But more as a relief, the Astros were 7x15 with RISP. Even little J.R. Towles got into the hit column (1x5). And still, in a late-inning blowout, Johnson and Manzella sat on the bench.
Hamels' final line was: 6.2IP, 9H/6ER, 5K:3BB to drop his record to 10-10 with a 4.25 ERA, and it was his worst start since August 2.
Man of the Match: Yorman Bazardo. He really needed to show something going into 2010, which he had not yet done, and came out and threw a gem. Third Major League win.
Goat of the Game: Everyone got a hit (except Berkman, who has reinvented himself as The Most Patient Man on Earth), and for the first time in a long time, the Astros looked like a Major League team. No Goat.
Bazardo: 5.2IP, 2H/2ER, 4K:4BB, 14/22 First-pitch strikes, 24/45 non-contact strikes (16 called:8 swinging)
Gervacio: 0.1IP, 0/1 FPS, 2/3 NCS (2s)
Byrdak: 2IP, 1H, 1K, 6/8 FPS, 10/19 NCS (6c:4s)
Brocail: 1IP, 1H, 1/4 FPS, 4/12 NCS (3c:1s)
Bazardo settled down after allowing a single and a stolen base for Rollins, and a sac fly to put Philly up 1-0. Walks were really the only aspect of Bazardo's outing that would qualify as "troubling." Jayson Werth led off the 2nd with a walk, but Bazardo got Ibanez to GIDP. Things got a little hairy in the bottom of the 6th, when Victorino doubled to right and Utley moved him over to third. With two outs, and the Phillies down 3-1, Bazardo balked, scoring Victorino, and then walked Howard. Gervacio came in for the final out and got Jayson Werth to fly out to right.
Offensively, it was going on. Bourn was 2x5, Tejada 4x5, Berkman was 0x1 but had three walks, Lee was 2x5, Pence was 2x4, Keppinger was 3x5. Carlos Lee added 2RBI, pushing him over the 100-RBI mark for the seventh time in the last eight seasons (2004 was the exception, and Lee had 99 RBI). The big inning came in the 7th, when the Astros got five hits - four singles - to string together five runs. But more as a relief, the Astros were 7x15 with RISP. Even little J.R. Towles got into the hit column (1x5). And still, in a late-inning blowout, Johnson and Manzella sat on the bench.
Hamels' final line was: 6.2IP, 9H/6ER, 5K:3BB to drop his record to 10-10 with a 4.25 ERA, and it was his worst start since August 2.
Man of the Match: Yorman Bazardo. He really needed to show something going into 2010, which he had not yet done, and came out and threw a gem. Third Major League win.
Goat of the Game: Everyone got a hit (except Berkman, who has reinvented himself as The Most Patient Man on Earth), and for the first time in a long time, the Astros looked like a Major League team. No Goat.
Monday, September 28, 2009
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Astros 2009 Home Attendance
We'll look at this more in the off-season as a companion piece to the post during the All-Star break detailing attendance from 2008 to 2009, but we can at least do a quick glance at how the season ended, attendance-wise.
The Astros drew (or "sold," depending on the faith you put in attendance counts) 2,521,729 fans this season, down from 2,779,487 in 2008 and 3,030,405 in 2007. This represents a drop of 257,758, or 9.2% from last year (or 16.8% drop from 2007).
This works out to 31,132 fans per game.
Highest paid attendance of 2009: Opening Day vs. Cubs - 43,827
Lowest paid attendance of 2009: June 3 vs. Colorado - 22,032
Could be worse: The Marlins failed to draw 1.5 million fans for the fourth consecutive season, averaging 18,770 fans per game.
Or the Blue Jays. They averaged 23,162 fans per game.
Or how about the Diamondbacks, who saw a 15.2% drop in attendance from 2008.
The Astros drew (or "sold," depending on the faith you put in attendance counts) 2,521,729 fans this season, down from 2,779,487 in 2008 and 3,030,405 in 2007. This represents a drop of 257,758, or 9.2% from last year (or 16.8% drop from 2007).
This works out to 31,132 fans per game.
Highest paid attendance of 2009: Opening Day vs. Cubs - 43,827
Lowest paid attendance of 2009: June 3 vs. Colorado - 22,032
Could be worse: The Marlins failed to draw 1.5 million fans for the fourth consecutive season, averaging 18,770 fans per game.
Or the Blue Jays. They averaged 23,162 fans per game.
Or how about the Diamondbacks, who saw a 15.2% drop in attendance from 2008.
Heyman: Astros the 4th-worst team money can buy
And he takes this opportunity to rip the idea of giving half your payroll to three players - and $5.5 million to Kaz Matsui - to shreds.
$102 million. Almost half of that is wrapped up in Carlos Lee, Miguel Tejada and Lance Berkman, so the roster is just a tad top heavy. Kaz Matsui at $5.5 million looks like a misprint, but unfortunately no.
$102 million. Almost half of that is wrapped up in Carlos Lee, Miguel Tejada and Lance Berkman, so the roster is just a tad top heavy. Kaz Matsui at $5.5 million looks like a misprint, but unfortunately no.
Dispatches from Aaron Bray: Volume 2
Aaron Bray was the 27th round draft pick for the Astros in last June's amateur draft. He was also the winner of the Astros County Adopt-a-Player contest. Each Monday, Aaron will write a column for Astros County detailing his off-season. Click here for Post #1.
Astros County,
I hope all of you enjoyed the first week's post, I am happy to be doing this. Another week of playing catch up in school. I got tests and papers to write as I try to finish my degree. But with all that work, my dad and I found time to head to Houston and catch two games. I am in the hotel now after a 10-4 defeat, but I did enjoy my day at Minute Maid Park. It was a hot day, so the roof was closed and that made it easy to relax during the game. I got to see a teammate of mine from this summer, Jose Altuve, as they were honoring the MVPs of the Minor League affiliates. My trip will end tomorrow with a couple innings of the 1:05 game then it is back to home to Charlotte to go back to class and continue to work out. And now for my question for the week.
Can you detail the circumstances around your getting drafted by the Astros? What was it like in the leadup, what conversations did you have with the Astros (and any other teams), and what were you doing on Draft Day?
Well, to start off, I received a questionaire from the Astros area scout during the last week of April. It said "Send in immediatley", so I did. Never once did I talk to the scout, never got one phone call on draft day from houston until my name was called with 821st pick. I was at home in my town house relaxing. My girlfriend was off to work, my roomates were gone because of school being out. I'm alone in a house expecting to be drafted by the Cincy Reds. I went to the workout for them, and did well. As the second day of the draft went on I began to get frustrated, as most people probably would. As I got ready to turn of the computer my name popped up. From there on it was blur....Phone call after text after phone call. It was a great feeling and I was happy to be an Astro. That was my draft day. Besides being nervous all day, I was excited.
Thank you all and have a good week.
-
Got a question for Aaron this week? Send it to astroscounty@hotmail.com
Astros County,
I hope all of you enjoyed the first week's post, I am happy to be doing this. Another week of playing catch up in school. I got tests and papers to write as I try to finish my degree. But with all that work, my dad and I found time to head to Houston and catch two games. I am in the hotel now after a 10-4 defeat, but I did enjoy my day at Minute Maid Park. It was a hot day, so the roof was closed and that made it easy to relax during the game. I got to see a teammate of mine from this summer, Jose Altuve, as they were honoring the MVPs of the Minor League affiliates. My trip will end tomorrow with a couple innings of the 1:05 game then it is back to home to Charlotte to go back to class and continue to work out. And now for my question for the week.
Can you detail the circumstances around your getting drafted by the Astros? What was it like in the leadup, what conversations did you have with the Astros (and any other teams), and what were you doing on Draft Day?
Well, to start off, I received a questionaire from the Astros area scout during the last week of April. It said "Send in immediatley", so I did. Never once did I talk to the scout, never got one phone call on draft day from houston until my name was called with 821st pick. I was at home in my town house relaxing. My girlfriend was off to work, my roomates were gone because of school being out. I'm alone in a house expecting to be drafted by the Cincy Reds. I went to the workout for them, and did well. As the second day of the draft went on I began to get frustrated, as most people probably would. As I got ready to turn of the computer my name popped up. From there on it was blur....Phone call after text after phone call. It was a great feeling and I was happy to be an Astro. That was my draft day. Besides being nervous all day, I was excited.
Thank you all and have a good week.
-
Got a question for Aaron this week? Send it to astroscounty@hotmail.com
Perhaps Lucas May needs some perspective
Following the USA's 10-5 win over Cuba to win the IBAF World Cup, Lucas May of the Los Angeles Dodgers and had 4RBI, said:
“Other than playing in a World Series, this is as big as it gets."
Hmm.
Jason Castro's final line:
.130/.286/.130 (3x23), 2 RBI, 6K:4BB
I've been looking to see how Jimmy Van Ostrand did in the World Cup, but it's easier to find stats for the 1899 Cleveland Spiders than it is to find World Cup stats. Check back for updates.
“Other than playing in a World Series, this is as big as it gets."
Hmm.
Jason Castro's final line:
.130/.286/.130 (3x23), 2 RBI, 6K:4BB
I've been looking to see how Jimmy Van Ostrand did in the World Cup, but it's easier to find stats for the 1899 Cleveland Spiders than it is to find World Cup stats. Check back for updates.
Matsui out sick, Arias rehabbing, Hampton stops by
So it seems as though Kaz Matsui with Tebow-like Symptoms, a side effect of which is the random breaking down of Erin Andrews.
Dave Clark:
“I took Kaz out of the lineup today. He's feeling a little lightheaded. He hasn't been eating regular as of late.”
Matsui:
“I should be OK tomorrow. It's tough to explain, but I'm just a little dizzy, lightheaded. But it's not serious.”
Who else is sick, Dave Clark?
"I tell you what, we can go around the whole clubhouse and probably say that about a lot of guys. We just hope we can get over it real quick.”
Though JJO gives us a quick list: Humberto Quintero, Michael Bourn, Edwin Maysonet, Tommy Manzella and first-base coach Jose Cruz.
So to recap: Maysonet and Manzella are sick. Maysonet got the start yesterday. Clark just hates Manzella and Chris Johnson.
-
Alberto Arias will rehab his knee in Houston:
“I feel the recovery will be fast. Dr. (David) Lintner did a great job on my surgery, and I think I'll do my rehab here for a few weeks and then be able to pitch a few weeks of winter ball in the Dominican Republic and be ready for the start for the season.”
-
Mike Hampton stopped by the clubhouse, because...well...I'm not sure. Anyway, he'll be around until October 7, if you want to hang out:
“Everybody's leaving, so I wanted to stop by. I just wanted to say goodbye. I'll start my rehab here and stay here until the 7th of October.”
Dave Clark:
“I took Kaz out of the lineup today. He's feeling a little lightheaded. He hasn't been eating regular as of late.”
Matsui:
“I should be OK tomorrow. It's tough to explain, but I'm just a little dizzy, lightheaded. But it's not serious.”
Who else is sick, Dave Clark?
"I tell you what, we can go around the whole clubhouse and probably say that about a lot of guys. We just hope we can get over it real quick.”
Though JJO gives us a quick list: Humberto Quintero, Michael Bourn, Edwin Maysonet, Tommy Manzella and first-base coach Jose Cruz.
So to recap: Maysonet and Manzella are sick. Maysonet got the start yesterday. Clark just hates Manzella and Chris Johnson.
-
Alberto Arias will rehab his knee in Houston:
“I feel the recovery will be fast. Dr. (David) Lintner did a great job on my surgery, and I think I'll do my rehab here for a few weeks and then be able to pitch a few weeks of winter ball in the Dominican Republic and be ready for the start for the season.”
-
Mike Hampton stopped by the clubhouse, because...well...I'm not sure. Anyway, he'll be around until October 7, if you want to hang out:
“Everybody's leaving, so I wanted to stop by. I just wanted to say goodbye. I'll start my rehab here and stay here until the 7th of October.”
Fan Appreciation Day
JJO:
The 10th season at Minute Maid Park was much like the first — a disappointment. For that reason, Berkman and his teammates took time to tip their caps to the loyal fans who showed up for the series and home finale.
Berkman:
“We haven’t given them a whole lot to cheer for. That’s been regrettable, certainly. I hope they know that we care as much about wins and losses as they do. I know sometimes they can feel like these guys just don’t care. That couldn’t be further from the truth. No matter whether we win the game or lose the game, whatever the score is I hope they feel we’re giving them a good effort...
...“I just want to tell them thanks for continuing to support us through a difficult season. The people who are still here are the ones that are really not bandwagon fans. They’re the ones that appreciate the team and the sport of baseball. And we appreciate them.”
Dave Clark:
“It means everything. Given that the economy is the way it is, too, that these people are spending their hard-earned money to come out and watch me and the ballplayers means a lot.”
Drayton:
“I wouldn’t trade them for any of them. They’re ready for us to move forward next year. I’m very thankful for them to be so supportive. We have the most loyal fans in baseball, and I wouldn’t trade them for anybody or any other city. I want to say just a great thank you from me and the Houston Astros. Tell them we’re going to be champions.”
Does this make you feel better?
The 10th season at Minute Maid Park was much like the first — a disappointment. For that reason, Berkman and his teammates took time to tip their caps to the loyal fans who showed up for the series and home finale.
Berkman:
“We haven’t given them a whole lot to cheer for. That’s been regrettable, certainly. I hope they know that we care as much about wins and losses as they do. I know sometimes they can feel like these guys just don’t care. That couldn’t be further from the truth. No matter whether we win the game or lose the game, whatever the score is I hope they feel we’re giving them a good effort...
...“I just want to tell them thanks for continuing to support us through a difficult season. The people who are still here are the ones that are really not bandwagon fans. They’re the ones that appreciate the team and the sport of baseball. And we appreciate them.”
Dave Clark:
“It means everything. Given that the economy is the way it is, too, that these people are spending their hard-earned money to come out and watch me and the ballplayers means a lot.”
Drayton:
“I wouldn’t trade them for any of them. They’re ready for us to move forward next year. I’m very thankful for them to be so supportive. We have the most loyal fans in baseball, and I wouldn’t trade them for anybody or any other city. I want to say just a great thank you from me and the Houston Astros. Tell them we’re going to be champions.”
Does this make you feel better?
Sunday, September 27, 2009
Indirect managerial possibilities
Should the Astros get rid of pitching coach Dewey Robinson, Fox Sports' Jon Paul Morosi has some intriguing possibilities. Among them:
-Phillies' pitching consultant Bryan Price, who was the pitching coach for the 2000/2001 Mariners, and the 2007 Diamondbacks (and subsequently resigned after Bob Melvin was fired).
-Former Cardinals reliever Chris Perez wouldn't be surprised if Tony La Russa and Dave Duncan took off after the season. This is notable, not just for speculative value, but also because the Cardinals would be in a state of flux. Which is better than Missouri.
Perez:
"I had a feeling during spring training that this might be their last go-around, just the way they were interacting. They seemed to be more happy, excited to be there, like, 'It's our last go-around. Let's have a great year.' I kind of got that feeling from both of them. They've been at it a long time. Thirty years is a long time to be away from your family, always on the road. It's a grind. Always competing. Always expecting to win. Having expectations with your teams. I could see them both leaving, especially if they win (the World Series). I think they'd both like to go out on top."
-Phillies' pitching consultant Bryan Price, who was the pitching coach for the 2000/2001 Mariners, and the 2007 Diamondbacks (and subsequently resigned after Bob Melvin was fired).
-Former Cardinals reliever Chris Perez wouldn't be surprised if Tony La Russa and Dave Duncan took off after the season. This is notable, not just for speculative value, but also because the Cardinals would be in a state of flux. Which is better than Missouri.
Perez:
"I had a feeling during spring training that this might be their last go-around, just the way they were interacting. They seemed to be more happy, excited to be there, like, 'It's our last go-around. Let's have a great year.' I kind of got that feeling from both of them. They've been at it a long time. Thirty years is a long time to be away from your family, always on the road. It's a grind. Always competing. Always expecting to win. Having expectations with your teams. I could see them both leaving, especially if they win (the World Series). I think they'd both like to go out on top."
Recap for G155 - Reds at Astros
There. That wasn't so hard, was it? Keeping a team under 10 runs? With that 3-2 win, the Astros break a 143-game losing streak to the Reds (approximately) and head into the final seven days of the season, ending the "Home" portion of 2009 44-37.
Wandy: 6IP, 9H/2ER, 9K:1BB, 17/27 first-pitch strikes, 42/68 non-contact strikes (19 called:23 swinging)
Fulchino: 1IP, 2K, 2/3 FPS, 7/8 non-contact strikes (3c:4s)
LaHawk: 1IP, 1H, 3/4 FPS, 3/7 NCS (3c)
Valverde: 1IP, 1BB, 0/3 FPS, 5/11 NCS (1c:4s)
Wandy improved his record to 14-11 for the season, and will get one more chance, Friday against the Mets, for his 15th win. He's really been the only bright spot in the rotation all season long. Any fears we may have had regarding his yearly slide back in late May/early June were disspelled.
The bullpen today was excellent, allowing just two baserunners in three innings - LaHawk's ERA sits at 2.08, while Valverde's is 2.20. A strong second half from him all but assures him of a big ol' contract in 2010 - and probably not from the Astros.
The Astros were held to six hits on the day, with Pence getting two of them. Poor Maysonet, about 18 hours after I championed him for a start over Matsui, goes 0x3 with a GIDP. Quintero hit his 4th homer of the season, proving to be the game-winner, while Carlos Lee got his 99th RBI of the season. In the third inning, Wandy singled to center for the leadoff, Bourn singled, and Tejada walked to load the bases with nobody out, Berkman grounded into an FC - scoring Wandy. Lee grounded out to third, scoring Bourn, and Pence struck out swinging. So the Astros accidentally scored two runs, and Quintero added the third. And the Astros were 0x7 with RISP (making that 13x88 - .147).
Man of the Match: Wandy Rodriguez. 9K:1BB, one win.
Goat of the Game: Even though he got an RBI, Berkman was 0x3, 0x2 with RISP, and drops his career batting average to .299 (which actually happened yesterday).
Wandy: 6IP, 9H/2ER, 9K:1BB, 17/27 first-pitch strikes, 42/68 non-contact strikes (19 called:23 swinging)
Fulchino: 1IP, 2K, 2/3 FPS, 7/8 non-contact strikes (3c:4s)
LaHawk: 1IP, 1H, 3/4 FPS, 3/7 NCS (3c)
Valverde: 1IP, 1BB, 0/3 FPS, 5/11 NCS (1c:4s)
Wandy improved his record to 14-11 for the season, and will get one more chance, Friday against the Mets, for his 15th win. He's really been the only bright spot in the rotation all season long. Any fears we may have had regarding his yearly slide back in late May/early June were disspelled.
The bullpen today was excellent, allowing just two baserunners in three innings - LaHawk's ERA sits at 2.08, while Valverde's is 2.20. A strong second half from him all but assures him of a big ol' contract in 2010 - and probably not from the Astros.
The Astros were held to six hits on the day, with Pence getting two of them. Poor Maysonet, about 18 hours after I championed him for a start over Matsui, goes 0x3 with a GIDP. Quintero hit his 4th homer of the season, proving to be the game-winner, while Carlos Lee got his 99th RBI of the season. In the third inning, Wandy singled to center for the leadoff, Bourn singled, and Tejada walked to load the bases with nobody out, Berkman grounded into an FC - scoring Wandy. Lee grounded out to third, scoring Bourn, and Pence struck out swinging. So the Astros accidentally scored two runs, and Quintero added the third. And the Astros were 0x7 with RISP (making that 13x88 - .147).
Man of the Match: Wandy Rodriguez. 9K:1BB, one win.
Goat of the Game: Even though he got an RBI, Berkman was 0x3, 0x2 with RISP, and drops his career batting average to .299 (which actually happened yesterday).
Zacharly Levine's Weird Moments in 2009
I'm not going to poach the blog post, but Zach Levine runs down some of the more weird moments in the Astros 2009 season.
Among them:
-Hampton cuts his hand on a soap dispenser
-Astros sign Armando Benitez
-Jiovanni Mier lets slip that the Astros will trade Tejada
-Coop fills out the wrong lineup card
I'll add a couple:
-Intentionally walking Nick Johnson to get to Hanley Ramirez
-Carlos Lee forgetting what day he was supposed to show up for Spring Training
-The Astros picking up Coop's extension for 2010 on April 19, 2009
Among them:
-Hampton cuts his hand on a soap dispenser
-Astros sign Armando Benitez
-Jiovanni Mier lets slip that the Astros will trade Tejada
-Coop fills out the wrong lineup card
I'll add a couple:
-Intentionally walking Nick Johnson to get to Hanley Ramirez
-Carlos Lee forgetting what day he was supposed to show up for Spring Training
-The Astros picking up Coop's extension for 2010 on April 19, 2009
Saturday, September 26, 2009
Astros honor minor-league MVPs
So perhaps hoping to make everyone forget about how awful this season has been, the Astros honored the MVPs of Eddie's Farm: Tommy Manzella (who was in attendance, but probably had mustard on his jersey because, you know, he's not playing), Drew Locke, Koby Clemens, Brian Pellegrini, Barry Butera, Jose Altuve, Enrique Hernandez, and Hector Rodriguez.
This was funny, from writer Ben DuBose on Manzella, with a quote from Dave Clark:
Manzella, for his part, earned a September callup to the Astros, where he's had one hit in five at-bats. Penciled in by many as a potential starter for the 2010 club, he's likely to get more opportunities as the season draws to a close.
"It's an audition," interim manager Dave Clark said. "It's an opportunity to step up and give us something to build on for next year. We'd like to have somewhat of an idea going into Spring Training as to what we have."
Because nothing tells you about a player like garbage ABs with a week left in the season. That's the true barometer of a future starter.
Bobby Heck, on Koby Clemens, who will be coming to a Whataburger Field near you in 2010:
There are players that are prospects because of their God-given skill set, who separate themselves because they look different and do things different. Then there are other guys that are more grinder types, who do have a combination of tools and skills, but they just learn and go through level by level improvement, like Koby. He's on the radar."
Heck:
We feel real good about what we've done so far. The credit goes to our scouts; to get 25 of the first 26 players we drafted signed within two weeks, that's huge. The important thing is that the kids are out playing, because if they're out playing they have a chance to get here sooner. It's not going to be fixed in two Drafts. As excited as we are about some players right now, some are going to break our hearts. But if we get enough depth and quality through the Draft, we'll have some surprise, as well."
This was funny, from writer Ben DuBose on Manzella, with a quote from Dave Clark:
Manzella, for his part, earned a September callup to the Astros, where he's had one hit in five at-bats. Penciled in by many as a potential starter for the 2010 club, he's likely to get more opportunities as the season draws to a close.
"It's an audition," interim manager Dave Clark said. "It's an opportunity to step up and give us something to build on for next year. We'd like to have somewhat of an idea going into Spring Training as to what we have."
Because nothing tells you about a player like garbage ABs with a week left in the season. That's the true barometer of a future starter.
Bobby Heck, on Koby Clemens, who will be coming to a Whataburger Field near you in 2010:
There are players that are prospects because of their God-given skill set, who separate themselves because they look different and do things different. Then there are other guys that are more grinder types, who do have a combination of tools and skills, but they just learn and go through level by level improvement, like Koby. He's on the radar."
Heck:
We feel real good about what we've done so far. The credit goes to our scouts; to get 25 of the first 26 players we drafted signed within two weeks, that's huge. The important thing is that the kids are out playing, because if they're out playing they have a chance to get here sooner. It's not going to be fixed in two Drafts. As excited as we are about some players right now, some are going to break our hearts. But if we get enough depth and quality through the Draft, we'll have some surprise, as well."
RIP, RISP
So I got a little curious, again, not sexually, but about the Astros' batting average with RISP over this period of absolute ineptitude, with 11 losses in 12 games. Let's take a gander:
Sept 26 vs. Cincinnati (10-4 L): 2x8
Sept 25 vs. Cincinnati (10-4 L): 0x6
Sept 23 vs. St. Louis (3-0 W): 3x11
Sept 22 vs. St. Louis (11-2 L): 1x7
Sept 21 vs. St. Louis (7-3 L): 1x4
Sept 20 @ Milwaukee (6-0 L): 0x7
Sept 19 @ Milwaukee (7-2 L): 1x5
Sept 18 @ Milwaukee (3-2 L): 1x5
Sept 16 @ Cincinnati (6-5 L): 0x8
Sept 15 @ Cincinnati (5-4 L): 3x6
Sept 14 @ Cincinnati (3-1 L): 1x7
Sept 13 vs. Pittsburgh (2-1 L): 0x7
Want the math? That's 13x81 = .160. That's how you lose games.
Sept 26 vs. Cincinnati (10-4 L): 2x8
Sept 25 vs. Cincinnati (10-4 L): 0x6
Sept 23 vs. St. Louis (3-0 W): 3x11
Sept 22 vs. St. Louis (11-2 L): 1x7
Sept 21 vs. St. Louis (7-3 L): 1x4
Sept 20 @ Milwaukee (6-0 L): 0x7
Sept 19 @ Milwaukee (7-2 L): 1x5
Sept 18 @ Milwaukee (3-2 L): 1x5
Sept 16 @ Cincinnati (6-5 L): 0x8
Sept 15 @ Cincinnati (5-4 L): 3x6
Sept 14 @ Cincinnati (3-1 L): 1x7
Sept 13 vs. Pittsburgh (2-1 L): 0x7
Want the math? That's 13x81 = .160. That's how you lose games.
Recap for G154 - Reds @ Astros
Just to put this in perspective, the Astros have lost nine straight against the Reds - dating back to April 28. Houston is 3-12 against Cincinnati this season. Oh, I guess maybe by now it's obvious that the Astros lost, again, 10-4 to Cincinnati. And here's something: Since sweeping the Phillies, the Astros have lost 12 of 15, taking themselves from a team three games under .500 to a team 11 games under .500. Let's do the thing:
Paulino: 5IP, 9H/8ER, 3K:4BB, 14/27 first-pitch strikes, 23/58 non-contact strikes (10 called:13 swinging)
Brocail: 1IP, 1/3 FPS, 2/7 NCS (2c)
Byrdak: 1IP, 1K:1BB, 2/3 FPS, 2/7 NCS (2c)
Gervacio: 1IP, 1H, 3K, 4/4 FPS, 7/10 NCS (2c:5s)
Fulchino: 1IP, 2H/2ER, 1K, 3/5 FPS, 9/15 NCS (2c:7s)
Paulino was able to recapture former Ugly in his worst outing since the San Francisco game that got his rear end demoted, allowing 13 baserunners to 15 outs. Surprising stat of the night: Brocail, with his scoreless inning, has lowered his ERA to 2.87. I still don't think it's enough for the Astros to exercise his option, where I think they'll instead go for the $250,000 buyout.
After throwing in six games from Sept 12-19, tonight was Fulchino's third game from Sept 20-present. Whatever. Francisco-Nix-Miller (#6-8 in the lineup), went 5x11 with three runs and seven RBI. That's brutal. Little Corky Miller raised his average to .192.
Offensively, it was pretty much Tejada. 4x4 with 2RBI. Otherwise, there were a whole bunch of 0-fers: Lee (0x4), Blum (0x4), Matsui (0x4) - and in a forlorn look at Whatmighthavebeen, Edwin Maysonet, in a ridiculously limited sample, got himself another hit, and is hitting .308. His batting average is 56 points higher than Matsui's, and his OBP is 42 points higher. I know. We're talking about a much smaller number of plate appearances, but it is worth noting that we're also talking about a difference in $5.1 million in salary. The following players are currently hitting below .260: Blum (.250), Matsui (.252), Quintero (.240), Erstad (.194), Coste (.225), Michaels (.238), and Keppinger (.257).
The Astros were 2x8 with RISP, with both hits coming from Tejada, and Lee and Berkman going 0x2 with the opportunities for the big hits.
Man of the Match: Miguel Tejada. Tonight was his 5th 4-hit game of the season, his 18th 3+ hit game, and his 54th multi-hit game of the season. He's making this really difficult.
Goat of the Game: Felipe. Paulino.
Paulino: 5IP, 9H/8ER, 3K:4BB, 14/27 first-pitch strikes, 23/58 non-contact strikes (10 called:13 swinging)
Brocail: 1IP, 1/3 FPS, 2/7 NCS (2c)
Byrdak: 1IP, 1K:1BB, 2/3 FPS, 2/7 NCS (2c)
Gervacio: 1IP, 1H, 3K, 4/4 FPS, 7/10 NCS (2c:5s)
Fulchino: 1IP, 2H/2ER, 1K, 3/5 FPS, 9/15 NCS (2c:7s)
Paulino was able to recapture former Ugly in his worst outing since the San Francisco game that got his rear end demoted, allowing 13 baserunners to 15 outs. Surprising stat of the night: Brocail, with his scoreless inning, has lowered his ERA to 2.87. I still don't think it's enough for the Astros to exercise his option, where I think they'll instead go for the $250,000 buyout.
After throwing in six games from Sept 12-19, tonight was Fulchino's third game from Sept 20-present. Whatever. Francisco-Nix-Miller (#6-8 in the lineup), went 5x11 with three runs and seven RBI. That's brutal. Little Corky Miller raised his average to .192.
Offensively, it was pretty much Tejada. 4x4 with 2RBI. Otherwise, there were a whole bunch of 0-fers: Lee (0x4), Blum (0x4), Matsui (0x4) - and in a forlorn look at Whatmighthavebeen, Edwin Maysonet, in a ridiculously limited sample, got himself another hit, and is hitting .308. His batting average is 56 points higher than Matsui's, and his OBP is 42 points higher. I know. We're talking about a much smaller number of plate appearances, but it is worth noting that we're also talking about a difference in $5.1 million in salary. The following players are currently hitting below .260: Blum (.250), Matsui (.252), Quintero (.240), Erstad (.194), Coste (.225), Michaels (.238), and Keppinger (.257).
The Astros were 2x8 with RISP, with both hits coming from Tejada, and Lee and Berkman going 0x2 with the opportunities for the big hits.
Man of the Match: Miguel Tejada. Tonight was his 5th 4-hit game of the season, his 18th 3+ hit game, and his 54th multi-hit game of the season. He's making this really difficult.
Goat of the Game: Felipe. Paulino.
Phil Rogers apparently knows the early front-runners
Rogers, of the Chicago Tribune, has this regarding the early race for the Manager:
Astros general manager Ed Wade is expected to take his time hiring a full-time replacement for fired manager Cecil Cooper. Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio could get interviews, but the early front-runners are Tim Bogar and Manny Acta.
Really.
Astros general manager Ed Wade is expected to take his time hiring a full-time replacement for fired manager Cecil Cooper. Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio could get interviews, but the early front-runners are Tim Bogar and Manny Acta.
Really.
Pedro Gomez drops some knowledge
Gomez has this nugget about Tejada's durability:
He's played more games this decade (1,572 through Friday) than all but two other big-leaguers in any previous decade. Pete Rose leads the list with 1,604 in the 1970s, followed by Brooks Robinson with 1,578 in the 1960s.
He's played more games this decade (1,572 through Friday) than all but two other big-leaguers in any previous decade. Pete Rose leads the list with 1,604 in the 1970s, followed by Brooks Robinson with 1,578 in the 1960s.
Justice: What about Ted Simmons
In the absence of baseball news (it's almost as if the Astros recognize Saturdays are for college football, and thus do nothing interesting), Justice asks for some input on the managerial search. Today's name? Padres bench coach Ted Simmons. Regard:
He's a bench coach for the Padres, but has done almost everything in his career except manage. He's very, very smart. He's also a workaholic. He has expressed an interest in the job, but having no managerial experience at either the major league or minor league level is a huge, huge, huge negative, maybe a killer.
He has a strong personality and probably won't be tolerant when one of the fellows jogs down to first base. A guy that knows him well told me he'd get to the ballpark at 8 a.m. for a night game and be there until 3 a.m.
He was offered the Milwaukee job last year but wouldn't take it because he didn't think Ned Yost had been treated fairly. He would have been hired by the Rockies this year if GM Dan O'Dowd had been allowed to offer a multi-year contract, and he'll probably get the San Diego job if GM Kevin Towers is forced to pull the plug on Bud Black.
He's a bench coach for the Padres, but has done almost everything in his career except manage. He's very, very smart. He's also a workaholic. He has expressed an interest in the job, but having no managerial experience at either the major league or minor league level is a huge, huge, huge negative, maybe a killer.
He has a strong personality and probably won't be tolerant when one of the fellows jogs down to first base. A guy that knows him well told me he'd get to the ballpark at 8 a.m. for a night game and be there until 3 a.m.
He was offered the Milwaukee job last year but wouldn't take it because he didn't think Ned Yost had been treated fairly. He would have been hired by the Rockies this year if GM Dan O'Dowd had been allowed to offer a multi-year contract, and he'll probably get the San Diego job if GM Kevin Towers is forced to pull the plug on Bud Black.
LaHawk will be in Prosper, if you need him
LaHawk, whose career has been given a jumpstart since coming to the Astros from New York last season, is willing to resign with the Astros this off-season, but he's not in a hurry. LaHawk:
"I'll just sit and wait. I'm not in a hurry, and they're probably not in a hurry, either. I'm not going anywhere. I'll be four hours away from here in Prosper, Texas. Chilling."
Dave Clark:
"I really and truly don't understand why he got let go by the Yankees, but their loss has been our gain. He's a true professional, and he goes about his business the right way. He's a true leader down in the bullpen, along with Valverde and Brocail. That what we need down there, stability and guys who have been there before."
Of the three (Valverde, Brocail, LaHawk), my money is on LaHawk returning and the other two hitting the road.
"I'll just sit and wait. I'm not in a hurry, and they're probably not in a hurry, either. I'm not going anywhere. I'll be four hours away from here in Prosper, Texas. Chilling."
Dave Clark:
"I really and truly don't understand why he got let go by the Yankees, but their loss has been our gain. He's a true professional, and he goes about his business the right way. He's a true leader down in the bullpen, along with Valverde and Brocail. That what we need down there, stability and guys who have been there before."
Of the three (Valverde, Brocail, LaHawk), my money is on LaHawk returning and the other two hitting the road.
Astros Younguns to Face Strasburg
Nationals pitcher Stephen Strasburg will pitch in the Florida Instructional League next month, and will make his second career professional start on October 10 against the Astros.
Recap for G153 - Reds at Astros
So this is 5th place. The Reds absolutely handled the Astros and Brian Moehler for a 10-4 win, and sole possession of 4th place. It took five pitchers, and 181 pitches to get the Reds to make 27 outs - with Moehler needing 77 pitches for 7 outs. It was Moehler's lowest game score since the Apr 8 game against the Cubs, in which Moehler gave up seven earned in 1.2IP. Let's just do the thing:
Moehler: 2.1IP, 8H/7ER, 2K:1BB, 16/16 first-pitch strikes, 18/49 non-contact strikes (7c:11s)
Wright: 2.2IP, 3H/1ER, 3K:1BB, 6/11 FPS, 10/24 NCS (7c:3s)
Lopez: 2IP, 6H/2R (0 ER), 1K, 3/12 FPS, 6/17 NCS (3c:3s)
Byrdak: 1IP, 1K:1BB, 1/5 FPS, 4/10 NCS (1c:3s)
Paronto: 1IP, 1K, 1/3 FPS, 4/7 NCS (1c:3s)
You read that correctly. Moehler threw a first-pitch strike to every batter he faced. Of those 16 batters, Moehler then threw a second-pitch ball to ten of them. That said, in PAs in which Moehler had two strikes, the Reds were 6x11 with a walk.
On the brighter side, Chad Paronto threw a perfect inning in relief, his first appearance this season (out of five) in which he didn't give up a run, lowering his ERA from 18.69 to 15.19. You gotta build on something.
Offensively, the Astros just aren't built to come back (ha!). But the Astros did have a lot of time to try, as it was 7-1 when Moehler left in the third. Three of the four Astros runs came off the home run - one by Matsui and a 2-run shot by Berkman in the 8th. I got a nice little text message from a Reds-fan buddy who said "Tejada cost you a ton of runs. Your vets have quit." Which is succinct, but accurate, I suppose.
The offense was 0x6 with RISP, including in the 3rd when, down 7-1, Coste led off the inning with a double, Wesley Wright struck out trying to bunt, Bourn struck out trying to get a hit, and Tejada grounded out. They were 3x12 with a sac fly with runners just on base.
Tejada was 1x4 with a run in his PAs last night, seeing a total of seven pitches. Chris Johnson was 0x1 with a strikeout in his pinch-hit spot, but saw a total of seven pitches. Anyhow, Lance's two-run homer was his 24th of the season, while Carlos Lee sits at 26 (last hitting one at Cincinnati on Sept 16).
Man of the Match: Kaz Matsui. Two hits, a run, an RBI. And he's hitting .312/.346/.481 in September. Any takers?
Goat of the Game: Miguel Tejada. It didn't show up in the box score, but he nutted this game.
Moehler: 2.1IP, 8H/7ER, 2K:1BB, 16/16 first-pitch strikes, 18/49 non-contact strikes (7c:11s)
Wright: 2.2IP, 3H/1ER, 3K:1BB, 6/11 FPS, 10/24 NCS (7c:3s)
Lopez: 2IP, 6H/2R (0 ER), 1K, 3/12 FPS, 6/17 NCS (3c:3s)
Byrdak: 1IP, 1K:1BB, 1/5 FPS, 4/10 NCS (1c:3s)
Paronto: 1IP, 1K, 1/3 FPS, 4/7 NCS (1c:3s)
You read that correctly. Moehler threw a first-pitch strike to every batter he faced. Of those 16 batters, Moehler then threw a second-pitch ball to ten of them. That said, in PAs in which Moehler had two strikes, the Reds were 6x11 with a walk.
On the brighter side, Chad Paronto threw a perfect inning in relief, his first appearance this season (out of five) in which he didn't give up a run, lowering his ERA from 18.69 to 15.19. You gotta build on something.
Offensively, the Astros just aren't built to come back (ha!). But the Astros did have a lot of time to try, as it was 7-1 when Moehler left in the third. Three of the four Astros runs came off the home run - one by Matsui and a 2-run shot by Berkman in the 8th. I got a nice little text message from a Reds-fan buddy who said "Tejada cost you a ton of runs. Your vets have quit." Which is succinct, but accurate, I suppose.
The offense was 0x6 with RISP, including in the 3rd when, down 7-1, Coste led off the inning with a double, Wesley Wright struck out trying to bunt, Bourn struck out trying to get a hit, and Tejada grounded out. They were 3x12 with a sac fly with runners just on base.
Tejada was 1x4 with a run in his PAs last night, seeing a total of seven pitches. Chris Johnson was 0x1 with a strikeout in his pinch-hit spot, but saw a total of seven pitches. Anyhow, Lance's two-run homer was his 24th of the season, while Carlos Lee sits at 26 (last hitting one at Cincinnati on Sept 16).
Man of the Match: Kaz Matsui. Two hits, a run, an RBI. And he's hitting .312/.346/.481 in September. Any takers?
Goat of the Game: Miguel Tejada. It didn't show up in the box score, but he nutted this game.
Friday, September 25, 2009
More on Norris
And now we get some word on the decision to shut Norris down.
Dave Clark, saying it's "precautionary":
“It’s the smart thing to do to shut him down, because we believe this kid is going to be a big part of our future. He understands that we’re not looking at the next six days. We’re looking toward the next six years.”
Norris:
“They’ve got my health as their first interest, and it’s good to know that they’re really worried about it and taking my health into consideration. We’re not in a race right now. I’m glad to have gotten off on a good foot with my last start."
Wait. The Race to Beat the Reds doesn't count? Continue:
"I want to work hard in the off season and come back better next season to throw more innings.
I'm guessing Norris comes back as SP3 next year, slotted in ahead of Moehler. Or not.
Dave Clark, saying it's "precautionary":
“It’s the smart thing to do to shut him down, because we believe this kid is going to be a big part of our future. He understands that we’re not looking at the next six days. We’re looking toward the next six years.”
Norris:
“They’ve got my health as their first interest, and it’s good to know that they’re really worried about it and taking my health into consideration. We’re not in a race right now. I’m glad to have gotten off on a good foot with my last start."
Wait. The Race to Beat the Reds doesn't count? Continue:
"I want to work hard in the off season and come back better next season to throw more innings.
I'm guessing Norris comes back as SP3 next year, slotted in ahead of Moehler. Or not.
Lineup for G153 - Reds @ Astros
And here's your lineup:
Bourn CF
Tejada SS
Berkman 1B
Lee LF
Pence RF
Matsui 2B
Keppinger 3B
Coste C
Moehler P
Bourn CF
Tejada SS
Berkman 1B
Lee LF
Pence RF
Matsui 2B
Keppinger 3B
Coste C
Moehler P
Maybe they've had the flu since July 24
And now we find out that approximately 11 Astros have the flu, and Jose Cruz has left the team with an unknown illness. It's not swine flu, but Astros County is awaiting confirmation that the cause is bat flu.
Norris shut down; Lopez to start
Conflicting reports from the Astros.com Tweeters on Bud Norris, who has been shut down.
Let's check in with Brian McTaggart, who was first:
Bud Norris shut down with arm fatigue
And then Alyson Footer, seven minutes later:
Bud Norris done for year..not injured. Just playing it safe. Has pitched more innings than ever and club is erring on side of caution.
A minute later we read that Wilton Lopez will get the start in Philadelphia next week. But this has to be the smartest move the Astros have made all year.
Let's check in with Brian McTaggart, who was first:
Bud Norris shut down with arm fatigue
And then Alyson Footer, seven minutes later:
Bud Norris done for year..not injured. Just playing it safe. Has pitched more innings than ever and club is erring on side of caution.
A minute later we read that Wilton Lopez will get the start in Philadelphia next week. But this has to be the smartest move the Astros have made all year.
More on Chan-Jong Moon
The 18-year old prospect was signed to a minor league contract by Pacific Rim scout Glen Barker, who also signed Chia-Jen Lo. Which worked out pretty well.
Barker:
He's a high-energy player with solid fundamentals. His ceiling for growth and improvement is high, and I feel he will be a solid Major League player down the road. I'm really excited for him to start his journey to the Major Leagues."
He'll report to the Instructional League in Kissimmee directly.
We first talked about this on August 20, when it was noted that his signing bonus was $350,000.
Barker:
He's a high-energy player with solid fundamentals. His ceiling for growth and improvement is high, and I feel he will be a solid Major League player down the road. I'm really excited for him to start his journey to the Major Leagues."
He'll report to the Instructional League in Kissimmee directly.
We first talked about this on August 20, when it was noted that his signing bonus was $350,000.
Astros sign Korean infielder
McTaggart is tweeting that the Astros have signed 18-year old infielder Chan-Jong Moon. More later.
Justice knows what the Astros need
Pitching and defense, as if he has the market on knowledge cornered.
Anyway, it's kind of a wild blog post, goes on about what a great guy Drayton is, how stand-up Lance is, how the Astros need pitching and defense, etc.
He expects the Astros to make a run at an inning-eating starter, but also assumes LaHawk and Valverde will be back with the team in 2010.
They could make a run at Randy Wolf. Justin Duchscherer, Rich Harden, John Lackey, Carl Pavano, Joel Pineiro and Jarrod Washburn are on the free-agent lists I've seen.
Unless Dave Duncan is the manager, I'm out with everyone but Lackey, who will be too expensive for the Astros' wallet (velcro, with a chain). If Carl Pavano is in an Astros uniform come April, I might eat my tongue.
Manager?
The biggest decision the Astros have to make is on a new manager. He has to be smart and passionate, and he has to set the proper tone to bring young players through the ups and downs of a season. He has to surround himself with a great coaching staff.
I'm OK with giving Dave Clark the job. He certainly has a passion for the job and seems to have people skills, too. But it's easy for me to recommend someone since my job isn't riding on it.
Anyway, it's kind of a wild blog post, goes on about what a great guy Drayton is, how stand-up Lance is, how the Astros need pitching and defense, etc.
He expects the Astros to make a run at an inning-eating starter, but also assumes LaHawk and Valverde will be back with the team in 2010.
They could make a run at Randy Wolf. Justin Duchscherer, Rich Harden, John Lackey, Carl Pavano, Joel Pineiro and Jarrod Washburn are on the free-agent lists I've seen.
Unless Dave Duncan is the manager, I'm out with everyone but Lackey, who will be too expensive for the Astros' wallet (velcro, with a chain). If Carl Pavano is in an Astros uniform come April, I might eat my tongue.
Manager?
The biggest decision the Astros have to make is on a new manager. He has to be smart and passionate, and he has to set the proper tone to bring young players through the ups and downs of a season. He has to surround himself with a great coaching staff.
I'm OK with giving Dave Clark the job. He certainly has a passion for the job and seems to have people skills, too. But it's easy for me to recommend someone since my job isn't riding on it.
Eeyore thanks you for noticing
John Royal (now known as Eeyore), of the Houston Press, talks managerial candidates:
If you're like me, you're just dreading this Astros off-season because you know, just like I know, that Drayton McLane is going to make nothing but bad decisions. The worst decision to be made will probably involve the manager position where the favorites for the job appear to be Jim Fregosi -- an old guy who is a pal of Ed Wade and is awful with young players -- and Dave Clark who so far, as interim manager, has not impressed.
So far, as in, "three games against the eventual division champions in which the Astros went 1-2."
Eeyore speculates that Nolan Ryan probably will not be a part of the new Rangers ownership group, so it's possible he'll return.
Your closing lines:
McLane might also want to talk to people involved with the Florida Marlins and Minnesota Twins, both teams that, despite small-market status and low payrolls, seem to find a way to compete every year.
But who am I kidding? None of that is going to happen. Not while Drayton McLane is in charge.
If you're like me, you're just dreading this Astros off-season because you know, just like I know, that Drayton McLane is going to make nothing but bad decisions. The worst decision to be made will probably involve the manager position where the favorites for the job appear to be Jim Fregosi -- an old guy who is a pal of Ed Wade and is awful with young players -- and Dave Clark who so far, as interim manager, has not impressed.
So far, as in, "three games against the eventual division champions in which the Astros went 1-2."
Eeyore speculates that Nolan Ryan probably will not be a part of the new Rangers ownership group, so it's possible he'll return.
Your closing lines:
McLane might also want to talk to people involved with the Florida Marlins and Minnesota Twins, both teams that, despite small-market status and low payrolls, seem to find a way to compete every year.
But who am I kidding? None of that is going to happen. Not while Drayton McLane is in charge.
Person Familiar With Astros Plans speaks up
Jon Heyman's column today has some news for Astros fans, after scaring the bejeezus out of us by announcing the Cardinals will try to lock up both Holliday and Pujols this off-season.
ANYway, on the managerial search:
A person familiar with the Astros' plans says they will interview Manny Acta for their managerial opening. But if the Houston Chronicle's candidate list has any legs, he'll have plenty of company. It's a veritable potpourri of former Astros stars and current Astros coaches and decision-makers.
Always nice when the national media questions the validity of the local media.
Heyman first lists Jim Fregosi, but intriguingly enough, Barry Axelrod - Bagwell and Biggio's agent - declined to comment until "real contact" was made by the Astros.
And then, out of absolutely nowhere:
The other possibility, and it's probably a long shot (though the possibility has been rumored), would be to hope La Russa and Duncan bolt the Cardinals and they can steal that vaunted tandem from the best team in the NL Central. That would be a coup, as it's hard to imagine La Russa ditching a great situation in St. Louis for a team with troubles.
This would rock the very foundations of my soul. Thoughts?
ANYway, on the managerial search:
A person familiar with the Astros' plans says they will interview Manny Acta for their managerial opening. But if the Houston Chronicle's candidate list has any legs, he'll have plenty of company. It's a veritable potpourri of former Astros stars and current Astros coaches and decision-makers.
Always nice when the national media questions the validity of the local media.
Heyman first lists Jim Fregosi, but intriguingly enough, Barry Axelrod - Bagwell and Biggio's agent - declined to comment until "real contact" was made by the Astros.
And then, out of absolutely nowhere:
The other possibility, and it's probably a long shot (though the possibility has been rumored), would be to hope La Russa and Duncan bolt the Cardinals and they can steal that vaunted tandem from the best team in the NL Central. That would be a coup, as it's hard to imagine La Russa ditching a great situation in St. Louis for a team with troubles.
This would rock the very foundations of my soul. Thoughts?
Astros on the App League Charts
Astros 1st Round pick Jiovanni Mier was named Baseball America's 2nd-ranked Appalachian League prospect, just behind the Braves' RHP Julio Teheren.
BA, on Mier's bat:
Mier has the quick hands and the coordination to hit for average, though his bat slowed noticeably as the summer wore on. He'll improve offensively as he learns to use the opposite field. With knowledge of the strike zone and few other threats in the Greeneville lineup, he took his walks when pitchers worked him carefully.
Though he projects as more of a gap-to-gap hitter, he did show home run juice to left and center field. He tied for the league lead with six triples, and once he fills out, he could deliver 10-15 homers per year.
On his glove:
Mier is a classic shortstop defender who shows great instincts and maturity on the field to go with above-average range and arm strength. His quick feet and impressive technique, combined with average speed, make him a rare high school shortstop who projects to stay at the position as a pro. A need for more consistency in turning double plays and in making strong throws on routine plays were the only critiques of Mier's defensive play, but they're not long-term concerns.
On his approach:
Mier models his game after Derek Jeter's, and his natural leadership skills and energy reminded observers of the Yankees captain. And despite his youth and first-year status, Mier served as a vocal leader for Greeneville.
-
Pitcher Juri Perez made the list, as well, at #10:
Greeneville manager Rodney Linares credited Perez with having the best changeup in the league. Thrown with deceptive arm speed, it bottoms out as it reaches the plate. Batters seldom put the changeup in play, driving up Perez's pitch counts.
With a fastball that ranges from 88-93 mph and sits at 91, Perez is more than a one-trick pony. With the savvy and poise to mix his primary weapons, he needs only to refine his below-average curveball, which he resists throwing at this stage, to profile as a mid-rotation starter.
-
And Jonathan Meyer ranked in at #18:
A high-energy player, Meyer has the strong hands, bat speed and the gap power to hit as he moves up, though he may never be a significant home run threat. He led the league with 36 walks, displaying uncanny patience for a high school player.
On defense, Meyer has the first-step quickness and range to profile as a plus defender at third base. He touched 92 mph off the mound in high school and also spent time at catcher, so he has more than enough arm for third. He's not much of a runner but has average speed underway.
BA, on Mier's bat:
Mier has the quick hands and the coordination to hit for average, though his bat slowed noticeably as the summer wore on. He'll improve offensively as he learns to use the opposite field. With knowledge of the strike zone and few other threats in the Greeneville lineup, he took his walks when pitchers worked him carefully.
Though he projects as more of a gap-to-gap hitter, he did show home run juice to left and center field. He tied for the league lead with six triples, and once he fills out, he could deliver 10-15 homers per year.
On his glove:
Mier is a classic shortstop defender who shows great instincts and maturity on the field to go with above-average range and arm strength. His quick feet and impressive technique, combined with average speed, make him a rare high school shortstop who projects to stay at the position as a pro. A need for more consistency in turning double plays and in making strong throws on routine plays were the only critiques of Mier's defensive play, but they're not long-term concerns.
On his approach:
Mier models his game after Derek Jeter's, and his natural leadership skills and energy reminded observers of the Yankees captain. And despite his youth and first-year status, Mier served as a vocal leader for Greeneville.
-
Pitcher Juri Perez made the list, as well, at #10:
Greeneville manager Rodney Linares credited Perez with having the best changeup in the league. Thrown with deceptive arm speed, it bottoms out as it reaches the plate. Batters seldom put the changeup in play, driving up Perez's pitch counts.
With a fastball that ranges from 88-93 mph and sits at 91, Perez is more than a one-trick pony. With the savvy and poise to mix his primary weapons, he needs only to refine his below-average curveball, which he resists throwing at this stage, to profile as a mid-rotation starter.
-
And Jonathan Meyer ranked in at #18:
A high-energy player, Meyer has the strong hands, bat speed and the gap power to hit as he moves up, though he may never be a significant home run threat. He led the league with 36 walks, displaying uncanny patience for a high school player.
On defense, Meyer has the first-step quickness and range to profile as a plus defender at third base. He touched 92 mph off the mound in high school and also spent time at catcher, so he has more than enough arm for third. He's not much of a runner but has average speed underway.
Hey, remember when Cooper was hired?
I got bored, so I did some Google searching on the response to Cooper's getting hired back in August 2007.
Cooper, on his strengths and weaknesses:
"I'm pretty comfortable with the players when it's just moving around with them and talking one-on-one. What I have difficulty with is when it's a big group. I struggle with that a little bit, but those are things I have to get through and work through. The more I do it, the better I'll get."
Berkman:
"Not that the manager has zero impact, but I think many times, the manager gets too much credit for success and too much blame for as poor a season as we're having."
Interestingly enough, Berkman said the exact same thing on Coop's departure.
Continue, Lance:
"He's been around a long time and, in my opinion, he's a borderline Hall of Fame player. He understands how a team works and what makes a team successful. I think he's deserving of a shot to be a manager. The fact that he was an outstanding player certainly helps when it comes to dealing with us in here. Cooper's been here as long as Phil has. We know him really well. I don't see it as going to be a really huge change in philosophy or way we're going to operate in the clubhouse. From that standpoint, the transition is not going to be a difficult one."
Chris Burke:
"I see a lot of leadership, I see a lot of poise and ability to relate to the players. Those are a lot of good qualities right there."
Cooper, on what needed to be fixed in his tenure:
"We have to play with more excitement, more fire. This is not a criticism of anyone, but we have been really flat, particularly in the last week or so, and we need to pick it up. Sometimes, you just look at the team in general and things are just not clicking."
Ed Wade:
"I'm became very comfortable, very quickly being around Coop. I look forward to a long association."
Drayton:
"Cecil is a perfect fit for the managerial job based on his leadership and experience. We look forward to his influence on our team as we move forward on our quest to bring a World Series championship to Houston. We feel he is the most qualified person to help us accomplish that goal."
Cooper, on his strengths and weaknesses:
"I'm pretty comfortable with the players when it's just moving around with them and talking one-on-one. What I have difficulty with is when it's a big group. I struggle with that a little bit, but those are things I have to get through and work through. The more I do it, the better I'll get."
Berkman:
"Not that the manager has zero impact, but I think many times, the manager gets too much credit for success and too much blame for as poor a season as we're having."
Interestingly enough, Berkman said the exact same thing on Coop's departure.
Continue, Lance:
"He's been around a long time and, in my opinion, he's a borderline Hall of Fame player. He understands how a team works and what makes a team successful. I think he's deserving of a shot to be a manager. The fact that he was an outstanding player certainly helps when it comes to dealing with us in here. Cooper's been here as long as Phil has. We know him really well. I don't see it as going to be a really huge change in philosophy or way we're going to operate in the clubhouse. From that standpoint, the transition is not going to be a difficult one."
Chris Burke:
"I see a lot of leadership, I see a lot of poise and ability to relate to the players. Those are a lot of good qualities right there."
Cooper, on what needed to be fixed in his tenure:
"We have to play with more excitement, more fire. This is not a criticism of anyone, but we have been really flat, particularly in the last week or so, and we need to pick it up. Sometimes, you just look at the team in general and things are just not clicking."
Ed Wade:
"I'm became very comfortable, very quickly being around Coop. I look forward to a long association."
Drayton:
"Cecil is a perfect fit for the managerial job based on his leadership and experience. We look forward to his influence on our team as we move forward on our quest to bring a World Series championship to Houston. We feel he is the most qualified person to help us accomplish that goal."
Players like Dave Clark, until they throw him under the bus
McTaggart's new blog post tells us that the Astros players themselves like Dave Clark:
After talking with many players in the last few days, there is a tremendous amount of support for Dave Clark to take over the job on a full-time basis. I know Clark will be in the mix, but I see Ed Wade bringing someone from the outside. I don't think many people would have a problem with Clarkie, though.
After talking with many players in the last few days, there is a tremendous amount of support for Dave Clark to take over the job on a full-time basis. I know Clark will be in the mix, but I see Ed Wade bringing someone from the outside. I don't think many people would have a problem with Clarkie, though.
USA defeats Cuba, Castro gets a hit
Jason Castro got himself an RBI in a 5-3 win over Cuba, and will likely play Cuba again on Sunday for the Gold Medal
Roy will work out, then rest, then be fine
Roy got his second opinion in Dallas yesterday, and it was the same as the first opinion. Roy will exercise, rest, and be ready to join up in Kissimmee come February. Anyone worried about how this is something of a recurring issue?
Ed Wade talks in generalities
Richard Justice's article this morning discusses how Ed Wade will learn from the past to plan for the future (which, one who was a history major, pleases me).
Oh, and Justice also says that Easy Eddie and Tall Tal (I have no idea if he's tall or not, I just like the sound of it) begain considering to replace Coop before they fired him. Anyhow, Wade presented some of those candidates to Run-DMc on Wednesday:
"We just talked in generalities. But nothing of great consequence took place. I presented some names to (McLane) and Tal. We didn't get a lot of time to talk about it. It was really a first look at things. We'll continue to discuss names going forward. … We're in the process at this point of putting names together and establishing a criteria.”
What is he looking for?
“It's safe to say we would prefer to have a manager who has extensive experience at the minor league level or managerial experience at the major and minor league level. It's important with this selection to bring somebody in who has managerial experience. We're going to end up with a lot of candidates, people expressing interest. It's important for us to focus on guys who meet the criteria that we have set.”
Justice points out that this qualifies Dave Clark and Tim Bogar, who will come with a high recommendation from Terry Francona. But Wade also ends with a note of caution:
“No decision is going to be universally saluted. The exercise isn't to try to find a guy everybody embraces. That's mission impossible. The task is to find the right guy for our club today and the years to come.”
Oh, and Justice also says that Easy Eddie and Tall Tal (I have no idea if he's tall or not, I just like the sound of it) begain considering to replace Coop before they fired him. Anyhow, Wade presented some of those candidates to Run-DMc on Wednesday:
"We just talked in generalities. But nothing of great consequence took place. I presented some names to (McLane) and Tal. We didn't get a lot of time to talk about it. It was really a first look at things. We'll continue to discuss names going forward. … We're in the process at this point of putting names together and establishing a criteria.”
What is he looking for?
“It's safe to say we would prefer to have a manager who has extensive experience at the minor league level or managerial experience at the major and minor league level. It's important with this selection to bring somebody in who has managerial experience. We're going to end up with a lot of candidates, people expressing interest. It's important for us to focus on guys who meet the criteria that we have set.”
Justice points out that this qualifies Dave Clark and Tim Bogar, who will come with a high recommendation from Terry Francona. But Wade also ends with a note of caution:
“No decision is going to be universally saluted. The exercise isn't to try to find a guy everybody embraces. That's mission impossible. The task is to find the right guy for our club today and the years to come.”
Thursday, September 24, 2009
On winning streaks
The Astros, as you may well know, have only been able to string four wins together at a time. This is bad, as you well know.
The last time the Astros had a season in which their longest win streak was four or fewer games...? 1982.
What about all of Major League Baseball in 2009? Only one team has put together their longest win streaks of 4 games or fewer: Toronto. That's it. The Astros and Blue Jays have the shortest longest win streaks in all of baseball. And the Blue Jays currently have a three-game win streak going.
Even the Nationals had an eight game win streak. And just because the math is free here at Astros County, that means that the Nationals won 15.3% of their games in an eight-day span.
The last time the Astros had a season in which their longest win streak was four or fewer games...? 1982.
What about all of Major League Baseball in 2009? Only one team has put together their longest win streaks of 4 games or fewer: Toronto. That's it. The Astros and Blue Jays have the shortest longest win streaks in all of baseball. And the Blue Jays currently have a three-game win streak going.
Even the Nationals had an eight game win streak. And just because the math is free here at Astros County, that means that the Nationals won 15.3% of their games in an eight-day span.
Footer breaks down the candidates
Pure speculation on her part. Alyson Footer breaks them down in three groups:
Most Likely to Score an Interview
Jim Fregosi
Bobby Valentine
Manny Acta
Willie Randolph
Local Boys Who Don't Stand A Chance
Jeff Bagwell
Brad Ausmus
Craig Biggio
Jim Deshaies
Phil Garner
Interesting Options
Dave Clark
Bill Ripken (he's my vote, if only for the nickname possibilities)
Tim Bogar
Honorable Mention
Kirk Gibson
Tim Wallach
Most Likely to Score an Interview
Jim Fregosi
Bobby Valentine
Manny Acta
Willie Randolph
Local Boys Who Don't Stand A Chance
Jeff Bagwell
Brad Ausmus
Craig Biggio
Jim Deshaies
Phil Garner
Interesting Options
Dave Clark
Bill Ripken (he's my vote, if only for the nickname possibilities)
Tim Bogar
Honorable Mention
Kirk Gibson
Tim Wallach
Think you're having a tough day?
The Astros' coaching staff is probably worse.
Problem is, nobody knows who's coming back. And Easy Eddie told everyone to go ahead and start looking for jobs, if they want (which is like your landlord saying, "Go ahead and pack up, and you can leave if you want.").
Hitting coach Sean Berry:
"It's a tough time for us, because of the uncertainty. It's a tough time on your families and stuff like that. That's the worst part about this game. This is a pressure cooker up here. That's the unfortunate thing. You work to get to the top and over the years, there's probably been some warranted and some unwarranted decisions that are made, but that's the nature of the business. The problem is there are so few jobs. It's one of the tough things. I grew up with some of these kids that are now men, from Hunter [Pence] to all these guys, really. I would rather stay here the rest of my career, but that's tough to do. There are few situations in baseball where it happens, and those are some of the most successful situations."
1st base/outfielder coach Jose Cruz:
"I'm going to wait just like everybody else and see what happens. I've been here 13 years [as a coach]. This is a tough job, and I'm just happy doing what I'm doing, coaching the outfielders and coaching first base."
Pitching coach Dewey Robinson:
"I guess it's just part of the business. There are rewards for having a job like this. It's very rewarding, but at the same time, you know it can be very temporary, so you just try to take the good with the bad. All I'm trying to do is get my name out there in case I don't come back, so that I do land on my feet. I've got to pay bills. I hope I get a chance to come back, but I also understand the uncertainty of things where the manager should have the right to hire his own pitching coach and hitting coach, because those are very important positions. I'm very thankful to Ed and Tal and Coop for giving me a chance in his position... I'm glad my wife has a full-time job.
Problem is, nobody knows who's coming back. And Easy Eddie told everyone to go ahead and start looking for jobs, if they want (which is like your landlord saying, "Go ahead and pack up, and you can leave if you want.").
Hitting coach Sean Berry:
"It's a tough time for us, because of the uncertainty. It's a tough time on your families and stuff like that. That's the worst part about this game. This is a pressure cooker up here. That's the unfortunate thing. You work to get to the top and over the years, there's probably been some warranted and some unwarranted decisions that are made, but that's the nature of the business. The problem is there are so few jobs. It's one of the tough things. I grew up with some of these kids that are now men, from Hunter [Pence] to all these guys, really. I would rather stay here the rest of my career, but that's tough to do. There are few situations in baseball where it happens, and those are some of the most successful situations."
1st base/outfielder coach Jose Cruz:
"I'm going to wait just like everybody else and see what happens. I've been here 13 years [as a coach]. This is a tough job, and I'm just happy doing what I'm doing, coaching the outfielders and coaching first base."
Pitching coach Dewey Robinson:
"I guess it's just part of the business. There are rewards for having a job like this. It's very rewarding, but at the same time, you know it can be very temporary, so you just try to take the good with the bad. All I'm trying to do is get my name out there in case I don't come back, so that I do land on my feet. I've got to pay bills. I hope I get a chance to come back, but I also understand the uncertainty of things where the manager should have the right to hire his own pitching coach and hitting coach, because those are very important positions. I'm very thankful to Ed and Tal and Coop for giving me a chance in his position... I'm glad my wife has a full-time job.
Off-Day Polling
So we're taking stock of the Astros organization in the final off-day of the 2009 season. Some of you may have answered the Drayton McLane approval poll, and I'll ask you to do it again, with some other approvals/disapprovals to hand out.
Armando Benitez released
I didn't even see this, and I was paying attention. The Astros have released Armando Benitez.
Benitez signed with the Astros last month, and I thought he may be in the mix for the closer spot in the Spring once Valverde sods off somewhere else. I thought wrong.
Benitez signed with the Astros last month, and I thought he may be in the mix for the closer spot in the Spring once Valverde sods off somewhere else. I thought wrong.
Stark busts on JJO
In his Rumblings and Grumblings column, Stark says this:
Any speculation you hear about the next manager in Houston is going to be all guesswork, because the Astros don't even have a shopping list yet.
This in stark contrast to JJO's posit that there is a 2+ page list. Keep reading, please:
The vibe, from folks who have spoken to the Houston brass, is that the Astros strongly prefer a manager with experience. So here's some guesswork from this bleacher seat: Don't discount Jim Fregosi, who has interviewed in Houston before and has ties to Wade from their days together in Philly.
Meanwhile, how did Coop keep his job for so long?
It's become more and more clear that only owner Drayton McLane stood in the way of Cooper getting fired months ago. Astros players have told friends that at least one player went to McLane as long ago as spring training to tell him Cooper had lost the clubhouse. And there have been indications the baseball people wanted to change managers in May, but McLane wouldn't sign off on it. (Emphasis his).
Who has that close a relationship with McLane? Roy. Lance. Maybe someone else, but I doubt it. This doesn't look good for Run-DMc, but at least I'm confident that the next manager might outlast Wade.
Any speculation you hear about the next manager in Houston is going to be all guesswork, because the Astros don't even have a shopping list yet.
This in stark contrast to JJO's posit that there is a 2+ page list. Keep reading, please:
The vibe, from folks who have spoken to the Houston brass, is that the Astros strongly prefer a manager with experience. So here's some guesswork from this bleacher seat: Don't discount Jim Fregosi, who has interviewed in Houston before and has ties to Wade from their days together in Philly.
Meanwhile, how did Coop keep his job for so long?
It's become more and more clear that only owner Drayton McLane stood in the way of Cooper getting fired months ago. Astros players have told friends that at least one player went to McLane as long ago as spring training to tell him Cooper had lost the clubhouse. And there have been indications the baseball people wanted to change managers in May, but McLane wouldn't sign off on it. (Emphasis his).
Who has that close a relationship with McLane? Roy. Lance. Maybe someone else, but I doubt it. This doesn't look good for Run-DMc, but at least I'm confident that the next manager might outlast Wade.
As expected, Astros still have worst Organizational Ranking
Baseball America came out with its minor league Organizational Standings for 2009.
Predictably, the Astros ranked 30th with a cumulative .420 winning percentage (320-442). But with a disclaimer:
Intuitively, it would seem a more difficult task for an organization to stock seven minor league clubs with talent. And we see that only the Mariners among the lucky seven managed to crack the top half of the standings. Note that the Astros and Rays each added a GCL affiliate for this season.
The newly formed GCL Astros had the 2nd-worst winning percentage in all of minor league baseball at 18-38, and the Tri-City ValleyCats clocked in at 6th-worst with a 27-48 record.
Predictably, the Astros ranked 30th with a cumulative .420 winning percentage (320-442). But with a disclaimer:
Intuitively, it would seem a more difficult task for an organization to stock seven minor league clubs with talent. And we see that only the Mariners among the lucky seven managed to crack the top half of the standings. Note that the Astros and Rays each added a GCL affiliate for this season.
The newly formed GCL Astros had the 2nd-worst winning percentage in all of minor league baseball at 18-38, and the Tri-City ValleyCats clocked in at 6th-worst with a 27-48 record.
How many managers fit on a two-page list?
Because Ed Wade's list of managerial candidates apparently runs more than two pages.
And in the first paragraph of the story, Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan denied any interest - at least until the season ends. Duncan:
“My interest right now is to be the best pitching coach for the St. Louis Cardinals for the remainder of the season and through the postseason. I don’t really want to get distracted with anything that’s going to take away from that. I’m just going to concentrate on doing my job right now and finishing the season...
...Earlier in my career, I think I had a desire to manage more than I do now. I don’t think that you go into the job like that without making a really strong commitment. And usually it has to have some length to it. So my interest right now — you know, I’ve been around a long time, and I don’t know whether I’d have the same desire to make that type of commitment than I might have in years past.”
With a two-page-plus list, I would imagine that every bench, 3rd base, and pitching coach is on Wade's Pro/Con list.
And in the first paragraph of the story, Cardinals pitching coach Dave Duncan denied any interest - at least until the season ends. Duncan:
“My interest right now is to be the best pitching coach for the St. Louis Cardinals for the remainder of the season and through the postseason. I don’t really want to get distracted with anything that’s going to take away from that. I’m just going to concentrate on doing my job right now and finishing the season...
...Earlier in my career, I think I had a desire to manage more than I do now. I don’t think that you go into the job like that without making a really strong commitment. And usually it has to have some length to it. So my interest right now — you know, I’ve been around a long time, and I don’t know whether I’d have the same desire to make that type of commitment than I might have in years past.”
With a two-page-plus list, I would imagine that every bench, 3rd base, and pitching coach is on Wade's Pro/Con list.
I wonder if Towles was afraid of getting punched in the face
So this is what Clark means by providing some leadership (and I like it). Clark pulled Towles aside after Tuesday's game for not checking the runner at 3rd base before throwing to second. Let's let JJO set the scene for us:
Down 2-0 with a man on third, Yorman Bazardo threw a pitch in the dirt to Matt Holliday, prompting Pujols to take off to second. With Colby Rasmus primed to break home from third, Towles attempted to throw Pujols out at second.
Pujols then hesitated and extended a rundown between first and second base long enough to let Rasmus score before the Astros finally tagged Pujols out to end the inning.
Dave Clark:
“I explained to J.R. (Tuesday) night, and so did Eddie (Romero), in a situation like that when you first come up, when a catcher comes up to throw is to peek at third base. (Tuesday) night if he had peeked he would have realized the guy was off third base quite a bit. He could have probably gotten the out at third. That was taken care of as well. I was that young player before. And I made some mistakes, physical and mental. When I had a manager or coach come up to explain to me, I made sure it didn't happen again. Those are things that you never forget.”
-
We also read that JJO seems to have taken exception to Pam Gardner laughed off "blatant false advertising" (JJO's incarnate words, not mine) for not taking more swift action to prevent Spanish-language radio stations from running ads that the Astros were playing the Rojos de Cincinnati, and not the Medias Rojas (de Boston).
Gardner initially joked that it was to get more fans in the seats (funny), but JJO got all huffy (not funny), getting an apology from Gardner. Maybe Gardner just figured that Spanish-speaking Astros fans were smart enough to realize that there was no possible way the Red Sox would be playing in Houston in the last two weeks of the regular season. Just a guess.
Down 2-0 with a man on third, Yorman Bazardo threw a pitch in the dirt to Matt Holliday, prompting Pujols to take off to second. With Colby Rasmus primed to break home from third, Towles attempted to throw Pujols out at second.
Pujols then hesitated and extended a rundown between first and second base long enough to let Rasmus score before the Astros finally tagged Pujols out to end the inning.
Dave Clark:
“I explained to J.R. (Tuesday) night, and so did Eddie (Romero), in a situation like that when you first come up, when a catcher comes up to throw is to peek at third base. (Tuesday) night if he had peeked he would have realized the guy was off third base quite a bit. He could have probably gotten the out at third. That was taken care of as well. I was that young player before. And I made some mistakes, physical and mental. When I had a manager or coach come up to explain to me, I made sure it didn't happen again. Those are things that you never forget.”
-
We also read that JJO seems to have taken exception to Pam Gardner laughed off "blatant false advertising" (JJO's incarnate words, not mine) for not taking more swift action to prevent Spanish-language radio stations from running ads that the Astros were playing the Rojos de Cincinnati, and not the Medias Rojas (de Boston).
Gardner initially joked that it was to get more fans in the seats (funny), but JJO got all huffy (not funny), getting an apology from Gardner. Maybe Gardner just figured that Spanish-speaking Astros fans were smart enough to realize that there was no possible way the Red Sox would be playing in Houston in the last two weeks of the regular season. Just a guess.
Recap for G152 - Cardinals at Astros
This is the first time I've seen the Astros in the first five minutes of SportsCenter, in which we learned that the Cardinals had to make room in the clubhouse for 25 cases of champagne. Good news is that the Korbel has to stay on ice for another day, and the Cardinals will have to wait for a little while, Dave Clark got his first managerial win, and the Astros avoided their first ten-game losing streak since 2007 with the 3-0 win over St. Louis.
Let's do the thing:
Norris: 6IP, 6H/0ER, 3K:2BB, 14/24 first-pitch strikes, 27/61 non-contact strikes (12called:15 swinging)
Fulchino: 1IP, 3K, 2/3 FPS, 7/9 NCS (4c:3s)
LaHawk: 1IP, 1H, 3/4 FPS, 6/11 NCS (5c:1s)
Valverde: 1IP, 2K:1BB, 2/4 FPS, 6/12 NCS (4c:2s)
Norris, obviously, was effective, especially at limiting damage. He only had one 1-2-3 inning (the 5th), and the Cardinals had a runner on second in each of the first three innings, and The Troof got out of it with nary a runner advancing to third.
The bullpen got their crap together, at least for one night, allowing just one hit and a walk in three innings - with Fulchino getting three swinging strikeouts in one inning. And I'll look forward to seeing him in 2010.
Yes yes, the Astros won. However, they still only scratched out three runs. And in this little 1-9 stretch, the Astros have only scored 23 runs. Of their six hits, Tejada and Lee provided two hits each, with Matsui and Norris getting the other two. The Astros were 3x11 with RISP (Tejada, Lee, Norris). That said, Carlos Lee's two RBI put him at 98 for the season, and he should be the only Astro - by a long shot - with 100 RBI this season.
Brutal note: J.R. Towles was 0x2, and is now 1x21 in September, for an .048 average.
Man of the Match: Bud Norris. Did what no other pitcher has been able to do in this little stretch - be (mostly) perfect. The only way the Astros were going to win another game this season was if the other team didn't score a single solitary run, and that's what The Troof did.
Goat of the Game: I think this one's going to Hunter Pence. 0x3 with a walk, and three strikeouts, ending the inning twice. Pence, while hitting .311 in Setpember, has three hits in his last 17 ABs.
Let's do the thing:
Norris: 6IP, 6H/0ER, 3K:2BB, 14/24 first-pitch strikes, 27/61 non-contact strikes (12called:15 swinging)
Fulchino: 1IP, 3K, 2/3 FPS, 7/9 NCS (4c:3s)
LaHawk: 1IP, 1H, 3/4 FPS, 6/11 NCS (5c:1s)
Valverde: 1IP, 2K:1BB, 2/4 FPS, 6/12 NCS (4c:2s)
Norris, obviously, was effective, especially at limiting damage. He only had one 1-2-3 inning (the 5th), and the Cardinals had a runner on second in each of the first three innings, and The Troof got out of it with nary a runner advancing to third.
The bullpen got their crap together, at least for one night, allowing just one hit and a walk in three innings - with Fulchino getting three swinging strikeouts in one inning. And I'll look forward to seeing him in 2010.
Yes yes, the Astros won. However, they still only scratched out three runs. And in this little 1-9 stretch, the Astros have only scored 23 runs. Of their six hits, Tejada and Lee provided two hits each, with Matsui and Norris getting the other two. The Astros were 3x11 with RISP (Tejada, Lee, Norris). That said, Carlos Lee's two RBI put him at 98 for the season, and he should be the only Astro - by a long shot - with 100 RBI this season.
Brutal note: J.R. Towles was 0x2, and is now 1x21 in September, for an .048 average.
Man of the Match: Bud Norris. Did what no other pitcher has been able to do in this little stretch - be (mostly) perfect. The only way the Astros were going to win another game this season was if the other team didn't score a single solitary run, and that's what The Troof did.
Goat of the Game: I think this one's going to Hunter Pence. 0x3 with a walk, and three strikeouts, ending the inning twice. Pence, while hitting .311 in Setpember, has three hits in his last 17 ABs.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Update on earlier post
Earlier today Asher Chancey of the Dugout Doctors wrote a post detailing the ten reasons Cooper got fired. I ripped it apart. After writing this post, I started to think, "Maybe this was sarcasm," and did some checking. After all, most of the reasons had to do with Ed Wade.
Turns out, after trading some emails with Mr. Chancey, it was sarcasm. And do you know what that means? That is the most genius post I've seen in quite some time. I hereby apologize for my insolence.
Turns out, after trading some emails with Mr. Chancey, it was sarcasm. And do you know what that means? That is the most genius post I've seen in quite some time. I hereby apologize for my insolence.
Jose Cruz doesn't want to manage these guys
Brian McTaggart is tweeting that Jose Cruz doesn't want to manage the Astros, and he's content being the first-base coach.
It's a pretty easy gig, after all. You really only have to talk to Lance once a game. Bourn, maybe twice.
It's a pretty easy gig, after all. You really only have to talk to Lance once a game. Bourn, maybe twice.
Want to go fishing with LaHawk?
Well, you can!
Go to the Academy on the Northwest Freeway (290 before FM1960) between 6pm-7pm, get an autograph (and get a picture with a Proof of Citizenship. I'll be your best friend), and register for one of five trips to Hawk's Big League Bass Classic benefiting Lifeline Youth and Family Services.
If a Citizen wins, please please please get pictures.
Go to the Academy on the Northwest Freeway (290 before FM1960) between 6pm-7pm, get an autograph (and get a picture with a Proof of Citizenship. I'll be your best friend), and register for one of five trips to Hawk's Big League Bass Classic benefiting Lifeline Youth and Family Services.
If a Citizen wins, please please please get pictures.
Lineup for G152 - Cardinals at Astros
This is the lineup that lost the season for the Astros, and this is the Astros that will help the Cardinals clinch the NL Central:
Bourn CF
Tejada SS
Berkman 1B
Lee LF
Blum 3B
Pence RF
Matsui 2B
Towles C
Norris P
Funny story. True story. The tweet to which I have linked has all names/positions running together - no punctuation (which, in a 140-character limit, is excusable). So when I first saw this, I read it "2B Towles." And I immediately hammered out a 1,500 word post on how monumental this development is. Thankfully, I proofread, and check my source twice. Then I noticed. I might just post it, anyway...
Bourn CF
Tejada SS
Berkman 1B
Lee LF
Blum 3B
Pence RF
Matsui 2B
Towles C
Norris P
Funny story. True story. The tweet to which I have linked has all names/positions running together - no punctuation (which, in a 140-character limit, is excusable). So when I first saw this, I read it "2B Towles." And I immediately hammered out a 1,500 word post on how monumental this development is. Thankfully, I proofread, and check my source twice. Then I noticed. I might just post it, anyway...
Justice takes the stand as a character witness
Justice's morning blog post offers some defense of Drayton McLane. Some nuggets as to what Run-DMc got wrong:
-Cecil Cooper should have been fired months ago. Drayton knew this guy was a disaster both in the clubhouse and on the field, and yet because he wanted to try and be fair, he couldn't bring himself to do it.
-Not understanding Gerry Hunsicker's importance to the franchise. I'm not sure whether he fired Gerry or shoved him toward the door, but this was a bad day for the Astros. On the other hand, there's plenty of blame to go around. Bad relationships are a two-way street. They'd come to despise one another.
-Instead of understanding that the Astros needed a full-scale overhaul, he tried to patch it together and keep the franchise competitive. He had the money to spend, so he spent it. In hindsight, Carlos Lee, Miguel Tejada, Woody Williams, Pudge Rodriguez, Mike Hampton, Russ Ortiz, Kaz Matsui and Jason Jennings were all mistakes. But the Astros didn't have major league talent available and they wanted to stay competitive.
So what are the lessons Justice alleges Drayton has learned?
I think they've gotten Drayton to understand the importance of player development. In the past, he might have thought spending $1 million on draft pick was foolish, but spending $100 million on Carlos Lee was smart. Now he understands the opposite is true.
He can also look at the Astros and understand there needs to be larger thinking, a big-picture approach. Everything begins with the farm system, and while it's right to give Tommy Manzella, Chris Johnson and Jason Castro an opportunity to play next year, there's no guarantee they'll be any good. There's also no choice.
So the question lies in the approval rating of Astros County:
-Cecil Cooper should have been fired months ago. Drayton knew this guy was a disaster both in the clubhouse and on the field, and yet because he wanted to try and be fair, he couldn't bring himself to do it.
-Not understanding Gerry Hunsicker's importance to the franchise. I'm not sure whether he fired Gerry or shoved him toward the door, but this was a bad day for the Astros. On the other hand, there's plenty of blame to go around. Bad relationships are a two-way street. They'd come to despise one another.
-Instead of understanding that the Astros needed a full-scale overhaul, he tried to patch it together and keep the franchise competitive. He had the money to spend, so he spent it. In hindsight, Carlos Lee, Miguel Tejada, Woody Williams, Pudge Rodriguez, Mike Hampton, Russ Ortiz, Kaz Matsui and Jason Jennings were all mistakes. But the Astros didn't have major league talent available and they wanted to stay competitive.
So what are the lessons Justice alleges Drayton has learned?
I think they've gotten Drayton to understand the importance of player development. In the past, he might have thought spending $1 million on draft pick was foolish, but spending $100 million on Carlos Lee was smart. Now he understands the opposite is true.
He can also look at the Astros and understand there needs to be larger thinking, a big-picture approach. Everything begins with the farm system, and while it's right to give Tommy Manzella, Chris Johnson and Jason Castro an opportunity to play next year, there's no guarantee they'll be any good. There's also no choice.
So the question lies in the approval rating of Astros County:
Jim Caple provides a reason to keep watching the Astros
In a highly entertaining look at why we should keep following the non-contenders, Caple gives us reason to watch the Brick Red:
There may be only 11 days left in the season, but that means Houston could still change managers 11 times, and maybe more if someone doesn't look good taking out the lineup card.
There may be only 11 days left in the season, but that means Houston could still change managers 11 times, and maybe more if someone doesn't look good taking out the lineup card.
Profile on Sean Barksdale
Temple Grad and Astros' prospect Sean Barksdale had a nice little write-up in the local paper, following surgery on a torn meniscus.
Barksdale, on Draft Day - specifically, the 38th round:
“I was biting my nails hoping someone would take me until I got picked. The Astros called me right after I saw my name. It was exciting. I didn’t care about the round. I didn’t care what round I was chosen in or with what pick. I didn’t care about the team. As a senior, you have no leverage. I just wanted to play. I knew I was signing right away.”
What's it like, going from college to the minors?
“It’s like extended college, and not just because of the food. You’re living on your own. You’re traveling for games, though the bus rides aren’t too bad for the New York-Penn League because the longest trips are from New York to Maryland or Massachusetts. You’re living in an apartment with two or three other guys. The game’s just faster, and everyone here is as good as you or better. It’s about development, not necessarily about the numbers.”
Temple coach Rob Valli:
“It’s easier to get drafted than it is to get to the Big Leagues. The toughest thing is the fact that for the first time in your career, you don’t get to play every day. The teams rotate their lineups and play different people in different games because they’re not necessarily concerned with winning games. They’re trying to develop young players. But Sean has the mental toughness to handle his injury and the grind of a Minor League season, and he can put together some big numbers.”
How's that knee?
“It’s a little sore right now, but I’m recovering. I still don’t really know how I injured it. I was just warming up before a game, and it locked on me. But the doctors said there’s no way I tore it that day, that it had to have torn before then. Once I’ve recovered, I’ll go work out and go hit with the guys at Temple.”
Barksdale, on Draft Day - specifically, the 38th round:
“I was biting my nails hoping someone would take me until I got picked. The Astros called me right after I saw my name. It was exciting. I didn’t care about the round. I didn’t care what round I was chosen in or with what pick. I didn’t care about the team. As a senior, you have no leverage. I just wanted to play. I knew I was signing right away.”
What's it like, going from college to the minors?
“It’s like extended college, and not just because of the food. You’re living on your own. You’re traveling for games, though the bus rides aren’t too bad for the New York-Penn League because the longest trips are from New York to Maryland or Massachusetts. You’re living in an apartment with two or three other guys. The game’s just faster, and everyone here is as good as you or better. It’s about development, not necessarily about the numbers.”
Temple coach Rob Valli:
“It’s easier to get drafted than it is to get to the Big Leagues. The toughest thing is the fact that for the first time in your career, you don’t get to play every day. The teams rotate their lineups and play different people in different games because they’re not necessarily concerned with winning games. They’re trying to develop young players. But Sean has the mental toughness to handle his injury and the grind of a Minor League season, and he can put together some big numbers.”
How's that knee?
“It’s a little sore right now, but I’m recovering. I still don’t really know how I injured it. I was just warming up before a game, and it locked on me. But the doctors said there’s no way I tore it that day, that it had to have torn before then. Once I’ve recovered, I’ll go work out and go hit with the guys at Temple.”
Reddehasse called up to Round Rock
Who is this Garrett Reddehasse? Well, formerly, he was the award-winning Texas League Turf Manager of the Year, field superintendent at Whataburger Field in Corpus Christi.
Now he's the field manager at Dell Diamond in Round Rock. Congrulations, Garrett.
Now he's the field manager at Dell Diamond in Round Rock. Congrulations, Garrett.
Bourn "one to watch"
Fine journalism from USA Today in which they break down the players to watch in 2010. Michael Bourn made this list:
Michael Bourn has benefited from a .372 average on balls in play, but that alone can't explain an improvement of more than 60 points in batting average from last season. And, of course, he leads the league in stolen bases.
Michael Bourn has benefited from a .372 average on balls in play, but that alone can't explain an improvement of more than 60 points in batting average from last season. And, of course, he leads the league in stolen bases.
Tanner Bushue is Prospect #9
Captip to Zach Levine, Baseball America announced their Top 20 prospects in the Gulf Coast League.
The Astros' 2nd round pick, Tanner Bushue (shut down with stress fractures in his back), made the list at #9.
The Astros' 2nd round pick, Tanner Bushue (shut down with stress fractures in his back), made the list at #9.
Olney on the next Astros manager
Buster Olney chimes in with a take on the Astros' managerial situation:
I don't know who the right choice would be, but I do think this: both Buck Showalter and Bobby Valentine would be strong choices, because they would come with established credibility and generate interest in the team, at a time when the Astros are probably going to need at least a two-year cycle of restructuring because of budget issues. Jeff Bagwell has always been known as a tremendous person, but I don't know how any team can hire someone as manager without knowing he can handle a pitching staff, which is arguably the most important thing that a skipper does.
I don't know who the right choice would be, but I do think this: both Buck Showalter and Bobby Valentine would be strong choices, because they would come with established credibility and generate interest in the team, at a time when the Astros are probably going to need at least a two-year cycle of restructuring because of budget issues. Jeff Bagwell has always been known as a tremendous person, but I don't know how any team can hire someone as manager without knowing he can handle a pitching staff, which is arguably the most important thing that a skipper does.
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