What the Heck, Bobby?

Spring Training Schedule - Game 5

2012-03-07T05:54:00.001-06:00

Wednesday's Game: Astros (3-1) @ Phillies (2-2) at 12:05 CST
Broadcast: KBME 790 at 12:00 CST & MLB.TV at 12:00 CST
MLB Network on delay at 1:00 a.m. CST on Thursday
Probable Starters: Bud Norris (HOU) vs. Vance Worley (PHI)

Tuesday's Results: Houston over New York Mets 4-1
Winning Pitcher: Wandy Rodriguez, HOU (1-0, 0.00)
Losing Pitcher: Chris Schwinden, NYM (0-1, 4.50)
Save: Wilton Lopez, HOU (2, 0.00)
Home Runs: B. Snyder, HOU (1); C. Snyder, HOU (2)

Minor League Player of the Game: Chris Wallace, who got a hit in his first (and so far only) at-bat of the spring

Happy Birthday - 3/7

2012-03-07T05:54:00.000-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP J.R. Richard (62)
Richard was the Astros 1st round pick (2nd overall) in 1969 and pitched for Houston from 1971 to 1980. When Richard hit his stride, he dominated - leading the National League in ERA in 1979 and leading in strikeouts in 1978 and 1979 with 303 and 313, respectively. He was 3rd in Cy Young voting in 1979 behind Bruce Sutter and Joe Niekro. He was at the peak of his abilities in his 1980 All-Star season with a 10-4 record and a 1.90 ERA and 0.924 WHIP over 17 starts when he was felled by a stroke on July 30th of that year. He was never able to recover his prior success. For more on the fascinating story of J.R. Richard, see his Wikipedia page.

RHP Jose Cano (50)
Cano pitched in 6 games for Houston in 1989, going 1-1 with a 5.09 ERA and a 1.348 WHIP. Cano is father of Robinson Cano. The elder Cano pitched to Robinson in the 2011 Home Run Derby and helped him to win the crown.

IF Jeff Kent (44)
Having signed as a free agent by Houston in December of 2002, Kent played 2B for Houston in 2003 and 2004, hitting .293/.350/.521/.870. Kent was a five-time All-Star and the National League MVP in 2000 while playing for the Giants. He is most remembered by Astros fans for this.

Tweet of the Day

2012-03-07T05:53:00.000-06:00

Josh Zeid ‏ @Josh_Zeid14

Good morning world! How are you guys celebrating your march 6?? I get to wake up and throw a baseball for a living #doesitgetbetterthanthat

Spring Training Schedule - Game 4

2012-03-06T06:07:00.000-06:00

Tuesday's Game Time: Astros (2-1) vs. Mets (0-1) at 12:05 CST
Broadcast: KBME 790 at 12:00 CST
Probable Starters: Wandy Rodriguez (HOU) vs. Chris Schwinden (NYM)

Monday's Results: Atlanta over Houston 10-5
Winning Pitcher: Todd Redmond (ATL)
Losing Pitcher: Rhiner Cruz (HOU)
Home Runs: ATL - Uggla (1)

Minor League Player of the Game: Jonathan Villar had two walks, which is huge for someone who had 54 walks to 156 strikeouts last season. Now, if he can just get some hits to go with the walks ...

Jordan's Journey Continues

2012-03-06T06:06:00.001-06:00

[Note from What the Heck: Jordan Comadena, a catcher in the Astros minor league organization, is going to guest blog for us throughout the season about life in the minor leagues. If you missed it, his last entry is here.]

It’s been too long since my last post. Today was my first official day of minor league pitchers and catcher’s spring training. Let me fill you in on how I got here.

The last time I wrote, I was finalizing all my equipment and making my plans to get to Florida. My wonderful agent, John Shinn, got me all taken care of in terms of equipment. I am always very grateful and appreciative of the work he does for me. With my bags all packed up, I got on the road to Florida on February 21^st. With the drive being close to 19 hours I break it up into two days of driving. On day one I go about 11 hours to Stockbridge, Georgia. It is a nice exit right off the interstate where I get a hotel and get some sleep. An early start on the 22^nd got me to my destination in Florida around one in the afternoon. This year I drove to Port Saint Lucie first and stayed with teammate Robert Donovan for a few days. He threw a bullpen to me and we were able to workout together each day.

Last Saturday I came to Kissimmee and got settled in to the complex. I got my locker set up and got my first workout in. Since I was in town early I had to find my own place to stay, so my former teammates Brandon Barnes and Kyle Greenwalt were kind enough to let me stay with them and their families for the week. Brandon is currently in big league camp.

My week of early workouts went great. I was able to get in and take a lot of batting practice, do a lot of catching drills and get my work done in the weight room. I was also able to catch a number of different pitchers that had reported early to camp. It’s very beneficial for the pitchers as well as for me to get them going off the mound.

Today was the first day of minor league spring training. All the pitchers and catchers are in camp. I am all settled in to my hotel room with my roommate Kirk Clark. The first day included physicals, testing, meetings and a long workout. Half of the 80 pitchers in camp threw pens, I took BP, hit in the cages, and ran my conditioning test. Needless to say, I will sleep very well tonight. The next three days will be much of the same. I will catch a lot of bullpens and take a lot of batting practice. It is important to listen to your body, get your rest and stay hydrated. The first week of camp always takes a toll on your body regardless of how much you workout in the offseason. It’s great to be back in the swing of things and I now look forward to the rest of the position players getting here.

Jordan Comadena

March 3rd

Happy Birthday - 3/6

2012-03-06T06:06:00.000-06:00

RF Adam Bailey (24)
Drafted out of the University of Nebraska in the 23rd round in 2010, Bailey moved quickly through the system in 2011. In 79 games in Lexington, he hit .282 before moving on to Lancaster, where he hit .289 in 30 games, and then ended the season by hitting .323 in 23 games in Corpus Christi. He was second only to Kody Hinze in home runs (24) and RBI's (95) in the Astros minor league system, while also hitting 24 doubles. I'd like to see him walk a little more and strike out a little less, but all-in-all, his 2011 season was a success by any measure. I'd hoped to have an interview with Adam ready for today, but he left for Florida sooner than I expected. I should have something in the next few days.

One former Astro with a birthday today ~

SS Clint Barmes (33)
Originally drafted by the Colorado Rockies in 2000, Barmes was obtained in a trade with Colorado in November of 2010 for RHP Felipe Paulino. In one season with the Astros in 2011, he had a batting line of .244/.312/.386/.698 over 123 games. Barmes signed with Pittsburgh as a free agent in November of 2011.

Tweet of the Day

2012-03-06T06:05:00.000-06:00

Evan Grills ‏ @EvanGrills

Threw my first bullpen today feels great to be outside! #boysofthesummer

~~~~~~~
I bet it did feel great to be outside. At the time that Evan tweeted this, Weather.com reported this as the current temperature in his hometown of Whitby, Ontario:

Fair
23°F
Feels Like: 12°

Spring Training Schedule - Game 3

2012-03-05T05:39:00.000-06:00

Monday's Game Time: Astros (2-0) vs. Atlanta (0-2) at 12:05 CST
Broadcast: KBME 790 at 12:00 CST
Probable Starters: RHP Jordan Lyles (HOU) vs. RHP Jair Jurrjens (ATL)

Sunday's Results: Astros over Washington 10-2
Winning Pitcher: J.A. Happ
Losing Pitcher: Stephen Strasburg
Home Runs: HOU - Chris Snyder (1), J.D. Martinez (1), Fernando Martinez (1)

Minor League Player of the Game: Jacob Goebbert for a terrific diving catch in the bottom of the 9th to rob Rendon of a hit (and because the bone-headed announcers misidentified Goebbert even though the cameraman clearly showed the name on his back at least three times after he made the play)

WTH 25-Man Roster - Final Outfielder

2012-03-05T05:38:00.000-06:00

As posted over the weekend, RHP Jack Armstrong became the 23rd player and final relief pitcher to be named to the WTH Roster. Runners-up were Jason Chowning, Jorge de Leon, Mitchell Lambson, Pat Urkfitz, Jason Stoffel, Ebert Rosario, Xavier Cedeno and Josh Zeid. For more on the WTH 25-Man Roster, go here.

Next, let's pick our final outfielder. This list is comprised of all those receiving votes in the last round of voting as runners-up to winner Domingo Santana. My choice for this position would be Austin Wates, hands down. Not only did he have a great, consistent season, but he also played at all three outfield positions. A case could also be made for Emilio King who is rumored to have an outstanding arm (although he has to cut down on the strikeouts) and Jake Goebbert, a left-handed bat with numbers that are very similar to Austin Wates, who has played both left field and right field. And, of course, we shouldn't forget about the up and coming Teoscar Hernandez, a possible five-tool prospect!

With all that said, here are the 2011 stats for the players. Look them over and vote.

Happy Birthday - 3/5

2012-03-05T05:35:00.001-06:00

LHP Steven Dennison (23)
Dennison was drafted by the Marlins in 2010 and failed to sign so the Astros picked him up as a NDFA in 2011. The big (6'7" 225 lbs.) lefty made 14 appearances for the GCL Astros in 2011 with an 0-1 record, a 3.93 ERA and a 1.582 WHIP. He struggled in June, but in July and August he improved to a 2.30 ERA and a 1.404 WHIP. Dennison is the son of Texans offensive coordinator and former Broncos linebacker Rick Dennison.

1B/3B Mike Hessman (34)
Originally drafted by Atlanta in the 15th round in 1996, Hessman signed a minor league contract as a free agent with the Astros February 2, 2012. He has played parts of 5 seasons in the major leagues, most recently with the Mets in 2010. He played in Japan in 2011.

One former Astro with a birthday today ~

CF Brian Hunter (41)
A second draft round pick for the Astros, Brian started his major league career in Houston (1994-1996) and ended it in Houston (2002-2003), but played for five other teams in between. He had a .278/.314/.377/.691 batting line in 370 games for Houston. His best season at the plate was 1995 when he hit .302 in 78 games. Per Baseball-Reference, he was part of this trade to Detroit in December of 1996:

December 10, 1996: Traded by the Houston Astros with Doug Brocail, Todd Jones, Orlando Miller and cash to the Detroit Tigersfor Brad Ausmus, Jose Lima, Trever Miller, C.J. Nitkowski and Daryle Ward.

He led the American League in stolen bases in 1997 and 1999.

Tweets of the Day

2012-03-05T05:35:00.000-06:00

Kevin Gonzalez ‏ @Kevin__Gonzalez

First day in the books. Conditioning test almost killed me lol

Joe Witkowski ‏ @Joey_Wit

First day of camp in the books, good day on the field with the guys. Nice to see some familar faces and meet a lot of new people as well.

Alex Sogard ‏ @ASoggyBottom

Great first day at the office. Good seeing all the guys again!#SpringTraining #

Ryan Cole ‏ @rycole1024

Got a sun burn today #day1

Bubby Williams ‏ @Bubwilliams12

Day 1 done. Felt good to be in the sun and have the uni on again#SpringTraining

Adrian Houser ‏ @AdrianHouser12

Good first day.. First pen tomorrow. #pumped

Spring Training Schedule - Game 2

2012-03-04T07:05:00.000-06:00

Sunday's Game Time: Astros @ Nationals at 12:05 CST
Broadcast: KTRH 740 at 11:50 CST & MLB.TV at 12:00 CST
MLB Network on delay at 3:00 CST
Probable Starters: J.A. Happ (HOU) vs. Stephen Strasburg (WSN)
Record: Astros Spring Training Record 1-0

Saturday's Results: Houston over Washington 3-1
Winning Pitcher: Kyle Weiland, HOU (1-0, 0.00)
Losing Pitcher: Ross Detwiler, WSN (0-1, 9.00)
Save: Wilton Lopez, HOU (1, 0.00)
Home Runs: Chris Johnson, HOU (1)

WTH 25-Man Roster

2012-03-04T07:04:00.002-06:00

The 23rd player and Final Relief Pitcher selected for the What the Heck 25-Man Roster was RHP Jack Armstrong. Also receiving votes were Jason Chowning, Jorge de Leon, Mitchell Lambson, Pat Urkfitz, Jason Stoffel, Ebert Rosario, Xavier Cedeno and Josh Zeid. (For more information on the WTH 25-Man Roster, go here.)

Coming Monday - Let's pick our final Outfielder.

Happy Birthday - 3/4

2012-03-04T07:04:00.001-06:00

RHP Richard Rodriguez (22)
Signed as a non-drafted free agent out of the Dominican Republic, Rodriguez pitched effectively in 5 starts in 2010 with the DSL, going 2-1 with a 2.00 ERA and a 1.056 WHIP. However, he sat out most of 2011 and only pitched 3.2 inning in 4 appearances in August with the GCL Astros with poor results. I'm assuming that he was rehabbing from an injury and hope to see him back to his 2010 form.

One former Astro with a birthday today ~

2B Andy Mota (46)
Drafted by Houston in the 12th round in 1987, Andy didn't have quite the success that his father Manny had in the major leagues. Andy appeared in 27 games for Houston in 1991.

Tweet of the Day

2012-03-04T07:04:00.000-06:00

Bobby Doran ‏ @B_Doran43

Today marks the season opener for: naps, golf, and shaving. #ST12

Spring Training Schedule - Game 1

2012-03-03T05:25:00.002-06:00

Game Time: Astros vs. Nationals at 12:05 CST
Broadcast: KTRH 740
Starting Pitchers: Livan Hernandez (HOU) vs. Edwin Jackson (WSN)
Record: Astros Spring Training Record 0-0

LET'S PLAY BALL!!!!

Happy Birthday - 3/3

2012-03-03T05:25:00.001-06:00

No future Astros, only one former Astro with a birthday today ~

LHP Jack DiLauro (69)
Picked up from the Mets in the Rule 5 draft, DiLauro only spent one season with the Astros in 1970. He went 1-3 in 42 appearances with a 4.28 ERA and a 1.515 WHIP. In his rookie season with the Mets in 1969, he had a 2.40 ERA and a 1.068 WHIP, but did not make an appearance in the World Series for the Mets.

Tweet of the Day

2012-03-03T05:25:00.000-06:00

Miles Hamblin ‏ @MilesHamblin24

Yeehawww #TexasIndependenceDay

Bonus Tweet of the Day

2012-03-03T05:24:00.000-06:00

Jonas Dufek ‏ @Jonasty41

I have a few connections in the beef jerky industry. Should last me the season. now to pack it all... @GrizzlyJizz twitpic.com/8r17p7

Jay Austin Out with Broken Hand

2012-03-02T07:11:00.001-06:00

Just saw this in today's Chronicle.

Outfielder Jay Austin, a second-round pick in 2008, suffered a broken hand and will miss four weeks before rehab.

“We were concerned three or four days ago that it was something that might require surgery and that’s not the case right now,” director of player development Fred Nelson said.

No explanation of what happened, but I really hate to see that kind of setback for Austin after his strong Arizona Fall League appearance. I had been looking for a breakthrough season for him this year; let's hope that this injury doesn't derail that possibility.

Happy Birthday - 3/2

2012-03-02T06:26:00.000-06:00

RHP David Stefan "Bud" Norris (27)
At the ripe old age of 27, Bud Norris is rapidly becoming one of the grizzled veterans on the club. His 2011 win-loss record wasn't indicative of the improvement he made on the mound as he lowered his 4.92 ERA and 1.484 WHIP from 2010 to a 3.77 ERA and a 1.328 WHIP. The projections I have seen for Bud Norris for 2012 are (how can we say this delicately?) absolute horse hockey, IMHO of course. I look for Bud to build on last season, pitch more innings, lower his ERA and get at least a few more wins, depending of course on what kind of run support he gets (which is the true wild card in the situation).

Tweet of the Day

2012-03-02T06:25:00.000-06:00

Jordan Comadena ‏ @Funky2414

I'm not scared to go to bed at 8:40 pm...need to recharge for tomorrow. #exhausted

~~~~~

Dinner at 4:00 and bed at 8:00 - you'll fit right in with the Florida crowd! (Just kidding, Funky!)

Spring Training Games on MLB Network

2012-03-01T08:09:00.001-06:00

I just noticed on the Astros schedule that there are several Spring Training games that will be airing on MLB Network, some on a delay and some not. The first game is Sunday's game against the Nationals. The game is at 12:05 CST and MLBN's schedule shows it airing at 3:00 CST. If you subscribe to MLB.tv, it will be available live on Sunday.

Tweet of the Day

2012-03-01T04:54:00.001-06:00

Zach Johnson ‏ @Zach_Johnson3

Howdy Florida...

Colt 45's Trivia

2012-03-01T04:54:00.000-06:00

There are no future Astros or former Astros with birthdays today, so I thought I would provide you with a little Colt 45's trivia in place of the daily birthday wish.

The only pitcher in Houston franchise history to lose 20 games was Turk Farrell who lost 20 games with the 1962 Colt 45's expansion team. He lost 20 despite having a very respectable 3.02 ERA and the lowest WHIP since 1917 of any 20-game loser (1.097).

Phil Niekro lost 20 games for Atlanta ... twice. In 1977, he was 16-20 and in 1979, he was 21-20. There has only been one 20-game loser since 1980 ~ Mike Maroth was 9-21 for Detroit in 2003.

Non-Prospect Prospects to Watch - Part 2

2012-02-29T05:31:00.002-06:00

Since everyone was coming up with lists of top prospects, I decided to dig a bit deeper and find a few players who don't appear on any top prospect list anywhere, but whose upside could land them there eventually. In case you missed it, I covered the position players in Part 1 here. This week I will be looking at the pitchers.

LHP MITCHELL LAMBSON
In 22 games with Tri-City, the 6'1" 198 lb. lefty went 2-6 with 2 saves, a 4.33 ERA, a 1.160 WHIP and a .248 batting average against with 39 strikeouts and 8 walks in 35.1 innings pitched. What first caught my notice with Lambson was his 9.9 SO/9 and his 4.88 SO:BB ratio so I decided to dig a little further.

He was projected by Baseball Prospect Report to work mostly around 86-88 with the ability to bump 90, but it wasn't his fastball that they wanted to talk about:

"The seperator for Lambson is the above-average change-up, CHG in shorthand, though some scouts might write OMG. I had it at 72-74 and I’m sold on the arm slot repetition. These lefties with the change-up need to have a fearless side to them, the willingness to throw it any time in the count ... He won’t be an overpowering guy so the change , the moxie and the downhill fastball movement will punch the ticket."

And Baseball Draft Report agreed:

"Lambson’s change is so good and he relies on it so heavily, there really is no other way to talk about him without first mentioning the pitch ... a funky lefthander with the chance to put up surprising results in an unconventional manner. In other words, don’t sleep on Lambson."

They go on to mention his plus command and plus control.

Finally, I looked at his splits. He had a 2.25 ERA and a 1.167 WHIP against lefties and a 5.40 ERA and a 1.157 WHIP vs. right-handed hitters. Of his 8 walks and 4 home runs allowed, all were against right-handed batters, and although he struck out right-handed batters at a higher rate and kept them to a lower batting average, those walks and home runs came back to hurt him. He will have to find consistency against right-handed batters to avoid being pigeonholed as a LOOGY, but if he continues to miss bats at his current high rate, I will keep watching this 21-year old.

RHP LUIS ORDOSGOITTI
Ordosgoitti spent most of his 2011 season at Greeneville where he was 2-4 with a 4.50 ERA and a 1.227 WHIP in 9 appearances (7 starts) over 44 innings pitched. The then 18-year old also had an 8.6 SO/9 and a 6.00 SO/BB ratio for Greeneville. If that's not enough reason to watch him, Orodosgoitti will be 19 for the entire 2012 season and at 6'4" 180 lbs. has plenty of room to fill out and increase velocity.

There's not a great deal of information out there on the big Venezuelan right-hander. Nathaniel Stoltz of Seedlings to Stars calls him "a really intriguing sleeper arm" who he wouldn't be shocked to see on some top 100 lists next year. I asked Jeff Luhnow about Ordosgoitti. He wasn't familiar with him, but after looking him up, said that "reports are very positive as are his numbers," and went on to cite a good fastball, developing curveball and change-up ... "a possible major league starter."

Luis is another pitcher that will miss a lot of bats. His biggest problem in 2011 were his road numbers. While he had a 1.59 ERA at home for Greeneville, his road ERA was 6.33. If he can get his road numbers under control and continues to fill out that 6'4" frame, Ordosgoitti could be going places quickly. I look forward to seeing what he can do in 2012.

LHP REYMIN GUDUAN
Guduan wasn't on my original list of three until I saw a tweet from Jeff Luhnow when he was in the Dominican Republic that Guduan had an "impressive arm" and "was up to 97 in fall." And he might still not be on my short list had I not delved a little more deeply on his numbers.

Guduan was definitely on my "watch list" with his 2.16 ERA and 12 SO/9 for the DSL in 13 starts, but there was the matter of 42 walks to go with 61 strikeouts and the 13 wild pitches and the 4 hit batters that gave me pause. But hitting 97 on the radar gun will get you a little more leeway, particularly for a 6'4" 185 lb. lefty who still has time to fill out since he doesn't turn 20 for a couple of weeks.

So I looked for improvement and I found it. In 2010, he had a 0.61 SO/BB ratio and 8.40 SO/9. Here is how he fared last summer:
June 3.24 ERA 1.740 WHIP 0.95 SO/BB 9.72 SO/9 10.26 BB/9
July 1.47 ERA 1.582 WHIP 2.08 SO/BB 13.25 SO/9 6.38 BB/9
Aug 0.93 ERA 1.138 WHIP 2.50 SO/BB 13.97 SO/9 5.59 BB/9

Sure, I'd still like to see less wildness, but "effectively wild" can work too. Did I mention that he's a lefty that can throw 97? Yeah, that will get you on the short list every time.

HONORABLE MENTION

LHP GABRIEL GARCIA

Why he could have made the list - 8.8 SO/9 and 4.25 SO/BB ratio for Lexington, a very strong winter in Venezuela and this (about 1:08 in - dude has moves!)
Why he didn't make the list - edged out by LHP's Lambson and Guduan

RHP RYAN COLE

Why he could have made the list - 10 saves, 2.33 ERA, 1.333 WHIP, 4.17 SO/BB ratio for Tri-City, intangibles and pure gut feeling
Why he didn't make the list - I ran out of room

RHP JASON CHOWNING

Why he could have made the list - terrific numbers (2.45 ERA, 1.261 WHIP and 9.2 SO/9 in 35 appearances for Lexington) before he got hurt
Why he didn't make the list - he got hurt; we'll have to see how he bounces back

Happy Birthday - 2/29

2012-02-29T05:31:00.001-06:00

There are no future Astros or former Astros with birthdays today which comes as no great surprise since only 11 MLB players in history were born on Leap Day. Of those 11, the most well known is 3B Al "Flip" Rosen who turns 88 today. Rosen spent his entire career with the Cleveland Indians, playing for them from 1947 to 1956 with four All-Star appearances and an MVP nod in 1953 when he hit .336 while leading the league with a .613 SLG, 1.034 OPS, 43 home runs, 145 RBI's and 115 runs scored. And Rosen does have a Houston connection as well, having served as the Astros' General Manager from 1980 to 1985.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-29T05:31:00.000-06:00

Evan Grills ‏ @EvanGrills

Florida bound in the challenger #sheshummin 2012 a big year LETS GO!
~~~~~~~

Evan Grills ‏ @EvanGrills

Long drive. Stopped in tennesse #grindinghard. Be in fla tommoro

An Interview with 3B Matthew Duffy

2012-02-28T05:32:00.000-06:00

Matthew Duffy was drafted in the 20th round in 2011 out of the University of Tennessee and was a New York-Penn League Mid-Season All-Star. Duffy had a very solid season at Tri-City, hitting .298/.370/.417/.787 with 20 doubles, one triple and two home runs over 63 games. On to the questions ...

WTH: You played at the University of Vermont until they discontinued their baseball program and ended up playing for the University of Tennessee Vols. Can you tell me a little about that process, how it affected you personally, how it affected your development as a ballplayer, etc.?

MD: When I found out that the University of Vermont was dropping their baseball program I was pretty shocked. It's something that doesn’t happen very often in the world of NCAA athletics. It was two weeks before our first game my sophomore year and they said that there will be no more team after the upcoming season. It was really crazy for the next couple of months because I was trying to play my season and also go through the recruiting process with other schools. Luckily I had a really good season and it opened the eyes of many schools. One of the schools was the University of Tennessee. I took a trip down to Knoxville to watch a game, meet the coaches, and take a look around. It was on Easter Sunday because that’s the only day we at Vermont didn’t have a game. I really enjoyed myself, the facilities were great, and I thought it would be a great fit for me. Tennessee was a step up in competition from the University of Vermont as far as baseball goes, so it definitely helped me develop as a player. I was exposed to a lot more scouts and much better pitching. The transition from Vermont to Tennessee ultimately made me more prepared for professional baseball.

WTH: You had played SS earlier in college but were moved to 3B. Can you tell me a little about that transition and how you feel you have developed defensively over time?

MD: The transition from shortstop to third base was fairly smooth. I played in the Cape Cod league the summer after my sophomore year at Vermont and played the whole summer at third base. So when I got to Tennessee I was much more familiar with the position. I also sort of outgrew the position as well. I got to college at 6’1 190, and left at 6’3 230. Defensively, playing shortstop helped me ultimately become a better defender because your range is tested and you have to have good footwork. Its a lot easier going from shortstop to third base, than third base to shortstop. Hopefully I can continue to improve at third.

WTH: In looking at your offensive numbers, I was struck by your consistency. You hit lefties & righties, home & away, day games & night games and across the season. The worst split I could find for you was .252 BA with bases empty which you more than made up for with a .352 BA with RISP. What is your approach at the plate?

MD: At the plate my approach is pretty simple. It changes from pitcher to pitcher and depending on the situation of the game. But ultimately I’m just looking for a pitch that I can drive. I try to use the middle of the field and hit line drives.

WTH: The Astros minor league system currently lacks depth at 3B. And with the recent move of 2010 supplemental first round pick Mike Kvasnicka from 3B back to Catcher, the opportunities for that position have increased. What can you do (or are you doing) to take advantage of those opportunities?

MD: I am honestly just trying to make myself the best player that I can be with what tools I have been given. I don’t really know a lot about other third basemen in the organization, I can only control what I do, and worry about how I can make myself more valuable to this organization.

WTH: You hit a lot of doubles in 2011 at Tri-City, but not a lot of home runs. Do you think your stroke lends itself to developing more home run power?

MD: I hope so, but I really don’t want to change too much. I think more than my swing, the lack of home runs could be just lack of experience hitting with wood bats. But I honestly don’t know. I will continue to hit like I always have until someone tells me otherwise. Home runs are obviously a big part of the game and being a third baseman you are expected to produce offensively, so I hope I can help whatever team I am on win games with whatever it is they need.

WTH: You made 12 errors for Tri-City in 2011, 11 in roughly the first half of your games and 1 in roughly the second half of your games. What adjustments did you make that helped you cut down on the errors?

MD: Mostly I think I just relaxed and settled down. I think most of the errors were throwing errors, and I was just rushing when I didn’t have to. I like to think that I can be a plus defender at third base, and I’m going to continue to work at it. But I also think that the help of Stubby Clapp, our manager and infield coach, helped me a lot. He would work with us quite a bit, and really helped us understand the positions we played.

WTH: What was the biggest surprise for you about life in the minor leagues?

MD: The biggest surprise to me, which wasn’t really a surprise but more of an adjustment, was the day in and day out routine of playing everyday. In college you usually play four games a week and sometimes five. So mentally preparing yourself to play every day was the biggest surprise/adjustment that you make when playing in the minor leagues.

WTH: What pitcher (of your Tri-City teammates) would you least like to face as a batter?

MD: The last pitcher that I would want to face on Tri-City would probably be Nick Tropeano. He throws any pitch in any count, so he will keep you guessing all game.

WTH: What expectations do you have going into your first spring training? What will you be working on?

MD: I am looking forward to spring training. My expectations are that it is going to be a lot warmer than Boston, and a lot better weather to play baseball. The time spent at spring training will definitely help get me ready to go for this season. I don’t know where I will be playing, but regardless of that, I hope I can help my team win games and continue to improve to become a better baseball player.

WTH: Can you tell me one thing about yourself that most people don't know and might be surprised to hear?

MD: I played hockey growing up and wanted to play in the NHL.

Well, the NHL's loss is the Astros' gain. Thank you for your time and good luck in 2012!!!

Happy Birthday - 2/28

2012-02-28T05:31:00.001-06:00

C Luis Alvarez (22)
A NDFA from Venezuela, Alvarez first played in the VSL in 2007. After sitting out 2010, Alvarez hit .271/.353/.376/.729 for the 2011 season at Greeneville with his batting average increasing as the season progressed. In the Liga Paralela (the Venezuelan minor leagues) this winter, he batted .300/.352/.440/.792 in 17 games.

One former Astro with a birthday today ~

RHP Ricky Stone (37)
Stone appeared in 165 games for Houston from 2001 to 2004, going 10-8 with a 3.80 ERA and a 1.401 WHIP over 187 innings. Stone was diagnosed with a brain tumor in 2008 and his wife was diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2011. This follow-up from December 30, 2011 finds them both to be cancer free. This will undoubtedly be a particularly happy birthday for Ricky.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-28T05:31:00.000-06:00

Rafael Valenzuela ‏ @RafyValenzuela

Need to eat as much home made food as possible cause mom ain't coming with me to spring training

WTH 25-Man Roster - Final Relief Pitcher

2012-02-27T05:34:00.000-06:00

As posted over the weekend, the 22nd player added to the WTH 25-Man Roster was Designated Hitter Chase Davidson. Also receiving votes were Telvin Nash, Kody Hinze, Matt Duffy, Jimmy VanOstrand and Tyler Burnett. For more information on the WTH Roster, go here.

This week we're going to pick our 6th and final relief pitcher. This list is compiled of those who received at least one vote in the last round of voting for relief pitchers. Jack Armstrong, with his mid to high-90's fastball, probably has the upper hand in winning this one as he was actually tied for the lead during the last round of voting. But you should probably at least consider Jorge de Leon with the stingiest WHIP and batting average allowed of the group (plus his 16 saves), Jason Chowning with his 2.45 ERA, Jason Stoffel with his 10.69 SO/9 and Mitchell Lambson with his 4.88 SO/BB.

With all that said, here are the 2011 stats for the players. Look them over and vote.

Happy Birthday - 2/27

2012-02-27T05:33:00.000-06:00

No future Astros and only one former Astro with a birthday today ~

OF Carl Warwick (75)
Obtained in a trade with the Cardinals for LHP Bobby Shantz, Warwick appeared in 280 games for the Colt 45's in 1962 and 1963 with a batting line of .257/.315/.373/.689. He was traded to the Cardinals in February of 1964 for 1B/OF Jim Beauchamp and RHP Chuck Taylor and was used as a pinch hitter in that year's World Series, going 3 for 4 with a walk, an RBI and two runs scored as the Cardinals beat the Yankees 4-3 to win the series.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-27T05:32:00.000-06:00

Jordan Comadena ‏ @Funky2414

Great day today...hit until my hands bled. Can't wait to do it all again tomorrow. #workin

WTH 25-Man Roster

2012-02-26T06:44:00.000-06:00

The 22nd player selected for the What the Heck 25-Man Roster was DH Chase Davidson. We had another case of "stuffing the ballot box" with Davidson, but since he was essentially tied with Telvin Nash before the ballot stuffing began, I will let the results stand. However, just like Miss America, if for any reason Chase Davidson can't fulfill his duties, Telvin Nash will be called on to DH for him. Also receiving votes were Kody Hinze, Matt Duffy, Jimmy VanOstrand and Tyler Burnett. (For more information on the WTH 25-Man Roster, go here.)

Coming Monday - Let's pick our final Relief Pitcher

Happy Birthday - 2/26

2012-02-26T06:43:00.002-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

3B Steve Hertz (67)
Hertz appeared in 5 games for the Colt 45's in 1964 and those 5 games constituted his entire major league career. He was unable to get that elusive hit in the majors. Thankfully, he went on to have a very successful career coaching for Miami Dade College. As an interesting side note, in 2007 he managed the Tel Aviv Lightning in the Israel Baseball League.

RHP Don Lee (78)
Acquired in a trade with the Angels for OF Al Spangler, Lee pitched for the Astros in 1965 and 1966. In 16 games, he was 2-0 with a 2.77 ERA and a 1.231 WHIP.

RHP Gary Majewski (32)
A Houston native, Majewski only appeared in 2 games for Houston at the end of his career. Since it's his birthday, I will be charitable and not post the results of those 2 appearances. Majewski had his most effective season in 2005 for the Nationals, going 4-4 in 79 appearances with a 2.93 ERA and a 1.360 WHIP.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-26T06:43:00.001-06:00

Brandon Culbreth ‏ @b_culbreth

Ill pay someone to pack for me

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-26T06:43:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday - 2/25

2012-02-25T06:06:00.002-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

CF Cesar Cedeno (61)
Cedeno played in 1512 games for Houston from 1970 to 1981 with a batting line of .289/.351/.454/.805. Cedeno won five Gold Gloves and earned four All-Star nods during his tenure with Houston. He also led the National League in doubles in 1971 and 1972, outfield put-outs in 1974 and fielding percentage in 1971 and 1977. He was traded to the Reds in December of 1981 for 1B/3B Ray Knight. He was recently named 2012 hitting coach for the Greeneville Astros in the Appy League.

LHP Denny Lemaster (73)
Lemaster pitched for Houston from 1968 to 1971 after being acquired in a trade with the Braves along with IF Dennis Menke. An All-Star for Atlanta in 1967, Lemaster had a 3.40 ERA and a 1.335 WHIP in 152 games (90 starts) for the Astros.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-25T06:06:00.001-06:00

Alyson Footer ‏ @alysonfooter

Here's a cool sign hanging in the Minor League clubhouse.pic.twitter.com/SuSC3rkt

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-25T06:06:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday - 2/24

2012-02-24T06:08:00.002-06:00

UT Neiko Johnson (24)
Johnson, a University of Kentucky alum and Georgia native, was signed by the Astros as a NDFA in 2011. He was used as a true utility player at Tri-City in 2011, spending time at 2B, LF, SS, RF and 3B, and had a batting line of .236/.397/.280/.678. In 57 games, he stole 21 bases and walked 41 times (37 SO). His batting average increased to .288 with runners on and .292 with RISP.

MLB Reports posted this interview with Neiko back in December. Since he'd been interviewed so recently, I thought I'd ask just a couple of questions for his birthday write-up. (By the way, the Astros have his birthday in the system wrong. He was born on the 24th not the 2nd.)

WTH: How did you meet and get to be friends with Brandon Phillips?

NJ: Brandon Phillips was actually a good friend of my brother when I was younger and I hung out with his younger brother PJ and his sister Porsha. Brandon went to Redan High School (the same high school I attended) with my brother and they both played on the same high school baseball team. I always went to watch the games when he and my brother played. I have been a Brandon Phillips fan since his high school days. I always hang out with him when I get a chance and he's always there to talk whenever I need to. He's like another big brother to me and has helped me throughout my baseball career. I would go hang out with him in Cincinnati when I went to the University of Kentucky and I have always stayed in contact with him.

WTH: What have you been working on the most over the winter and how do you think that will help you going into the season?

NJ: I have worked on a lot this offseason. With this being my first offseason there was a bit of a transition period. At first I didn't know how to handle this much time off so I talked to Brandon and my roommate from college Collin Cowgill who is currently with the Oakland A's. They told me how much time to take off and when to start back working out. That really helped a lot because I didn't want to start working out too soon and burn myself out before spring training. I have focused on my swing the most and making sure I addressed some minor things for spring training. I wanted to gain some weight, which I did, because I know with a long season your weight will fluctuate and I don't need to lose any more weight lol. I have also worked on my conditioning and speed so I can continue to be a threat on the bases. I think these things will help me tremendously and enhance my abilities as a baseball player.

WTH: Can you tell me something about yourself that most fans don't know and that might surprise them?

NJ: Something about me that most people don't know is that I am a PRIMETIME BOWLER. My high score is 294 and I was one strike away from a perfect game but on the last bowl I blew it. I will take all challenges and I have 3 bowling balls and shoes so I am ready to play anytime anywhere. I am also a pretty good Call of Duty player (ONLY ON XBOX THOUGH) so if you can't beat me in bowling maybe you'll have a better chance at Call of Duty. The last thing people might not know is I HATE SPIDERS with a passion. If I see a spider in my room I won't go to sleep till I catch it and if I can't catch it I will sometimes sleep in another room. It's just something about spiders I don't like.

Thanks for your time Neiko. Here's wishing you a terrific birthday with no spiders in sight!!!!!

Tri-City Manager Richard Keith "Stubby" Clapp (39)

Born in Windsor, Ontario, Clapp was drafted out of Texas Tech by the Cardinals in 1996 and played in 23 games for St. Louis in 2001. He was the hitting coach for Lexington and for Corpus Christi before being named Manager of the Tri-City team for 2011. Clapp has history playing for Team Canada in various venues throughout the years. This fall, he helped to coach Team Canada to a gold medal in the Pan Am Games.

Former Astros with birthdays today ~

LHP Frank Riccelli (59)

A first round pick by the Giants in 1971, Riccelli pitched in 13 games for Houston in 1978 and 1979 with a 3.60 ERA and a 1.640 WHIP.

C Brian Esposito (33)

Brian has played in 3 games in the major leagues (2 for Houston in 2010) with 3 plate appearances and he is still looking for that elusive first hit. He signed with the Reds as a free agent in December after spending 3 seasons in the Astros minor league system.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-24T06:08:00.001-06:00

Roster Moves - 2/23

2012-02-24T06:08:00.000-06:00

According to Baseball America, the Astros have signed 26-year old 2B Jose Martinez. Described as a former number 8 prospect going into the 2008 season in this post on Scout.com from March 2011, they explain what went wrong for Martinez:

"His career stalled as he dealt with the after-effects of a very difficult family tragedy and several serious injuries, including a broken bone in his left foot and surgery on his right shoulder. Martinez missed almost all of the last two seasons in the process."

Happy Birthday - 2/23

2012-02-23T05:56:00.000-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

LHP Juan Agosto (54)
Agosto pitched in 261 games for Houston from 1987 to 1990 and in 1993. His best season was in 1988 when he appeared in 75 games and went 10-2 with a 2.26 ERA and a 1.135 WHIP. In 1990, he led the National League in appearances with 82.

RHP Scott Elarton (36)
A first round pick by the Astros in 1994, Elarton pitched for Houston from 1998 to 2001, going 32-21 in 120 appearances (67 starts) with a 4.82 ERA and a 1.388 WHIP before being traded to the Rockies at the trade deadline in 2001 for Pedro Astacio. In 2000, he was 17-7 in 30 starts for Houston.

2B/3B Ken Boswell (66)
A native of Austin, Boswell played in 275 games for Houston from 1975 to 1977 after spending 8 seasons with the Mets. His best season offensively was with the Mets in 1969, hitting .279/.347/.381/.728. In 1970, he led the National League in fielding percentage as a second baseman with a .996 percentage.

C Frank Charles ( 43)
I love this story. Charles toiled in the minor leagues and independent ball for 10 years. At the end of the 10th year, after having been picked up by Houston in the off-season, he got a September call-up, a rookie at 31. In 7 plate appearances over 4 games, Charles got three hits with a double and two RBI's. His cup of coffee netted him a .429/.429/.571/1.000 career batting line. He spent 4 more seasons in the minors and independent league ball before hanging up his cleats at the end of the 2004 season when he was 35 years old.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-23T05:55:00.001-06:00

Astros County @AstrosCounty

AC Big Tweet #1: The Constable and Wife are having a little girl.

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-23T05:55:00.000-06:00

Non-Prospect Prospects to Watch Part 1

2012-02-22T05:54:00.001-06:00

Since everybody and their dog has come out with a top prospect list, I thought I might as well chime in too. But I'm not going to go with the obvious. Yeah, Jarred Cosart is a stud. Jonathan Singleton is the second coming of Ryan Howard. Yada Yada. Let's look instead at a few non-prospects who have the potential to become prospects in time. We'll look at position players this week and pitchers next week.

C ERNESTO GENOVES
This 20-year old from Venezuela played in Greeneville in 2011 and really made great strides at the plate. His batting average of .280 only went up a couple of points from his prior season, but his slugging percentage went from .333 with the GCL in 2010 to .464 with Greeneville in 2011. According to Seedlings to Stars, Genoves "makes solid contact" with a "decent approach and some gap power." He faded toward the end of the season and he strikes out more than I would like to see with 29 strikeouts to 12 walks over 38 games, but there are also some good signs within his splits as he hit .313 with runners on and .302 with RISP in 2011.

His defense is coming along as well. His caught stealing percentage went from 22% in 2010 to 31% in 2011 and his fielding percentage as a catcher went from .972 with 5 errors in 2010 to .984 with 4 errors in 2011. He had 9 passed balls, but Steve with Appy Astros indicated that Genoves made progress behind the plate throughout the season. Early in the season he tended to reach for balls with his glove instead of moving his body, but Steve indicated that Genoves definitely showed improvement in that area.

Over the winter, Genoves played in the Venezuelan winter league with the Liga Paralela, Venezuela's minor league system, hitting .299/.400/.478/.878 in 22 games. I look forward to seeing what he can do in 2012.

OF TEOSCAR HERNANDEZ
It is really difficult to get much information on the prospects in the DSL, but just looking at Hernandez' stats is more than enough to get me excited about this kid.

He's listed as 6'2" 180 and will be 19 years old for the entire 2012 season. He was named MVP for the DSL team in 2011 for good reason. He hit .274/.360/.487/.847, led the team in doubles, triples and home runs and was tied for the lead in RBI's. In addition he had 16 stolen bases and 7 outfield assists to go with 5 errors over 62 games. Can you say 5-tool player? The potential is there. The right-handed hitter will need to hit better than .143 against lefties, as he did in 2011, but I'm very excited by his upside.

I asked Jeff Luhnow about this player as he was heading to the Dominican Republic last week. I received the following response, "Hernandez is a definite prospect from what I saw today." I would love to see Hernandez get brought up to the GCL this season to see what he can do.

3B MATT DUFFY
A 20th round pick in 2011, I hadn't heard much, if anything, about Duffy. Then I wrote his birthday profile a few weeks back and I got really excited looking at his numbers. His batting line was good at .298/.370./.417/.787 with 20 doubles, one triple and two home runs, but it was his consistency that struck me. He was incredibly consistent against lefties and against righties, throughout the season, road and home, day games and night games - he just kept hitting. And he was even better in the clutch, batting .342 with runners on and .352 with RISP. So, I kept looking and I found things like this assessment from The Baseball Draft Report:

"I have an irrational like of Tennessee 3B Matt Duffy (Round 20) that I can only attempt to explain in terms of relevant baseball skills by talking about his excellent defense at third and patient approach at the plate."

and this from TCVFan's Blog:

"This dude can flat out hit. He’s got a calm, level swing and he’ll use all parts of the field, with signs of power to both gaps. When he gets full extension on the ball it travels a long way. I don’t know if he’s got a swing conducive to becoming a home run hitter, but he’s got potential to be a really solid doubles guy. It feels as though he’s got a strong grasp of the strikezone, and he rarely chases bad pitches."

The reports of his defense were conflicting though. And seeing that he had 12 errors in 63 games gave me pause. But when I looked further, it appears that he had 11 errors in his 1st 31 games and 1 in his final 32 games. And TCVFan had this to say:

"Early on he wasn’t trusting his arm and rushed throws, pulling Zach off the base a lot. Everyone in the infield took about three weeks to settle in and know that they’re good enough to take their time and make accurate throws."

The only knocks I could find on him were somewhat limited range at third and lack of speed on the base paths. But if he can turn his doubles power into home run power, speed may not be that important. And with our lack of depth at third, I'll be keeping a close eye on Mr. Duffy to see how he develops.

HONORABLE MENTION

OF EMILIO KING

Why he could have made the list - a .293/.332./.439/.772 batting line with 24 doubles, a triple and 9 home runs and reports that he has an absolute cannon for an arm
Why he didn't make the list - 81 SO to 13 BB

SS JUAN SANTANA

Why he could have made the list - a .274/.350/.363/.713 batting line with 28BB:22SO at 16 years old
Why he didn't make the list - 28 errors and the fact that he just turned 17 in August

OF WALLACE GONZALEZ

Why he could have made the list - Buzz. Baseball America thought he was the Astros best late signing and from The Baseball Draft Report:

"Wallace Gonzalez has tools you’d never expect to see out of guy a few pounds short of Lions receiver Calvin Johnson. His raw power, plus arm, and great athleticism are major strong points."

Why he didn't make the list - Results. 18 games isn't a big enough sample size for an 18-year old kid.

Happy Birthday - 2/22

2012-02-22T05:54:00.000-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP Tom Griffin (64)
A first round pick by Houston in 1966, Griffin pitched for Houston from 1970 to 1976, going 45-60 in 199 appearances (123 starts) with a 4.20 ERA and a 1.470 WHIP. In his rookie season in 1969, he led the National League in SO/9 at 9.6 in 31 starts. Griffin's best season for Houston (arguably) was in 1974 when he was 14-10 in 34 starts. Ironically, he was also 5th in the National League in wild pitches that year. In 1980 and again in 1981, he led the National League in hit batters while pitching for the Giants.

SS/CF Eric "Cool Breeze" Yelding (47)
Yelding played for Houston from 1989 to 1992, batting .249 over that stretch. In 1990, he stole 64 bases (behind only Vince Coleman and Rickey Henderson), but also led the MLB in caught stealing. In 1992, he was sent to the White Sox for LHP Rich Scheid. Yelding was a first round draft pick for the Blue Jays in 1984.

3B/2B Russ Johnson (39)
Yet another first round draft pick with a birthday today, Johnson was drafted by Houston in 1994 and played for the Astros from 1997 to 2000 before being traded to Tampa Bay for RHP Marc Valdes. His best season for Houston was 1999 when he hit .282/.358/.442/.800 and was 1 for 1 with a walk and a double in the NLDS.

LHP John Halama (40)
Halama wasn't a first round pick like all the other birthday boys, but rather was drafted in the 23rd round by Houston in 1994. He started 6 games for the Astros in 1998 and went to Seattle at the end of the 1998 season as the player to be named in the Randy Johnson trade.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-22T05:53:00.001-06:00

Jimmy VanOstrand @Dr_VanOstrand

@BudNorris20 @JordanLyles41 @J_Castro15 hope u boys r off to a good start! Don't worry I'll be there soon #minorleagueholdout

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-22T05:53:00.000-06:00

An Interview with Jason Chowning

2012-02-21T05:40:00.000-06:00

RHP Jason Chowning was drafted in the 28th round in 2010 out of the University of Oklahoma. He spent 2011 pitching out of the bullpen in Lexington. In 58.2 innings pitched over 35 appearances, he was 4-4 with a 2.45 ERA and a 1.261 WHIP and 9.2 SO/9. Lefties only managed a 0.92 ERA against him.

When I first contacted Jason about doing an interview, one of the first questions I asked him was if he was really 6'2" 178 lbs. as listed because that made me want to feed him. He assured me that he is actually 6'4" 190. After that, we continued on to some questions that had a little more substance and some questions that didn't.

WTH: The first question I'd like to ask is about the shoulder. You were diagnosed with a small tear in the labrum at the end of the season, but since it wasn't torn all the way through, surgery wasn't recommended. How is the shoulder now and what have you done in the off-season to keep it strong and healthy?

JC: Towards the end of the season my shoulder started to experience pain which I hadn't ever felt before. I haven't ever really had too many arm issues so this one was a surprise and hurt. I did a lot of rehab this off-season and have started throwing bullpens. So far so good. It was a little rusty at first with some slight pain but doctors said it would be starting out. Hoping for a full recovery and hopefully this won't happen again.

WTH: Your final appearance in August, you gave up 3 ER's and you'd only given up 3 ER's in the previous 9 appearances. Was the shoulder bothering you during that last appearance?

JC: Funny you ask that, this was the dagger in my season. I had worked so hard to keep runs limited all year, and then this happened. After coming back the first time from my shoulder issue I was a little wild and unable to throw strikes. My first two outings back I was able to battle through. It was getting harder and harder to throw after each pitch. It felt like someone was stabbing my shoulder each time I threw. But this outing was my worst. I couldn't throw strikes and was getting behind in every count. Gave up to back to back broken bat singles only to get behind again 2-0 and happened to throw a fastball right down the middle to give up a 3-run home run. Needless to say I did not want my season and possible career to end on that note. But they advised me not to throw anymore for the rest of the year. Very disappointing.

WTH: One Lexington writer described your slider as "wicked." I've also read that you throw a curveball, a fastball and a change-up. What is your best pitch? What kind of velocity do you have on your pitches? What will you be working on the most this season as far as your pitches?

JC: I don't know if I would call my slider wicked. It's a pitch I just started throwing this year. I was messing around with pitches and this one kind of stuck. So it's still a work in progress. That being said, I do believe that my slider is my best pitch. I am most comfortable throwing it in any count behind or ahead. My velocity with my slider has been clocked up to 84 but varies in counts - 0-2 I throw it harder, other counts bigger break, less velo. Curveball would be my second best pitch with big 12-6 break, but it is my hardest pitch to control, good 0-2 pitch. My velocity with my curveball isn't near the speed I need it to be, varying from 72-76. Third best pitch would be my fastball. I do have some control issues, but hey who doesn't sometimes? Velo varies as well anywhere from 86-93, maybe on a good day or great day may top 94. Funny my last pitch in Lexington with my shoulder hurting was 94. That was probably from the anger and disappointment of prior events. Change-up is a work in progress. I don't think I threw it one time this year. No confidence just yet.

WTH: Have you ever thought, "Man, I'd like to have that pitch in my arsenal" about any other Astros minor league pitcher that you've played with? If so, who and what pitch?

JC: Yes, I have. I think that Jake Buchanan has a tremendous two seam fastball that just runs off the table. And also I think that Alex Sogard has an absolute flithy change-up that I would also like to have in my arsenal.

WTH: You're a bit of a self-described class clown. What teammate makes you laugh?

JC: Ya, you know I like to laugh and I like to think that if I were to die today that I would have lived a happy life. Life is too short and we really need to enjoy the small things and laugh. There are a few guys that make me laugh. Adam Bailey and I seem to have a blast when we are around each other. We have the same personality so it makes it nice. So let's just say fingers crossed we are on the same team again. Also my boy Alex Sogard and I have plenty of laughs together as well. It's nice having people on the team which you can relate to and have a good time with.

WTH: I understand that you were a sociology-criminology major. If you couldn't play baseball, what would you do?

JC: If I couldn't play baseball I'd really like to get involved in the FBI. During this off-season I have applied to many FBI groups, but they say it takes years to get accepted so I started early and applied when I have my off time. I want to make a difference in people's lives and help protect communities.

WTH: Are there any guys that you've played with in the last two seasons who you're particularly thankful to have on your team so that you won't have to pitch to them?

JC: Throughout these past two seasons, I would have to say that there are two teammates I would rather not face and they are Adam Bailey who I did face in college and got him to pop out to second, and Chris Wallace, only because he caught me all the time and knows my pitches and in what counts I throw them. Both are very good hitters.

WTH: Is is true that you were once ranked 14th in the world in Call of Duty? Have any of your teammates come close to beating you at COD?

JC: Haha indeed I was at one time. I haven't been able to play much as of late. Been traveling and seeing family. Bryce Lane and I play a lot together. He's not bad. He's not as good as me, but he's getting there. I took him under my wing. Other than that no one comes close.

Thank you for your time, Jason, and best of luck in the 2012 season!

Happy Birthday - 2/21

2012-02-21T05:29:00.000-06:00

No future Astros, only one former Astro with a birthday today ~

RHP Jack Billingham (69)
Billingham pitched for Houston from 1969 to 1971. In 131 appearances (61 starts), he was 29-32 with a 3.75 ERA and a 1.297 WHIP. According to Baseball-Reference, he was a part of this trade to the Reds in 1971.

November 29, 1971: Traded by the Houston Astros with Ed Armbrister, Cesar Geronimo, Denis Menke and Joe Morgan to theCincinnati Reds for Tommy Helms, Lee May and Jimmy Stewart.

He had his best season for the Reds in his 1973 All-Star season. That year he was 19-10 in 40 starts, pitching 293.1 innings with a 3.08 ERA and a 1.200 WHIP. Apparently, his arm didn't fall off after that workload since he pitched another 7 seasons in the majors.

Also, in case you missed it (as I did), RHP Livan Hernandez was 37 yesterday.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-21T05:28:00.001-06:00

Bud Norris @BudNorris20

#baseballisback

from Florida, US

No Announced Roster Moves Today But ...

2012-02-21T05:28:00.000-06:00

The Astros announced that 2010 first round supplemental pick Mike Kvasnicka is moving from third base back to his original position of catcher ... at his request. It's an interesting story and Zachary Levine tells it here.

WTH 25-Man Roster - Designated Hitter

2012-02-20T06:14:00.000-06:00

As posted over the weekend, RHP Nick Tropeano became the 21st player and final starting pitcher to be named to the WTH Roster. Runners-up were Adrian Houser, Tanner Bushue, Tommy Shirley, Luis Ordosgoitti and Kyle Hallock. For more on the WTH 25-Man Roster, go here.

Next, let's pick our Designated Hitter (yeah, I hate it too). This list is comprised of those who received votes in earlier rounds of voting for first base and for third base (since those are traditionally power positions) and two players (Rafael Valenzuela and Erik Castro) who were used extensively in the DH position in 2011. The two obvious choices would be Chase Davidson and Kody Hinze. Chase Davidson had 11 home runs and 44 RBI's in 44 games before being derailed by an injury, whereas Kody Hinze was just shy of 100 RBI's and led all Astros minor-leaguers in home runs and was second in doubles in 2011. The edge for me goes to Kody Hinze since he had a far better walk rate than Chase Davidson. But let's not forget about Telvin Nash. It will be interesting to see what this top 10 prospect can achieve in a full season in 2012 after recovering from his 2011 hand surgery (hamate bone).

With all that said, here are the 2011 stats for the players. Look them over and vote.

Happy Birthday - 2/20

2012-02-20T06:11:00.004-06:00

1B/LF Telvin Nash (21)
Drafted in the 3rd round in 2009 out of high school in his native Georgia, Nash took a little detour in his development as he missed almost 2 months of the 2011 season after breaking the hamate bone in his left hand early in the season. He finished the season at Lexington with a .274/.380/.488/.867 batting line with 18 doubles and 14 home runs over 78 games. He is currently ranked as the number 10 prospect in the Astros system on my consensus list.

RHP Livan Hernandez (37)
Born in Cuba and originally signed by the Marlins as a free agent in 1996, Hernandez signed as a free agent with the Astros on January 31, 2011. Known as a workhorse, Hernandez has pitched at least 199 innings in 11 seasons. In 1997, he was runner up to Scott Rolen in Rookie of the Year voting as he was 9-3 in 17 regular season starts and 2-0 in the NLCS and 2-0 in the World Series, earning him MVP honors in each series. He also won a Silver Slugger award in 2005 and All-Star honors in 2004 and 2005.

Former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP Bill Gullickson (53)
Gullickson pitched one season for Houston in 1990, going 10-14 with a 3.82 ERA and a 1.459 WHIP in 32 starts. In 1991, after being released by Houston, he was 20-9 for Detroit.

RHP Jason Hirsh (30)
A second round pick by Houston in 2003, Hirsh started nine games for the Astros in 2006, going 3-4 with a 6.04 ERA and a 1.567 WHIP. He was traded, along with Taylor Buchholz and Willy Taveras, to the Rockies for Miguel Asencio and he-who-must-not-be-named in December of 2006.

We also have a birthday in the Astros blogging community ~

Deputy Jason (32)
Jason Phelps, writer for Astros County, celebrates his birthday today as well!

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-20T06:11:00.001-06:00

Brian McTaggart @brianmctaggart

Jake Goebbert, wide-eyed and fresh-faced, has reported to Astros camp.

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-20T06:10:00.000-06:00

WTH 25-Man Roster

2012-02-19T06:45:00.000-06:00

The 21st player and Final Starting Pitcher selected for the What the Heck 25-Man Roster was RHP Nick Tropeano. Also receiving votes were Adrian Houser, Tanner Bushue, Tommy Shirley, Luis Ordosgoitti and Kyle Hallock. (For more information on the WTH 25-Man Roster, go here.)

Coming Monday - Let's pick our DH (sigh).

Happy Birthday - 2/19

2012-02-19T06:44:00.002-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP Chris Zachary (died April 19, 2003 at 59)
Zachary had a less than awe-inspiring career with Houston as he compiled a 6-16 record with a 4.64 ERA and a 1.466 WHIP in 46 appearances over 5 seasons (1963-1967), but he was only 19 when he made his major league debut. His best season was with Detroit in 1972; in 25 appearances, he was 1-1 with a 1.41 ERA and a 1.096 WHIP.

OF Don Taussig (80)
Taussig only played in 16 games for the Colt 45's in 1962 (.200 BA) after putting up a very respectable .287/.338/.447 batting line for the Cardinals the prior year. He never got back to the majors after 1962.

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-19T06:44:00.001-06:00

Jason Castro @J_Castro15

Officially on the plane...ETA in Kissimmee approximately...not soon enough #letsgetit

No Announced Roster Moves Today But ...

2012-02-19T06:44:00.000-06:00

The Astros announced that minor league Catchers Chris Wallace and Rene Garcia will be given non-roster invites to the big league camp. Pitchers and Catchers report on Monday.

Also, it was announced that contracts have been finalized with seven pre-arbitration players. They are:

OF Brian Bogusevic
C Jason Castro
IF Brett Wallace
IF Chris Johnson
RHP Fernando Rodriguez
RHP Paul Clemens
LHP Fernando Abad

Steve Campbell has the story here.

Happy Birthday - 2/18

2012-02-18T06:44:00.002-06:00

OF Brian Bogusevic (28)
Drafted in the 1st round out of Tulane in 2008 as a LHP, Bogusevic converted to the outfield in mid-2008. His stats for 2011:

OKC - .261/.362/.399/.761 in 58 games
MLB - .287/.348/.457/.805 in 87 games
DWL - .317/.446/.500/.946 in 33 games

On August 16, 2011, Bogusevic became the 26th player in MLB history to hit an Ultimate Grand Slam with a pinch-hit walk-off home run, winning the game by one run.

Former Astros with birthdays today ~

SS Rafael Ramirez (54)
Played in 612 games for Houston from 1988 to 1992
Hit .257/.290/.335/.625

1B John Mayberry (63)
Played in 105 games for Houston from 1968-1971

RHP Rocky Childress (50)
Pitched in 43 games for in 1987 and 1988
Had a 4.02 ERA and a 1.381 WHIP

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-18T06:44:00.001-06:00

Jeff Luhnow @jluhnow

Happy College Baseball Opening Day! Tons of good games out there tonight, and all of our scouts are in place, ready to go!

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-18T06:44:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday - 2/17

2012-02-17T05:51:00.000-06:00

RHP Chris Hicks (25)
Drafted in the 14th round in 2008 out of Georgia Tech, Hicks split his time in 2011 between Lancaster and Corpus Christi. At Lancaster, he pitched 24.2 innings in relief over 15 appearances, going 2-1 with a 3.28 ERA and a 0.973 WHIP. At Corpus, he had a 3.77 ERA and a 1.465 WHIP in 14.1 innings over 13 appearances. For the season, he walked 12 batters while striking out 35. He made just two appearances in the Arizonza Fall League before being shut down for the winter.

Former Astros with birthdays today ~

LHP Mike Cosgrove (61)
Pitched in 119 games from 1972 to 1976 with a 4.03 ERA and a 1.515 WHIP

IF Cody Ransom (36)
Played in 19 games for Houston in 2007

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-17T05:50:00.003-06:00

Joe Witkowski @Joey_Wit

Clubhouse confidential makes me laugh, could they complicate this game any more with stats jeez...simple game guys catch, throw, and hit.

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-17T05:50:00.002-06:00

Some Final Thoughts on Fan Fest

2012-02-16T05:29:00.002-06:00

The local Astros bloggers were given a great opportunity to spend a day observing and interacting with everyone from front office guys to the manager to current players to former stars to the fans for whom baseball hope always springs eternal. I hope you've enjoyed my posts from the event. I will leave you with some random thoughts and observations ...

Enos Cabell is a natural story-teller with a great sense of humor. He really needs to write a book about his days with the Astros.
Larry Dierker REALLY isn't a fan of Carlos Lee's work ethic. Wow, he's a straight shooter!
Brad Mills thinks of 2011 as a learning curve for him and for a number of players as they learned about themselves. As painful as it was, the 2011 results managed to "bring us together and kind of bond us."
I don't know that J.R. Richard's number will get retired, but I'm pretty sure that he will be one of the early Walk of Fame inductees.
As long as Jeff Luhnow is in charge, I don't think we'll ever see another 3-year Kaz Matsui signing.
Competition in Spring Training will be fierce. The catch words were "passion" and "hunger." And the often stoic Brad Mills actually looked animated at the thought.
Long-time fans of the Astros are really going to enjoy everything that is being planned for the 50th Anniversary celebration. There will be many trips down memory lane.
If an informal poll by Larry Dierker at one of the sessions means anything, a permanent return to blue and orange in 2013 is looking promising.
If comments by Jeff Luhnow at the Baseball Dinner on Friday and Brad Mills at Fan Fest on Saturday are any indication, it is not outside the realm of possibility that Lance Berkman could be the Astros DH in 2013. He may just be one hometown discount away from retiring as an Astro.
Although there wasn't a huge crowd at Fan Fest on Saturday, the fans I spoke with were enthusiastic and hopeful. They are happy that there is finally a well articulated plan in place with people in charge who listen to the average fan (and the average blogger).

Which brings me to this. You would have been proud of the Astros blogging community on Saturday. All were well-prepared with good questions and completely professional. We did you, our readers, proud. And the result has been fascinating. In the reporting of the event, there has been overlap. But the tone, the vision and the emphasis for each of us has been different. Whether it's Terri at Tales from the Juice Box reporting my favorite moment from Fan Fest, this running diary from David over at Crawfishboxes, this humorous entry from Jason at Astros County, this fully-fleshed take from Alex at Climbing Tal's Hill, or my humble look at things from a minor league viewpoint, Astros fans are the beneficiaries of this robust blogging community. Thank you for reading.

Now, let's play ball!

Happy Birthday - 2/16

2012-02-16T05:29:00.001-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP Dwayne Henry (50)

Pitched in 52 games for Houston in 1991

Had a 3-2 record with a 3.19 ERA & 1.330 WHIP

SS Glenn Vaughn (died December 18, 2004 at 60)

Played in 9 games for the Colt 45's in 1963

OF Eric Bullock (52)

Played in 24 games for Houston in 1985 & 1986

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-16T05:29:00.000-06:00

Brett Wallace @brettwallace29

Bout to take off, see ya #Houston Almost time for #springtraining #Astros #ImReady

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-16T05:28:00.002-06:00

Q&A with Mills, Norris and Martinez

2012-02-15T05:28:00.003-06:00

The Astros organization was kind enough to allow six of us blogger types access to sit down and ask a few questions of Brad Mills, Bud Norris and J.D. Martinez. It went very well and we have every reason to believe that we will be invited back from time to time.

BRAD MILLS
I asked Mills about how closely the organization watches those players who participate in winter ball. As examples, I used Sergio Perez who pitched 65 innings in winter ball after a full regular season at OKC and Aneury Rodriguez who probably pitched about 50 innings between the regular season, playoffs and the Caribbean Series this winter. He responded, "We keep a pretty good eye on especially the guys that are closer to the major leagues like Aneury. We didn't have any problem with him throwing down there." Since Aneury was healthy going into the off-season, he went on to say, "We wanted him to go down there and continue to throw and work on some things." They didn't watch Sergio Perez as much because he's not as close to the majors.

Mills also talked about Jose Altuve's workload over the winter as Altuve approached 900 plate appearances. He seemed a little annoyed that Altuve worked so hard over the winter, and with a hint of exasperation, he said that Altuve would be getting to Kissimmee early (he was scheduled to arrive on the 13th). I have a feeling that Brad Mills will be instructing the staff at Kissimmee to sit on Altuve until he gets there.

I also asked Mills about Brian Bogusevic. Since he clearly did well hitting against lefties in winter ball (hitting .271), I wanted to know if Mills would play him against left-handed pitchers if he wins a roster spot. In response, he said, "My thinking on that is definitely give him the opportunity to start out ... It would be my wish that I'd put him in the line-up and he'd hit .480 against both righties and lefties." He went on to offer the usual caveat that if a right-hander needs some AB's and the situation is right, he would sit Bogey from time to time, but overall I was encouraged by his assurances.

BUD NORRIS
I asked Bud about any coaches or managers in the minor leagues who he found to be particularly helpful in his development. "Everybody gives you a little tidbit here and there. You take a little bit from each and every one." At Tri-City Don Alexander helped him with his mechanics (Alexander will be the pitching coach at Lancaster this year). He credits Stan Boroski at AA for helping him with his slider. "The slider I still throw today as one of my bread and butters has been the slider I got in AA." And, of course, Bud enjoyed the chance to sit and talk with Burt Hooten (AAA pitching coach) about old school baseball. "With Burt, you had a real opportunity to understand what the old game was and how it was played."

Bud also had encouraging words about RHP Jarred Cosart with whom he's worked out this winter, "I think he has a good head on his shoulders. He has a huge bright side." On Cosart's disappointment on not getting an invite to the big league camp, Bud said, "It's good to see that people want it. It's good to see that they have that burning desire."

J.D. MARTINEZ
I asked J.D. the same question about coaches or managers that had helped him along the way. "I was fortunate. Every major league coach and manager I had was ... really good. It speaks volumes for the organization. He singled out Stubby Clapp (currently Tri-City manager), Rodney Linares (who will manage at Lancaster in 2012), Tom Lawless (now a roving infield instructor) and "Johnny Mo" (John Moses, formerly the hitting coach at Corpus, who is no longer in the organization). "Each one of them I picked something that they helped me with along the way ... Everyone has thrown me one or two things that I still use today. Give equal credit to all those guys."

J.D. showed phenomenal honesty and candor in all of his answers to us. He spoke of early doubts and how he got past those, struggling to keep weight on through the season, how he handles left field at MMP (giving full credit to Dave Clark for repetition after repetition of practice), and his unorthodox batting stance which he was tempted to change because "I feel like I look goofy when I hit." As one of the other bloggers pointed out, there was another Astro with a goofy batting stance a while back; that batting stance got him a statue outside Minute Maid Park.

Next Up ~ Some Final Thoughts on Fan Fest

Happy Birthday - 2/15

2012-02-15T05:28:00.002-06:00

No future Astros, only former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP Brian Williams (43)
Pitched in 130 games for Houston in 1991-1994 & 1999
Compiled a 19-17 record with a 4.66 ERA & 1.538 WHIP
According to Baseball-Reference, he was part of this monster trade:

"December 28, 1994: Traded by the Houston Astros with a player to be named later, Ken Caminiti, Andujar Cedeno, Steve Finleyand Roberto Petagine to the San Diego Padres for Derek Bell, Doug Brocail, Ricky Gutierrez, Pedro Martinez, Phil Plantier and Craig Shipley. The Houston Astros sent Sean Fesh (minors) (May 1, 1995) to the San Diego Padres to complete the trade."

LHP Don Arlich (69)
Pitched in 8 games for Houston in 1965 & 1966

OF Mark Davidson (51)
Played in 175 games for Houston from 1989 to 1991

RHP Larry Yount (62)
Appeared in one game for Houston in 1971

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-15T05:28:00.001-06:00

Joe Witkowski @Joey_Wit

2 more weeks #southernstateofmind

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-15T05:28:00.000-06:00

An Interview with Jio Mier

2012-02-14T05:24:00.001-06:00

I hesitated to interview Jio because, as a first round draft pick in 2009, he's been interviewed a lot. But I wanted to talk to him about his offense since that's been the biggest question mark for many people about him. He has been unable to replicate the .276/.380/.484 line he put up in his first year at Greeneville in 2009, but in looking at his splits, I found a few signs of progress so that's where we started.

WTH: You spent the second half of the season at Lancaster and, although you started out a little slow offensively there (hitting .214 in your 1st 26 games), you actually hit .250 in the last 31 games after coming back from the knee injury and .346 (with a .481 SLG%) in the final 2 weeks of the season. To what do you attribute your improvement at the plate? Do you feel that is something you can build on?

JM: Yeah definitely. Towards the last two months of the season I kind of switched things up and decided to take the approach of getting comfortable and letting my athleticism take over and it helped me out a lot. I wasn't being so mechanical and thinking at all at the plate and was concentrating more on getting ready every pitch and reacting to the pitches. [Over the off-season] I have been [doing] the same and am very excited to continue this process. This is basically the way I was in high school (which I got away from the last two seasons).

WTH: Baseball

America

just released their Prospect Handbook and said that you need to shorten up your stroke in order to be more successful at the plate. Do you agree with that assessment? Is that something you've been working on?

JM: Being short to the ball is probably the thing that I have worked on the most this off-season. When I'm short and stay inside the ball I see a lot of success in my stroke and see good results when I take BP on the field.

WTH: In your splits at Lancaster, you hit .190 with bases empty, but .294 with runners on and .300 with RISP. Tell me about your approach at the plate in those situations.

JM: My approach pretty much stays the same which is work towards the middle of the field and stay gap to gap. As for why my average was a lot higher with RISP is beyond me haha. I guess I liked RBI's more than I thought. Haha

WTH: A long-term issue for you since you first signed was putting on weight and keeping it on. How is that going for you now and what steps have you taken to make sure you keep the weight on?

JM: I was drafted at 170 and for the longest time it was very difficult for me to put weight on and keep it on at the same time. I'm happy to say with good workouts and my good diet I am 205. I have learned from numerous people, even teammates, about dieting and good nutrition and that has been the biggest thing for me. It's really helped me out throughout the season because eating healthy gets very tough with our schedule.

WTH: You cut down on errors substantially from 2010 to 2011. What adjustments did you make or what have you learned that has helped you as a fielder?

JM: The biggest learning experience for me defensively was definitely me going to big league camp last year and learning from Barmes and Bobby Meachum. I took what they taught me into the season and I was a lot more confident and comfortable with every ground ball that was hit my way.

WTH: How does the infield at Lancaster compare to the infield at Lexington?

JM: It’s a lot quicker in Lancaster. In Lexington you have that thick bluegrass they put on the field so every time the ball hits the grass it kind of just sticks and rolls as opposed to Lancaster where the ball has more of a skipping action. Also, the dirt was very well kept in Lexington, almost like a double A field; as for Lancaster, it's so windy and dry the dirt would get very hard at times.

WTH: What area do you feel that you've improved the most over the last two years?

JM: Besides my defense, I would say learning the kind of player I am. You can really get sidetracked and get away from the player/hitter you are and try to become something you’re not so me learning that has really helped me out.

WTH: What do you feel you need to do this year to really re-establish yourself as a top prospect?

JM: Just to control what I can and get back to the player I am. I know if I play my game, hit the way I know how, I feel the rest would take care of itself.

WTH: Are there any players or pitchers in the Astros minor leagues that you particularly enjoy watching play or pitch?

JM: There are numerous players I can watch play all the time but my favorite would have to be Altuve. Playing next to him for 2 seasons was the most fun I had with any second baseman that I've played with. Being his size and playing the way he does is extremely fun to see.

WTH: As a first round draft pick, a lot has been written about you. Can you tell me something about yourself that most people don't know that might surprise them?

JM: There's not much to me besides me being obsessed with my dog, call of duty (jmier3, in case anybody wants to play) and HGTV. That’s about it haha.. But seriously, I'm just a simple guy trying to chase a childhood dream.

Thank you for your time Jio and the best of luck in the 2012 season.

The Smartest Guys in the Room

2012-02-14T05:24:00.000-06:00

Maybe using a Smartest Guys in the Room reference to talk about a story originating from a place once called Enron Field isn't the most fortuitous analogy, but I'm going to go with it anyway.

George Postolos may be the Astros President, but GM Jeff Luhnow is rapidly becoming the face of the Astros, the one we look to in order to hear THE PLAN. And there is a plan. And he articulates it well and clearly. At a "Talkin' Baseball" session at Saturday's Fan Fest, he talked about his philosophy for making the Astros a perennial winner through development of the minor league system.

In answer to an audience question, he talked about winning vs. development in the minor leagues. He doesn't believe that you have to chose. There may be some individual players from time to time for whom development has to be the guiding focus, but "the philosophy of the system as a whole should be doing both at the same time." He talked about having done just that in the Cardinal's minor league system.

In discussing the young players that will be playing for Houston in 2012, he brought up the Astros MVP's that he had heard from and about on Friday evening at the Astros Baseball Dinner. "One of the themes that I kept hearing was this guy came up and ... all of a sudden, boom, he had a breakout year one year and became a superstar. It's going to happen to a couple of these guys out there. Whether it's J.D. Martinez or Altuve or Lyles, somebody's going to have a breakout year this year."

He spoke of building the franchise around those breakout players, getting the first pick of the draft this year, spending money internationally and the need to "continuously add to your pipeline" in order to become successful and stay successful. As I post this, Luhnow is in the Dominican Republic talking to the coaching staff and looking at our prospects there.

I was able to get a brief aside with Luhnow after the Q&A was over. Since I have a minor league focus and since this front office has brought analytics to the forefront, I wanted to hear his thoughts about the use of Sabermetric analysis in the minor leagues. He agreed with me that the use of stats such as BABIP and FIP, etc. are not particularly useful in analyzing minor league players, especially at the lower levels since the competition can be so uneven. He explained to me that his staff will be delving much more deeply. They will literally be tracking every single pitch and every single stroke of the bat in every single situation. They aren't just looking at atoms; they are looking at quarks and neutrinos. They will be able to view a player's performance at the most fundamental level in order to facilitate that player's maximum potential and predict future performance. That's smart.

Next Up ~ Q&A with Brad Mills, Bud Norris & J.D. Martinez

Happy Birthday - 2/14

2012-02-14T05:23:00.002-06:00

RHP Paul Clemens (24)
Originally drafted by Atlanta out of a community college in North Carolina in the 7th round in 2008, this South Carolina native came to Houston in the Michael Bourn trade in 2011. In 20 starts in the Atlanta minor league system in 2011, Clemens was 6-5 with a 3.73 ERA and a 1.353 WHIP. After the trade, he was 2-1 with a 2.35 ERA and a 1.141 WHIP at Corpus Christi before getting one not-so-good start at OKC at the end of the season.

Astros Bullpen Coach Craig Bjornson (43)
Pitched in the Houston minor league system from 1991 to 1993

One former Astro with a birthday today ~

IF Larry Milbourne (61)
Played in 244 games for Houston from 1974 to 1976

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-14T05:23:00.001-06:00

Rafael Valenzuela @RafyValenzuela

Few weeks left till spring training!! Gotta keep that focus and enjoy family and friends

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-14T05:23:00.000-06:00

WTH 25-Man Roster - Final Starting Pitcher

2012-02-13T05:23:00.002-06:00

As posted over the weekend, the 20th player added to the WTH 25-Man Roster was OF Domingo Santana. Also receiving votes were Austin Wates, Jacob Goebbert, Emilio King, Neiko Johnson, Teoscar Hernandez, Collin DeLome and Jay Austin. For more information on the WTH Roster, go here.

This week we're going to pick our 5th and Final Starting Pitcher. This list was compiled of those who received votes in the last round of voting. Personally, I would like to have another lefty in the rotation and Kyle Hallock with his 8.90 SO/9, 3.59 SO:BB ratio, 2.63 ERA and 1.216 WHIP would be the most logical candidate. But I also really like Nick Tropeano (10.63 SO/9, 2.36 ERA, 1.181 WHIP); Nick has recently gotten some love from Baseball America and from Jonathan Mayo as he landed on their prospect rankings. But we can't forget about the 19-year olds ~ Adrian Houser with one of the best fastballs in the system and Luis Ordosgoitti with his 10 BB to 49 SO in 2011. Finally, I'm looking forward to seeing what a healthy Vincent Velasquez, Tommy Shirley and Tanner Bushue can do, and I'm expecting improvement from Ross Seaton this year as well.

With all that said, here are the 2011 stats for the players. Look them over and vote.

Everything Old Is New Again

2012-02-13T05:23:00.001-06:00

"What goes around comes around" could have been the theme of the "Talkin' Baseball" session at the end of Fan Fest Saturday. Moderated by Alyson Footer, it featured J.R. Richard, Larry Dierker, Enos Cabell and Jim Deshaies in "A Look at 50 Years." Part of the season-long celebration, fans were given the opportunity to ask questions of these former Astros stalwarts, but most of us just sat back and listened as they spun a web of baseball gold.

Jim Deshaies started it with a masterful look at an incredible three days in September 1986 in which JD struck out the first 8 batters the first day, Nolan Ryan and Charlie Kerfeld threw a 2-hit shutout the next and, as predicted by Alan Ashby, Mike Scott eclipsed the others with the no-hit clincher on the third. "Freaking Ashby's a prophet," JD proclaimed.

Dierker talked about his no-hitter, those who missed it as they were in line for free beer, great plays by Cruz and Cabell to keep it alive and being shunned in the dugout as no one wanted to jinx him. But his favorite memory was the end of the 1999 season. Winning in the last regular game of the season to clinch, while also honoring the Astrodome Team of Honor as the team prepared to move to the new stadium, was described as being glorious in every aspect. He recalled everyone drinking champagne and smoking cigars afterwards and stated simply, "For me, that was baseball heaven."

J.R. Richard is a man of few words, but often stole the show with those few. In response to a fan who said, "I used to come to the games all the time just to watch you pitch," he responded, "Well, that was a good enough reason."

The best J.R. stories came from others. Enos Cabell described refusing to hit against J.R., "No, I was smarter than all the rest of the guys." Bruce Bochy took Cabell's turn at bat and ended up with a broken toe on the first pitch. Dierker talked about liking to hit, but bailing out of the batter's box as J.R.'s first pitch went behind his head. And J.D. reminisced about an Old Timer's game in which Joe Garagiola only lasted about seven pitches trying to catch J.R.

Enos Cabell spoke of his hatred for the Dodgers, "We hated the Dodgers ... We'd rather have a fight with them before the game than play the game." And of playing in the 70's, he said, "All of our games were 1-0, 2-1 or 3-2, and if you went to the bathroom, you missed it... Back when we played if J.R. and Dierker and those guys didn't pitch shutouts, we'd tell them 'we're gonna get you one run; that's it, so you'd better pitch your ass off.'"

But Cabell addressed the Astros' future as well as the past. In his position as Special Assistant to the GM, he is in the loop as far as what is needed and what the front office is trying to accomplish. He talked about getting back to more emphasis on pitching and defense, and having two or three guys that can hit 20-25 home runs rather than relying on just one big home run hitter. "We're trying to get back to a better mix," he said, "because it's going to last longer." Dierker added, "My sense is that we're trying to get back to something that's like the baseball we remember before the home run derby started." They both want to get back to an "exciting kind of baseball."

As the Astros organization honors its past, it is nice to see that they are looking at borrowing from it as well. An emphasis on pitching and defense with a well-rounded, balanced team of players, would go a long way toward bringing excitement back to Minute Maid Park.

Next Up ~ The Smartest Guys in the Room

Happy Birthday - 2/13

2012-02-13T05:23:00.000-06:00

RHP Andrew Robinson (24)
Drafted in the 12th round in 2010 out of Georgia Tech, Robinson spent most of the 2011 season at Lancaster. In 130.2 innings pitched over 31 games (21 starts), he had a 6.34 ERA and a 1.592 WHIP. However, he fared better as a reliever at Lancaster with a 3.98 ERA and a 1.278 WHIP.

RHP Juan Mojica (23)
Signed as a NDFA out of the Dominican Republic in 2008, Mojica spent most of 2011 with the GCL Astros (plus one perfect inning pitched at Greeneville). In 20 innings pitched over 15 games, he had a 1.35 ERA and a 1.350 WHIP.

2012 Corpus Christi Manager Keith Bodie (56)
Bodie was recently named manager for the Hooks after spending his last three seasons as a hitting coach at Corpus Christi (2009) and Oklahoma City (2010-2011).

One former Astro with a birthday today ~

RF Matt Mieske (44)
Played in 116 games for Houston in 1999 and 2000

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-13T05:22:00.001-06:00

Garen L. Wright @ThatHoustonKat7

Back at the crib.. #Sigh 24 more days G.. Hang in there lol..

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-13T05:22:00.000-06:00

Astros Fan Fest - Fan Questions

2012-02-12T11:20:00.000-06:00

I am currently working on a couple of posts about Astros Fan Fest that I will be posting over the next couple of days, but I thought I'd give you a sneak preview. Sarah Nelson (aka @HooksFanSarah on twitter) suggested that, since it was Fan Fest, I should ask Bud Norris and J.D. Martinez about a favorite fan memory. Here's what they had to say ~

Rather than pointing out a single fan experience, Bud talked about how he loves getting to know some of the fans by seeing the same faces over and over at Spring Training and other venues and seeing how much they love the Astros. "... Just seeing the love that these people have for the game, especially here in Houston, is a lot of fun. So, when I get to see the smiles on their face, it definitely puts one on mine."

J.D. talked about how his Mom acts as de facto president of his fan club and helps him keep on top of his fan mail with particular attention to the kids. He pointed to this recent fan interaction as one of his favorites ~

J.D. Martinez @JDMartinez14

Signing autographs for my fans tonight and ran into lil Isaac! Gotta love my fans! pic.twitter.com/5Wxoar32

"It was just cool because it was written in his writing and it was neat."

Coming tomorrow - Everything Old is New Again

WTH 25-Man Roster

2012-02-12T06:53:00.001-06:00

The 20th player and 4th Outfielder selected for the What the Heck 25-Man Roster was Domingo Santana. Also receiving votes were Austin Wates, Jacob Goebbert, Emilio King, Neiko Johnson, Teoscar Hernandez, Collin DeLome and Jay Austin. All of these pitchers will be on the ballot again for the final relief spot. (For more information on the WTH 25-Man Roster, go here.)

Coming Monday - Let's pick our 5th and Final Starting Pitcher.

Happy Birthday - 2/12

2012-02-12T06:53:00.000-06:00

C Chris Snyder (31)
One of our newest Astros, Snyder has a .231/.333/.394/.727 batting line over eight seasons in the majors. In 34 games for the Pirates in 2011, he hit .271/.376/.396/.772. He has a lifetime caught stealing percentage of 30% (comparable to Humberto Quintero's 32%). He was signed as a free agent by the Astros in January.

Former Astros with birthdays today ~

RHP Tim Redding (34)
Pitched in 91 games for Houston from 2001 to 2004
21-28 record with a 4.75 ERA and a 1.506 WHIP
Traded to the Padres for Humberto Quintero

OF Cameron Drew (48)
Played in 7 games for Houston in 1988

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-12T06:52:00.001-06:00

Rafael Valenzuela @RafyValenzuela

Valentines needed... Applications now being accepted

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-12T06:52:00.000-06:00

Astros Fan Fest - From J.D. to J.R.

2012-02-11T18:51:00.000-06:00

As you may know, the Astros were nice enough to grant several bloggers access to Fan Fest today. The day was a huge success and it will take a while to digest everything we heard, but I wanted to leave you with something until I can sort through it all over the next day or two. I left today with great hope for the future ...

and even greater respect for the past ...

Happy Birthday - 2/11

2012-02-11T07:17:00.001-06:00

OF Wallace Gonzalez (19)
Drafted in the 29th round in 2011 out of high school in California, Gonzalez spent his first professional season with the GCL Astros. In 18 games, he hit .242/.309/.290/.599. Baseball America found Gonzalez to be an intriguing late round pick citing his size (6'5" 240 lbs) and athleticism.

Former Astros with birthdays today ~

RF John Paciorek (67)
John Paciorek had the ultimate cup of coffee in the majors. In one game for the 1963 Colt 45's, he went 3 for 3 with two walks, scored four runs and drove in three, all at the ripe old age of 18!

RHP Matt Lindstrom (32)
Lindstrom pitched late relief in 58 games for Houston in 2010. He was 2-5 with 23 saves, a 79% save conversion rate, with a 4.39 ERA and a 1.650 WHIP. He was traded to Colorado for Jonnathan Aristil and Wes Musick.

C J.R. Towles (28)
Towles played in 155 games for Houston over 5 seasons from 2007 to 2011. Although he started out with a bang in a September call-up in 2007, hitting .375/.432/.575/1.007 and breaking the single game RBI record with eight RBI's in one game, he ultimately ended up with a .187 batting average at the major league level. In eight seasons at the minor league level, he had a .295/.394/.465/.859 batting line. Towles signed as a free agent with the Twins back in December.

RF Ollie Brown (68)
Played in 27 games for Houston in 1974

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-11T07:17:00.000-06:00

Josh Zeid @Josh_Zeid14

Taking the last off day of my offseason today. great to be relaxing. But I feel the need to go work out #cantdothissittingaroundthing #500??

No Announced Roster Moves Today

2012-02-11T07:16:00.000-06:00

A Moment at the Houston Baseball Dinner

2012-02-10T23:32:00.000-06:00

I had taken a little break from the festivities and was headed back to the ballroom. As I turned the corner, I looked up. You couldn't miss him if you tried. "Mr. Richard," I said as I extended my hand. He grasped my hand firmly yet gently and smiled down at me.

I reminded him about when we had met previously, several years back, and what our conversation had been. "I never saw anyone throw that hard and that fast," I had said. His shoulders went back. He raised his chin. He was every bit of his 6'8" frame as he then replied, "And you never will."

We chatted a moment about the mutual acquaintances that had caused our paths to cross that one time and then went our separate ways. As he walked away, I looked back at him and said, "I'm just waiting for them to retire your number." He didn't stop. He didn't turn around. He didn't flinch. But as I watched those massive shoulders clad in blue retreat down the hallway, he raised that once all-powerful right hand and with a brief wave for punctuation, these words came back to me. "So am I."

2012 Consensus Prospect Rankings

2012-02-10T06:26:00.000-06:00

I took the most recent prospect lists from John Sickels, Jonathan Mayo and Kevin Goldstein, added in the top 30 from Baseball America's Prospect Handbook, averaged the rankings if the prospect appeared on at least 3 of the 4 lists and came up with a consensus ranking of the Astros top prospects.

1. Jonathan Singleton
2. Jarred Cosart
3. George Springer
4. Jonathan Villar
5. Brett Oberholtzer
6. Paul Clemens
7. Domingo Santana
8. Mike Foltynewicz
9. Delino DeShields Jr.
10. Telvin Nash
T11. Adrian Houser
T11. Nick Tropeano
13. Austin Wates
14. Jake Buchanan
15. Ariel Ovando
16. Juan Abreu
17. Tanner Bushue
18. Jio Mier
19. Chris Wallace

The top 10 on the list were on all 4 lists, as were Austin Wates, Ariel Ovando and Juan Abreu.

Others who appeared on 2 of the 4 lists in order of average ranking:
Kyle Weiland
J.B. Shuck
Ross Seaton
Jack Armstrong
Mike Kvasnicka
Vincent Velasquez

Happy Birthday - 2/10

2012-02-10T06:25:00.002-06:00

RHP Wander Alvino (25)
A NDFA out of the Dominican Republic, Alvino first played for the DSL Astros in 2006. In 46 appearances at Lancaster in 2011, he had a 4.19 ERA and a 1.616 WHIP in 73 innings pitched. In the Dominican Winter League, he appeared in 10 games (5.1 innings pitched) with a 5.06 ERA.

RHP Dayan Diaz (23)
Diaz was signed as a NDFA out of Columbia and first pitched in the VSL in 2006. For Tri-City in 2011, Diaz was an unqualified success in long relief with a 7-3 record in 19 games (1 start) over 50 innings pitched. His 1.98 ERA and 1.140 WHIP were impressive enough to have him named a Baseball America Short-Season All-Star and a MiLB.com Organization All-Star for 2011.

Former Astros with birthdays today

OF/1B Lance Berkman (36)
Berkman, also known as the Big Puma or Fat Elvis, was the Astros first round draft pick in 1997. In 13 seasons (thus far), he has a .296/.409/.545/.954 batting line with 405 doubles, 28 triples and 358 home runs. Berkman played for Houston from 1999 to 2010, when he was traded to the Yankees for Mark Melancon and Jimmy Paredes. He signed with the Cardinals as a free agent in December of 2010. A 6-time All-Star, Berkman was named the 2011 Comeback Player of the Year.

RHP Ryan Bowen (44)
1st round pick in 1986
Pitched in 25 games for Houston in 1991 & 1992

IF Eddie Zosky (44)
4 AB's for Houston in 2000

Tweet of the Day

2012-02-10T06:25:00.001-06:00

J.D. Martinez @JDMartinez14

On our #AstrosCAREavan today look who we found! Wally is that you? Lol @brettwallace29 pic.twitter.com/VNxfI9CI