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1

Talk Zone / Anyone Headed to LA for Game 2?

« on: October 22, 2017, 03:29:52 pm »

Trying to figure out travel plans to catch at least one game, but the logistics for all of them suck. Game 2 (Verlander start) in LA is a possibility, but I'd be going solo to that one which I'm generally 'meh' about. Curious about how many OWA folks are heading to the Tuesday game in LA / where you are sitting / if there were still StubHub seats nearby (went to game 1 in 2005 and was glad I had another HOU fan with me in the sea of CWS fans). Feel free to post or DM me if you're going to game 2.

2

Talk Zone / Take out slides...

« on: October 10, 2015, 10:52:48 pm »

Just saw the Utley slide into Tejada tonight (sending Tejada out on the cart). Reminded me a bit of the Gregorius (NYY) slide into Altuve the other night. Which made me curious, what are the rules (written or unwritten) for whether or not a take out slide is appropriate?

3

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA Article on Reed

« on: September 18, 2015, 03:06:18 pm »

Here you go... LINK

4

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 7

« on: September 04, 2015, 09:49:13 pm »

7 - As in the number of Astros MiLB teams in the post season... Wow!
Link = http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/147421794

5

Beer and Queso / Astros fandom a birthright, or is my baby just a bandwagoneer?

« on: August 18, 2015, 10:35:38 pm »

I'm going with birthright... In any event, my son Jackson Street was born on 7/25/15 (8.0 pounts, 20.5 inches). He and Jen are doing great!

And before you ask, yes, I'm binding that right arm (who'd've known that they actually have a thing for that, swaddling I think they call it...), and have taken him to his first baseball game (where he experienced his first team mascot photobombing...)!

6

Talk Zone / All-Time Teams by University Alumni

« on: June 25, 2015, 03:31:32 pm »

Entertaining... Enjoy! Link (below) via AceballStats on Twitter.

All-Time Teams by University alumni

7

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2015 Futures Game

« on: June 25, 2015, 11:52:08 am »

Two Astros MiLB'ers make the US Team Roster:

Mark Appel, RHP
Career Transactions: Selected by Astros in first round (first overall) of 2013 draft.
Background: The No. 1 overall pick in the 2013 draft hasn’t dominated any level of the minors (career 5.36 ERA), but the former Stanford ace shows three plus pitches in some starts.
What To Watch For: Appel more consistently locates his mid-90s fastball these days, but feel for his slider and changeup can be elusive, leading to the occasional big inning.

Tony Kemp, 2B
Career Transactions: Selected by Astros in fifth round of 2013 draft.
Background: Kemp is one of the shortest players in the game, but that hasn’t slowed down his ascent to Houston. The Southeastern Conference player of the year at Vanderbilt in 2013, he has hit .315 as a pro.
What To Watch For: Kemp’s versatility is as important as his hitting ability. He’s not spectacular at any defensive position, but he can handle center field, left field and second base.

No Astros MiLB'ers on the World Team Roster (although that doesn't surprise me, as IIRC there can be a max of two players representing each MLB franchise), though Corpus Christi manager Rodney Linares is on the World Team staff (per Berman tweet).

8

Game Zone 2015 Archive / Astros @ Angels 6/24/15: Getaway Day Matinee

« on: June 24, 2015, 12:00:34 pm »

The Los Angeleeeez Angels of Anaheim have called up their top prospect, LHP Andrew Heaney, from the AAA Salt Lake Bees to take the hill against the Astros. McCullers pitching for the 'Stros. Game starts at 2:35 CDST.

9

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2015 Draftees and Status

« on: June 08, 2015, 06:00:03 pm »

In order to keep separate pre- and draft/post-draft threads, the '2015 Draftees and Status' thread is now open (conversely, the '2015 Draft thread’ is now closed)...

10

Game Zone 2014 Archive / Quadruple Header - 10/03/14 Baseball

« on: October 03, 2014, 12:20:28 pm »

JD just hit his second post season HR for the Tigers.

11

Game Zone 2014 Archive / 08/11/14: Astros vs. Twins

« on: August 11, 2014, 07:42:48 pm »

Tied at 1-1 thru 1. Altive put HOU on the board with a solo shot!

Astros lineup:

R Grossman RF
J Altuve 2B
C Carter DH
M Dominguez 3B
J Castro C
D Santana LF
J Singleton 1B
J Marisnick CF
G Petit SS

Peacock pitching.

Twins lineup:

D Santana CF
B Dozier 2B
J Mauer 1B
K Vargas DH
T Plouffe 3B
K Suzuki C
C Parmelee RF
E Escobar SS
J Schafer LF

T Milone pitching.

12

Talk Zone / MLB.com writers favorite baseball books

« on: July 30, 2014, 01:02:33 pm »

Decent array of books, with 'Ball Four' fairing quite nicely. LINK

What are your favorites?!?

13

Talk Zone / Tom Emanski Article

« on: July 17, 2014, 01:02:15 pm »

Thought y'all might enjoy! PITCHMAN: HOW TOM EMANSKI CHANGED THE SPORT OF BASEBALL — AND THEN DISAPPEARED

14

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2014 Draftees and Status

« on: June 05, 2014, 05:58:33 pm »

In order to keep separate pre- and draft/post-draft threads, the '2014 Draftees and Status' thread is now open (conversely, the '2014 Draft thread’ is now closed)...

The chart below will be updated to add draft results and signing status until the close of signings (note: the signing deadline for 2014 Rule 4 drafted players is 5 p.m. ET on July 18, 2014).

2014 Houston Astros Draft – Draftee Signing Status and ‘Bonus Pool’ Implications

Draftee

Rd/Pick

(1) 1
(Comp A) 37
(2) 42
(3) 75
(4) 106
(5) 136
(6) 166
(7) 196
(8) 226
(9) 256
(10) 286
(11) 316
(12) 346
(13) 376
(14) 406
(15) 436
(16) 466
(17) 496
(18) 526
(19) 556
(20) 586
(21) 616
(22) 646
(23) 676
(24) 706
(25) 736
(26) 766
(27) 796
(28) 826
(29) 856
(30) 886
(31) 916
(32) 946
(33) 976
(34) 1006
(35) 1036
(36) 1066
(37) 1096
(38) 1126
(39) 1156
(40) 1186

Signed

$ Allotment

$7,922,100
$1,534.100
$1,530,000
$748,600
$494,800
$370,500
$277,400
$207,800
$162,800
$152,000
$142,100
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]

Signed for

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Over/
[Under]
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POS

Class

DOB

2014 Houston Astros Draft – Draft Results

Draftee

Rd/Pick
(1) 1
(Comp A) 37
(2) 42
(3) 75
(4) 106
(5) 136
(6) 166
(7) 196
(8) 226
(9) 256
(10) 286
(11) 316
(12) 346
(13) 376
(14) 406
(15) 436
(16) 466
(17) 496
(18) 526
(19) 556
(20) 586
(21) 616
(22) 646
(23) 676
(24) 706
(25) 736
(26) 766
(27) 796
(28) 826
(29) 856
(30) 886
(31) 916
(32) 946
(33) 976
(34) 1006
(35) 1036
(36) 1066
(37) 1096
(38) 1126
(39) 1156
(40) 1186

POS

School

Class

B/T

Ht/Wt

DOB

15

Talk Zone / Pretty darn cool...

« on: May 25, 2014, 10:54:04 pm »

Conrad Gregor, a Houston Astros prospect currently playing for the Quad Cities River Bandits, unintentionally gave a souvenir to his father, who was attending Saturday's game.

http://deadspin.com/astros-prospects-first-home-run-of-season-caught-by-his-1581384592?utm_campaign=socialflow_deadspin_facebook&utm_source=deadspin_facebook&utm_medium=socialflow

And though not nearly that cool, I ended up with a decent souvenir this weekend as well...
http://twitter.com/StreetJL/status/470769505203802112/photo/1

16

Talk Zone / Mitch Williams, Keeping it Classy...

« on: May 12, 2014, 01:29:00 pm »

Tossed from his kid's game for profanities... Deadspin LINK

17

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Appel Spring Training PITCHf/x data

« on: April 08, 2014, 12:06:00 pm »

Interesting... (BP LINK)

18

Beer and Queso / Active Shooter at Ft. Hood

« on: April 02, 2014, 06:01:00 pm »

Again... Waco Trib LINK

19

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Callis on Springer

« on: March 05, 2014, 03:15:38 pm »

Decent article from Callis on Springer. LINK

20

Beer and Queso / So... Anyone know any good Wedding venues in San Antonio?!?

« on: February 28, 2014, 10:03:23 am »

Yup, not a typo!

Anyway... looks like San Antonio will be the venue (semi-central'ish location for the families) in mid-August... We'll be there next month for the NCAA tourney rounds 2-3 and are going to scout out some locations.

If anyone has recommendations or knows someone who might, I'm all ears...

21

Beer and Queso / McLane Stadium

« on: December 30, 2013, 03:21:30 pm »

At least some of the proceeds of the Astros sale windfall went to a good cause... LINK

(Okay folks, there is your hanging curveball. Do with it what you will...).

22

Beer and Queso / Boot store rec

« on: December 26, 2013, 12:23:35 am »

I need to retire a couple of pair of cowboy boots (a Lucchese and Tony Lama), and wanted to pick up a couple of replacements before I leave town late Thursday afternoon. Anyone have a rec on the north side (Conroe, Woodlands, Spring/1960) of boot stores with decent prices / sales going on / good selection? Thanks!

23

Beer and Queso / Finally (and Happy Thanksgiving)

« on: November 27, 2013, 11:55:53 am »

They now sell Shiner in Portland! Picked up a case last night, and my Texans-living-in-Portland buddies and I are going to enjoy every last one of them tomorrow!!!

And since I won't be hanging around these parts tomorrow allow me to wish y'all a Happy Thanksgiving in advance! Be safe, be blessed, and have fun!

24

Talk Zone / Astros among front runners for Abreu

« on: October 16, 2013, 03:16:39 pm »

So sayeth Buster anyway... Twitter LINK

@Buster_ESPN
Bidding on Cuba defector Jose Abreu is expected to be for a $70 million deal, sources say. White Sox,Astros, Rangers viewed as frontrunners.

More on Cuban defector Jose Dariel Abreu via this ESPN LINK:

"He has monstrous power," said a scout who began following Abreu at the 2009 IBAF World Cup.*** One talent evaluator said Abreu could step into a big league lineup tomorrow and hit .260 with 25 home runs. That's not far from what Cespedes is doing in Oakland this season. Another expressed concern that Abreu looks "confused" against breaking balls and thought he could benefit from a little seasoning in the upper minors. Once Abreu gets the hang of major league pitching, the consensus is that he has the strength to hit 30 homers by accident.

25

Talk Zone / How Friggin' Cool is This?!?

« on: October 16, 2013, 01:01:53 pm »

REPLAY, via @Deadspin (link): "Baseball cards made into stop motion animation-coolest thing ever."

26

Talk Zone / Call for Papers: 2014 The National Pastime

« on: October 08, 2013, 03:56:27 pm »

Seems there are a lot of OWA'ers stories that would make for good submissions/reads here: Call for Papers: 2014 The National Pastime

To coincide with the convention, the summer 2014 issue of The National Pastime will focus on Houston-area baseball. In particular, we will be focusing on 1962-present to avoid overlap with the special book on pre-Astros baseball that the Houston chapter is concurrently producing. We expect most of the articles will center on the Astros, but we are open to other topics that fit the time frame (Women's baseball? Little league? Fan studies? College baseball? You tell us.) Articles may be historical, biographical, or analytical, but please avoid personal narrative.***

27

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / End of Season Top Prospects Lists

« on: October 01, 2013, 01:57:22 pm »

Sickels posted his Top 75 Prospects: End of Season Update (h/t to Astros County)

The Astros on this list are as follows (link provides commentary):

#6: Carlos Correa
#9: George Springer
#20: Mark Appel
#37: Mike Foltynewicz
#43: Lance McCullers, Jr
#73: Jon Singleton
Honorable Mentions: Delino DeShields, Jr, and Rio Ruiz

Good to see someone finally including Springer in their Top 10. As for Singleton at #73, Sickels has been fairly consistent on ranking Singleton below (or well below) most of the other prospect folks.

And to add, though I usually don't point people to readers comments, I think the "Springer-detractors seem to misuse age relative to level" comment is worth a look (and Sickels seems to have given his approval to it as well).

28

Talk Zone / CSN Bankruptcy

« on: September 27, 2013, 09:04:09 pm »

Here ya go... LINK

Affiliates of Comcast/NBC Universal filed an involuntary Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition Friday in Houston on behalf of the struggling Comcast SportsNet Houston regional sports network that it owns along with the Rockets and Astros. The action apparently came as a surprise to the Astros...

29

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Tanner Bushue has retired

« on: September 05, 2013, 06:20:37 pm »

Astros County LINK

30

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros Affiliates Playoff Schedule and Results

« on: September 04, 2013, 03:34:55 pm »

A handy-dandy breakdown of Astros Affiliates playoffs scheduling courtesy of Jayne at WTHB. LINK

31

Talk Zone / 1st round of callups tba tonight!

« on: August 31, 2013, 03:25:41 pm »

Per McTaggart:

“@brianmctaggart: Astros will announce first round of September call-ups after tonight's game.”

32

Talk Zone / Better Late Than Never?!? You Decide... HOU vs. SEA Preview Posted

« on: August 30, 2013, 09:41:38 pm »

Yep, I am not to be trusted when it comes to meeting OWA posting deadlines (soft as they may be)... In any event, my apologies.

In any event, here ya go: HOU vs. SEA series preview.

33

Talk Zone / Last day to Vote Springer for MiLB POY

« on: August 21, 2013, 05:22:07 pm »

The USA Today MiLB Player of the Year voting closes today. Springer had a 10ish% lead on Archie Bradley yesterday, but its down to 2% or so currently. So... If you're so inclined... Go cast a few votes for Springer. It'd be a shame to see a kid approaching 40/40 not get that honor. Voting LINK

34

Talk Zone / Stassi up

« on: August 20, 2013, 11:44:49 am »

A lot of rumblings on Twitter last night that Stassi was getting called up. McTaggart confirmed the rumor today, and notes that it indicates Corporan is probably going on the DL for potential concussion related issues.

35

Talk Zone / Cash Grab?

« on: August 14, 2013, 12:40:36 pm »

Earlier it was Wright for cash considerations, now it is Blackley. Hmmmm.

“@JuliaMoralesCSN:
#Astros trade LHP Travis Blackley to the #Rangers for PTBNL and cash consideration.”

ETA:

“@Evan_P_Grant:
Appears to be some discrepancy on Astros transaction: There is no PTBNL going from Rangers to Houston in deal.”

36

Talk Zone / Astros @ A's Preview is now posted

« on: August 13, 2013, 03:34:28 pm »

Read (yet another) GBB masterpiece HERE.

37

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros sign top Mexican League OF Leo Heras

« on: August 13, 2013, 12:57:14 pm »

Heras is 23, and seems to be a legitimate prospect (rather than simply a roster filler). TCB has a short write-up on him, with some links worth checking out HERE.

38

Talk Zone / Caption This?!?

« on: August 09, 2013, 03:11:45 pm »

A cool photo of Carlos Correa I thought worthy of a link, and perhaps a caption...

39

Talk Zone / "Bud Selig's Mafia"

« on: August 09, 2013, 12:49:26 pm »

Yes, Cuban is still a douche... but... His general assessment of W. Huber Selig is generally apropos.... http://espn.go.com/dallas/mlb/story/_/id/9552879/mark-cuban-rips-bud-selig-baseball-alex-rodriguez-saga

40

Talk Zone / Lip reading manager/ump arguments

« on: July 29, 2013, 03:53:31 pm »

"A Lip Reader Deciphers The Manager-Umpire Arguments Of 2013" (via Deadspin)

41

Talk Zone / 99 Cool Facts About Babe Ruth

« on: July 12, 2013, 01:11:21 pm »

Fun read from SI: LINK

42

Talk Zone / Cosart up

« on: July 10, 2013, 10:53:29 pm »

Per Chron's Brian Smith (via Twitter)

Brian T. Smith ‏@ChronAstros 9s
Jarred Cosart will start Friday vs Rays

43

Talk Zone / Tangentially Baseball Related - Anna Benson

« on: July 08, 2013, 04:23:23 pm »

Former "Baseball Wives" star Anna Benson — the estranged wife of ex-pitcher Kris Benson — was arrested this morning in Georgia ... after allegedly raiding Kris' apartment with a gun and a metal baton, all while wearing a bulletproof vest. Deadspin LINK (citing TMZ Sports post).

44

Talk Zone / Manny to the Rangers

« on: July 03, 2013, 04:32:25 pm »

The Rangers have agreed to sign Manny Ramirez to a minor league deal. LINK

This could be entertaining!

45

Talk Zone / Vote Correa!!!

« on: June 28, 2013, 10:31:11 pm »

Okay folks... Correa has 32% of the vote for the final spot in the futures game, but is running behind the frontrunner who has 36% of the vote... Seriously, cast some votes for the kid (VOTE HERE). Will it help spur you towards voting for Correa if I add that the frontrunner is a FTC prospect?!? Well, he is...

46

Talk Zone / Bring it, AC!

« on: June 25, 2013, 05:07:29 pm »

Astros County takes exception to a NYT article... Entertaining read.

47

Talk Zone / Crowe to the DL, Krauss called up

« on: June 20, 2013, 05:29:10 pm »

Or so the Twitterverse is saying...

48

Talk Zone / RA Dickey Knuckleball .GIFs

« on: June 18, 2013, 10:40:13 pm »

Awesomeness!

49

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Tri-City ValleyCats - 2013

« on: June 15, 2013, 09:07:26 pm »

Your one-stop shop to discuss all things 2013 ValleyCats.

50

Talk Zone / Republicans vs. Democrats (Baseball): 06/13/13

« on: June 13, 2013, 03:13:48 pm »

Neither here nor there, but Deadspin breaks down the Annual Congressional Baseball Game for Charity (06/13/13)... Does The Majority Party Have An Advantage In Congressional Ballgame?.

Ben Terris of the National Journal has a great breakdown of the game (fun read): The Most Contested Turf in Congress Isn’t Where You Think

Admit it, you thought I was 'going political' in the Talk Zone...

51

Game Zone 2013 Archive / 06/12/13 Astros at Mariners

« on: June 12, 2013, 05:55:58 pm »

Here are the lineups for the Astros June 12, 2013 game against the Mariners at Safeco:

Astros lineup:

1. Altuve 2B
2. Castro DH
3. Martinez RF
4. Corporan C
5. Pena 1B
6. Carter LF
7. Dominguez 3B
8. Barnes CF
9. Gonzalez SS
SP - Lyles

Mariners lineup:
1. Chavez RF
2. Bay LF
3. Seager 3B
4. Ibanez DH
5. Franklin 2B
6. Zunino C
7. Saunders CF
8. Ryan SS
9. Liddi 1B
SP - Bonderman

ETA the correct lineup for the Astros.... as opposed to yesterdays lineup...

52

Talk Zone / Ian Kennedy: Headhunter

« on: June 12, 2013, 04:01:26 am »

Diamondbacks' pitcher Ian Kennedy hits Dodgers' Puig in the face with a 92 MPH fastball. Puig stays on the ground for a couple of minutes before getting in the game. Next inning Dodgers' pitcher Greinke hits Diamondbacks catcher Monterro in the back. Next inning Kennedy sends one up-and-in (moving towards Grienke's head), hitting him in the shoulder. All hell broke loose after that, including a Mattingly body slam...

The brawl video (narrated by Scully) can be seen here.

53

Talk Zone / Astros and the DP record

« on: June 11, 2013, 03:12:00 pm »

Nice read from Appy: Houston Astros Team Double Play Record in Reach

Excerpt: "Last week, I covered Jose Altuve's impressive season turning the double play and how he has a shot to break the team and maybe the AL record. Today, let's look at the double play from a team perspective. *** "

54

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / New Astros Top 10?!?

« on: June 09, 2013, 02:35:57 pm »

So... presuming the Astros sign their first 5 picks from the 2013 draft, how would you rank the Astros Top 10 prospects now? For me, it changes every time I think about it, but for the moment (and it will likely change immediately after I hit 'post'), I think it goes like this:

1. Correa
2. Appel (2013 Draft)
3. Springer
4. Singleton
5. Foltynewicz
6. Cozart
7. McCUllers, Jr.
8. DeShields, Jr.
9. Tropeano
10. Thurman (2013 Draft)

Thoughts?

55

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2013 Draftees and Status

« on: June 06, 2013, 05:04:08 pm »

The '2013 Draftees and Status' thread is now open (conversely, The 'Early 2013 Draft' thread is now closed)...

Updated to add draft results and signing status (through 07/06/13). This first entry will be updated until the close of signings (note: the signing deadline for 2013 Rule 4 drafted players is 5 p.m. ET on July 12, 2013).

2013 Houston Astros Draft – Draftee Signing Status and ‘Bonus Pool’ Implications

Draftee

Mark Appel
Andrew Thurman
Kent Emmanuel
Conrad Gregor
Tony Kemp
Jacob Nottingham
James Ramsay
Jason Martin
Brian Holberton
Austin Nicely
Devonte German
Chase McDonald
Kyle Westwood
Chris Cotton
James Farris
Dillon Newman
Alex Schick
Adam Nelubowich
Jake Rodriguez
Daniel Pinero
Jon Kemmer
Sebastian Kessay
Thomas Lindauer
Nathan Thornhill
Albert Minnis
William Chrismon
Patrick Christensen
Jordan Mills
Randall Fant
Jorge Perez
Scott Burke
Zach Morton
Brian White
Brett Booth
Kacy Clemens
J. D. Osborne
Josh Melendez
Ronnie Mitchell
Juan Santos
Tyler Brunnemann

Jack Mayfield
Troy Scribner
Kevin Ferguson
Parker Hipp
Tanner Mathis
Brett Clements
Ryan Connolly
Alexander Melendez
Chris Munnelly

Rd/Pick

   (1) 1
   (2) 40
   (3) 74
   (4) 107
   (5) 137
   (6) 167
   (7) 197
   (8) 227
   (9) 257
  (10) 287
  (11) 317
  (12) 347
  (13) 377
  (14) 407
  (15) 437
  (16) 467
  (17) 497
  (18) 527
  (19) 557
  (20) 587
  (21) 617
  (22) 647
  (23) 677
  (24) 707
  (25) 737
  (26) 767
  (27) 797
  (28) 827
  (29) 857
  (30) 887
  (31) 917
  (32) 947
  (33) 977
(34) 1007
(35) 1037
(36) 1067
(37) 1097
(38) 1127
(39) 1157
(40) 1187

   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA

Signed

   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   -
   YES
   YES
   YES
   NO
   -
   -
   YES
   YES
   -
   YES
   YES
   YES
   NO
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   -
   YES
   YES
   YES
   NO
   YES
   -
   YES
   YES
   YES

   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES
   YES

$ Allotment

$7,790,400
$1,397,200
   $747,700
   $481,900
   $360,800
   $270,200
   $202,300
   $159,700
   $149,200
   $139,400
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]

[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]

Signed for

$6,350,000
$1,397,200
   $747,700
   $481,900
   $250,000
   $300,000
   $175,000
   $159,700
   $150,000
   $610,000
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --

   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --

Over/
[Under]
[$1,440,400]
   $0
   $0
   $0
   [$110,800]
   +$29,800
   [$27,300]
   $0
      $800
   +$470,600
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --

   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --
   --

POS

   RHP
   RHP
   LHP
   1B
   2B
   C
   CF
   CF
   C
   LHP
   RHP
   1B
   RHP
   LHP
   RHP
   RHP
   RHP
   3B
   C
   SS
   LF
   LHP
   SS
   RHP
   LHP
   RHP
   RHP
   LHP
   LHP
   RHP
   RHP
   RHP
   3B
   C
   RHP
   LHP
   CF
   CF
   RHP
   RHP

   IF
   RHP
   LHP
   SS
   OF
   C
   RHP
   OF
   RHP

Class

   SR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   HS
   JR
   HS
   JR
   HS
   HS
   JR
   SR
   SR
   JR
   JR
   HS
   SR
   JR
   HS
   SR
   J2
   JR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   SR
   JR
   SR
   J2
   HS
   5S
   SR
   SR
   HS
   5S
   SR
   SR
   HS
   SR

   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   HS
   SR

DOB

  07/15/91
  12/10/91
  06/04/92
  02/27/92
  10/31/91
  04/03/95
  03/02/92
  09/05/95
  06/10/92
  12/13/94
  10/14/94
  06/02/92
  04/13/91
  11/21/90
  04/04/92
  07/05/91
  12/01/94
  04/28/91
  01/24/92
  05/02/94
  11/17/90
  06/19/93
  12/02/91
  09/26/91
  11/05/91
  09/16/92
  12/27/90
  05/11/92
  01/28/91
  07/30/93
  06/02/94
  07/12/90
  10/29/90
  10/12/90
  07/27/94
  11/13/90
  05/25/91
  06/21/91
  08/30/95
  08/09/91

  09/30/90
  07/02/91
  07/04/91
  03/01/91
  06/27/91
  09/23/90
  11/10/90
  04/21/95
  02/16/91

2013 Houston Astros Draft – Draft Results

Draftee
Mark Appel
Andrew Thurman
Kent Emmanuel
Conrad Gregor
Tony Kemp
Jacob Nottingham
James Ramsay
Jason Martin
Brian Holberton
Austin Nicely
Devonte German
Chase McDonald
Kyle Westwood
Chris Cotton
James Farris
Dillon Newman
Alex Schick
Adam Nelubowich
Jake Rodriguez
Daniel Pinero

Jon Kemmer
Sebastian Kessay
Thomas Lindauer
Nathan Thornhill
Albert Minnis
William Chrismon
Patrick Christensen
Jordan Mills
Randall Fant
Jorge Perez
Scott Burke
Zach Morton
Brian White
Brett Booth
Kacy Clemens
J. D. Osborne
Josh Melendez
Ronnie Mitchell
Juan Santos
Tyler Brunnemann

Jack Mayfield
Troy Scribner
Kevin Ferguson
Parker Hipp
Tanner Mathis
Brett Clements
Ryan Connolly
Alexander Melendez
Chris Munnelly

Rd/Pick
   (1) 1
   (2) 40
   (3) 74
   (4) 107
   (5) 137
   (6) 167
   (7) 197
   (8) 227
   (9) 257
  (10) 287
  (11) 317
  (12) 347
  (13) 377
  (14) 407
  (15) 437
  (16) 467
  (17) 497
  (18) 527
  (19) 557
  (20) 587

  (21) 617
  (22) 647
  (23) 677
  (24) 707
  (25) 737
  (26) 767
  (27) 797
  (28) 827
  (29) 857
  (30) 887
  (31) 917
  (32) 947
  (33) 977
(34) 1007
(35) 1037
(36) 1067
(37) 1097
(38) 1127
(39) 1157
(40) 1187

   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA
   NDFA

POS
   RHP
   RHP
   LHP
   1B
   2B
   C
   CF
   CF
   C
   LHP
   RHP
   1B
   RHP
   LHP
   RHP
   RHP
   RHP
   3B
   C
   SS

   LF
   LHP
   SS
   RHP
   LHP
   RHP
   RHP
   LHP
   LHP
   RHP
   RHP
   RHP
   3B
   C
   RHP
   LHP
   CF
   CF
   RHP
   RHP

   IF
   RHP
   LHP
   SS
   OF
   C
   RHP
   OF
   RHP

School
Stanford
Univ. of Cal. - Irvine
North Carolina
Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt
Redlands HS (CA)
South Florida
Orange Lutheran HS (CA)
North Carolina
Spotswood HS (VA)
Bishop Manogue HS (NV)
East Carolina (NC)
Univ. of North Florida
LSU
Arizona
Baylor University
Cathedral Catholic HS (CA)
Washington State
Oregon State
Western Technical-
Comm. School (Canada)
Brewton Parker Col (GA)
Scottsdale CC (AZ)
University of Illinois
University of Texas
Wichita State (KS)
East Carolina (NC)
La Salle (PA)
St. Marys (CA)
Arkansas
Seminole State (OK)
Glendora HS (CA)
Northwestern
Western Carolina (NC)
Alabama
Memorial HS (TX)
Wofford (SC)
New Mexico
Dallas Baptist (TX)
Arlington Cntry Day Sc. (FL)
Hardin Simmons U

Oklahoma
Sacred Heart
Northeastern
New Mexico State
Ole Miss
Nova Southeastern
Coastal Carolina
P.R. Baseball Acad. (P.R.)
North Carolina

Class
   SR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   HS
   JR
   HS
   JR
   HS
   HS
   JR
   SR
   SR
   JR
   JR
   HS
   SR
   JR
   HS

   SR
   J2
   JR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   SR
   JR
   SR
   J2
   HS
   5S
   SR
   SR
   HS
   5S
   SR
   SR
   HS
   SR

   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   HS
   SR

B/T
R/R
R/R
L/L
L/R
L/R
R/R
L/L
L/R
L/R
S/L
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/L
R/R
R/R
R/R
L/R
R/R
R/R

L/L
L/L
R/R
R/R
R/L
R/R
R/R
L/L
L/L
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
L/R
R/L
R/R
L/L
R/R
R/R

R/R
R/R
L/L
L/R
L/L
S/R
R/R
R/R
R/R

Ht/Wt
6'04" / 195
6'03" / 200
6'04" / 215
6'03" / 220
5’07” / 165
6'03" / 200
5'11" / 180
5'10" / 175
5’10” / 190
6'01" / 170
6'05" / 240
6'04" / 260
6'03" / 190
5'10" / 170
6'02" / 220
6'02" / 185
6'06" / 180
6'02" / 195
5'09" / 195
6'06" / 200

6'02" / 215
6'02" / 200
6'02" / 175
6'01" / 180
6’00" / 190
6'02" / 227
6'03" / 200
6'05" / 208
6'04" / 190
5'11" / 170
6'03" / 175
6'02" / 180
5'11" / 225
5’10” / 205
6'02" / 200
6'05" / 225
5’11” / 190
5’11” / 200
6'04" / 240
6'02" / 225

5’11” / 182
6’03” / 190
6’00” / 180
6’02” / 200
5’11” / 180
5’09” / 185
6’00” / 180
6’01” / 185
6’02” / 200

DOB
  07/15/91
  12/10/91
  06/04/92
  02/27/92
  10/31/91
  04/03/95
  03/02/92
  09/05/95
  06/10/92
  12/13/94
  10/14/94
  06/02/92
  04/13/91
  11/21/90
  04/04/92
  07/05/91
  12/01/94
  04/28/91
  01/24/92
  05/02/94

  11/17/90
  06/19/93
  12/02/91
  09/26/91
  11/05/91
  09/16/92
  12/27/90
  05/11/92
  01/28/91
  07/30/93
  06/02/94
  07/12/90
  10/29/90
  10/12/90
  07/27/94
  11/13/90
  05/25/91
  06/21/91
  08/30/95
  08/09/91

  09/30/90
  07/02/91
  07/04/91
  03/01/91
  06/27/91
  09/23/90
  11/10/90
  04/21/95
  02/16/91

56

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / DSL Astros - 2013

« on: June 01, 2013, 07:30:04 pm »

Tu tienda de una parada para los Astros de la Liga de Verano Dominicana charla en 2013.

[Or at least that is what Google Translate claims the correct English-to-Spanish translation is of the following...: Your one stop shop for Astros Dominican Summer League talk in 2013].

57

Game Zone 2013 Archive / 5/29, HOU at COL

« on: May 29, 2013, 08:46:24 pm »

Astros are tied with the Rockies 1-1 in B4.

And that will be the extent of my ability to provide PBP for the game this evening.

Go Astros!

58

Game Zone 2013 Archive / 5/28 Astros v. Rockies

« on: May 28, 2013, 01:41:14 pm »

Rockies lead 1-0 through T2.

Astros lineup

1. B. Barnes CF
2. J. Altuve 2B
3. C. Corporan C
4. J.D. Martinez LF
5. C. Carter 1B
6. C. Pena DH
7. J. Paredes RF
8. M. Dominguez 3B
9. R. Cedeno SS
Pitching: RHP Jordan Lyles

Rockies lineup

1. D. Fowler CF
2. N. Arenado 3B
3. C. Gonzalez LF
4. T. Tulowitzki SS
5. M. Cuddyer RF
6. T. Helton 1B
7. W. Rosario DH
8. Y. Torrealba C
9. D. LeMahieu 2B
Pitching: LHP Jorge De La Rosa

59

Game Zone 2013 Archive / 2013 Memorial Day (5/27): HOU vs. COL

« on: May 27, 2013, 02:39:14 pm »

Through 4: COL 2, HOU 2

60

Talk Zone / Altuve dumps Boras

« on: May 21, 2013, 01:21:24 pm »

Which is interesting for a number of reasons, among them I wasn't even aware that he'd hired Boras... MLBTR LINK

61

Talk Zone / What is you major malfunction, Pvt. Crane?!?

« on: May 14, 2013, 12:29:42 am »

Another 20+ years of tradition and positive service to the community down the tubes... Astros cancel annual fundraiser for Houston Area Women's Center.

62

Talk Zone / Astros at the Movies

« on: May 10, 2013, 04:26:11 pm »

Footer (via Twitter):

Alyson Footer ‏@alysonfooter
Remember the #astrosmovies craze from a few months back? It sparked this @MLBFanCave vid, starring 4 HOU players: http://bit.ly/17Rdscv

63

Talk Zone / Didn't we all agree...

« on: May 10, 2013, 01:35:02 pm »

...at least informally... that ybbodeus would be banned from sitting behind home plate at Astros games (or at least out of camera range)?!? Deadspin LINK: "Astros Fan Behind Home Plate Really Wants You To See His Fake Dong"

64

Talk Zone / Altuve clip from Intentional Talk

« on: March 08, 2013, 02:58:27 pm »

Neither here nor there... but... here is the Altuve segment from Intentional Talk yesterday. LINK

65

Talk Zone / I guess he needed the $30M/yr...

« on: February 04, 2013, 09:20:51 pm »

to pay for all the crap he's been alleged to take... wow... Verducci on A-Rod

Here are identifiable substances connected to Alex Rodriguez according to documents released by the Miami New Times, which the publication attributes as the handwritten logs of Florida wellness clinician Tony Bosch. It does not include some substances that could not be identified because of abbreviations or legibility.

Testosterone: Banned substance applied by cream at 10% strength
L-Glutathione: Antioxidant used for cell repair
Troches: 19% testosterone-laced lozenge used prior to workout
Pink cream: Trans-dermal delivery of testosterone
HGH: Injectable growth hormone, a banned substance
CJC: Injectable growth hormone releasing hormone
GHRP: Injectable growth hormone releasing peptide
IGF-1: Banned substance; stimulates insulin and muscle growth
Zinc: Essential mineral used as dietary supplement
Amino acids: Supplement aids in recovery and building of muscle tissue
Vitamin D: Immune system booster
Omega-3, -6, -9: Essential fatty acids
5-HTP: Boosts serotonin production in brain
DHEA: Testosterone precursor
Resveratrol: Plant-based supplement marketed as anti-aging agent
Melatonin: Hormone that helps regulate sleep and wake cycles
Glucosamine: Supplement used for joint and cartilage health
Alpha lipoic acid: Antioxidant that helps turn glucose into energy
Ibuprofen: Anti-inflammatory drug to treats minor aches and pains

66

Talk Zone / Larry Wayne's successor?!?

« on: January 24, 2013, 09:36:42 am »

Chris Johnson?!? Robothal Tweet LINK

Source: Prado in deal. The trade, as reported by @mlbbowman: Upton, Johnson from #Diamondbacks to #Braves for Prado, Delgado, Ahmed, Spruill

67

Talk Zone / Which autographed baseball did you butcher as a child?!?

« on: January 19, 2013, 11:51:06 pm »

In between catching The Sandlot on video and ybbodeus mentioning Dizzy Dean in the Musial thread, I was reminded of the autographed baseballs I'd butchered playing street ball over the years... My 'minor' infraction was using a Roy Smalley(sp?) signed ball back in the day... but... my MAJOR infraction was destroying a baseball signed by Dizzy Dean (dad had gotten the signed ball from going to Dizzy's hamburger franchise back in the day - rather than AL or NL, the ball had the burger franchise logo on it). Funny thing is, that in conversations with buddies over the years, seems like every one of them has a similar story (not BS stories, rather legitimate and seemingly universal story of 'was out of baseballs so we grabbed one signed by _________ and played).

So... my question to y'all is what were you worst 'used an autographed baseball to play sandlot/street baseball' infractions? (Mine, obviously, was the destruction of the signed Dizzy Dean baseball).

Discuss.

68

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Singleton, WTF?!?

« on: January 09, 2013, 04:24:09 pm »

Duuuuuude. Gnarly. LINK (Mary Jane strikes again...)

Houston Astros prospect Jonathan Singleton *** has been suspended for the first 50 games of the 2013 season for violating minor league baseball's drug policy.

69

Beer and Queso / There's gotta be...

« on: January 02, 2013, 06:32:31 pm »

...a South Park episode in here somewhere... LINK

"Al-Jazeera... is negotiating to buy Al Gore's Current TV and with it, access to 60 million U.S. homes..."

ETA: I guess it's official (via the AP): LINK

Gore and his partner Joel Hyatt announced the sale in a statement.

"Current Media was built based on a few key goals: To give voice to those who are not typically heard; to speak truth to power; to provide independent and diverse points of view; and to tell the stories that no one else is telling," Gore and Hyatt said.

"Al-Jazeera has the same goals and, like Current, believes that facts and truth lead to a better understanding of the world around us."

[/facepalm]

70

Beer and Queso / Bowl Games

« on: December 27, 2012, 07:32:55 pm »

12-27: Holiday Bowl, Baylor v. UCLA

Kick off in 90 minutes... Sic 'Em (Baylor) Bears!!! [Misc. note to BU Football: Not sure this counts as the favor you owe Mr. Corleone, but I'd ask that you send he and Mrs. Corleone home happy for good measure. Just sayin'...]

71

Beer and Queso / Our most heartfelt prayers and deepest sorrows

« on: December 14, 2012, 03:31:39 pm »

For the folks whose lives were touched by the Clackamas Town Center shooting earlier this week (a couple of miles from my home) and for the lives that were touched by the shooting this morning on the other side of the country in Newton, Connecticut, our most heartfelt prayers and deepest sorrows/sympathies go out to you and yours.

72

Beer and Queso / Still Standing: The Earl Campbell Story

« on: December 08, 2012, 07:04:49 pm »

Superb.

73

Talk Zone / Lidge calling it a career

« on: December 02, 2012, 11:07:45 pm »

Class guy, I wish him well. LINK

Interesting tidbit: In 11 seasons with the Astros, Phillies and Nationals, Lidge saved 225 games in the regular season and 18 more in the postseason, the second-highest postseason save total in history, behind only Mariano Rivera (42).

74

Beer and Queso / Taking the fall (from 128,100 feet)...

« on: October 16, 2012, 06:25:00 pm »

And at mach 1.24... Amazing!

75

Talk Zone / Deepest Sympathies to the Corporan Family

« on: October 13, 2012, 06:53:06 pm »

They mourn the loss of their son, Carlos Corporan Jr., who died Friday at 16-months of age. The kiddo had extensive heart problems, and had undergone four heart surgeries.

76

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Suggestions?!?

« on: October 13, 2012, 04:04:01 pm »

What would you like to see in The Bus Ride Discussion Forum during the Void?

77

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Housecleaning FYI

« on: October 13, 2012, 03:37:08 pm »

Here are you're 10-13-2012 'housecleaning' notes for The Bus Ride:

(1) Stickies were removed from the individual 2012 affiliates threads (sans Greeneville).
(2) 'Early 2013 Draft' and '2013 Mock Draft' threads were merged and stickied (I liked both threads and wanted to have a single 'go-to' during the void for 2013 Draft rumors, news, etc.
(3) Added a sticky to the AFL thread.

78

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Do not go gentle into that good night: HOU vs. FTC, 10/03/12

« on: October 03, 2012, 12:50:02 pm »

Day game, starts at 2:20 EDST. ASTROS GOING FOR FRANCHISE NL WIN #4000. GO 'STROS!!!

Do not go gentle into that good night,
Old age should burn and rave at close of day;
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Though wise men at their end know dark is right,
Because their words had forked no lightning they
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright
Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight,
And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way,
Do not go gentle into that good night.

Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight
Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay,
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

And you, my father, there on the sad height,
Curse, bless, me now with your fierce tears, I pray.
Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light.

Dylan Thomas (via this LINK)

79

Game Zone 2012 Archive / NL Ball in Houston, THE END... FYB!!! (9/26/12 HOU v Jakes)

« on: September 26, 2012, 06:14:32 pm »

For the love of all that is holy Houston, please kick the crap out of the Co-ards tonight!

Houston's last home NL lineup (may you choke on your own excrement William Huber Selig):

J. Altuve 2b
S. Moore rf
J. Lowrie ss
J. Maxwell cf
B. Wallace 1b
J. Castro c
F. Martinez lf
B. Laird 3b
B. Norris p

FTC(o-ards) lineup:

J. Jay cf
M. Carpenter 3b
M. Holliday lf
A. Craig 1b
Y. Molina c
A. Chambers rf
D. Descalso 2b
P. Kozma ss
C. Carpenter p

80

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / WTHB Interview with Aaron West

« on: September 26, 2012, 03:12:46 pm »

Good stuff from WTHB (as always)! Aaron West Interview LINK

81

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Sickels on Springer

« on: September 24, 2012, 05:19:35 pm »

John Sickels from Minor League Prospect Report with some comments on George Springer: LINK

82

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 09-20-12 HOU vs FTC(o-ards)

« on: September 20, 2012, 01:00:34 pm »

Game has started. JD just missed a bases loaded 2B/HR (foul), and struck out on a crappy pitch. Laird went 3-0 before walking on the 3-2 pitch. Corporan grounded out to SS to end the threat.

Middle 1: HOU 1, FTC(o-ards) 0

83

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2012 Organizational Standings

« on: September 18, 2012, 07:25:21 pm »

The Astros top the list in BA's 2012 Organization Standings & League Champs (domestic teams only) with an overall .546 winning percentage and a combined 70 games over .500.

BA notes in the article below just how marked a difference this year has been for the Astros MiLB teams:

Houston finished last in organization standings in 2011, 29th in 2010, last in 2009, last in 2008 and 26th in 2007. No other team has come close to matching the Astros' recent run of futility.

And a link to JJ Cooper's article about the system: Astros Turn Into Winners At Minor League Level.

84

Beer and Queso / iPhone 5

« on: September 12, 2012, 01:05:10 pm »

Someone mind translating from techie to English the good, bad, and ugly about the new iPhone 5? Thanks, I'll hang up and listen...

85

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 9/11, We Shall Never Forget: HOU v FTC

« on: September 11, 2012, 07:27:22 pm »

Astros Lineup:

J. Paredes 2B
F. Martinez LF
B. Wallace 1B
J. Maxwell CF
C. Corporan C
M. Dominguez 3B
B. Bogusevic RF
T. Greene SS
J. Lyles P

ChiCubs Lineup

D. DeJesus CF
L. Valbuena 3B
A. Rizzo 1B
A. Soriano LF
S. Castro SS
S. Clevenger C
B. LaHair RF
A. Cardenas 2B
J. Germano P

86

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 09/10/2012 - HOU vs. FTC!

« on: September 10, 2012, 06:40:47 pm »

Astros lineup:

J. Paredes 2b, .190
F. Martinez rf, .221
B. Wallace 1b, .282
J. Maxwell cf, .232
J. Castro c, .259
M. Dominguez 3b, .350
J.D. Martinez lf, .240
T. Greene ss, .232
D. Keuchel p, .062

FTC lineup:

J. Mather cf, .210
D. Barney 2b, .255
A. Rizzo 1b, .300
A. Soriano lf, .260
S. Castro ss, .280
W. Castillo c, .277
J. Vitters 3b, .085
D. Sappelt rf, .100
C. Volstad p, .136

87

Talk Zone / Simmer on this for a sec...

« on: September 06, 2012, 09:01:56 pm »

Via Astros County: LINK

The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette's Gene Collier has a nice little farewell column to the Astros, as they played their last game in Pittsburgh last night not with a bang, but with a whimper: "Woeful Astros in a league of their own."

The lede:
Not to be presumptuous, but I think I can speak for all of Pittsburgh when I express the city's sincere thanks to the Houston Astros for bringing us 51 seasons of generally dreadful National League baseball.

Simmered on it for a sec?!? Now let 'er rip!!!

88

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros MiLB postseason - 2012

« on: September 05, 2012, 11:34:36 am »

The Hooks and Jethawks start the post season this evening, with the ValleyCats beginning on Friday night. Thought it might be easier to keep track of them all in a 'Astros MiLB postseason - 2012' thread. Thoughts?!?

89

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / RJ Alaniz interview

« on: August 15, 2012, 01:44:02 pm »

Jayne at What the Heck, Bobby has a good interview with RJ Alaniz: LINK

90

Talk Zone / Downs and JD Martinez to OKC

« on: August 09, 2012, 10:31:26 pm »

Per Levine:

Zachary Levine ‏@zacharylevine
Astros send Matt Downs and J.D. Martinez to AAA. One spot is Tyler Greene's. Another filled tomorrow.

91

Talk Zone / BFiBs

« on: August 08, 2012, 09:42:52 am »

Teenager arrested for laser-pointer incident in StL, with "uncooperative" and "confrontational" adult in private suite. LINK (H/T to Astros County)

92

Talk Zone / Jeter out for the season...

« on: August 02, 2012, 03:05:58 pm »

...as a result of 'sexual reassignment surgery', per the Yankees Facebook account (link via Deadspin).

Additionally, it appears that the Cubs are not Bill Murray fans - that's what their Facebook account says anyway... (same link)

93

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Local nine vs. Roots, 7/26/12

« on: July 26, 2012, 03:21:35 pm »

For folks outside the HOU market/blackout area, tonight is the MLB.TV free game of the day (via Astros Twitter):

Out-of-market fans: Tonight's Astros game is MLB.TV's Free Game of the Day, presented by Jiffy Lube! Check it out: LINK

94

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA The Youngest In Each League

« on: July 20, 2012, 03:06:35 am »

Thought this was an interesting tidbit / worth a look anyway... (BA The Youngest In Each League, Mid-Season Edition)

95

Talk Zone / Remembering DK

« on: July 13, 2012, 02:01:58 pm »

With a captip to Astros County, MLB Network debuted The Life and Death of Darryl Kile last night. It will re-air on tomorrow (Saturday) at 4 p.m. CDST.

96

Beer and Queso / Subnuclear, is this you?!?

« on: July 10, 2012, 01:16:10 pm »

Okay, its not, but still an 'entertaining' piece... Relativistic Baseball: What would happen if you tried to hit a baseball pitched at 90% the speed of light?

97

Beer and Queso / Tips cap to Aggie faithful

« on: July 07, 2012, 11:25:31 am »

Well done. Pic LINK; Story LINK: Aggies create “Maroon Wall” in honor of fallen soldier

98

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Sickels top 120 Prospect List - 2012 Midseason Revision

« on: July 02, 2012, 12:54:02 pm »

Here is the latest top 120 list from Sickels (LINK). Note that it does not include 2012 draftees.

Here are the Astros that made the list:

47) Jonathan Singleton, 1B, Houston Astros (47);
53) George Springer, OF, Houston Astros (55); and
80) Jarred Cosart, RHP, Houston Astros (108).

Some other Astros were included in his 'OTHER PLAYERS CONSIDERED FOR THE LIST" section:

Delino DeShields, 2B, Astros; and Nick Tropeano, RHP, Astros

99

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / EXCELLENT interview with Bobby Heck

« on: July 02, 2012, 12:47:17 pm »

Jayne of the Astros MiLB blog "What the Heck, Bobby" got her 'white whale' interview... And it is worth the read! She posted part 1 today, and will post part 2 tomorrow. Bobby Heck Interview Part 1 LINK

100

Talk Zone / Garber et al v. MLB

« on: July 01, 2012, 10:57:45 pm »

Ultimately they're gonna lose, but I wish they wouldn't... (LINK to "MLB’s blackout problem keeps sport in dark ages" by Jeff Passan of Yahoo Sports).

101

Talk Zone / Peavy stepping up

« on: July 01, 2012, 06:09:11 pm »

This was mentioned by JD and Brownie in during the telecast yesterday, but thought it worth a mention here as well: Jake Peavy is stepping up for his friend on Saturday.

Peavy, as a tribute to former Padres bullpen coach Darrell Akerfelds, who passed away earlier this week at the age of 50 from pancreatic cancer, is donating $100 for every Saturday strikeout to fight the remorseless disease that took his friend.

And lest you misunderstand... that is per strikeout throughout MLB...

Kudos Mr. Peavy sir!

102

Talk Zone / Damnit Footer...

« on: June 22, 2012, 01:56:11 pm »

Guess she couldn't bear working for an AL West team... Good luck to her in her new endeavor!!!

103

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Pelotero (movie)

« on: June 22, 2012, 01:50:41 pm »

It's been discussed on these boards for a couple of years now, but the movie Pelotero is scheduled for limited release, iTunes, and On Demand viewing for July 13, 2012. As you may recall, the movie profiles kids in the Dominican pre-signing, signing, and initial foray into pro ball. Though they were initially following 8 players, the movie ultimately focuses on 2: Miguel Sano (Twins $3.15M signee - record non-Cuban signing at the time), and Juan Carlos Batista (Astros $200K signee). The character synopsis of Jean Carlos Batista is as follows:

Jean Carlos Batista, 16, is a young shortstop who left home at age 13 to practice with a renowned baseball train Astin Jacobo in the wake of his father's death. Three years later, Astin calls Jean Carlos his adopted son, and has turned him into one of the island's elite prospects. Together, they navigate the business side of the Dominican baseball system in search of the highest signing bonus. But as offers arrive, Jean Carlos' overconfidence and the revelation of a secret kept from him by his parents may endanger his promising career, as well as jeopardize his relationship with the man he considers his father.

I'm presuming the 'revelation' is age related - IIRC he is 19, but I guess I'll have to wait and see...

104

Talk Zone / Some bad blood maybe?!?

« on: June 15, 2012, 01:51:39 pm »

Pretty interesting feud between Dusty Baker and Derek Lowe... Deadspin LINK

105

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Oh [Mr] Happy Day, HOU at SFO, 6/14/12

« on: June 14, 2012, 02:23:02 pm »

Enjoy your day at the park Mr. Happy!

Astros lineup

1. J. Altuve, 2B
2. B. Bixler, RF
3. J. Lowrie, SS
4. J. Martinez, LF
5. J. Maxwell, CF
6. C. Johnson, 3B
7. M. Downs, 1B
8. J. Castro, C
9. W. Rodriguez, P

Giants lineup

1. G. Blanco, RF
2. R. Theriot, 2B
3. M. Cabrera, LF
4. A. Pagan, CF
5. P. Sandoval, 3B
6. H. Sanchez, C
7. B. Belt, 1B
8. J. Arias, SS
9. B. Zito, P

106

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Tri-City ValleyCats - 2012

« on: June 13, 2012, 11:50:09 am »

Pulled off a NYPL Championship in 2010. Can they do it again in 2012?!?a Y'all let me know now!

107

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Greeneville Astros - 2012

« on: June 13, 2012, 11:48:23 am »

If AppyAstros doesn't tell us what's going on there, how are we supposed to know?!?

108

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / GCL Astros - 2012

« on: June 13, 2012, 11:47:13 am »

It's about that time... Season begins 6/18. Talk away!

109

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / DSL Astros - 2012

« on: June 13, 2012, 11:43:24 am »

You thought we'd forgotten about them, didn't you?!?

110

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Astros @ Black Sox 06/09/12

« on: June 09, 2012, 02:09:40 pm »

Fernando Martinez to the 7-day DL (concussion), Matt Downs promoted back from Oklahoma City and starting tonight.

Astros lineup

1. J. Altuve - 2B
2. B. Bixler - LF
3. Lowrie - SS
4. JD Martinez - DH
5. J. Maxwell - CF
6. B. Wallace - 1B
7. C. Snyder - C
8. M. Downs - 3B
9. B. Bogusevic - RF

Pitching: J. Lyles (RHP, 1-1 with 4.97 ERA)

ChiSox Lineup

1. De Aza - CF
2. G. Beckham - 2B
3. A. Dunn - DH
4. P. Konerko - 1B
5. A. Rios - CF
6. A. Pierzynski - C
7. A. Ramirez - SS
8. J. Danks - LF
9. E. Escobar - 3B

Pitcher: C. Sale (LHP, 7-2 with 2.30 ERA)

111

Talk Zone / The 6-pitcher no-hitter club

« on: June 09, 2012, 01:35:57 pm »

Congrats to the Mariners, who last night vs. the Dodgers became the second team to combine for a 6-pitcher no-hitter! MLB Gameday LINK; Chron.com story LINK.

And not surprisingly, not all the players were aware of what was 'going on'... ESPN LINK

112

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2012 Draftees and Status

« on: June 04, 2012, 04:58:46 pm »

This '2012 Draftees and Status' thread will open at 5 CDST on 6/4/12. The '2012 Draft' thread will be closed at that time.

Given the importance of the MLB slotting allotments in the 2012 draft, there will be a slightly different format to the 'Draftees and Status' thread. There will be an initial chart used through the end of the draft, and a 'supplemental' chart that we'll transition to after the draft is complete. Both are shown below.

Draftee
Carlos Correa
Lance McCullers Jr.
Nolan Fontana
Brady Rodgers
Rio Ruiz
Andrew Aplin
Brett Phillips
Preston Tucker
Tyler Heineman
Daniel Minor
Joseph Bircher
Hunter Virant
Terrell Joyce
Brian Holmes
Jooel Sciafani
Erick Gonzalez
Dan Gulbransen
Aaron West
Ricky Gringras
Austin Elkins
Michael Clark
Marc Wik
Kenneth Long
Travis Ballew
Partick Blair
Ryan Dineen
C. J. Hinojosa
Tanner Mathis
Angel Ibanez
Christian Garcia
John Neely
M. P. Cokinos
Tyler Manez
Mike Hauschild
Jordan Jankowski
James Sinatro
Michael Martinez
Michael Dimock
Zachary Remillard
Mitchell Traver
Joe Shaw

Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick
(1) 1
(Comp A) 41
(2) 61
(3) 96
(4) 129
(5) 159
(6) 189
(7) 219
(8) 249
(9) 279
(10) 309
(11) 339
(12) 369
(13) 399
(14) 429
(15) 459
(16) 489
(17) 519
(18) 549
(19) 579
(20) 609
(21) 639
(22) 669
(23) 699
(24) 729
(25) 759
(26) 789
(27) 819
(28) 849
(29) 879
(30) 909
(31) 939
(32) 969
(33) 999
(34) 1029
(35) 1059
(36) 1089
(37) 1119
(38) 1149
(39) 1179
(40) 1209

$ Allotment
$7,200,000
$1,258,700
$844,100
$495,200
$360,200
$269,700
$201,900
$151,400
$140,400
$131,100
$125,000
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]

POS
SS
RHP
SS
RHP
3B
CF
CF
OF
C
RHP
LHP
LHP
LF
LHP
SS
RHP
LF
RP
C
2B
LHP
CF
LHP
RHP
SS
SS
SS
CF
3B
RHP
RHP
C
LHP
RHP
RHP
C
1B
RHP
3B
RHP
RHP

School
Puerto Rico BB Academy, PR
Jesuit HS, FL
Florida, FL
Arizona State, AZ
Bishop Amat HS, CA
Arizona State, AZ
Seminole HS, FL
Florida, FL
UCLA, CA
Texas A&M – Corpus, TX
Bradley University, IL
Adolfo Camarillo HS, CA
Florida State College, FL
Wake Forest, NC
Dartmouth, NH
Gateway CC, AZ
Jacksonville University, FL
Washington, WA
Point Loma Nazarene U, CA
Dallas Baptist, TX
Kent State, OH
Chabot College, CA
Illinois State, IL
Texas State, TX
Wake Forest, NC
Eastern Illinois, IL
Klein Collins HS, TX
Ole Miss, MS
U Texas Pan American, TX
Florence-Darlington Tech, SC
Texas Tech, TX
St. Mary's University, TX
Plainedge HS, NY
Dayton, OH
Catawba College, NC
Skyline HS, WA
Florida International, FL
Wake Forest, NC
LaSalle Institute, NY
Houston Christian HS, TX
Ennis HS, TX

Class
HS
HS
JR
JR
HS
JR
HS
SR
JR
JR
SR
HS
J2
JR
JR
J2
JR
SR
JR
JR
JR
J2
5S
JR
JR
JR
HS
JR
JR
J2
SR
JR
HS
SR
SR
HS
SR
SR
HS
HS
HS

B/T
R/R
L/R
L/R
R/R
L/R
L/L
L/R
L/L
S/R
R/R
L/L
R/L
R/R
L/L
S/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
L/R
S/R
L/L
L/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
L/R
R/R
L/L
L/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R

Ht/Wt
6'04" / 190
6'01" / 190
5'11" / 192
6'01" / 195
6'01" / 180
6'00" / 194
6'00" / 175
6'00" / 220
5'11" / 205
5'11" / 188
6'04" / 220
6'03" / 175
6'03" / 230
6'04" / 205
5'09" / 185
6'01" / 175
5'11" / 200
6'01" / 205
6'02" / 205
5'11" / 185
6'03" / 175
5'11" / 195
6'00" / 165
6'00" / 160
5'10" / 180
6'02" / 205
5'11" / 185
5'11" / 180
6'02" / 220
6'02" / 175
6'02" / 195
6'02" / 215
6'03" / 180
6'03" / 210
6'00" / 195
5'10" / 185
6'00" / 215
6'02" / 194
6'01" / 200
6'07" / 240
6'05" / 215

DOB
09/22/94
10/02/93
06/06/91
09/17/90
05/22/94
03/21/91
05/30/94
07/06/90
06/19/91
02/09/91
03/27/90
01/22/94
05/29/92
01/30/91
04/22/90
01/10/92
01/05/91
06/01/90
10/18/90
12/21/90
06/11/91
07/18/92
01/28/89
05/01/91
10/01/91
03/02/91
07/15/94
06/27/91
09/10/90
09/24/91
07/09/90
06/18/90
01/01/94
01/22/90
05/17/89
09/03/93
12/05/89
10/26/89
02/21/94
05/03/94
12/20/93

Post draft 2012 Draftees and Status chart

Draftee
Carlos Correa
Lance McCullers Jr.
Nolan Fontana
Brady Rodgers
Rio Ruiz
Andrew Aplin
Brett Phillips
Preston Tucker
Tyler Heineman
Daniel Minor
Joseph Bircher
Hunter Virant
Terrell Joyce
Brian Holmes
Jooel Sciafani
Erick Gonzalez
Dan Gulbransen
Aaron West
Ricky Gringras
Austin Elkins
Michael Clark
Marc Wik
Kenneth Long
Travis Ballew
Partick Blair
Ryan Dineen
C. J. Hinojosa
Tanner Mathis
Angel Ibanez
Christian Garcia
John Neely
M. P. Cokinos
Tyler Manez
Mike Hauschild
Jordan Jankowski
James Sinatro
Michael Martinez
Michael Dimock
Zachary Remillard
Mitchell Traver
Joe Shaw

Non-drafted FA signings

Rd/Pick
(1) 1
(Comp A) 41
(2) 61
(3) 96
(4) 129
(5) 159
(6) 189
(7) 219
(8) 249
(9) 279
(10) 309
(11) 339
(12) 369
(13) 399
(14) 429
(15) 459
(16) 489
(17) 519
(18) 549
(19) 579
(20) 609
(21) 639
(22) 669
(23) 699
(24) 729
(25) 759
(26) 789
(27) 819
(28) 849
(29) 879
(30) 909
(31) 939
(32) 969
(33) 999
(34) 1029
(35) 1059
(36) 1089
(37) 1119
(38) 1149
(39) 1179
(40) 1209

MLB $ Allotment
$7,200,000
$1,258,700
$844,100
$495,200
$360,200
$269,700
$201,900
$151,400
$140,400
$131,100
$125,000
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]
[<$100,000]

$ Signed for

$ over/ under slot

Class
HS
HS
JR
JR
HS
JR
HS
SR
JR
JR
SR
HS
J2
JR
JR
J2
JR
SR
JR
JR
JR
J2
5S
JR
JR
JR
HS
JR
JR
J2
SR
JR
HS
SR
SR
HS
SR
SR
HS
HS
HS

DOB
09/22/94
10/02/93
06/06/91
09/17/90
05/22/94
03/21/91
05/30/94
07/06/90
06/19/91
02/09/91
03/27/90
01/22/94
05/29/92
01/30/91
04/22/90
01/10/92
01/05/91
06/01/90
10/18/90
12/21/90
06/11/91
07/18/92
01/28/89
05/01/91
10/01/91
03/02/91
07/15/94
06/27/91
09/10/90
09/24/91
07/09/90
06/18/90
01/01/94
01/22/90
05/17/89
09/03/93
12/05/89
10/26/89
02/21/94
05/03/94
12/20/93

Scouting Report links

113

Game Zone 2012 Archive / HOU vs. CIN, 06/02/12

« on: June 02, 2012, 04:08:25 pm »

Buck to the DL, Fernando Martinez called up and starting in RF tonight.

Astros lineups (per Footer):

1. Jordan Shafer - CF
2. Jose Altuve - 2B
3. Jed Lowrie - SS
4. JD Martinez - LF
5. Chris Johnson - 3B
6. Fernando Martinez - RF
7. Matt Downs - 1B
8. Jason Castro - C
9. Wandy Rodriguez - P

114

Talk Zone / Abad to the DL, Xavier Cedeno up from OKC

« on: May 27, 2012, 03:01:43 pm »

Per Campbell: LINK

As much as seeing Abad come in to a game made me cringe earlier this season, he has been sharp as of late... That said, I like the 'Xavier Cedeno story' and hope he does well!

115

Talk Zone / Even Austin Wates'd be impressed by this catch...

« on: May 26, 2012, 04:01:47 pm »

Pretty friggin' cool! LINK (Gotta check out the still here as well: LINK). WOW!

116

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Jobduan a 'Stro

« on: May 26, 2012, 01:12:42 pm »

Footer (via Twitter):

The Astros have acquired minor league catcher Jobduan Morales from the Miami Marlins in exchange for Triple A outfielder Justin Ruggiano.

Morales (6/7/91, Puerto Rico) was the Marlins 9th rd pick in the 2009 draft. STATS LINK

117

Game Zone 2012 Archive / FTC @ Astros 5/22/12

« on: May 22, 2012, 04:00:10 pm »

Schafer returns to Astros lineup hitting in unusual spot (Levine Article and Line-up LINK).

Astros Lineup

1. Jose Altuve (2B)
2. Jed Lowrie (SS)
3. Justin Maxwell (RF)
4. Carlos Lee (1B)
5. J.D. Martinez (LF)
6. Chris Johnson (3B)
7. Chris Snyder (C)
8. Jordan Schafer (CF)
9. J.A. Happ (P)

FTC Line-up

Who cares... (or alternatively, not published yet...)

118

Talk Zone / Adam Lind perhaps?!?

« on: May 20, 2012, 06:45:29 pm »

He's having a HORRIFIC season in Toronto and was just outrighted to AAA... but... I wouldn't think he is *done* yet, and has some legit HR power. If the kid turns it around, could be a steal and HOU will need a 1B/DH type next year as well (even if they do keep Carlos around). Thoughts? STATS LINK

119

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 05/19/12: HOU vs. the South Okie 25

« on: May 19, 2012, 06:22:35 pm »

Friggin' FOX blackout... Stuck with Milo and DoRay... Anyone wanting to add a real PBP so I can know what is actually going on please feel free...

120

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Houston Astros v. Dallas Rangers, 5/18/12

« on: May 18, 2012, 05:57:27 pm »

Astros lineup

1. J. Schafer, CF
2. J. Altuve, 2B
3. J. Martinez, LF
4. C. Lee, 1B
5. J. Lowrie, SS
6. B. Bogusevic, RF
7. C. Johnson, 3B
8. J. Castro, C
9. W. Rodriguez, P

stRangers lineup

1. I. Kinsler, 2B
2. E. Andrus, SS
3. J. Hamilton, LF
4. A. Beltre, 3B
5. M. Young, 1B
6. N. Cruz, RF
7. M. Napoli, C
8. C. Gentry, CF
9. N. Feliz, P

121

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Pelotero documentary

« on: May 18, 2012, 12:36:46 am »

To debut 7/13/12 in theaters and On Demand (LINK).

After initially following five prospects, the filmmakers narrowed their focus to shortstops Miguel Angel Sano and Jean Carlos Batista, splitting the 74-minute movie evenly between their respective stories.

122

Talk Zone / Bracamonte... Punked!

« on: May 18, 2012, 12:16:37 am »

Via Berman (Twitter): LINK

123

Talk Zone / More Pujols facts...

« on: May 17, 2012, 02:07:50 pm »

Last night I posted this little 'nugget' in the GZ:

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 16, 2012, 09:44:28 pm

For your entertainment... Jamie Moyer (.250) has a better OBP in 2012 than Albert Pujols (.247) does...

Here are some more Albert Pujols facts for ya (via Sean Pendergast, LINK):

2. The current leading slugger in Major League Baseball is Josh Hamilton (.838). He could go hitless in his next 231 at-bats and still be ahead of Pujols' current .307 slugging percentage.

4. The only regular players in the American League with a lower OPS are Justin Smoak, Kurt Suzuki, Alexei Ramirez, and Erick Aybar.

124

Talk Zone / Astros contract obligations

« on: May 16, 2012, 02:59:06 pm »

Via MLB Trade Rumors: 2013 Contract Issues: Houston Astros

125

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 05/15/12, Battle of the C Lee's...

« on: May 15, 2012, 01:03:33 pm »

C Lee is winning...

Thru 3, PHI 2, HOU 0.

Lyles is pitching for the Astros.

126

Game Zone 2012 Archive / HOU at PHI, 05/14/12

« on: May 14, 2012, 06:07:55 pm »

Good Guys lineup

1. J. Altuve 2b
2. J. Schafer cf
3. J. Lowrie ss
4. C. Lee 1b
5. B. Bogusevic rf
6. C. Johnson 3b
7. T. Buck lf
8. C. Snyder c
9. L. Harrell p

Phillies

1. J. Rollins ss
2. J. Pierre lf
3. S. Victorino cf
4. H. Pence rf
5. C. Ruiz c
6. P. Polanco 3b
7. J. Mayberry 1b
8. F. Galvis 2b
9. J. Blanton p

127

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 7/2 Int'l FA misc. - 2012

« on: May 08, 2012, 05:22:52 pm »

BA with a couple of articles today on International Free Agent signings:

Outlining New International Rules For 2012-13; and

Teams Dig For Ways Around New International Rules

128

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Jakes @ Astros 5/4/12

« on: May 04, 2012, 07:03:04 pm »

Astros lineup

1. J. Schafer cf
2. J. Altuve 2b
3. J.D. Martinez lf
4. C. Lee 1b
5. J. Lowrie ss
6. B. Bogusevic rf
7. C. Johnson 3b
8. C. Snyder c
9. L. Harrell p

Co-ards lineup

1. R. Furcal ss
2. J. Jay cf
3. M. Holliday lf
4. M. Carpenter rf
5. D. Freese 3b
6. Y. Molina c
7. A. Craig 1b
8. S. Schumaker 2b
9. K. Lohse p

129

Talk Zone / Sad, sad news...

« on: May 01, 2012, 05:59:27 pm »

I feel like my heart broke just a little bit when I saw this headline... Albert Pujols ends April homerless...

Mr. Happy Sarc-Meter Alert: Should be pegged about now sir... You're welcome!

130

Talk Zone / Stock Watch: Mr. The Altuve

« on: April 30, 2012, 12:26:52 pm »

I know, I know, it is by Heyman, but still... (H/T Astros County: LINK); Heyman LINK

131

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Astros at Reds, 4/28/12: Can you name the Martinez?!?

« on: April 28, 2012, 01:36:51 pm »

Your 4/28/12 Houston Astros lineup, courtesy of Footer: LINK

1. Schafer - CF
2. Altuve - 2B
3. Lowrie - SS
4. Martinez*** - LF
5. Buck - RF
6. Downs - 1B
7. Johnson - 3B
8. Snyder - C
9. Harrell - P

*** Evidently there is some SnS controversy as to which dude named Martinez is hitting cleanup today... I think it can be narrowed down to someone on this list, but ain't swearin' to nothing... Perhaps someone from this list?!?

132

Talk Zone / Lyles back up

« on: April 27, 2012, 10:10:56 pm »

Starts Sunday in place of the DL'ed Weiland. LINK

133

Beer and Queso / Randomly entertaining

« on: April 26, 2012, 11:05:53 am »

Latrell Sprewell Figurine Bought At Antique Store Packaged With Unintentionally Funny Warning Label. That is all.

134

Talk Zone / Even Bagwell thinks this dudes stance is whacked...

« on: April 25, 2012, 04:11:11 pm »

Okay, well maybe no comments from Bagwell, but here ya go nevertheless... LINK

135

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Astros at Brewers, 4/24/12

« on: April 24, 2012, 04:18:41 pm »

Footer with the 'Stros lineup: LINK

1. Schafer - CF
2. Lowrie - SS
3. JD Martinez - LF
4. Lee - 1B
5. Bogusevic - RF
6. Altuve - 2B
7. Snyder - C
8. Marwin G - 3B
9. Norris - P

136

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 4/23/12 HOU @ MIL

« on: April 23, 2012, 05:52:23 pm »

Lineups via Footer: LINK

1. Schafer - CF
2. Lowrie - SS
3. JD Martinez - LF
4. Carlos - 1B
5. Bogusevic - RF
6. CJ - 3B
7. Castros - C
8. Mr. The Altuve - 2B
9. Harrell - P

137

Beer and Queso / US v. Clemens, part deux

« on: April 23, 2012, 02:47:53 pm »

I know, I know, but still...

If you're interested in following any of the goings on (which I'd imagine is generally limited to me and the spambots that visit SnS), TJ Quinn's Twitter feed is pretty informative on the topic (and yes, I do realize that I just mentioned an ESPN reporter and 'informative' in the same sentence... struck me as odd as well)... LINK: TJ Quinn Twitter Feed

138

Talk Zone / When you gotta go...

« on: April 20, 2012, 01:22:37 pm »

you gotta go...

139

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 4/19/12 HOU @ WAS

« on: April 19, 2012, 04:18:03 pm »

Footer with the line-up du jour. LINK

Astros

1. Shreefer - CF
2. The Altuve - 2B
3. JD Martinez - LF
4. Kabong (or el poni)?!?
5. Bogusevic - RF
6. Downs - 3B
7. Castro - C
8. Marwyn G. - SS
9. Bud N. - P

Nationals

Don know, kinda don't care...

140

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Astros at Nationals - 4/17/12

« on: April 17, 2012, 06:14:31 pm »

***SnS Troll Free Zone Certified***

Astros Lineup

J. Maxwell CF
J. Lowrie SS
J.D. Martinez LF
C. Lee 1B
C. Johnson 3B
T. Buck RF
C. Snyder C
J. Altuve 2B
W. Rodriguez P

Nationals Lineup

I. Desmond SS
D. Espinosa 2B
R. Zimmerman 3B
J. Werth CF
A. LaRoche 1B
M. DeRosa RF
X. Nady LF
J. Flores C
G. Gonzalez P

141

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Astros at Natinals: 4/16/12

« on: April 16, 2012, 06:14:15 pm »

Need to get ready for this series?!? Ron Brand has your back.

Astros Lineup

1. J. Schafer CF
2. J. Lowrie SS
3. J.D. Martinez LF
4. C. Lee 1B
5. T. Buck RF
6. C. Johnson 3B
7. J. Castro C
8. J. Altuve 2B
9. K. Weiland P

Natinals Lineup

1. I. Desmond SS
2. S. Lombardozzi 2B
3. R. Zimmerman 3B
4. A. LaRoche 1B
5. J. Werth RF
6. X. Nady LF
7. R. Ankiel CF
8. W. Ramos C
9. S. Strasburg P

142

Talk Zone / Neither here nor there...

« on: April 16, 2012, 12:50:26 pm »

So in the TB @ BOS game I noticed the following former 'Stros in the game (hadn't realized that any of thees guys were one either team):

Luke Scott at DH batting cleanup for TB
Keppinger at 2B batting 7th for TB
Matt Albers in for the 9th inning for Boston (TB is currently winning 1-0)

Just a hmmm, didn't know... Carry on!

143

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA Prospect Hot Sheet (2012)

« on: April 13, 2012, 05:17:39 pm »

Friday the 13th brings some good and some bad from the BA Hot Sheet for Astros MiLB fans. LINK

In the 'Team Photo' - Telvin Nash:

Astros slugger Telvin Nash crushed a long home run off Dodgers No. 1 prospect Zach Lee—crushed so much that Houston GM Jeff Luhnow tweeted a link to the video—but that's to be expected. At 6-foot-1, 248 pounds, Nash is a physical beast with enough power to profile at left field or first base. He's hit five bombs in high Class A Lancaster's first eight games, with two multi-homer games, but also struck out five times in his last eight at-bats.

And in the 'Not-So-Hot' Sheet - Tanner Bushue:

Tanner Bushue, rhp, Astros. The adjustment to pro ball hasn't been easy for Bushue. The 2010 second-round pick is in his third season at low Class A Lexington and up to now he's not exactly making the case to move on to high Class A Lancaster. Bushue, 20, has yet to pitch into the fourth inning of either start, and the third inning has been his nightmare. He gave up seven runs before being lifted in his first start and five more in the third inning of his second start. Overall, his 0-2, 21.94 line is scary, but the 17 hits allowed in 5 1/3 innings may be more frightening.

144

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 04/10/12 Colt .45's vs. Braves

« on: April 10, 2012, 07:13:25 pm »

Houston Colt .45's lineup

1. Schreefer - CF
2. Jose Altuve - 2B
3. JD Martinez - LF
4. Carlos Lee - 1B
5. Brian Bogusevic - RF
6. Chris Johnson - 3B
7. Chris Snyder - C
8. Marwin Gonzalez - SS
9. Kyle Weiland - P

Braves lineup

1. Bourn - CF
2. Prado - LF
3. Freeman - 1B
4. McCann - C
5. Uggla - 2B
6. Larry Wayne Jones - 3B
7. Heyward - RF
8. Pastornicki - SS
9. Tommy Hanson - P

145

Game Zone 2012 Archive / 04/09/12: Los Astros vs. Les Braves today; Happy vs. Beach (from TZ)

« on: April 09, 2012, 07:07:27 pm »

Reuben started 'er out in the TZ. Thought I'd bring 'er over this direction...

146

Game Zone 2012 Archive / Opening Day - Astros vs. Rukakkies

« on: April 06, 2012, 01:32:02 pm »

In case you missed it, a TRULY INSPIRED series preview from Craig. LINK

Now, for you're 2012 NL Astros Opening Day Line-up.... (drum roll please)...

1B: Who
2B: What
3B: I Don't Know
SS: I Don't Care (aka 'I Don't Give a Darn')
LF: Why
CF: Because
RF: ?!?
P: Today
C: Tomorrow

Or, if that isn't helpful then here you go (courtesy of Limey courtesy of Footer)...

NL Astros

1. Jordan Schafer - CF
2. The Altuve - 2B
3. JD Martinez - LF
4. Carlos Lee - 1B
5. Brian Bogusevic - RF
6. Chris Johnson - 3B
7. Jason Castro - C
8. Marwin Gonzalez - SS
9. Wandy Rodriguez - P

*And no, Limey, I don't know why there is a 'P' batting in this game... Needed to get a switch-hitter into the lineup perhaps?!?

147

Talk Zone / So What Have I Missed?!?

« on: April 04, 2012, 12:17:38 pm »

Yes, baseball and I have been taking a time-out from our relationship. It wasn't me, it was them. And while I still loathe Allan Huber "Bud" Selig, and promised to do so until my last breath, fact is that I refuse to allow FYB (i.e. Selig) the power to take away from me something that has meant as much to me as baseball has. (And even then, but for getting to 'watch' some of the kiddos play I might still have continued my time out...). SO... That said... What have I missed?!?

[And yes, hanging curve here. We'll see just how ready the TZ is for Opening Day...].

148

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Live chat w/ Luhnow tonight (2/26)

« on: February 26, 2012, 06:00:23 pm »

Just wanted to give y'all a heads-up that Farmstros will be doing a Live Chat with Jeff Luhnow tonight (Sunday 2/26) beginning at 9:15 CST. Here is a link to it in case you'd like to participate: LINK. Enjoy!

149

Beer and Queso / Damn, Limey

« on: February 02, 2012, 09:01:07 pm »

I'm about to get iRritated or iRate here. I've jacked around with the 'help' sites all I can, and at this point just want a friggin' answer. A little help from one of you iPhone iFreaks'd be much appreciated...

(a) how do I make my new computer my primary iPhone computer without losing all my apps, etc. (i.e. transfer my iPhone data FROM my iPhone TO my computer)?

(b) how do I manage my apps in iCloud?

Thanks, I'll hang up and listen now...

150

Beer and Queso / Home for the Holidays- Momma-do list item (1): Driveway repair question

« on: December 22, 2011, 05:10:05 pm »

Its that time again. Back in HOU for Christmas and trying to see what I can do around my moms house to help out. There is a lot of the misc. stuff that is easy enough that even I can deal with it... but... got some stuff (well) above my abilities as well. This years item: Concrete Driveway slabs.

Mom got a letter from her HOA saying that her driveway needed to be repaired/replaced. As a matter of course, I'd tell them to kiss my butt... but... when I got to town and had a chance to look at it, I *think* that she does need to have some work done on it as to avoid further/other damage. While I imagine I'll still tell the HOA to kiss my butt... I'd like to try to figure out what needs to be done to take care of the problem before I head back out to the left coast again. So, if anyone here does concrete work, or knows folks that do, my best guess is that mom needs about 5 yards of concrete removal and replacement (4" x 10' x 36' or 50'). Might need a lot less, as there is only a 1.5' x 10' (4") section that absolutely must me replaced. Anyway... send me a message if you have some thoughts on the matter.

Thanks! -Lee

151

Beer and Queso / RG3: Davey O'Brien Award Winner; Heisman Trophy Winner

« on: December 10, 2011, 08:14:46 pm »

Congratulations to Robert Griffin III on winning the Davey O'Brien Award and the Heisman Trophy. Damn proud of you young man, damn proud! Sic 'Em!!!

152

Talk Zone / Luhnow is the Astros new GM

« on: December 08, 2011, 12:32:54 am »

So says The Man anyway...

Quote from: moriartp on December 07, 2011, 11:49:27 pm

Word is it's Luhnow.

This had gotta mean HOU goes out and signs Pujols, don't it?!?!?

153

Talk Zone / Rule 5 Draft

« on: December 08, 2011, 12:30:38 am »

As in Arabic numeral "5", not Roman numeral V, draft is almost upon us. Any predictions as to who the Astros will take?!?

Per Footer: "David Gottfried and Bobby Heck will run things for Astros at Rule 5 as originally planned."

154

Beer and Queso / Matt Millen. Seriously. STFU

« on: December 03, 2011, 05:48:29 pm »

He is amazingly annoying...

That said, SIC 'EM!!!

155

Talk Zone / Verlander wins AL MVP

« on: November 21, 2011, 01:08:38 pm »

Good for him.

156

Talk Zone / Texan = Pussy

« on: November 16, 2011, 01:02:09 pm »

Somewhere along the line it not only became appropriate to Mess With Texas, but apparently viewed as the path of least resistance as well. It is this perception, not the stupid-ass DH, that is bothering me most about the Astros going to the AL West.

And as you are torching me for making this statement, please keep in mind that although I may live out of state, I was born a Texan, and will die a Texan. Also keep in mind the following: Bud Selig, home game in Milwaukee, AL West; Jeff Pearlman et al, Bagwell, 41.7% first ballot votes for the HOF.

157

Talk Zone / Bourgeois celeb golf tournament

« on: November 07, 2011, 01:16:45 pm »

Seemed worth passing along... Jason Bourgeois (via Twitter):

11-11 Celeb golf tourney @ Hermann Park Golf Course for my foundation #JBYS my youth sports fond to help inner city youth and local family's

158

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Comadena on Singleton & Meyer

« on: October 31, 2011, 12:22:05 pm »

Lancaster catcher Jordan Comadena chats with Astros County: LINK (AC has had similar Q&A's with various MiLB'ers through the offseason - good reads all). (Excerpt from the Comadena Q&A below):

AC: Who do you look at from Lancaster and think, "That guy's going to be a star?"

JC: When I look back at this year, two guys stand out to me (besides Altuve who is already there, what he was doing in Lancaster was unbelievable). The first person is Jonathan Singleton - at 19 years old he is a physical specimen. He's very strong and moves very well. He's got a nice lefty stroke with power to all fields. If he continues to progress with the talent that he has now he will be a force. The other person that stood out to me was Johnny Meyer. He is the best defensive third baseman that I have ever played with or against. I would routinely be amazed at some of the plays he made look so easy. Offensively he's getting better, he drives the ball to all fields and he handles off-speed well. On top of his God-given ability, Johnny is one of the hardest workers that I've played with. He refuses to let himself fail and he will always find a way to get better each day.

159

Talk Zone / The "Anatomy of a Baseball Trade"

« on: October 22, 2011, 12:45:59 am »

The Michael Bourn trade that is... (Via Bloomberg Businessweek)

160

Beer and Queso / Gutless

« on: September 29, 2011, 07:52:36 pm »

Seems my 'favorite' 'sports' 'writer' is at it again... LINK

Per Ditka... :

"What's the point? What's the point? The point is one thing only -- to sell books. That's all it's about. It's a bunch of crap, first of all.

"If you're going to wait 12 years after somebody's passed, come on. This is the sign of a gutless individual who would do this. Totally gutless who would hide behind that, and that's what he's done."

161

Game Zone 2011 Archive / HOU ar CIN, a little lineup intrigue... 09/19/11

« on: September 19, 2011, 03:59:51 pm »

Levine has it posted here:

Good Guys

1. Jason Bourgeois (CF)
2. Jose Altuve (2B)
3. J.D. Martinez (LF)
4. Carlos Lee (1B)
5. Matt Downs (RF)
6. Jimmy Paredes (3B)
7. Clint Barmes (SS)
8. Humberto Quintero (C)
9. J.A. Happ (P)

Cincinnati

***

9. Travis Wood (P) (lefty)

162

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros at FTC, 09/18/11

« on: September 18, 2011, 04:52:07 pm »

Rain delay T9. Astros up 3-2 on the FTC. Bit of a hubub in B8, as the FTC thought they'd hit a 2-run HR to go up 4-3, but umps said no (or so I think anyway, as I was only half-assed paying attention to the FTC announcers (FSH isn't carrying the game today)).

163

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 09/16/11: Astros at FTC

« on: September 16, 2011, 01:47:55 pm »

Darwin Barney hit into a weird DP to end B1. Carlos lead off T2 with a HR to left field (his 22nd at Wrigley). Astros lead 1-0.

164

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Winter Ball

« on: August 31, 2011, 01:43:35 pm »

Levine has an article up regarding Astros in winter ball: Altuve among several Astros who will play winter ball

Because I'm too lazy to actually read through it, here is the Astros County breakdown from the article: Winter Ball Updates

Jose Altuve - Venezuela
Henry Sosa - Dominican Republic
Jimmy Paredes - Dominican Republic
Jonathan Villar - Dominican Republic
Brian Bogusevic - Dominican Republic
David Carpenter - Dominican Republic
Brett Wallace - Dominican Republic
Carlos Corporan - Puerto Rico
Koby Clemens - Puerto Rico

Wallace and Carpenter will play for Escogido, who will be managed by Tony DeFrancesco, OKC's manager.

165

Talk Zone / Dierker on JD Martinez

« on: August 30, 2011, 11:41:34 pm »

Good read. LINK

166

Beer and Queso / Remembering 9/11: National Geographic Channel

« on: August 30, 2011, 10:51:26 pm »

National Geographic Channel is in the midst of a week long "Remembering 9/11" retrospective. Well done thus far.

167

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Arizona Fall League

« on: August 30, 2011, 10:13:10 pm »

The announced Astros participants thusfar: (via Astros County via Levine)

-Jay Austin
-Jason Castro
-Jake Goebbert
-Chris Hicks
-Kody Hinze
-Dallas Keuchel
-Jason Stoffel
-Josh Zeid

168

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / PTBNL (Pence)

« on: August 15, 2011, 12:46:24 pm »

Probably Cabrera'd again (a little gun-shy as I'm still reeling from a multi-Cabrera weekend...). Anyway... the PTBNL in the Pence trade has been named: OF Domingo Santana.

BA ranked him #9 in the PHI system prior to the season, and had this to say about him (sub req'd LINK):

Scouting Report: All the pieces are there for Santana to be the player Philadelphia hopes he can be—a power-hitter who plays above-average defense on an outfield corner. He's athletic and physically imposing. Fundamentally sound at the plate, he has a natural load and incredible raw power. He works the center of the field well and doesn't get pull-happy. He'll have to do a better job of recognizing pitches, as he struggles with hard stuff inside and breaking balls away. He has the plus speed and arm strength to be a quality right fielder, though he needs more game repetition to improve defensively.

169

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Footer blogs (from LEX and LAN)

« on: August 11, 2011, 03:15:27 pm »

Footer has optioned herself to the minors, and is in the process of visiting LEX and LAN. Here are a couple of her blogs thusfar:

"Former No. 1 pick DeShields honing his skills in Lexington": LINK

"How J.D. Martinez went from a Minor League roster filler to a Major League outfielder": LINK

170

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BAs Best Tools

« on: August 11, 2011, 03:05:56 pm »

Astros MiLBers on the lists (A through Triple-A) are as follows:

2011 Class A Best Tools (LINK) (Astros MiLBers mentioned twice):

Best Strike Zone Judgment (CAL): Kody Hinze, Lancaster;
Best Power Prospect (FSL): Jonathan Singleton, Clearwater;
None for the SAL (Harper, Taillon, Felix Sanchez, and Edwar Cabrera pretty much cleaned up in the SAL 'best tools');

2011 Double-A Best Tools (LINK)(Astros MiLBers mentioned once):

Best Changeup (TX): Dallas Keuchel, Corpus Christi

2011 Triple-A Best Tools (LINK)(Astros MiLBers mentioned once):

Best Pitching Prospect (PCL): Jordan Lyles, Oklahoma City

171

Talk Zone / Happ optioned to OKC

« on: August 06, 2011, 02:43:34 pm »

Per Footer (via Twitter):

The Astros have called up Wesley Wright and Jeff Fulchino. Del Rosario to DL. J.A. Happ optioned to Triple A OKC.

172

Talk Zone / Picture of the day?

« on: August 04, 2011, 07:55:45 pm »

Who knows, probably Cabrera'd, but still a great (Lyles) pic... LINK

173

Talk Zone / Turdinal being a Turdinal

« on: August 02, 2011, 11:23:59 pm »

Molina just EARNED himself a 7-game suspension... (T10, STL at MIL).

Here are a couple of partial .gif's. (via Bubbaprog on Twitter): ANIMATED: MOLINARAGE http://30fram.es/3js & MOLINASPIT http://30fram.es/3jt

174

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros v. Dickities, 8/2/11

« on: August 02, 2011, 07:00:14 pm »

New (or unmovable contract) Guys:

Durango CF, Altuve 2B, Bogusevic RF, Lee 1B, Martinez LF, Barmes SS, Paredes 3B, Corporan C, Wandy LHP (via McTaggart)

Dickities:

Stubbs 8 Renteria 6 Votto 3 Phillips 4 Cairo 5 Heisey 9 Hernandez 2 Frazier 7 Bailey 1 (via Campbell)

175

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BAs current Astros top 10 prospects

« on: August 01, 2011, 01:20:21 pm »

Excluding Altuve and JD, including the recent trades, and presuming Springer signs. LINK (note, there are comments on each player in the linked 'Ask BA' article):

1. Jonathan Singleton, 1b/of
2. Jarred Cosart, rhp
3. George Springer, of
4. Jonathan Villar, ss
5. Brett Oberholtzer, lhp
6. Paul Clemens, rhp
7. Mike Foltynewicz, rhp
8. Delino DeShields Jr., 2b
9. Jimmy Paredes, 2b/3b
10. Ariel Ovando, of

176

Talk Zone / Get it out of your system now...

« on: August 01, 2011, 12:38:35 pm »

Quote from: MRaup on August 01, 2011, 02:20:56 am

Goddamn, I've never seen so much fucking bitching on a message board that doesn't have Longhorns somewhere in the banner. I never expected the GZ/TZ to be deemed unreadable, but wow.

I'm as guilty of the aforementioned conduct as anyone. Given the craziness of the last 72 hours or so, I'm willing to give myself a bit of a pass on the content. That said... this is SnS not Astros Daily. I'm done whining, and suggest that if you've got any more whining to do, do it here, but get it out of your system today for tomorrow this thread 'should' be nuked (locked, whatever) and folks should go back into full SnS mode again...

177

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Jarred Cosart

« on: July 30, 2011, 02:38:09 pm »

Someone'll get around to posting about his stuff, stats, etc., but thought a number of folks would appreciate the following comment from the League City Texas kid (via Levine on Twitter):

"Houston boy at heart, a Texans fan good or bad, a Rockets fan good or bad."

178

Talk Zone / Bourn the next to go?!?

« on: July 29, 2011, 11:43:22 pm »

The kid has his suitors. If he goes, where will he go, and how long will it take the teams fans to learn how to correctly spell his last name...

Michael Bourn Rumors: Friday (via MLBTR):

"The Nationals, Braves, Indians and Reds are among the clubs with varying levels of interest in Bourn," report Ken Rosenthal and Jon Paul Morosi of FOX Sports. The Indians are the new suitor here.

179

Talk Zone / Interesting 3-1 game in CLE

« on: July 27, 2011, 01:24:50 pm »

B9, Ervin Santana still on the bump for the Halos.

180

Talk Zone / Wallace to see more bench time

« on: July 25, 2011, 05:42:06 pm »

Per Levine (via Twitter):

Sounds like Brett Wallace's playing time is going down for a while. Mills will try to get him going w/favorable matchups.

FML

181

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 07/22/11: Astros at FTCs

« on: July 22, 2011, 01:36:22 pm »

Day game, who'd'a thunk it... Thru 1, HOU 0, FTC 0.

182

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 07/20/11: Astros vs. Natinals

« on: July 20, 2011, 01:07:54 pm »

Go get 'em kid!

183

Beer and Queso / Pop-ups (MiLB.com)

« on: July 19, 2011, 09:14:55 pm »

Okay... so every time I click on an MiLB recap/box score link I get a pop-up / new window. This is the only site that this happens to me on. I've tried to see if there was some kind of setting to use to stop this from happening, but can't figure it out. It annoys the crap out of me. How, pray tell, can I get this to friggin' stop?!?!? (Using Google Chrome btw...). Thanks!

184

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 07/15/2011: time to git-r-done (vs. 'Roots)

« on: July 15, 2011, 02:15:49 pm »

Looks like Mills is shaking things up a bit in the first game back from the break... Lineup per Levine (via Twitter):

Good Guys

1. Bourn (CF)
2. Downs (3B)
3. Keppinger (2B)
4. Pence (RF)
5. Lee (LF)
6. Wallace (1B)
7. Barmes (SS)
8. Quintero (C)
9. Myers (P)

185

Talk Zone / REMINDER: Altuve on ESPN2 tonight at 6 ET

« on: July 10, 2011, 03:48:34 pm »

The MLB Futures Game is being played tonight at 6 p.m. ET. Hooks' Jose Altuve will be starting at 2B for the World team, and will be batting in the 2 hole. The game is being televised on ESPN2 (and I *think* you may be able to watch it on the computer at ESPN3 streaming). GO JOSE!!!

186

Talk Zone / Q activated, Towles optioned

« on: July 06, 2011, 09:09:49 pm »

Per McTaggart (via Twitter).

187

Talk Zone / #AstrosTeamMeeting

« on: July 06, 2011, 04:38:43 pm »

The Astros closed door team meeting has reached the 1 hour mark. Speculation about the #AstrosTeamMeeting abounds... (via Twitter):

@AstroBrit "We have actual footage of the #AstrosTeamMeeting youtu.be/3Tx8jnndMes "

@AstrosCounty "'Ed, I think you know our old friend, Shawn Chacon...' #AstrosTeamMeeting"

@Gizzmonic "If you're going to attempt suicide, don't lie down on the tracks. The train only moves when we hit a home run. #AstrosTeamMeeting"

@HouCounterplot "The #Astros had a scout at 'Kids Run The Bases Day.' #AstrosTeamMeeting"

@peteinhou "'The League has decided to punish Frank McCourt by awarding him control of our franchise.' #AstrosTeamMeeting"

@AGAME_ "For our new hitting coach we're bringing in someone who knows how to hit. Join me in welcoming entertainer Chris Brown. #AstrosTeamMeeting"

188

Talk Zone / Sweet Caroline at MMPUS? Give me a break...

« on: July 03, 2011, 09:58:50 pm »

Ron Brand. ASSHOLE!

189

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 07/03/11: Astros vs. BoSox

« on: July 03, 2011, 02:52:11 pm »

Tied up at 1 through 5. Lyles allowed 1 unearned run. Wallace scored on PH single for Angel Sanchez in B5.

190

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 7/2 international signing period - 2011

« on: June 27, 2011, 11:25:21 am »

The date is fast approaching, but I haven't seen the Astros linked to anybody yet. Anyone seen/heard anything?

191

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/25/11: Astros vs team fka Devil Rays

« on: June 25, 2011, 06:13:26 pm »

Good Guys

M. Bourn cf
J. Keppinger 2b
H. Pence rf
C. Lee lf
M. Downs ss
B. Wallace 1b
C. Johnson 3b
C. Corporan c
B. Norris p

team fka Devil Rays

J. Damon lf
B. Zobrist 2b
E. Longoria 3b
C. Kotchman 1b
M. Joyce rf
B.J. Upton cf
J. Jaso c
R. Brignac ss
W. Davis p

192

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/24/11 'Stros vs. Rays

« on: June 24, 2011, 08:05:34 pm »

Rays go hitless until 2 outs in T3 where they go 1B + SB, 2B (RBI), HR (2-run), HR, out. Astros are 0-fer thru 3, and Shields is dealing. End 3: TB 4, HOU 0.

193

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Misc. Astros MiLB notable stats

« on: June 23, 2011, 02:55:23 pm »

Jose Altuve leads all of pro baseball (including MLB) in AVG (.398) & hits (119).

Kody Hinze leads all pro ball (including MLB) in OBP (.483) and is T-4 in MiLB in HRs (19).

194

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/22/11: Astros at TBiA

« on: June 22, 2011, 04:51:16 pm »

Conflicting Astros 06/22 lineups posted today. Which would you prefer?

Astros 06/22 lineup (per Levine via Twitter):

Bourn, Bourgeois (RF), Keppinger, Lee (DH), Wallace, Johnson, Michaels (LF), Barmes, Corporan

Astros 06/22 lineup (per Bateman scribe via Twitter):

Morgan 2B, Jackson SS, Wynn CF, Nicholson RF, Aspromonte 3B, Harrison 1B, Bateman C, Staub LF, Bruce P.

195

Beer and Queso / Spanked

« on: June 22, 2011, 11:34:20 am »

If only responses to Motions for Summary Judgment were always this easy... Filed Pleading LINK

Backstory/additional info on the litigation: LINK

196

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / MiLB All Star games

« on: June 21, 2011, 08:29:23 pm »

Astros with a bunch of minor leaguers on their respective league all star teams. Both Kody Hinze (High-A CAL, Lancaster) and Chris Wallace (Low-A SAL, Lexington) won their leagues respective All Star Home Run Derby contests today.

197

Talk Zone / Pujoled

« on: June 20, 2011, 12:53:47 pm »

Out 4-6 weeks with a broken forearm/wrist. LINK

198

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / GCL Astros - 2011

« on: June 20, 2011, 12:32:42 am »

Your one stop shop for all things 2011 Gulf Coast League Astros.

199

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Comparing LAN stats: Hinze (11)/ Clemens (09)/ Gaston (09)

« on: June 18, 2011, 04:47:35 pm »

Neither here nor there... but I was curious how Kody Hinze's monster 2011 Lancaster in Lancaster compared with Koby Clemens' and Jon Gaston's monster 2009 seasons in Lancaster. Given the struggles of Gaston and Clemens post-Lancaster, I was curious if the numbers could predict potential future success (or struggles) for Hinze post-Lancaster. I'm passing on any analysis at this time because I'm curious to read your thoughts.

I'll be breaking down the tables into 2 separate posts: Home/Away and Pre-ASB/Post-ASB (obviously Hinze doesn't have any stats for the last category yet...).

And with that, analyze away!

200

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/17/11: HOU @ LAD

« on: June 17, 2011, 09:23:07 pm »

Wait, what's this? Brett Wallace starting against a lefty? No way...

LAD leads 1-0 with 2 out, 2 on in B1.

201

Talk Zone / Myers and Kepp on the block

« on: June 17, 2011, 06:40:03 pm »

Per MLBTR anyway... LINK

MLB.com's Bill Ladson hears that [the Astros] are looking to trade both Brett Myers and Jeff Keppinger...

202

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Tri-City - 2011

« on: June 15, 2011, 12:44:34 pm »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the defending NYPL Champion Tri-City ValleyCats.

203

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/14/11: Astros vs. Pirates - Return of the RedAss!

« on: June 14, 2011, 07:30:14 pm »

Evidently Brocail sucks as a pitching coach because it took Bud until T7 to give up a hit during his last outing with Arnsberg as pitching coach while it only took him only into T2 to give up a hit with Brocail in as pitching coach.

In other news, that Justin Verlander might just stick in the Majors...

204

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/11/11: Happy 25th Brownie! (HOU vs. ATL)

« on: June 11, 2011, 05:13:56 pm »

Wanted to get the thread started, but it'll be up to you reprobates to get the rosters posted...

205

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/10/11: Major League Suckitude into T5

« on: June 10, 2011, 08:43:34 pm »

Braves up 8-1 with 2 outs, 2 on in T5. An Rodriuez and Del Rosario have gotten the crap knocked out of them thusfar, and the night is still young...

206

Talk Zone / (Half-Assed) Astros vs. Braves (first game of the) Series posted

« on: June 10, 2011, 06:57:51 pm »

Mock it here...

In fairness to me, it was a pretty late call to the bench...

207

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 06/08/11: Astros vs. Jakes

« on: June 08, 2011, 07:01:58 pm »

Wow, Brett Wallace not starting against a LHP. Never saw that coming...

Good Guys

J. Bourgeois cf
J. Keppinger 2b
H. Pence rf
C. Lee 1b
J. Michaels lf
C. Johnson 3b
C. Barmes ss
J.R. Towles c
B. Norris p

Jakes

R. Theriot ss
J. Jay rf
A. Pujols 1b
L. Berkman lf
C. Rasmus cf
Y. Molina c
S. Schumaker 2b
M. Carpenter 3b
J. Garcia p

208

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2011 Scouting the Draftees

« on: June 08, 2011, 03:14:32 pm »

In previous years, we've generally included misc. scouting reports, draft articles, etc. in the 'Draft' or 'Draftees and Status' threads. However, it gets a bit cumbersome trying to find these reports in later years, so I wanted to try to set up a thread where we could more easily find this information down the road. Accordingly... here is your '2011 Scouting the Draftees' thread.

Have at it folks!

209

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2011 Draftees and Status

« on: June 08, 2011, 03:05:11 pm »

Draftee information has been compiled from MLB.com. Please let me know if anything is incorrect, I've missed a nickname, etc. And as always, please feel free to includes signing updates, rumors, etc. in this thread. The more info the better!

Draftee
Springer, George
Houser, Adrian
Armstrong, Jack
Lee, Christopher
Trapeano, Nick
Meredith, Brandon
Reynolds, Javaris
Culbreth, Brandon
Dufek, Jonas
Hallock, Kyle
Gominsky, Justin
Hamblin, Miles
Hinson, John
Stubblefield, “Gandy”
Johnson, Zac
Zuloaga, Scott
Perez, Tyson
Miller, Kevin
Lambson, Mitchell
Duffy, Matthew
Howick, James
Muren, Andrew
Sosa, Ruben
Wierzbicki, Jesse
Flamion, Billy
Fisher, Jared
Todd, Alex
John, Jordan
Gonzalez, Wallace
Steranka, Jordan
McKinney, Jarrod
Dando, Zachary
Taylor, Dominique
Kellog, Dustin
Morales, Christopher
Gonzalez, Kevin
Martin, Steven
Propst, James
Haerle, David
Lamothe, Buddy
Davidson, Chase
Granger, Hoke
Grimes, David
Ford, Blake
Epps, Christopher
Shults, Justin
Hardoin, Zachary
Murray, Andrew
Peterson, David
Davis, Colton

Rd/Pick
(1) 11
(2) 69
(3) 99
(4) 130
(5) 160
(6) 190
(7) 220
(8) 250
(9) 280
(10) 310
(11) 340
(12) 370
(13) 400
(14) 430
(15) 460
(16) 490
(17) 520
(18) 550
(19) 580
(20) 610
(21) 640
(22) 670
(23) 700
(24) 730
(25) 760
(26) 790
(27) 820
(28) 850
(29) 880
(30) 910
(31) 940
(32) 970
(33) 1000
(34) 1030
(35) 1060
(36) 1090
(37) 1120
(38) 1150
(39) 1180
(40) 1210
(41) 1240
(42) 1270
(43) 1300
(44) 1330
(45) 1360
(46) 1390
(47) 1420
(48) 1450
(49) 1480
(50) 1510

Signed
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

POS
OF
RHP
RHP
LHP
RHP
LF
CF
RHP
RHP
LHP
CF
C
2B
RHP
1B
LHP
RHP
RHP
LHP
3B
SS
CF
2B
1B
LF
RHP
SS
LHP
RF
3B
RF
RHP
CF
RHP
RHP
C
RHP
RHP
RHP
RHP
1B
CF
OF
RHP
OF
1B
LHP
C
RHP
CF

School
UConn
Locust Grove HS, OK
Vanderbilt
Santa Fe CC
SUNY Stony Brook
San Diego State
King HS, FL
Forsyth County Day School, NC
Creighton
Kent State
Minnesota
U Mississippi
Clemson
Lufkin HS, TX
Oklahoma State
Scottsdale CC
Fresno CC
UC Berkley
Arizona State
Tennessee
Jacksonville U
Cal State - Northridge
Oklahoma City U
UNC Chapel Hill
Central Catholic HS, CA
Newport HS, WA
Sonoma State U
Oklahoma
Bishop Amat HS, CA
Penn State
Arkansas
Central Arizona College
Salt Lake CC
Caney Creek HS, TX
Clear Creek HS, TX
Texas A&M
Texas A&M
Oklahoma State
Col of the Canyons, CA
San Jacinto College North
Georgia
Northside Methodist Academy, AL
Upton Lakes Christian School, NY
Lamar University
Clemson
UC Riverside
U Missouri Columbia
Westfield HS, NJ
College of Charleston
Lake Wales HS, FL

Class
JR
HS
JR
J1
JR
JR
HS
HS
SR
SR
JR
SR
SR
HS
JR
J2
J2
SR
JR
SR
JR
SR
JR
SR
HS
HS
SR
SO
HS
JR
JR
J2
J1
HS
HS
SR
SR
SR
J1
J2
JR
HS
HS
5S
SR
SR
SR
HS
JR
HS

B/T
R/R
R/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
L/R
L/R
R/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
L/R
S/R
R/R
L/L
L/R
R/R
R/L
R/R
L/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
R/R
L/R
R/R
S/R
L/R
L/R
L/R
L/L
R/R
R/R
R/R

Ht/Wt
6’03”- 205
6’04”- 205
6’07”- 230
6’03”- 175
6’04”- 205
6’02”-225
6’01”- 190
6’04”- 200
6’05”- 215
6’02”-185
6’04”- 185
6’03”- 200
6’01”- 180
6’05”- 190
5’11”- 200
6’03”- 205
6’03”- 215
6’00”- 195
6’01”- 195
6’03”- 215
6’02”- 185
6’06”- 195
5’07”- 170
6’03”- 200
6’01”- 195
6’04”- 235
6’02”- 190
6’03”- 200
6’05”- 230
6’03”- 195
5’11”- 205
6’03”- 175
6’01”- 190
6’04”- 185
6’05”- 205
5’10”-190
6’06”- 225
6’01”- 180
6’02”- 195
6’03”- 225
6’05”- 225
6’02”- 200
6’01”- 180
6’05”- 215
6’00”- 190
6’03”- 205
5’10”- 190
6’02”- 215
6’05”- 205
6’03”- 190

DOB
09/19/89
02/02/93
12/14/89
08/17/92
08/27/90
12/19/89
01/24/93
07/27/92
06/30/88
08/06/88
08/26/89
10/22/88
09/13/88
07/23/92
06/06/88
09/20/89
12/27/89
08/25/89
07/20/90
02/06/89
08/26/90
11/22/88
09/23/90
11/24/88
01/19/93
09/01/92
08/15/89
07/05/90
02/11/93
11/14/89
10/14/89
01/04/91
08/11/92
02/16/93
07/22/93
11/06/87
11/16/87
03/18/89
03/16/92
10/11/90
01/14/90
05/31/92
02/13/93
05/16/88
12/10/88
12/02/87
07/11/88
04/04/93
01/04/90
08/27/92

210

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Power arms?

« on: June 07, 2011, 10:32:04 pm »

I know its not the end-all-be-all of pitching... but... who do the Astros have in the entire system that could be considered a 'power arm?' For purposes of this discussion, let's just define 'power arm' as anyone that hits 98 mph on the gun on an occasional basis.

Melanchon? Jorge De Leon? Anyone else (including draftees)?

211

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2008-2011 Draft Breakdown

« on: June 07, 2011, 07:26:41 pm »

Surprised at the small number of high schoolers taken through the first 20 or so rounds today, I decided to see how that compared with Astros previous drafts under Heck/Wade. This, of course, led me on a massive tangent to see the breakdown between high school/college players and pitchers/position players.

I haven't really digested the info yet, but here are the Astros breakdowns from the first 30 rounds of the 2008-2011 drafts (I'll be posting breakdowns through 50 rounds later).

Astros 2008-2011 drafts by Class rounds 1-30

HS
J-1
J-2
J-3
SO
JR
SR

2008 draft (32 picks)
9
3
4
1
0
8
7

2009 draft (31 picks)
12
0
3
0
0
10
6

2010 draft (32 picks)
12
1
1
0
0
9
9

2011 draft (30 picks)
7
1
2
0
1
10
9

Astros 2008-2011 drafts by Position rounds 1-30

Pitchers
RHP
LHP
Position Players
C
1B
2B
3B
SS
OF

2008 draft (32 picks)
17
8
9
15
2
1
2
1
0
9

2009 draft (31 picks)
13
10
3
18
1
3
1
3
4
6

2010 draft (32 picks)
14
10
4
18
4
0
2
3
2
7

2011 draft (30 picks)
14
9
5
16
1
2
2
2
2
7

212

Talk Zone / Well that's kinda surprising...

« on: June 04, 2011, 12:09:05 am »

Thought this *should* but a bit surprised it actually did...

Levine (via Twitter): Astros release Bill Hall, bring back Jason Bourgeois. -Z

ETA- Footer (via Twitter): Roster move: The Astros have asked for unconditional release waivers on Bill Hall and will activate Jason Bourgeois from DL tomorrow

213

Talk Zone / Erstad named head-coach at Nebraska

« on: June 02, 2011, 03:43:34 pm »

Its official: (Nebraska Baseball Twitter account)

214

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/31/11: Astros @ Cubs

« on: May 31, 2011, 07:00:04 pm »

Astros Lineup:

Bourn cf, Barmes ss, Pence rf, Lee lf, Keppinger 2b, Wallace 1b, Johnson 3b, Cancel c, Lyles p

Cubs Lineup:

Fukudome rf, Barney 2b, Castro ss, Pena 1b, Ramirez 3b, DeWitt lf, Campana cf, Soto c, Zambrano p

Got get 'em young man!

215

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/28/11: Astros vs. D-Bags

« on: May 28, 2011, 06:08:19 pm »

Good Guys

M. Bourn cf
C. Barmes ss
H. Pence rf
C. Lee lf
C. Johnson 3b
B. Wallace 1b
B. Hall 2b
J.R. Towles c
B. Norris p

Arizona

W. Bloomquist lf
K. Johnson 2b
R. Roberts 3b
S. Drew ss
C. Young cf
M. Montero c
J. Miranda 1b
G. Parra rf
Z. Duke p (LHP)

216

Talk Zone / Welcome aboard Jordan Lyles

« on: May 28, 2011, 03:19:54 pm »

Footer (via Twitter):

Wandy to DL with fluid in elbow. Jordan Lyles called up and will pitch Tues in Chicago.

217

Talk Zone / Inglett released

« on: May 27, 2011, 05:59:31 pm »

Per Steve Campbell (via Twitter):

In making room for OF Brian Bogusevic at OKC (AAA), #Astros release IF Joe Inglett.

218

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / DSL Astros - 2011

« on: May 27, 2011, 01:14:00 pm »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the 2011 Dominican Summer League Astros.

219

Talk Zone / CIN @ PHI

« on: May 26, 2011, 12:17:03 am »

Infielder Wilson Valdez makes his first appearance as a pitcher (MiLB or MLB) in T19 for the Phillies to face Joey Votto, Scott Rolen, and Jay Bruce. Hits Rolen (barely), but gets Votto and Bruce to fly out and Fisher (P) to pop out.

BASEBALL RULES!!!

220

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/24/11: Astros vs. Dojers again

« on: May 24, 2011, 06:34:46 pm »

Can they pull off another'n?!?!?

Good Guys

M. Bourn cf
C. Barmes ss
H. Pence rf
C. Lee lf
B. Wallace 1b
C. Johnson 3b
B. Hall 2b
H. Quintero c
J.A. Happ p (LHP)

Dojers

R. Furcal ss
J. Carroll 2b
J. Loney 1b
M. Kemp cf
J. Sands rf
D. Navarro c
J. Gibbons lf
A. Miles 3b
C. Billingsley p (RHP)

221

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/23/11: Astros vs. Dojers

« on: May 23, 2011, 07:47:36 pm »

I'll be darned, there's a game on...

And yes, it appears that Mills is once again protecting his lil' ole' LHB 1B from the evil and mean Dojer LHP...

Good Guys

M. Bourn cf
C. Barmes ss
H. Pence rf
C. Lee 1b
J. Michaels lf
C. Johnson 3b
B. Hall 2b
H. Quintero c
B. Norris p

Dojers

R. Furcal ss
A. Miles 2b
J. Loney 1b
M. Kemp cf
J. Gibbons rf
J. Sands lf
D. Navarro c
R. Mitchell 3b
C. Kershaw p

222

Talk Zone / MLB Power Rankings

« on: May 23, 2011, 12:56:01 pm »

White Sox at #1. I'd have to move the Cubs up from #12, but other than that, nits?

223

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/21/11: Astros @ Blue Jays, part deux

« on: May 21, 2011, 10:36:51 am »

Start time: 12:07 CST

Lineups via McTaggart:

ASTROS

CF Michael Bourn

2B Angel Sanchez

RF Hunter Pence

DH Carlos Lee

1B Brett Wallace

3B Chris Johnson

SS Clint Barmes

LF Brian Bogusevic

C Humberto Quintero

RHP Brett Myers

224

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/20/11: Good Guys Invade Canada

« on: May 20, 2011, 05:42:24 pm »

Get this through y'alls thick skulls, the game starts at 7:07 EST, not 7:05 EST.

Tough LHP on the bump for the Blue Jays, good thing Wallace is sitting... [/JustShootMe]

Astros:

M. Bourn cf   (.260)
C. Barmes ss (.200)
H. Pence rf   (.285)
C. Lee dh (.245)
J. Michaels lf (.160)
M. Downs 1b (.286)
C. Johnson 3b (.206)
B. Hall 2b (.225)
J.R. Towles c (.224)

SP: Anuery Rodriguez (RHP: 6.26 ERA, 1.43 WHIP)

Blue Jays:

Y. Escobar ss (.279)
C. Patterson lf (.280)
J. Bautista rf (.360)
A. Hill 2b (.231)
J. Rivera 1b (.214)
J.P. Arencibia c (.235)
E. Thames dh (.400)
R. Davis cf (.250)
J. Nix 3b (.212)

SP: Jo-Jo Reyes (LHP: 4.75 ERA, 1.61 WHIP)

225

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/19/11- Yep, it's a day game folks...

« on: May 19, 2011, 12:17:58 pm »

Lineups (via McTaggart):

Good Guys

CF Michael Bourn
SS Clint Barmes
RF Hunter Pence
LF Carlos Lee
1B Brett Wallace
3B Chris Johnson
2B Bill Hall
C Humberto Quintero
LHP J.A. Happ

Jakes (sans Berkman and Holliday today)

SS Ryan Theriot
RF Jon Jay
1B Alberto Pujols
LF Allen Craig
CF Colby Rasmus
C Gerald Laird
2B Tyler Greene
3B Daniel Descalso
RHP Kyle McClellan

226

Beer and Queso / Give me a PS3, Marijuana, and the Mexican Army

« on: May 18, 2011, 01:55:43 pm »

Gotta say, as hostage demands go its pretty creative... LINK

227

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 05/17/11: Devil wears Prado, part Deux

« on: May 17, 2011, 11:18:54 am »

Jim's Boys

M. Bourn cf
A. Sanchez 2b
H. Pence rf
C. Lee lf
B. Wallace 1b
M. Downs 3b
C. Barmes ss
J.R. Towles c
W. Rodriguez p

Them

M. Prado lf
J. Heyward rf
C. Jones 3b
D. Uggla 2b
E. Hinske 1b
D. Ross c
A. Gonzalez ss
N. McLouth cf
D. Lowe p

228

Talk Zone / Press Conference at 2:00 (5/16)

« on: May 16, 2011, 01:17:20 pm »

Carried live on Astros.com and MLB.com (and yes, I'm probably Cabrera #4 on this... but... to busy to vet my post... get over it already).

229

Talk Zone / 10 things you don't know about Jim Crane

« on: May 14, 2011, 01:38:04 pm »

Culture Map Houston with some good background info on Jim Crane. LINK (h/t Astros County)

Among the info (btw, you should read the article in its entirety):

1). Crane actually played the game. At a relatively high level too. No, Crane wasn't close to a Major Leaguer. But Crane was a Division II baseball star at the University of Central Missouri (enrollment 9,088) in the 1970s. He was an honorable mention Division II All-American as a pitcher, going 21-8 with a 2.42 ERA for UCM. [Crane still holds the school record for strikeouts in a game (18)].

2). He's the best CEO golfer in the country. *** Crane ranked No. 1 in Golf Digest's rankings of the nation's top CEO golfers in 2006 with a 0.8 handicap index (2006 was one of the last times that Golf Digest did the once-regular CEO rankings as executives grew wary of being associated with playing a lot of golf).

230

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / The 8 People You'll See At Every Minor League Baseball Game

« on: May 11, 2011, 05:51:36 pm »

"The 8 People You'll See At Every Minor League Baseball Game." LINK

Yes? No? Maybe?

231

Talk Zone / 2 interesting games going on right now...

« on: May 07, 2011, 05:04:27 pm »

DET at TOR and MIL at STL. Might be worth a look in...

232

Talk Zone / Lopez activated, Valdez optioned

« on: May 01, 2011, 04:09:56 pm »

Per Footer (via Twitter).

Lopez reinstated from DL. Valdez optioned.

233

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros vs. Brewers, 5/1/11

« on: May 01, 2011, 01:23:01 pm »

Lineups via McTaggart (LINK)

ASTROS

CF Jason Bourgeois
SS Angel Sanchez
RF Hunter Pence
LF Carlos Lee
1B Brett Wallace
2B Bill Hall
3B Matt Down
C Humberto Quintero
RHP Bud Norris

BREWERS

2B Rickie Weeks
CF Carlos Gomez
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
3B Casey McGehee
RF Mark Kotsay
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
C Jonthan Lucroy
LHP Chris Narveson

234

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / MiLB.TV Astros affiliate coverage

« on: April 30, 2011, 04:47:35 pm »

OKC and Corpus on are on the MiLB.TV schedule most nights. Surprisingly, LEX is also on the MiLB.TV schedule quite a bit (there have been a couple of snafus with scheduled games not being shown, but I've been pleasantly surprised at the number of times LEX has been on). LAN games aren't being shown on MiLB.TV, as LAN is not set up to televise games, nor are any other teams in the CAL.

235

Talk Zone / SP5: Aneury Rodriguez in, Figueroa out

« on: April 30, 2011, 03:40:03 pm »

Per Steve Campbell (via Twitter):

Nelson Figueroa out of rotation. Aneury Rodriguez takes place, will start Tuesday.

236

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA Prospect Hot Sheet

« on: April 29, 2011, 12:16:27 pm »

A couple of Astros MiLB'ers made the BA Prospect Hot Sheet for the week of 4/22-4/28. (Baseball America LINK)

In the team photo

Astros 2B Jose Altuve will have several big strikes against him—he's a 5-foot-5 second baseman trying to make the big leagues. Only two players 5-foot-5 or shorter have been major league regulars since Jackie Robinson integrated the game in 1947. (They would be Freddie Patek and Albie Pearson.) ***

Helium Watch

• When a team drafts a senior college catcher in the 16th round, he carries the tag of organizational player. Every professional team needs to have two or three catchers, and you have to find them somewhere. But Chris Wallace... is doing everything he can to prove he's a prospect. *** Wallace, 22, has proven he isn't a one-day wonder. He went 4-for-5 with two triples and a home run last Friday, and he's now hitting .432/.506/.865 for the season. Wallace didn't hit anything like this in college, so don't start projecting stardom or anything, but catcher is a position where late-round, slow developers sometimes surprise.

237

Talk Zone / Barmes activated, Inglett dfa'd

« on: April 28, 2011, 10:43:53 pm »

Per Footer tweet.

238

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros v. Jakes, 04/27/2011

« on: April 27, 2011, 06:54:01 pm »

Lineups via FSHouston

Good guys

Bourn cf, Sanchez ss, Pence rf, Lee lf, Wallace 1b, Johnson 3b, Towles c, Inglett 2b, Happ p

Turds

Punto 2b, Freese 3b, Pujols 1b, Holliday lf, Berkman rf, Molina c, Greene ss, Jay cf, Lohse p

239

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros at Brewers, 04/23/2011

« on: April 23, 2011, 05:50:08 pm »

Lineups via McTaggart (LINK)

ASTROS

CF Michael Bourn
SS Angel Sanchez
RF Hunter Pence
LF Carlos Lee
1B Brett Wallace
2B Bill Hall
3B Chris Johnson
C Humberto Quintero
RHP Brett Myers

BREWERS

2B Craig Counsell
CF Carlos Gomez
LF Ryan Braun
1B Prince Fielder
3B Casey McGehee
RF Mark Kotsay
SS Yuniesky Betancourt
C Jonathan Lucroy
RHP Shaun Marcum

240

Talk Zone / BFiB...

« on: April 20, 2011, 11:20:03 pm »

"They are supposed to be the best fans in baseball. Yeah right." -Ryan Franklin

241

Talk Zone / If this doesn't sell you on Twitter...

« on: April 20, 2011, 10:49:31 pm »

I don't know what will. WAY COOL!!!

242

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Hot start / cold start

« on: April 20, 2011, 01:54:49 pm »

At what point does a hot start (or cold start) mean something more than just a hot (or cold) start?

E.g. (hot start): Mier, Altuve, Nash, Wallace, Villar, Clemens, etc.;
E.g. (cold start): Wates, DeShields, Steele, etc.

Just curious what your thoughts were... As for me, I'm not concerned about, for example, Wates start of the season thus far, but am finding it difficult not to get excited about the season starts for Altuve, Nash, Mier, Martinez, etc.

243

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / MiLB Players of the Week

« on: April 18, 2011, 09:46:21 pm »

2 Astros MiLB'ers made it on the MiLB Players of the week for the "week" of 4/7/11-4/17/11. LINK

Chris Wallace; SAL batter of the week;
Dallas Keuchel - TX league pitcher of the week.

Keep 'em coming!!!

244

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Logjams?

« on: April 18, 2011, 03:15:22 pm »

VirtualBob's summaries got me a thinkin'... (so blame him, its all his fault...). Are there some logjams keeping kids from moving up in the Astros system right now?

Shortstop:

I presume the Astros aren't going to let any of the older guys in the system impede Jio's or Villar's ascent through the system, but are there some guys ahead that are slowing things down a bit?

A LEX: Jio Mier
High-A: Henry Villar
AA: Wladamir Sutil
AAA: Tommy Manzella (and presumably Matt Downs when Barmes comes off the DL).

Gotta think, barring injury, Sutil will be the odd-man-out here eventually. Playing time could be rough in AAA with Manzella/Downs, so there won't really be any room there. I don't think Sutil (love watching the kid's glovework), despite a torrid start to the season, is likely to jump over Manzella/Downs (or Villar/Mier) on the preference chart anytime soon (please say otherwise if you disagree with the assessment). If the powers-that-be (PTB) decide they want Villar or Mier to move up, I'd imagine that puts Sutil in a back-up / utility role at AA.

Outfield:

I *guess* DeLome would be the odd-man-out if there was a JD Martinez promotion (or that if the PTB's wanted to promote Jay Austin to CC, they'd concurrently promote Martinez to OKC). Thoughts?

245

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Poor-man's version of a VirtualBob Astros MiLB breakdown

« on: April 18, 2011, 02:56:32 pm »

McTaggart gives a quick look at the Astros MiLB'ers thusfar this season. LINK

VB's breakdowns are a lot more in depth and informative, but thought I'd post this in any event...

246

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 4/16/11: Your Houston Astros v. Jeff Moorad's Padres

« on: April 16, 2011, 05:54:39 pm »

Towles a late scratch, replaced by Q. Downs in for Hall tonight at 2B. IIRC, Bags to be joining Brownie & JD in the booth!

Astros lineup

M. Bourn cf
A. Sanchez ss
H. Pence rf
C. Lee lf
B. Wallace 1b
C. Johnson 3b
M. Downs 2b
H. Quintero c
[RHP] N. Figueroa p

Padres lineup

E. Patterson lf
W. Venable rf
O. Hudson 2b
C. Headley 3b
B. Hawpe 1b
C. Maybin cf
A. Gonzalez ss
R. Johnson c
[RHP] M. Latos p

247

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Goff article on Kirk Clark (Closer at LAN)

« on: April 13, 2011, 11:46:13 am »

Read it HERE.

248

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Minor League Game / Performance Recaps

« on: April 13, 2011, 11:44:56 am »

One of my favorite blogs, 'Cats Corner, has begun an "Up on the Farm" series where it "will highlight the results of Houston Astros affiliates from the High A division through Class-AAA..and keep you updated on former ‘Cats progress throughout the season." LINK

If you're interested, Astros County usually recaps Astros MiLB performances (Eddie's Farm LINK), as does Subber10 at the Crawfish Boxes.

249

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA Draft 2011 Midseason top 50

« on: April 13, 2011, 11:30:15 am »

Here ya go... LINK

Purke has fallen to 15 (previously #3). How'd he look in the Blood-n-mud?

Jungmann? He's at 13 (previously #6). Seemingly not because of poor performance or anything along those lines, just fallen some.

Currently at #11 (the Astros draft slot): RHP Taylor Guerrieri from Spring Valley HS, Columbia, S.C. He was previously not ranked. Per BA, he "has the most helium of any player this year after touching 98 mph with his fastball."

For you Aggies out there, #30 RHP John Stilson (previously #23). Per BA, "NCAA Division I ERA leader (0.80) in 2010 has had no trouble transition to rotation this spring."

Thoughts?

250

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / MiLB Host families

« on: April 13, 2011, 11:21:10 am »

Astros County dudes posted a nice article on home families (focused primarily on LEX). Worth a look. LINK

251

Talk Zone / What's wrong with this Pence Bobblehead?

« on: April 12, 2011, 05:37:35 pm »

The Tri-City ValleyCats blog ('Cats Corner, excellent blog) wants to see if people can point out any discrepancies between the Hunter Pence bobblehead (unfinished mud mold, first look) and the real Hunter Pence. LINK

Thoughts (SnS style, of course...)?

252

Talk Zone / 'Trackman' pitching data

« on: April 12, 2011, 01:26:54 pm »

Tracking pitchers 'effective MPH,' curveball 'spin rate,' etc. LINK

I could give a rats-ass about a lot of the 'data' being shoved down my throat by Sabermatrician-types (Pythagoean win/loss, UZR, and the 'competing WAR's, etc...), but think the Trackman data is very interesting.

253

Talk Zone / A 'neither here nor there' article re: Byrdak

« on: April 11, 2011, 06:20:33 pm »

Byrdak doesn't 'crap on the Astros' in the article, it isn't of any particular relevance, and it doesn't really include anything earth-shattering... but... I thought it was an interesting article about Byrdak watching and waiting for a guaranteed deal - somewhere - over the off season. LINK

254

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 04/11/2011: Astros vs. FTC

« on: April 11, 2011, 03:24:57 pm »

If the hate ain't flowin' yet, here is your primer! Lineups below via McTaggart.

Your 2011 Houston Astros

CF Michael Bourn
SS Angel Sanchez
RF Hunter Pence
LF Carlos Lee
1B Brett Wallace
3B Chris Johnson
2B Joe Inglett
C Humberto Quintero
RHP Nelson Figueroa

FTC

SS Starlin Castro
2B Darwin Barney
CF Marlon Byrd
3B Aramis Ramirez
1B Carlos Pena
LF Alfonso Soriano
RF Tyler Colvin
C Geovany Soto
RHP Ryan Dempster

255

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros MiLB - opening week in review

« on: April 11, 2011, 12:11:44 pm »

Well, not really... Just thought I'd highlight a couple of performances I felt like highlighting...

Lexington Legends

Mike Kvasnicka: 8-17, 5 R, 2B, 3B, 6 RBI, 1 BB, 2 SO, .471 AVG / .500 OBP / .647 SLG / 1.147 OPS;
Jiovanni Mier: 4-14, 3 R, 2B, 2 RBI, 4 BB, 5 SO, .286/.444/.357/.802;
Delino DeShields, Jr.: 2-14, R, 2B, RBI, 0 SB, 0 CS, .143/ .143/.214/.357

Lancaster JetHawks

Jose Altuve: 7-15, 3 R, 2B, 2 3B, 2 RBI, BB, 2 SO, SB, 0 CS, .467 AVG / .500 OBP / .800 SLG / 1.300 OPS;
Jonathan Meyer: 5-13, 2R, 2 2B, 2 RBI, 2 BB, SO, .385/.467/.538/1.005;
Jonathan Villar: 6-17, 2 R, 2 2B, 3B, 0 BB, 2 SO, 2 SB, 0 CS, .353/.353/.588/.941;
Austin Wates: 3-14, 2 R, HR, 3 BB, SO, 0 SB, CS, .214/.353/.429/.782;
Jay Austin: 3-15, 2 R, 2B, 2 RBI, 4 BB, 4 SO, SB, CS, .200/.368/.267/.635.

Corpus Christi Hooks

JD Martinez: 7-20, 2 2B, 5 RBI, 0 BB, 6 SO, .350 AVG / .350 OBP / .450 SLG / .800 OPS;
Dallas Keuchel: 6.0 IP, 5 H, R, ER, 0 HR, 0 BB, 3 SO, 1.50 ERA.

I'll post more if I get around to it. Feel free to add on...

256

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 04/09/2011: Astros vs. Fish

« on: April 09, 2011, 06:19:05 pm »

Reminder: Baggy in the booth tonight!

Astros

M. Bourn CF
A. Sanchez SS
H. Pence RF
C. Lee LF
B. Wallace 1B
C. Johnson 3B
B. Hall 2B
J.R. Towles C
B. Norris P

Fish

C. Coghlan CF
O. Infante 2B
L. Morrison LF
M. Stanton RF
G. Sanchez 1B
G. Dobbs 3B
J. Buck C
D. Murphy SS
J. Vazquez P

257

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 04/08/2011: Opening Day, Home Cooking Edition

« on: April 08, 2011, 03:03:52 pm »

So lock up your daughter
And lock up your wife
Lock up your back door
And run for your life
SnS is back in town
So don't you mess around...

What can I say... thoughts of the SnS crew descending on MMPUS this evening keep bringing me back to this. Call it an omen, jealousy, or just good common sense advice, I dunno, but this song keeps playing through my brain as Spanish Flowers is (presumingly) starting to fill up with y'all reprobates...

In any event, the (Home) Opening Day Lineup for Your 2011 Houston Astros (via McTaggart):

Good Guys

1. CF Michael Bourn — Left Wednesday’s game at Cincinnati with tightness in his groin and didn’t play Thursday.
2. SS Angel Sanchez — Has started the first six games and hit safely in five of those.
3. RF Hunter Pence — Hit safely in the first two games before going hitless in his last two.
4. LF Carlos Lee — Already has two triples in a season for first time since 2002.
5. 1B Brett Wallace — Went 1-for-3 with an RBI on Thursday in Cincinnati.
6. 3B ~~Chris Johnson~~ Turd Ferguson — Has gone 1-for-4 in each of the last two games.
7. 2B Bill Hall — Has three hits in 21 at-bats this year.
8. C J.R. Towles — Making his third start of the spring.
9. P Wandy Rodriguez — Owns a 62-65 career MLB record with a 4.23 ERA in 177 outings, including 168 starts.

Fish:

1. CF Chris Coghlan — Tied a Marlins record with three doubles Monday vs. Washington.
2. 2B Omar Infante — Tied for club lead with 24 hits in Grapefruit League play.
3. SS Hanley Ramirez — Hit .300 with 29 doubles, 21 homers and 76 RBIs last year.
4. 1B Gaby Sanchez — Hitting .333 with runners in scoring position.
5. LF Logan Morrison — Two of his five hits are home runs.
6. 3B Donnie Murphy — Had third career walkoff hit Tuesday vs. Washington.
7. RF Emilio Bonifacio — Played three different positions on Saturday vs. Mets.
8. C Brett Hayes — On Opening Day roster for first time.
9. P Ricky Nolasco — Is 3-1 with a 6.26 ERA in five gmaes (four starts) against the Astros.

258

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / MiLB Opening Day - where are the top 30?

« on: April 07, 2011, 05:04:00 pm »

Baseball America with the preliminary roster assignments for its top 30 prospects for each team. [url:http://www.baseballamerica.com/today/prospects/prospect-bulletin/2011/2611550.html]BA LINK[/url]

(^Denotes players who have been removed from the big league roster but have not technically been reassigned to their minor league clubs.)

1. Jordan Lyles, Oklahoma City RedHawks, PCL
2. Delino DeShields, Lexington Legends, SAL
3. Jonathan Villar Lancaster JetHawks, CAL
4. Mike Foltynewicz, Lexington Legends, SAL
5. Jio Mier, Lexington Legends, SAL
6. J.D. Martinez, Corpus Christi Hooks, TX
7. Jimmy Paredes, Corpus Christi Hooks, TX
8. Tanner Bushue, Lexington Legends, SAL
9. Austin Wates, Lancaster JetHawks, CAL
10. Ariel Ovando
11. Aneury Rodriguez, Houston Astros
12. Vincent Velasquez, Greeneville Astros, Appy
13. Telvin Nash, Lexington Legends, SAL
14. Mike Kvasnicka, Lexington Legends, SAL
15. R.J. Alaniz, Lexington Legends, SAL
16. Fernando Abad, Houston Astros
17. Ross Seaton, Corpus Christi Hooks, TX
18. J.B. Shuck, Oklahoma City RedHawks, PCL
19. Jay Austin, Lancaster JetHawks, CAL
20. ?
21. Ben Heath, Lancaster JetHawks, CAL
22. ^Henry Villar, Houston Astros
23. Dallas Keuchel, Corpus Christi Hooks, TX
24. Kyle Greenwalt, Corpus Christi Hooks, TX
25. David Carpenter, Corpus Christi Hooks, TX
26. ?
27. ^Brian Bogusevic, Houston Astros
28. Jose Altuve, Lancaster JetHawks, CAL
29. ?
30. Zach Grimmett, Lancaster JetHawks, CAL

259

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / $10 MiLB.TV subscription offer w/ MLB.TV purchase

« on: April 07, 2011, 11:19:44 am »

Decided to move this from the Lexington thread...

The $10 MiLB.TV subscription add noted in the LEX thread is only for new MLB.TV subscribers. If you are an existing MLB.TV customer, you can call MLB.TV Customer Service at 1.866.800.1275 (then '3', then '2'), they can give existing customers the $10 deal, but it requires them to cancel your existing MLB.TV subscription and then re-enroll you, adding the $10 MiLB.TV subscription at this time. Pain in the ass (as I had to take care of office crap before I was finished with the transaction...).

Anyway... if interested here is the MLB.TV support forum thread related to this issue: LINK

260

Game Zone 2011 Archive / 04/07/2011: My (Our(?), Your(?)) Houston Astros @ Dickities

« on: April 07, 2011, 10:16:02 am »

Lineup via Levine. Twitter LINK

Astros

1. Bourgeois - CF
2. Sanchez - SS
3. Pence - RF
4. Lee - LF
5. Wallace - 1B
6. Johnson - 3B
7. Hall - 2B
8. Quintero - C
9. Myers - P

Dickities

TBD

261

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Lexington - 2011

« on: April 06, 2011, 12:01:38 pm »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the 2011 Lexington Legends (Single-A).

262

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Lancaster - 2011

« on: April 06, 2011, 11:59:40 am »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the 2011 Lancaster JetHawks (High-A).

263

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Corpus Christi - 2011

« on: April 06, 2011, 11:58:48 am »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the 2011 AA Corpus Christi Hooks.

264

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Oklahoma City - 2011

« on: April 06, 2011, 11:58:00 am »

Your one stop shop for all talk of the 2011 RedHawks.

265

Talk Zone / Schmidt on Ryan

« on: April 05, 2011, 03:31:16 pm »

A buddy sent me this article on the Phillies rotation as a taunt, but was overall a decent read. Thought Schmidt's comments at the end of the article were interesting.

“Well,” he said, “now when the Phillies come to town, the other team knows they’re being challenged by four No. 1 pitchers. They have to amp up their mental game. I used to see my at-bats the night before a game when I laid my head down on the pillow. Gibson, Seaver, Ryan. I had to have a plan. When I went to Houston, they had three good pitchers. The fourth was Nolan Ryan. I could go to sleep with the other three, but Ryan kept me awake. Ryan! Ryan! Ryan! My plan was, don’t miss his fastball if he threw it over the plate. If he got two strikes on me, I’d have to face his curveball.” He turned and looked at me with his small blue eyes, which had fear in them. “Ryan was scary!” he said. He shook his head, as if seeing Ryan on the mound. Ryan began his motion and fired the ball at his head. Schmidt had a split second to make a decision. Was it a 100 m.p.h. fastball that could kill him if it hit him in the head, or was it that wicked curveball? If he dove away from the plate and the pitch was a curveball that broke over the plate, he’d look like a fool and a coward. But if it wasn’t a curveball, if it was that 100 m.p.h. fastball, and he didn’t dive away from the plate . . . well, he didn’t even want to think about that.

“Ryan, Gibson, Seaver, they made you defensive,” he said. “Does that make sense? You were afraid of the ball. There’s no fear of the ball today with cutters, splitters and changeups.”

266

Talk Zone / Opening Day payrolls by team

« on: April 04, 2011, 03:15:03 pm »

USA today posted the 2011 MLB team salaries: LINK

1. Yankees: $202,689,028
2. Phillies: $172,976,379
6. Cubs: $125,047,329
11. Cardinal: $105,433,572
17. Brewers: $85,497,333
19. Reds: $75,947,134
20. Astros: $70,694,000
28. Pirates: $45,047,000

NOTE: ...Deferred payments and incentive clauses are not included. Team payrolls do not include money paid or received in trades or for players who have been released...

267

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Transactions

« on: April 01, 2011, 06:10:56 pm »

3/23/11-3/29/11: (via Baseball America, LINK)

Houston Astros
Signed: RHP Fernando Nieve, LHP Sergio Escalona*, LHP Wesley Wright*
Released: RHP Kyle Godfrey, RHP Brenden Stines, RHP Brian Wabick, RHP Jared Wells, LHP Edwin Walker, 1B Ryan Ditthardt, 1B Marcus Nidiffer, 3B Kody Kirkland, 3B Chris Lovett, SS Mike Affronti, SS Oscar Figueroa, OF Lee Cruz, OF Ryan Humphrey, OF Renzo Tello
Acquired: OF Joe Inglett from Rays for cash considerations
Returned Rule 5 selection: RHP Lance Pendleton (to Yankees)
Optioned to Triple-A: LHP Wesley Wright, SS Tommy Manzella, OF Brian Bogusevic

268

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Opening Day!!!

« on: April 01, 2011, 12:12:01 pm »

Your 2011 Houston Astros

CF Bourn
SS Sanchez
RF Pence
LF Lee
2b Hall
3b Johnson
1b Wallace
C Quintero
P Myers

269

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Corpus Channel 10 report on JD Martinez

« on: March 31, 2011, 04:24:29 pm »

Corpus KZTV channel 10 profiles JD Martinez in a recent Spring Training report. LINK (h/t Astros County).

270

Talk Zone / Season opener plans?

« on: March 31, 2011, 11:05:10 am »

So what are y'all doing for the opener tomorrow?

It'll be at 10:05 here on the left coast. Despite my efforts, I can't find anyone here to ditch work with me to watch the Astros season opener (hell, I'd even allow 'em to watch a different game on an adjoining TV, but nada...). In any event, I've got the morning off. Will be either at the sports bar down the street or watching it here at work on the other monitor and doing some pbp.

What are y'all's plans?

271

Beer and Queso / For you UT boys and girls

« on: March 30, 2011, 01:02:39 pm »

Looks like former UTer Bandon Belt will make the SF Giants opening day roster. LINK

272

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Ovando to the G-Stros???

« on: March 29, 2011, 10:23:09 am »

Might be a possibility... (via twitter)

From @GvilleAstros (3/24): Heading down to Kissimmee, FL for a Spring Training weekend. What would you like for us to bring back for you?

From From @AppyAstros (3/24): @GvilleAstros Promise that Ovando on the roster this June - That is what I want you to bring back

From @GvilleAstros (50 minutes ago): @AppyAstros Ovando is huge! It wasn't promised, but it's a very, very good chance that he will be in a Greeneville jersey this summer....

273

Talk Zone / He ain't no Papa Grande, but still...

« on: March 26, 2011, 03:19:11 am »

Roy takes on to the back of the neck, reminisces about Mike Coolbaugh.

274

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Seaton headed to Corpus?

« on: March 15, 2011, 04:54:01 pm »

It looks like this may be the case, or so says the man... LINK

Bobby Heck: "[Seaton] made it very known he wanted to be an Astro. Let's keep in mind that this guy has graduated each year. Plus, he hasn't missed a start. He's had some development things along the way that has helped him to prepare. I expect him to be in Corpus Christi this year. He's only 21-years-old. If he had gone to college, he would be entering the Draft this year [and pitching in short season ball]."

Good read from Goff. Worth checking out the entire article.

275

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Mayo's top 10 Astros prospects

« on: March 15, 2011, 11:51:12 am »

Read it here!

276

Talk Zone / Cole Hamels: A Marked Man

« on: March 14, 2011, 03:53:39 pm »

Per Bill Hall. LINK

He’s definitely a marked man for me now, so when I do some damage off him, I’m going to let him know I did some damage off him. I can guarantee that.

277

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Sickels' Prospect Smackdown: Kyle Gibson vs. Jordan Lyles

« on: March 12, 2011, 02:44:21 pm »

Prospect Smackdown: Kyle Gibson vs. Jordan Lyles from John Sickels at Minor League Ball. LINK

278

Talk Zone / Pretty darned cool!!!

« on: March 12, 2011, 02:37:59 pm »

Back to baseball

Now you can re-live all the plays from that game or any other game you choose. Use the search form to the right to find your favorite games, players, or teams, and view them play-by-play as seen below.

279

Talk Zone / MLB.TV

« on: March 09, 2011, 12:57:42 pm »

So... I'm going to go with MLB.TV Premium ($119.99) over Extra Innings (approx. $180) again this year for a couple of reasons:

(1) I can access it pretty much anytime from anywhere; and
(2) I can chose my broadcast (i.e. JD and Brownie 97% of the time, skipping to Vin Sculy when the Astros play the Dodgers, as that opportunity will be gone in a short time).

So, this brings me to my question:

My home notebook has a fairly crappy media/graphics card, which makes streaming the video onto my TV sketchy at times, so I was thinking about buying a Roku XDS player ($99.99) to make watching the MLB.TV games easier on my home TV. Anyone tried the Roku, or have alternative suggestions? Thanks!

280

Talk Zone / Chuck: Opening Day at Osceola

« on: March 02, 2011, 11:15:01 am »

Read it here!

And in case you need a teaser...

That reminds me - yesterday Hunter was taking his first at bat and unadvisedly swung wildly at a pitch that was going to hit him. I know I'm straining credulity here, please bear with me for a moment.

281

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Drew Locke talks Spring Training

« on: March 02, 2011, 10:17:38 am »

Farmstros has managed to get Drew Locke to do a series of posts during Spring Training this year. The first installment is here. Give it a read!

282

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Gaston, Steele, and Shuck

« on: March 01, 2011, 02:42:47 pm »

Astros.com has an article up about them (McTaggart link).

283

Talk Zone / It's that time again...

« on: March 01, 2011, 12:32:37 pm »

Yes, our man Chuck is bringing it once again... Chuck, Live from Kissimmee (2/28/11)

284

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros vs. Braves, 03/01/2011

« on: March 01, 2011, 11:42:32 am »

Lineups per McTaggart: LINK

ASTROS

CF Jason Bourgeois
SS Clint Barmes
RF Hunter Pence
LF Carlos Lee
2B Bill Hall
DH Brian Bogusevic
1B Koby Clemens
C Humberto Quintero
3B Tommy Manzella
---
RHP Brett Myers

Also scheduled to pitch for Your Houston Astros: Brandon Lyon, Jeff Fulchino, Wesley Wright, Mark Melancon, Ryan Rowland-Smith, Gustavo Chacin, Patrick Urckfitz.

BRAVES

LF Jordan Schafer
CF Nate McLouth
DH Chipper Jones
2B Dan Uggla
RF Jason Heyward
3B Joe Mather
1B Freddie Freeman
C J.C. Boscan
SS Diory Hernandez
---
RHP Tommy Hanson

285

Beer and Queso / Last American WW I vet passes away

« on: February 28, 2011, 05:04:25 pm »

America's last WW I vet, Frank Buckles, passed away on Sunday. He was 110. LINK

Two WW I vets remain: Florence Green in Britain and Claude Choules in Australia. Choules, who served in Britain's Royal Navy, was born in that country but now lives in Australia. Green turned 110 on Feb. 19, and Choules turns 110 in March.

286

Game Zone 2011 Archive / Astros at Braves, 2/28/11

« on: February 28, 2011, 10:40:22 am »

Let the games begin!

Astros lineup: (per McTaggart via Twitter)

1. Michael "Yes, I signed a deal with the devil" Bourn (CF)
2. Brett "Which organization am I with again" Wallace (1B)
3. Hunter "What's this 'cutoff man' thingie Millsie keeps talking about" Pence (RF)
4. Carlos "You gonna eat that burger" Lee (LF)
5. Jason "I party like I'm Charlie Sheen" Michaels (DH)
6. Chris "Am I for real" Johnson (3B)
7. Jason "Don't call me Fidel" Castro (C)
8. Matt "Ups &" Downs (2B)
9. Tommy "I lost my starting gig to Clint who?" Manzella (SS)

Pitching:

Wandy "My big new contract doesn't prohibit me from being Road Wandy all of the time does it" Rodriguez
And the rest... (via Levine)
Henry Villar
Enerio Del Rosario
Fernando Rodriguez
Lance Pendleton
Sergio Escalona
Wesley Wright

Braves lineup:

1. Martin Prado (LF)
2. Nate McLouth (CF)
3. Chipper Jones (DH)
4. Brian McCann (C)
5. Dan Uggla (2B)
6. Jason Heyward (RF)
7. Alex Gonzalez (SS)
8. Eric Hinske (1B)
9. Brandon Hicks (3B)

Pitching:

Derek Lowe
Scott Linebrink
Cory Gearrin
Anthony Varvaro
Juan Abreu
George Sherrill
Brett Oberholtzer

287

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2011 Astros MiLB storylines...

« on: February 27, 2011, 06:47:41 pm »

With the 2011 season almost upon us, I was curious to see what the major 'storylines' y'all will be paying attention to this season are. For example, here are a some of mine:

- Can J.D. Martinez do it again (he's been out of this world for the past two seasons now, and is pretty much on everyones radar. While I don't think a so-so season from J.D. will necessarily prove he's a bust or organizational guy, I do think that a repeat of the past two seasons performances will prove beyond a doubt that he is 'for real'...);

- How will Jordan Lyles adjust to Triple-A ball this season, and when will he make his major league debut;

- Can Jose Altuve continue to climb the organizational ladder (as one of my favorite Astros minor leaguers, I'm hoping the kid continues to surprise folks);

- Who is Ariel Ovando;

- Will Jio Mier prove that 2010 was an enigma, and how will Jay Austin fare this season;

- Is Dallas Keuchel the bulldog-type innings eater that can be a solid middle of the rotation type starter for the Astros in the future;

- Can Telvin Nash and Koby Clemens keep up the power and cut down on the K's;

- Can Tanner Bushue, Jordan Lyles, and Mike Foltynewicz add a couple of ticks to their fastballs;

Etc., etc., etc...

288

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2011 Draft

« on: February 27, 2011, 05:55:43 pm »

It is WAY too early to try to start projecting who the Astros may be taking with the 11th overall pick in the 2011 draft... but... its never too early to start thinking about it... (Link via MLBTR)

Examiner.com's Stephen Goff [via Twitter] hears that the Astros are looking at UConn RHP Matt Barnes, Kentucky RHP Alex Meyer, Hawaii 2B Kolten Wong, and Indiana OF Alex Dickerson for their first round pick in this summer's draft, #11 overall.

289

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA Top 100

« on: February 23, 2011, 11:15:16 am »

BA released their top 100 today, with 2 Astros prospects making this list. LINK

42. Jordan Lyles
94. Jonathan Villar

290

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros all 20 and younger team.

« on: February 23, 2011, 11:07:39 am »

The Bleacher Report put out a top 10 Astros 20 and younger prospects list yesterday (I know, I know, but it was a decent list)... This morning, the Crawfish Boxes posted an "all 20 and younger" team after seeing the Bleacher Report piece. Thought it'd be an entertaining exercise to do here as well...

291

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Levine on Jio

« on: February 22, 2011, 02:09:02 pm »

LINK

292

Talk Zone / 2 more days...

« on: February 13, 2011, 02:54:47 pm »

Astros pitchers and catchers reporting date is 2/15 and position players report by 2/19.* Who knew the sight of catcher J.R. Towles hauling two Houston Astros duffel bags through a parking lot in Kissimmee, Fla., could be so downright soul warming?

*no word on when Carlos is supposed to show up...

293

Talk Zone / Bourn makes a deal with the Devil...

« on: February 11, 2011, 12:13:11 pm »

Astros outfielder Bourn switches to Scott Boras as agent

294

Talk Zone / Moving day is upon us!

« on: February 10, 2011, 05:50:42 pm »

A beautiful site indeed! LINK

295

Talk Zone / Some former Astros news...

« on: January 21, 2011, 11:16:53 am »

Byrdak signed a minor league contract with the Stem. LINK

Valverde wins the Detroit version on Dancing with the Stars. LINK

Santiago said Valverde's secret weapon -- the prancing paunch on his 6-foot-4, 255-pound frame -- was the key.
"Valverde, when he got on stage everybody went crazy," Santiago said. "When he moved his belly, it was a typical Valverde dance, so it's why he win."

296

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Hooks 'On the Farm' Series

« on: January 19, 2011, 10:43:19 am »

Has started back up again. This installment highlights Jose Altuve, Jay Austin, and Brandon Barnes

297

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 10 Questions with Mike Foltynewicz (MiLB.com)

« on: January 17, 2011, 09:15:31 pm »

10 Questions with Mike Foltynewicz (MiLB.com)

298

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 9 questions for Jose Altuve

« on: January 14, 2011, 12:58:15 pm »

via Appy Astros. Enjoy! LINK

299

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Lyles and JD head the list of BusRiders with Spring Training Invites

« on: January 12, 2011, 09:21:32 pm »

Martinez, Lyles lead group of 10 invited to camp (McTaggart)

Lyles, the Astros' Minor League Pitcher of the Year in 2010, and outfielder J.D. Martinez, the Minor League Player of the Year, will be among 22 non-roster players in camp when Spring Training begins next month. Pitchers and catchers work out for the first time on Feb. 16 and position players on Feb. 20.

In addition to Lyles and Martinez, general manager Ed Wade announced left-handed pitcher Patrick Urckfitz, catcher Rene Garcia, infielders Koby Clemens and Jiovanni Mier and outfielders Jon Gaston, Drew Locke, J.B. Shuck and T.J. Steele had also been invited to Major League camp.

ETA: Per Levine Tweet: Jiovanni Mier's invitation to Astros spring training was a stipulation of his signing terms. The rest were chosen. -Z

300

Talk Zone / #CarlosLeeRules

« on: January 12, 2011, 10:13:33 am »

#CarlosLeeRules is making its way around the Astros fan twitterverse this morning. What have you got?

@AppyAstros: All shortstops should come equipped with crumple zones & air bags #carlosleerules

@johnwessling: If Carlos Lee gets hit by a pitch, he gets to eat all the candy that falls out. #CarlosLeeRules

@AndyP241: 3rd Base must be battered in 11 herbs and spices and fried. #carlosleerules

@AndyP241: Carrots, celery and rice must accompany Brett Wallace during his hot tub treatments. #carlosleerules

301

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Jordan Lyles scouting reports

« on: January 11, 2011, 03:49:48 pm »

Nice piece over at the Crawfish Boxes with various scouting reports on Lyles since 2008. LINK

302

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Community project: Ranking the top 20

« on: January 07, 2011, 05:25:32 pm »

The deadline for our submission to Scout.com is quickly approaching (Monday a..m.), and like last year Jacksonian and I are preparing a top 20 list for submittal.

Rather than just chat amongst ourselves (and Duman) this season, I though I'd listen to some input from the Board about who they would rank where. I'd enjoy quite a bit of back-and-forth / revisions over the weekend, so if you'd take the time to add in your $0.02 I think it'd be a worthwhile exercise.

Thanks!

Lee

303

Beer and Queso / And the most profitable college football team was...

« on: December 30, 2010, 02:53:42 pm »

The University of Texas. LINK

Total Revenue (2009-2010): $93,942,815
Total Profit (2009-2010): $68,830,484

304

Talk Zone / And the winner of the Cliff Lee sweepstakes is ...

« on: December 13, 2010, 11:05:13 pm »

the Philadelphia Phillies?!?!?!?

That's the story from Rangers beat writer T.R. Sullivan anyway... LINK

Just think, a rotation with Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay, Roy Oswalt and Cole Hamels. Absolutely amazing... WOW!

305

Talk Zone / 2011 Baseball Hall of Fame ballot

« on: November 29, 2010, 02:42:45 pm »

Just went out to the 500+ BBWAA. LINK 1; LINK 2; LINK 3 (McTaggart re: Bagwell)

306

Talk Zone / 3 more gone from 40-man roster inc. Byrdak

« on: November 24, 2010, 01:48:38 pm »

Byrdak and Chacin outrighed to AAA. Byrdak, Chacin and Nevarez removed from the 40-man roster. Levine LINK

"I talked to Tim and told him that at this point of time, we're trying to balance some things from a payroll standpoint," general manager Ed Wade said. "With his arbitration status, it just didn't fit for us."

307

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Q&A with Jim Pankovitz

« on: November 08, 2010, 11:26:08 am »

Good read from BP (yes, BP, not a type-o). LINK (h/t Levine, LINK).

308

Talk Zone / Astros not pursuing Berkman

« on: November 07, 2010, 06:15:12 pm »

Berman LINK

Houston Astros general manager Ed Wade told FOX 26 Sports Friday he informed the agent for free agent first baseman Lance Berkman that the Astros will not pursue their former star.

309

Talk Zone / And then there were 35...

« on: November 05, 2010, 12:57:21 pm »

Astros outrighted minor league pitcher Jose Valdez to Class AAA Oklahoma City after he cleared waivers. The 40-man roster now sits at 35. Levine LINK

310

Talk Zone / Astros getting rid of 'advanced scout' position

« on: November 05, 2010, 12:55:28 pm »

Might have been mentioned elsewhere, but I'm a tad behind and too lazy to figure it out...

In a move that adapts to the extensive video work that the Astros’ coaching staff conducts with its players, the team is eliminating the position of advance scout for the 2011 season. Levine LINK

311

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Altuve promoted (in winter ball)

« on: November 02, 2010, 04:50:52 pm »

Per Appy Astros. LINK

312

Talk Zone / Important off season dates

« on: November 02, 2010, 04:47:54 pm »

H/T to Levine for compiling this... LINK

Nov. 6, 11 p.m.: Free agency free-for-all
Nov. 9-23: Award announcements
Dec. 2: Tender/non-tender date
Dec. 6-9: Winter Meetings
Dec. 9: Rule 5 draft
Jan. 5: Hall of Fame class announced (Jeff Bagwell's first ballot)
Jan. 5-15: Salary arbitration filing
Jan. 14: Houston Baseball Dinner, Hilton Americas
Feb. 1-21: Salary arbitration hearings
Feb. 16: Pitchers and catchers report

313

Game Zone 2010 Playoffs / World Series Game 5

« on: November 01, 2010, 08:01:37 pm »

Do or die game for the Rangers. 0-0 through 4.

314

Game Zone 2010 Playoffs / ALCS game 5

« on: October 20, 2010, 03:48:34 pm »

Bottom 2, NYY 3, TEX 0. Berkman is starting 1B, batting 6, and has a walk and a run scored against the LHP CJ Wilson. Sabbathia pitching for Yankmees.

315

Talk Zone / So you're still not a fan of tasers, eh?

« on: October 20, 2010, 11:31:29 am »

Meet Grim LaRogue...

A crazed man who ran onto Yankee Stadium during Monday night's Game 3 of the American League Championship Series intended to confront star slugger Alex Rodriguez over his reported relationship with Hollywood star Cameron Diaz...

Bronx man Grim LeRogue, 33, had a crush on Diaz and "thought by going out and choking A-Rod he'd be a hero to her," a source told the Daily News. According to the source, police found a picture in LeRogue's pocket of Rodriguez with his face crossed out and a gun pointed at his head. *** LeRogue attempted to rush the third baseman in the top of the fifth inning of the game against the Texas Rangers, but was tackled by stadium security, police said Tuesday.

LeRogue, 33, of The Bronx, also has a soft spot for Osama bin Laden, according to the Post. A picture he carried of the al Qaeda head bore the inscription, "I will serve you," and described the terrorist as his "master."

316

Talk Zone / Perfect (and near perfect) television programming

« on: October 14, 2010, 11:35:01 am »

MLB Network will air Don Larsen's perfect game & Roy Halladay's NLDS no-hitter back-to-back tomorrow (10/15) at 1pm ET.

317

Game Zone 2010 Playoffs / Braves at Giants, game 2

« on: October 09, 2010, 12:00:15 am »

Tied at 4 in the bottom of the 10th. Gascan fielded a sac bunt and seemed to hurt his side. Had to leave the game. Giants with 1 out and a runner on 1B and 2B after Farnsworth hit Sanchez in the hands with a pitch.

318

Game Zone 2010 Playoffs / Twins vs. Yankmees game 2

« on: October 07, 2010, 05:03:42 pm »

It would entertain me immensely to see Pavano whip up on the Yankees here. Pettitte taking the hill for the Yankmees here.

319

Talk Zone / Pam gets busy (SFW)

« on: October 07, 2010, 03:28:29 pm »

Major Renovations Set for Minute Maid Park

320

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Arizona Fall League

« on: September 21, 2010, 11:52:15 pm »

Per Levine, the following Astros bus riders will be participating in the Arizona Fall League: LINK

RHP Sergio Perez
RHP Kyle Greenwalt
RHP Matt Nevarez
LHP Patrick Urckfitz
1B Koby Clemens
OF J.B. Shuck
OF Jay Austin
OF Brandon Barnes

Changes from original roster: Jay Austin and Brandon Barnes were added and T.J. Steele was subtracted

Arizona Fall League action begins October 12

321

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Fall Instructional League roster

« on: September 21, 2010, 11:48:09 pm »

Per Levine, the list of Astros prospects in the Fall Instructional League (roster to be split into two squads): LINK (and since I'm doing a lot of cutting and pasting here - more than I'm typically comfortable with - give the link a courtesy click... thanks!)

Pitchers: Ruben Alaniz, Jake Buchanan, Tanner Bushue, David Carpenter, Jose Cisnero, Jorge De Leon, Bobby Doran, Brad Dydalewicz, Michael Feliz, Michael Foltynewicz, Evan Grills, Zach Grimmett, Dallas Keuchel, Arcenio Leon, Juan Minaya, Jose Montero, Luis Ordosgoitti, Jose Perdomo, Juri Perez, Euris Quezada, Rodney Quintero, Francis Ramirez, James Robinson, Ebert Rosario, Ross Seaton, and Thomas Shirley.

Catchers: Rene Garcia, Ben Heath, Roberto Pena, and Chris Wallace.

Infielders: Jose Altuve, Tyler Burnett, Delino DeShields, Jose Fernandez, Enrique Hernandez, Michael Kvasnicka, Joshua Magee, Jonathan Meyer, Jiovanni Mier, Marcus Nidiffer, Jimmy Paredes, Kyle Redinger, and Jonathan Villar.

Outfielders: Daniel Adamson, Jay Austin, Telvin Nash, Ariel Ovando, Jordan Scott, Austin Wates, and Garen Wright.

Injury rehab: C Luis Alvarez, C Alfredo Gonzalez, and RHP Chia-Jen Lo.

322

Talk Zone / And the winners of the 2011 NL Central will be...

« on: September 20, 2010, 09:21:12 am »

The Houston Astros, per Steve Berthiaume at ESPN (on nope, neither 'Astros' or 'ESPN' were typos). LINK (h/t Astros County)

323

Talk Zone / That is some scary stuff right there

« on: September 19, 2010, 11:05:43 pm »

Cubs' Tyler Colvin hospitalized after broken bat punctures chest. LINK

UPDATE: Paul Sullivan of the Chicago Tribune tweets that Colvin will remain in the hospital for a few days, with a "chest tube inserted to allow air in, prevent lung from collapsing." His season, apparently, is over.

324

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Reds at Astros, 9/18/10

« on: September 18, 2010, 07:04:49 pm »

Astros lineup: Bourn cf, Sanchez ss, Pence rf, Lee lf, Keppinger 2b, Wallace 1b, Johnson 3b, Castro c, Figueroa p

Reds Lineup: Phillips 2b, Cabrera ss, Votto 1b, Rolen 3b, Bruce rf, Edmonds lf, Stubbs cf, Hanigan c, Arroyo p

325

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Reds at Astros, 9/17/10

« on: September 17, 2010, 07:17:05 pm »

Out at 2B my ass!!!

326

Talk Zone / Astros 2011 schedule online

« on: September 14, 2010, 07:25:31 pm »

Take a look at it here: LINK

Season starts on April 1 at Phillies. Season ends September 28 at home vs. Cardinals.

Interleague opponents: home and away vs. Rangers (6 games); home vs. Rays (3 games); home vs. Red Sox (3 games); and away vs. Blue Jays (3 games). No games in Seattle this year. FML!

327

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Brewers at Astros, 9/13/10

« on: September 13, 2010, 07:12:30 pm »

A hit, no runs, for the Brewers through the top of the 1st.

Astros lineup: Bourn cf, Keppinger 2b, Pence rf, Lee lf Johnson 3b, Wallace 1b, Manzella ss, Quintero c, Myers p

Brewers lineup: Weeks 2b, Escobar ss, Braun lf, McGehee 1b, Hart rf, Gamel 3b, Gomez cf, Lucroy c, Narveson p

328

Talk Zone / MLBTR on the Astros '11 rotation

« on: September 10, 2010, 07:33:46 pm »

MLBTR takes a look at the Astros rotation. LINK

Nothing new here, but a reminder that this will continue to be a fun team to watch.

329

Talk Zone / Front office and MiLB coaching changes

« on: September 09, 2010, 03:47:47 pm »

Per Footer (via Twitter):

Changes in the front office: Ricky Bennett moves from Asst. GM and Dir. of Player Development to Director of Professional Scouting. Fred Nelson moves from Director of Professional Scouting to Director of Player Development. Astros also announced they will not renew contracts of Britt Burns (minor league pitching coordinator), Marc Bombard (AAA manager), Wes Clements (AA manager), Pete Fagan (minor league medical coordinator) and Pete Rancont (minor league coach).

330

Beer and Queso / Chrome/IE help

« on: September 08, 2010, 09:10:16 pm »

For you Google Chrome or IE folks out there, was trying to listen to the ValleyCats game tonight but couldn't. LINK: http://www.minorleaguebaseball.com/multimedia/audio.jsp?sid=t577&home=t511&away=t577

I get a popup type box in both Chrome and IE, but nothing in it but a small black rectangle (no sound, no audio controllers, etc., just a small black rectangle). I presume it has something to do with my settings. Anyone have any thoughts on how to fix it before game 3 tomorrow? Thanks!

And while I'm at it, used to be able to click on the "schedules and scores" section on the Astros affiliates page on Chrome and get the box scores to open in another tab, but cannot click the links anymore. Any thoughts?

331

Talk Zone / A digital salute to pitch grips

« on: August 30, 2010, 02:10:29 pm »

I thought it was interesting anyway... LINK: A digital salute to pitch grips

332

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Jack3d

« on: August 19, 2010, 01:57:56 pm »

Baseball America has an article up about the recent run of drug suspensions for the stimulant Methylhexaneamine. The culprit: OTC supplement Jack3d. LINK

Prior to July 28, no players had violated minor league baseball’s drug program by testing positive for the stimulant Methylhexaneamine. Little more than two weeks later, eight minor leaguers from four levels of the minors had tested positive for the drug and received 50-game suspensions. *** According to Major League Baseball spokesman Patrick Courtney, the supplement at the root of a number of these positive tests is “Jack3d”, a supplement made by USP Labs that can be bought over the counter. *** On its Website, one of the three major ingredients of “Jack3d” is 1,3-dimethylamylamine. It is essentially the same substance as Methylhexaneamine, but the name change was enough to throw off Athletics outfielder Zach Hurley during his research of the supplement.***

333

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Interview with Greg Brown (fmr Astros scout)

« on: August 16, 2010, 03:01:00 pm »

Astros County has an excellent Q&A with Greg Brown. LINK

Greg Brown is currently the head baseball coach at Nova Southeastern University. He was also a scout for the Astros for two seasons, and is the man responsible for scouting - and signing - J.D. Martinez.

334

Game Zone 2010 Archive / 'Stros vs. 'Roots, 8/14/10

« on: August 14, 2010, 03:02:18 pm »

You might want to look real closely at this lineup. Anything stick out?

Good Guys

CF Michael Bourn
SS Angel Sanchez
RF Hunter Pence
1B Carlos Lee
2B Jeff Keppinger
LF Jason Michaels
3B Chris Johnson
C Humberto Quintero
P Bud Norris

Roots
McCutcheon cf
Jones rf
Tabata lf
Alvarez 3b
Doumit c
Clement 1b
Diaz ss
Maholm p

335

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Braves at 'Stros, 8/10/10

« on: August 10, 2010, 06:53:09 pm »

Lineups via FSHouston

Good Guys

Bourn cf, Sanchez ss, Keppinger 2b, Pence rf, Lee lf, Johnson 3b, Wallace 1b, Castro c, Happ p

Braves

Infante 2b, ~~Heyward~~ rf, Jones 3b, Diaz lf, McCann c, Glaus 1b, Gonzalez ss, Cabrera cf, Jurrjens p

ETA: Heyward was a late scratch

336

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Douchepocolypse Now, 7/27

« on: July 27, 2010, 08:06:46 pm »

The Douchepocolypse that is FTC fans descending on MMPUS is upon us for the second night in a row...

Astros lineup: Bourn cf, Sanchez ss, Pence rf, Lee lf, Keppinger 2b, Berkman 1b, Johnson 3b, Quintero c, Myers p

FTC lineup: Colvin rf, Castro ss, Lee 1b, Ramirez 3b, Byrd cf, Soriano lf, Theriot 2b, Hill c, Lilly p

337

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Affiliate contract status

« on: July 27, 2010, 03:46:38 pm »

BA has composed a list of all of the Minor League affiliate teams, and when their player development contract (if any) with each team expires. LINK

Round Rock Express - 2010
* Total PDCs Expiring: 13
Corpus Christi Hooks - 2012
Lancaster JetHawks - 2012
Lexington Legends - 2012
Tri-City ValleyCats - 2010
* Total NYPL PDCs Expiring: 12
Greeneville Astros - N/A (Braves own team) [presuming sloppy editing on this one...]

And then tells us some things we already know about the Round Rock situation: LINK

• What will happen in Round Rock? The Triple-A Express is one 13 Pacific Coast League teams whose PDC will expire after this season. In the past, there had been little reason to think Round Rock would not re-up with the Astros—the two have been linked since the Express was born as a Double-A Texas League club in 2000, a relationship that was extended when Round Rock joined the PCL in 2005.

However, that relationship could come to an end this fall. If Express owner Nolan Ryan and his partner Chuck Greenberg successfully purchase the Texas Rangers—which has become a big if recently—then it would seem likely Ryan would link the Rangers with Round Rock. That move would, in turn, create a vacancy in Oklahoma City, whose AT&T Bricktown Ballpark is among the nicest facilities in the minors.

338

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Let the inaugural ASS-fest begin: 7/26

« on: July 26, 2010, 07:04:49 pm »

And in case you are confused, I was referring to this ASS-fest, not the one in the scrub locker room before and after games...

Oh yeah, and FTC!

Good Guys lineup: Bourn cf, Sanchez ss, Berkman 1b, Pence rf, Lee lf, Keppinger 2b, Johnson 3b, Castro c, Wright p

FTC lineup: Colvin rf, Castro ss, Lee 1b, Ramirez 3b, Byrd cf, Soriano lf, Soto c, Theriot 2, Silva p

339

Talk Zone / Redass in Redbrick again

« on: July 24, 2010, 01:22:50 am »

The Astros have (formally) hired Brocail as a Special Assistant to the GM. LINK

Brocail, who retired in January, went to work for the club on a voluntary basis scouting both the big leagues and the minor leagues. Brocail wanted to determine if he would like this end of the business and if the Astros liked what he did. They do and he does.

"He knows players," said Wade. "He knows not only pitching mechanics, he can break down hitters as well. I think he's got a very bright future in the game."

340

Talk Zone / #RoyDemands

« on: July 22, 2010, 08:28:05 pm »

Can't say who for sure (thinking it was Astros County), but someone started a #RoyDemands hastag on Twitter. Funny stuff (some more than others...):

For the team trading for him to ask for J.R. Towles, just so Roy can send him back down to Double-A. #roydemands.

#RoyDemands that Tony La Russa explains the ending of Lost to him

#RoyDemands to be on the cover of Madden 11 - he knows it's an NFL game, he just doesn't care

#roydemands that Ed Wade buy a Shawn Chacon Fathead to display in his office.

#roydemands that Drayton finish the 30oz chicken fried steak in under an hour at his restaurant.

#RoyDemands that Steve Jobs fixes his iPhone 4

#RoyDemands ESPN give him a TWO hour decision show

#RoyDemands a white Ford Bronco and a police escort to St. Louis

And the list goes on... Anything to add?

341

Talk Zone / Bagwell being Bagwell

« on: July 18, 2010, 01:18:30 am »

Expect new Astros hitting coach Jeff Bagwell to expand his instructional duties beyond the plate. "I expect guys to run the bases. Their job as hitters is not done after they reach first base," Bagwell said. "Their job is done when they reach home plate. That's something I'm going to be on the guys about, going from first to third, because it's going to help the hitter behind them." "That's important to me. There's a certain way the Houston Astros play baseball, and I want to make sure we're playing that way."

LINK

342

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Holy crap, there is a game going on!

« on: July 16, 2010, 06:36:04 pm »

Astros @ Pirates, 7/16/10

Astros lineup: Bourgeois lf, Bourn cf, Keppinger 2b, Berkman 1b, Pence rf, Johnson 3b, Sanchez ss, Quintero c Myers p

Pittsburgh lineup: McCutcheon cf, Tabata lf, Walker 2b, Jones 1b, Alvarez 3b, Doumit c, Milledge rf, Cedeno ss, Duke p

Lineups per FSHouston via Twitter

343

Talk Zone / Carlos Lee Traded?

« on: July 15, 2010, 08:57:09 pm »

Evidently Footer was getting folks excited with her earlier tweets, as she felt the need to clarify:

Don't misunderstand the tweet folks...Carlos was not traded. He's not at the workout because he did not show up. Not an excused absence.

And yes, I'm an ass! Get over it!

Which pretty much explains the earlier tweet, bur here you go anyway:

Carlos Lee was not at workout tonight. It'll be interesting to see what the lineup is tomorrow. Maybe Bags will hit cleanup.

Anyone particularly surprised that Carlos Lee didn't show up with the team when he was supposed to?

Me either...

344

Talk Zone / Springer signs with the Reds

« on: July 15, 2010, 04:31:52 pm »

Via MLBTR: LINK

The Reds agreed to sign Russ Springer to an $850K deal, according to Bob Tompkins of the Alexandria Daily Town Talk. The 41-year-old right-hander threw for five teams and received offers from all of them...

345

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Jakes, 7/9/10

« on: July 09, 2010, 06:31:56 pm »

Astros lineup

Bourn cf
Keppinger 2b
Berkman 1b
Lee lf
Pence rf
Castro c
Johnson 3b
Sanchez ss
Norris p

Co-ards lineup

Lopez 3b
Rasmus cf
Pujols 1b
Holliday lf
Jay rf
Greene ss
Molina c
Wainwright p
Schumaker 2b

Lineups from FSHouston (via Twitter)

346

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Fun with numbers, Drayton is cheap edition

« on: July 08, 2010, 01:22:15 am »

So you think Drayton is cheap, eh?

Here are the Astros 2010 prospect signings to date with verified signing bonuses (assuming $2.6M for Ovando instead of $2.8M):

*SIGNEE*
Foltynewicz, Mike
Kvasnicka, Michael
Velasquez, Vincent
Doran, Robert
Heath, Ben
Pena, Roberto
Buchanan, Jake
Shirley, Thomas
Grills, Evan
Scott, Jordan
Cotton, Jamaine
Feliz, Michael
Montero, Jose
Vizcaino, Kelvin
Ovando, Ariel
TOTALS

*DRAFT/FA*
(1)-19
(1S)-33
(2)-58
(4)-123
(5)-153
(7)-213
(8)-243
(9)-273
(10)-303
(14)-423
(15)-453
Int'l FA
Int'l FA
Int'l FA
Int'l FA

*BONUS*
  $1,305,000.00
   $936,000.00
   $655,800.00
   $237,700.00
   $160,000.00
   $150,000.00
   $120,000.00
   $100,000.00
   $150,000.00
   $150,000.00
   $75,000.00
   $400,000.00
   $350,000.00
   $250,000.00
  $2,600,000.00
$7,639,500.00

That's $7.6 million in confirmed bonuses.

Now lets add in a couple of estimates here as well (using 2009 slot bonuses and a WAG in the case of Baptista):

DeShields Jr., Delino
Wates, Austin
Baptista, Jean Carlos
TOTALS

(1)-8
(3)-90
Int'l FA

$2,270,000.00
$391,000.00
$350,000.00
$3,011,000.00

Presuming DeShields and Wates are both signed (which I think is probable, and if I jinxed it don't worry, the 2011 talent is supposedly much better than 2010) and that the Baptista numbers are correct (which I doubt, for whatever reason I'm thinking the bonus is higher than I noted), that would put McLane's spending on amateur talent in 2010 at $10,650,000.

Moreover, that $10,650,000 does not include monies paid for Adam Plutko or Jacoby Jones should they happen to sign (and I would not be shocked if one of the two did end up signing), for the 11, 12, 16-18, 20, 23, 24, 26-28, 30, 31, 33, 34, 37, 40-42 and 49th picks in the draft (who have been signed for an undisclosed amount), the 7 non drafted free agent seniors signed or for other international free agents that have (or may be) signed that we are not aware of (there were 10 such signings last year).

$10,650,000+ in 2010 (likely) spent on amateurs = cheap? I'm just not buying it...

347

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Pirates, 7/6/10

« on: July 06, 2010, 06:34:00 pm »

Astros lineup

Bourn cf,
Keppinger 2b,
Berkman 1b,
Lee lf,
Pence rf,
Johnson 3b,
Castro c,
Sanchez ss,
Rodriguez p

Pirates Lineup

Tabata lf,
Walker 2b,
McCutcheon cf,
Jones 1b,
Alvarez 3b,
Doumit c,
Milledge rf,
Crosby ss,
Lincoln p

Lineups via FSHouton

348

Talk Zone / J.R. Richard vs. Strasburgh

« on: July 03, 2010, 01:21:45 am »

Nice piece from Solomon comparing the two. LINK

349

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Padres, 7/1/10

« on: July 01, 2010, 09:09:51 pm »

Astros lineup: Bourn cf, Keppinger 2b, Pence rf, Berkman 1b, Michaels lf, Blum ss, Johnson 3b, Quintero c, Moehler p

Padres lineup; Gwynn cf, Eckstein 2b Gonzalez 1b, S.Hairston lf, Headley 3b, Venable rf, Hundley c, J. Hairston jf ss, Garland p

Lineups via FSHouston

350

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Brewers, 6/29/10

« on: June 29, 2010, 07:24:21 pm »

If SnS had a front page, I'd link to Mark's excellent preview. But it doesn't, so I won't...

Lineups courtesy of Levine:

Astros vs. Brewers RHP Yovani Gallardo
1. Michael Bourn (CF)
2. Jeff Keppinger (2B)
3. Lance Berkman (1B)
4. Carlos Lee (LF)
5. Hunter Pence (RF)
6. Pedro Feliz (3B)
7. Jason Castro (C)
8. Oswaldo Navarro (SS)
9. Brett Myers (P)

Brewers vs. Astros RHP Brett Myers
1. Rickie Weeks (2B)
2. Corey Hart (RF)
3. Prince Fielder (1B)
4. Ryan Braun (LF)
5. Casey McGehee (3B)
6. ~~Jim Edmonds~~Sexy Sexy Bitch (CF)
7. Jonathan Lucroy (C)
8. Alcides Escobar (SS)
9. Yovani Gallardo (P)

351

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Audition Day, 6/27/10

« on: June 27, 2010, 06:17:35 pm »

Here's your chance Roy, now don't screw it up...

Lineups per McTaggart: LINK

ASTROS

CF Michael Bourn
LF Jason Bourgeois
1B Lance Berkman
DH Carlos Lee
RF Jason Michaels
2B Geoff Blum
3B Chris Johnson
C Jason Castro
SS Oswaldo Navarro
----
RHP Roy Oswalt (5-9, 3.08 ERA)

RANGERS

SS Elvis Andrus
3B Michael Young
2B Ian Kinsler
DH Vladimir Guerrero
LF Josh Hamilton
RF Nelson Cruz
1B Justin Smoak
C Matt Treanor
CF Julio Borbon
----
RHP Tommy Hunter (3-0, 2.31 ERA)

352

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Rangers, 6/26

« on: June 26, 2010, 04:10:57 pm »

Middle 6: HOU 2, TEX 7

Is it just me, or was that an ill-timed slide from Spaz at home to end the T6? Looked like he was already at the plate 'before' he started to slide. Looked to me that if he'd tried to slide earlier, he could have beaten the tag.

353

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / On Castro, Hyatt and Disher

« on: June 23, 2010, 07:44:05 pm »

Castro out for the year... (Erik, not Jason).

Quote from: moriartp on June 15, 2010, 05:07:45 pm

So Erik Castro has simply disappeared? Quick, somebody call Nancy Grace!!

Farmstros noted he was on the DL earlier this morning. Levine with more in his blog today (along with info on BJ Hyatt). LINK

Castro is out for the year with a right shoulder injury, hence not being on a roster, but he is still in the organization.

Pitcher B.J. Hyatt, on the other hand, is not necessarily out for the year. The fourth-round pick from 2009 is on the Greeneville roster, and the Astros haven't given up on a 2010 return.

Phil Disher has retired. LINK (H/T Astros County)

Battling different injuries to his hip since he had a tumor removed from his leg in college, Disher, who missed a good portion of the 2008 season after having his hip almost completely reconstructed, was faced with a decision when the pain came back in spring training. Either he could undergo yet another surgery on his hip -- this time a complete replacement -- or he could put an end to his MLB dreams.

"I decided it was time to be done," said Disher. "I didn't want to have it completely replaced."

354

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Gints, 6/23

« on: June 23, 2010, 07:24:42 pm »

I hate friggin' fan interference (not that it affected Berkman getting a double though)...

Lee drives him in.

End 1: SF 0, HOU 1

355

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Giants, 6/22/10

« on: June 22, 2010, 06:23:56 pm »

Rooks batting 6-8 tonight for the Good Guys! Lineups from FSHouston (via Twitter):

Astros:

Bourn cf
Keppinger 2b
Berkman 1b
Lee lf
Pence rf
Johnson 3b
Castro c
Manzella ss
Oswalt p

Giants:

Torres cf
Sanchez 2b
Huff 1b
Uribe 3b
Burrell lf
Sandoval 3b
Renteria ss
Molina c
Lincecum p

356

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Silver Boot Shitfest, 6/19/10

« on: June 19, 2010, 06:04:50 pm »

Going to miss most of this one (mercifully, should history bear out), but here are the starting lineups (via FSHouston):

Astros: Bourn cf, Keppinger 2b, Berkman 1b, Lee lf, Pence rf, Feliz 3b, Manzella ss, Cash c, Moehler p

Rangers: Andrus ss, Young 3b, Kinsler 2b, Hamilton lf, Murphy rf, Smoak 1b, Ramirez c, Borbon cf, Lewis p

357

Beer and Queso / RIP Manute Bol

« on: June 19, 2010, 02:31:21 pm »

Died today. Though many will remember him as a sort of sideshow, here is his real legacy: LINK

358

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. stRangers, 6/18/10

« on: June 18, 2010, 07:50:34 pm »

Astros:

Bourn cf
Keppinger 2b
Berkman 1b
Lee lf
Pence rf
Blum 3b
Quintero c
Manzella ss
Rodriguez p

Rangers:

Andrus ss
Young 3b
Kinsler 2b
Guerrero rf
Hamilton lf
Smoak 1b
Treanor c
Borbon cf
Feldman p

359

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / GCL Astros 2010

« on: June 15, 2010, 04:39:07 pm »

Your place to post about the 2010 Gulf Coast League Astros.

360

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Greeneville 2010

« on: June 15, 2010, 04:33:14 pm »

Your place to post about the 2010 Greeneville Astros.

361

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Tri-City 2010

« on: June 14, 2010, 08:42:35 pm »

Your place to post about the 2010 ValleyCats

362

Talk Zone / Baseball's worst umps

« on: June 13, 2010, 05:58:18 pm »

Per ESPNs confidential poll of 100 MLB players (50 NL, 50 AL). LINK

CB Bucknor was named on 42 percent of the ballots as worst umpire, leading that category. The total narrowly edged Joe West, who was named on 40 percent, and Angel Hernandez, who was named on 22 percent. *** Bucknor, in his 11th season, was named the worst umpire by both American and National League players, with West and Hernandez second and third in both leagues. West, in his 32nd season, and Hernandez, in his 17th, work on the same crew; West is the crew chief.

[West] was named the umpire with the quickest trigger to eject players. He was named on 35 percent of the ballots, followed by Rob Drake (12 percent) and Bill Hohn (9 percent).

363

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros at Yankees, 6/13

« on: June 13, 2010, 12:33:47 pm »

Astros lead 1-0 after 1.

Moheler has allowed a single, so his no-hitter chances are gone (I know, I can't believe it either...).

364

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / 2010 Draftees and Status

« on: June 11, 2010, 06:30:42 pm »

Draftee information has been compiled from MLB.com. LINK. Signings to date include 16th rounder Chris Wallace on 6/9 (Levine LINK), 8 on 6/10 (Levine LINK), 7 (+1 undrafted free agent signing) on 6/11 (Levine LINK), and 1 player commitment to sign (Jermaine Cotton). Given a number of quick signings, I put this together in a rush and will be double checking the info in the next couple of days. In the interim, please let me know if anything is incorrect, I've missed a nickname, etc.

Additionally, for the moment I've left the scouting column blank. I'll be working on this for the next week'sh, so expect this to stay blank for a bit.

As always, please feel free to includes signing updates, rumors, etc. in this thread. The more info the better!

Draftee
Deshields Jr., Delino
Foltynewicz, Mike
Kvasnicka, Michael
Velasquez, Vincent
Wates, Austin
Doran, Robert
Heath, Ben
Plutko, Adam
Pena, Roberto
Buchanan, Jake
Shirley, Thomas
Grills, Evan
Redinger, Kyle
Robinson, Andrew
Duren, Davis
Scott, Jordan
Cotton, Jamaine
Wallace, Christopher
Burnett, Tyler
Magee, Joshua
Jones, Jacoby
Adamson, Daniel
Blair, Aaron
Dygert, Zachary
Bailey, Adam
Champion, Adam
Quintero, Rodney
Sogard, Alexander
Healey, Jacke
Chowning, Jason
Jantz, Broughan
Kiilsgaard, Kellen
Blankenship, Travis
Chrismon, William
Ness, Michael
Cole, Ryan
Gomez, Esteban
Halstead, Ryan
Streilein, Brian
Ford, Ryan
Holley, Krishawn
Meiners, Jeremiah
Lane, Bryce
Gerrish, Paul
Henderson, DeMarcus
Garza, Alexis
Vazquez, Ian
Pardo, Lawrence
Carcone, Joseph
Pecoraro, Thomas
Diaz, Kenny
Donald, David
Jonathon Merritt

Rd/Pick
   (1)-8
  (1)-19
  (1S)-33
  (2)-58
  (3)-90
  (4)-123
  (5)-153
  (6)-183
  (7)-213
  (8)-243
  (9)-273
(10)-303
(11)-333
(12)-363
(13)-393
(14)-423
(15)-453
(16)-483
(17)-513
(18)-543
(19)-573
(20)-603
(21)-633
(22)-663
(23)-693
(24)-723
(25)-753
(26)-783
(27)-813
(28)-843
(29)-873
(30)-903
(31)-933
(32)-963
(33)-993
(34)-1023
(35)-1053
(36)-1083
(37)-1113
(38)-1143
(39)-1173
(40)-1203
(41)-1233
(42)-1263
(43)-1293
(44)-1323
(45)-1353
(46)-1383
(47)-1413
(48)-1443
(49)-1473
(50)-1503
  UND FA

Signed
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
YES
  -
  -
  -
YES
YES
  -
YES
YES
  -
YES
YES
YES
YES
YES
  -
YES
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
YES
  -
  -
  -
  -
YES
  -
YES
YES
  -
  -
YES
  -
  -
  -
YES
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
  -
YES

School
Woodward Academy (GA)
Minooka Community HS (IL)
Minnesota
Garey HS (CA)
Virginia Tech
Texas Tech
Penn St U
Glendora HS (CA)
Eloisa Pascual HS
North Carolina St U
Xavier
Sinclair SS
Cedar Crest HS (PA)
Georgia Tech
Oklahoma St U
Riverside HS (SC)
Western Oklahoma State
U Houston
Middle Tennessee State
Hoover HS (AL)
Richton HS (MS)
Jacksonville St U
Spring Valley HS (NV)
Ball State
Nebraska
University of Arkansas - Little Rock
Chipola JC
North Carolina St U
Youngstown St U
U Oklahoma
Nevada Union HS (CA)
Stanford
U Kansas
Menchville HS (VA)
Duke
St. Johns
Bishop Ford Central Catholic (NY)
Los Osos HS (CA)
Villanova U
Plano West Sr. HS (TX)
Mid Carolina HS (SC)
Francis Marion U
Gulf Coast CC
Texas Christian U
Wayne County HS (MS)
McAllen HS (TX)
Perkiomen School (PA)
Christopher Columbus HS (FL)
New Hartford HS (NY)
Half Hallow Hills West HS (NY)
Colegio Angel David HS
JL Mann HS (SC)
University of Alabama-Birmingham

Position
CF (2B)
  RHP
C (3B)
  RHP
  RF
  RHP
   C
  RHP
   C
  RHP
  LHP
  LHP
  3B
  RHP
  2B
  CF
  RHP
   C
  3B
  CF
  SS
  CF
  RHP
   C
  RF
  LHP
  RHP
  LHP
  SS
  RHP
  CF
  RF
  LHP
  RHP
  RHP
  RHP
  1B
  RHP
  RHP
  1B
  RHP
  LHP
  RF
  RHP
  SS
  RHP
  SS
  LHP
  SS
  RHP
   C
  CF
  SS

B/T
  R/R
  R/R
  S/R
  S/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  S/R
  R/R
  L/L
  L/L
  R/R
  R/R
  L/R
  L/R
  R/R
  R/R
  L/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  L/L
  L/L
  R/R
  L/L
  R/R
  R/R
  L/L
  L/L
  L/L
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  L/L
  L/R
  R/R
  L/R
  R/R
  L/L
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  L/L
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R
  R/R

Ht/Wt
5'9" / 188
6'04" /
6'02" / 200
6'3" / 185
6'01" /
6'06" / 225
6'02" / 220
6'03" / 180
6'00" / 180
6'00" / 220
6'05" /
6'04" /
6'03" / 205
6'01" / 176
6'00" / 188
6'02" / 180
6'01" / 180
6'00" / 205
6'00" / 205
5'10" / 160
6'03" / 190
5'11" / 210
6'04" / 205
6'03" / 220
6'01" / 195
6'07" / 220
6'02" / 215
6'03" / 215
6'02" / 180
6'4" / 185
6'02" / 195
6'02" /
6'01" / 185
6'02" /
6'4" / 200
5'11" / 205
6'01" / 210
6'04" / 215
6'03" / 222
6'03" / 230
6'00" / 195
6'00" / 200
6'00" / 190
6'4" / 215
5'10" / 160
6'02" / 185
5'11" / 172
6'00" / 180
5'07" / 180
5'11" / 154
5'09" / 175
6'00" / 190
5'08" / 160

DOB
08/16/1992
10/07/1991
12/07/1988
06/07/1992
09/02/1988
03/21/1989
10/07/1988
10/03/1991
06/08/1992
09/24/1989
11/11/1988
06/13/1992
12/19/1991
02/13/1988
03/20/1989
09/22/1991
09/27/1990
04/27/1988
05/09/1989
10/01/1991
05/10/1992
09/15/1987
05/26/1992
08/04/1987
03/06/1988
09/22/1987
01/18/1990
07/25/1987
06/26/1988
10/17/1987
01/04/1991
12/16/1988
10/16/1987
09/16/1992
10/20/1987
12/12/1987
09/02/1992
05/13/1992
11/03/1988
09/28/1991
02/08/1992
08/16/1988
08/24/1989
07/11/1986
12/23/1991
03/30/1992
10/27/1991
10/22/1991
01/18/1992
11/22/1992
05/09/1992
05/24/1992
01/13/1988

Class
  HS
  HS
  JR
  HS
  JR
  JR
  JR
  HS
  HS
  JR
  JR
  HS
  HS
  SR
  JR
  HS
  J2
  SR
  JR
  HS
  HS
  SR
  HS
  SR
  SR
  SR
  J1
  SR
  SR
  SR
  HS
  JR
  SR
  HS
  SR
  SR
  HS
  HS
  SR
  HS
  HS
  SR
  J2
  SR
  HS
  HS
  HS
  HS
  HS
  HS
  HS
  HS
  SR

Scouting
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-

365

Beer and Queso / If you're bored

« on: June 10, 2010, 12:11:32 pm »

"Frank and Jamie McCourt quietly hired a Russian emigre who calls himself a scientist and healer to 'think blue' and channel his thoughts toward the team's success as he watched them play on TV." LA Times LINK.

Only in LA... Amazing!

366

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Rockies, 6/8/10

« on: June 08, 2010, 07:14:58 pm »

Astros lineup

Keppinger 2b,
Manzella ss,
Berkman 1b,
Lee lf,
Pence rf,
Feliz 3b,
Michaels cf,
Cash c,
Moehler p

Rockies lineup

Gonzalez cf,
Smith lf,
Tulowitzki ss,
Hawpe rf,
Olivo c,
Helton 1b,
Mora 3b,
Barmes 2b,
Francis p

367

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BJ Hyatt out for the season

« on: June 05, 2010, 04:39:26 pm »

Goff at the Examiner with a solid piece on Hyatt. LINK

368

Game Zone 2010 Archive / FTC, 6/4/10

« on: June 04, 2010, 06:53:20 pm »

Craig's series preview: LINK (don't be an idiot, read it)!

Lineups per FSHouston via Twitter.

Astros

Bourn cf
Keppinger 2b
Berkman 1b
Lee lf
Sullivan rf
Blum ss
Feliz 3b
Quintero c
Paulino p

FTC

Byrd cf
Theriot 2b
Lee, 1b
Ramirez 3b
Fukudome rf
Soriano lf
Soto c
Castro c
Zambrano p

369

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Natinals, 6/1/10

« on: June 01, 2010, 07:04:22 pm »

Astros lineup

CF Michael Bourn
2B Jeff Keppinger
1B Lance Berkman
LF Carlos Lee
RF Hunter Pence
SS Geoff Blum
3B Pedro Feliz
C Kevin Cash
P Brett Myers

Natinals lineup

370

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Reds, 5/28/10

« on: May 28, 2010, 06:09:10 pm »

Don't Say Uncle (GBB preview)

Astros lineup:

1: Bourn (CF)
2. Keppinger (2B)
3. Pence (RF)
4. Lee (LF)
5. Berkman (1B)
6. Feliz (3B)
7. Manzella (SS)
8. Quintero (C)
9. Rodriguez (P)

Reds lineup:

1. Cabrera (SS)
2. Cairo (1B)
3. Phillips (2B)
4. Rolen (3B)
5. Gomes (LF)
6. Bruce (RF)
7. Stubbs (CF)
8. Hanigan (C)
9. LeCure (P)

371

Talk Zone / Roster moves

« on: May 28, 2010, 02:24:26 pm »

Norris to the 15 day DL. Moehler to take his spot in the rotation on Saturday. Chacin called up from Round Rock to fill the spot vacated by Norris. Astros also call Wright up from Round Rock and send Navarro back down. Yep, for those of you counting that is 13 pitchers and 12 position players on the roster.

372

Talk Zone / Country Joe West is a f---ing a--hole

« on: May 26, 2010, 05:20:02 pm »

Per Ozzie Guillien. LINK

"Because he's a f---ing a--hole, that's what he is.
***
We know he has to control the game, we know he has to control all the s---, but in the meanwhile, I don't think it was the right thing to do, like we balked him while we were on the field. Joe has been like that for a lot of years, and he's always going to be like this. I'm not going to change it, nobody is going to change it, but sometimes he thinks f---ing people pay to watch him f---ing umpire."
***
He thinks he's the s--- in the field. People pay to watch f---ing players play, not to see umpires and managers. I don't see any people say, 'I'm going to see Ozzie Guillen manage or Joe West f---ing umpire.''

373

Talk Zone / Baseball-Reference.com just got even cooler!

« on: May 24, 2010, 03:03:46 pm »

Putting a face to the name. LINK

374

Talk Zone / So you think Caballo is a slacker and Roy O has an attitude, eh?

« on: May 18, 2010, 04:42:22 pm »

Hanley Ramirez says you don't know shit... LINK 1; LINK 2

375

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Following the Astros MiLBers

« on: May 18, 2010, 02:00:44 am »

These sites have been mentioned in the Bus Ride before, but thought it'd be good to put them all together in one place for reference. If you have any to add, please feel free to do so.

Information on all Astros affiliates

Minor League Splits - daily stats on all Astros farm teams and players (excellent resource);
Astros Affiliates - MLB.com page devoted to the Astros farm teams;
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum (SnS) - best Astros affiliate coverage on the web (beware, SnS doesn't suffer fools lightly);
The Unofficial Scorer - Chron.com's Zach Levine blogs all misc. stats info and a lot of Astros MiLB;
Astros County - blogging on the Astros major and minor league teams, with regular Astros MiLB updates;
Crawfish Boxes - Astros major and minor league info.
Farmstros - blogging on the Astros minor league teams and players.

Round Rock Express

Round Rock Express - official team website;
Round Rock Express News - RSS news feed from official team website;

Corpus Christi Hooks

Corpus Christi Hooks - official team website;
Corpus Christi Hooks News - RSS news feed from official team website
Corpus Christi Caller-Times - local paper coverage of the Hooks
Hooks insider - Hooks blog by Caller-Times sportswriter Greg Rajan;

Lancaster JetHawks

Lancaster JetHawks - official team website;
Lancaster JetHawks - MiLB team website;

Lexington Legends

Lexington Legends - official team website;
Lexington Legends News - RSS news feed from official team website;
Lexington.com - local paper coverage of the Legends;
Mark Maloney on Kentucky Sports - local writer often blogging about the Legends;

Tri-City ValleyCats

Tri-City ValleyCats - official team website;
Tri-Citty ValleyCats News - RSS news feed from official team website;
Vic Christopher blog - blog from the Assistant GM for the ValleyCats;
http://'Cats Corner - excellent team site blogging about the ValleyCats.

Greeneville Astros

Greeneville Astros - official team website;

GCL Astros

GCL Astros - MiLB team website;

DSL Astros

DSL Astros - MiLB team website.

376

Beer and Queso / 24

« on: May 18, 2010, 12:15:43 am »

Bauer definitely not fucking around this season...

377

Game Zone 2010 Archive / 'Stros at Dojers, 5/17/2010

« on: May 17, 2010, 08:30:54 pm »

How I Set the School Hurdles Record With My Balls

Lineup via FSH

Astros

Bourn cf
Keppinger 2b
Berkman 1b
Lee lf
Pence rf
Blum ss
Feliz 3b
Quintero c
Rodriguez p

Dojers

Martin c
Johnson rf
Ramirez lf
Kemp cf
Loney 1b
Blake 3b
DeWitt 2b
Carroll ss
Ely p

378

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Jakes, 5/12/2010

« on: May 12, 2010, 06:38:55 pm »

See the GBB series preview here.

Lineups (courtesy of McTaggart)

Astros

Michael Bourn CF
Jeff Keppinger 2B
Lance Berkman 1B
Carlos Lee LF
Hunter Pence RF
Pedro Feliz 3B
Humberto Quintero C
Tommy Manzella SS
Wandy Rodriguez P

Jakes

Skip Schumaker 2B
Ryan Ludwick CF
Albert Pujols 1B
Matt Holliday LF
David Freese 3B
Yadier Molina C
Nick Stavinoha RF
Brendan Ryan SS
Kyle Lohse P

379

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ Jakes, 5/11/2010

« on: May 11, 2010, 06:27:22 pm »

Read all about it here (great stuff GBB!)

Lineups (courtesy of McTaggart)

Astros

Michael Bourn CF
Kaz Matsui 2B
Lance Berkman 1B
Carlos Lee LF
Hunter Pence RF
Geoff Blum 3B
Tommy Manzella SS
Kevin Cash C
Brett Myers P

Jakes

Colby Rasmus CF
Ryan Ludwick RF
Albert Pujols 1B
Matt Holliday LF
David Freese 3B
Yadier Molina C
Skip Schumaker 2B
Brendan Ryan SS
Brad Penny P

380

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Padres, 5/7/10

« on: May 07, 2010, 05:09:13 pm »

Read all about the series here.

Spaz sits. Astros erupt in celebration.

ASTROS LINEUP

Michael Bourn CF
Kaz Matsui 2B
Carlos Lee LF
Lance Berkman 1B
Jason Michaels RF
Pedro Feliz 3B
Tommy Manzella SS
Kevin Cash C
Bud Norris P

PADRES LINEUP

Scott Hairston CF
David Eckstein 2B
Adrian Gonzalez 1B
Chase Headley 3B
Will Venable RF
Yorvit Torrealba C
Kyle Blanks LF
Jerry Hairston Jr. SS
Mat Latos P

381

Talk Zone / Monte Irvin refects

« on: May 07, 2010, 03:10:57 pm »

Good piece from Justice (I know, but trust me on this one) on Monte Irvin. LINK

382

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA Prospect Hot Sheet

« on: May 07, 2010, 02:09:22 pm »

Jordan Lyles hit #1 on the BA Prospect Hot Sheet for April 23. LINK

This week (5/7) it's Jay Austin at #4, and an 'honorable mention' for Brian Bogusevic. LINK

Jay Austin, CF
Team: high Class A Lancaster (California)
Age: 19
Why He's Here: .407/.519/.815 (11-for-27), 2 2B, 3 HR, 5 RBIs, 9 R, 3 BB, 3 SO, 5-for-6 SB

The Scoop: If you've read Baseball America, you know we're skeptical of any sparkly numbers that come from a Lancaster hitter. Aaron Bates, Bubba Bell, Javier Brito, Jaime D'Antona . . . the list of Lancaster legends goes on. Yet while Lancaster does help every hitter, park factors don't affect every hitter the same way. The Lancaster winds help carry balls hit in the air, but that's not Austin's game. He hits most of his balls on the ground, relying on his ability to put the ball in play and let his speed take over. He's also showing a much-improved approach at the plate, a sign that this could be a true breakout.

On Bogusevic: Astros corner OF Brian Bogusevic hit .464/.600/.786 with two home runs for Triple-A Round Rock, bringing him up to .323/.385/.494 through 26 games. Bogusevic is already 26, so while he's already at or close to his physical peak, he's still playing developmental catchup in his second full season since he gave up pitching . . .

383

Talk Zone / Love them or loathe them

« on: May 07, 2010, 01:43:27 pm »

Josh Leventhal's articles on Dave Raymond and Brett Dolan at Baseball America are a good read.

Astros Announcers Take Hard Road To Majors and More On Astros Announcers Dolan, Raymond

384

Talk Zone / Oh 'dem lovable losers...

« on: May 06, 2010, 09:47:52 pm »

Gotta read this one folks... LINK

ETA: and yes it's probably crap, but do you really care one way or another...

385

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Kinda interesting age info...

« on: May 06, 2010, 03:25:53 pm »

BA lists all of the teenagers playing in the minors. LINK

It's probably no surprise that Mike Trout is having an impressive start to his 2010 season, but you may not have noticed how few teenagers there are in high Class A and Double-A. Jay Austin, Salvador Perez and Anthony Gose's seasons become more impressive when you put their age in context. And Martin Perez and Jordan Lyles stand out as teenagers already pitching in the Texas League.

The Astros currently have 6 teenagers playing in the system, including 3 of the 53 teenage position players:

Jay Austin (19) (High A, Lancaster), Jonathan Meyer (19) (Single A, Lexington) and Jiovanni Mier (19) (Single A, Lexington)

and 3 of the 34 teenage pitchers:

Jordan Lyles (19) (Double A, Corpus Christi); Tanner Bushue (18) (Single A, Lexington) and Juan Minaya (19) (Single A, Lexington)

386

Talk Zone / Puma willing to waive his no trade?

« on: May 06, 2010, 03:06:59 pm »

Possibly. MLBTR post citing Solomon article.

387

Game Zone 2010 Archive / D-bags @ Stros, 5/3/10

« on: May 03, 2010, 06:45:05 pm »

Spaz cooling his jets tonight...

Astros lineup:

Bourn cf,
Keppinger 2b,
Lee lf,
Berkman 1b,
Feliz 3b,
Sullivan rf,
Manzella ss,
Quintero c,
Paulino p

Diamondbacks lineup:

Johnson 2b,
Upton rf,
Drew ss,
Reynolds 3b,
LaRoche 1b,
Young cf,
Parra lf,
Snyder c,
Valdez p

388

Talk Zone / Open letter to the Astros

« on: May 01, 2010, 06:14:05 pm »

Greg Lucas has some things to say to the Astros after watching Friday nights game (might have seen some actual 'fireworks' if he'd written this after Saturdays game): LINK

Among the more notable comments:

Carlos Lee: Almost without saying your offensive output has been extremely disappointing. That can happen in baseball and cream almost always rises to the top. However, until it does you must do a better job of hustling on every play you are involved with. Whether that involves hustling after balls in the outfield or running hard even on ground balls hit by you that are surely going to be outs. The fans expect it. They deserve it. So should you.

Hunter Pence: Please start to relax when hitting in potential big RBI situations. You are practically squeezing the sawdust out of the bat trying so hard to do well. Take it easy. Your talent will take you through if you let it.

389

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / What are they doing?

« on: April 30, 2010, 10:22:59 am »

So what happens with the kids that were signed last year but didn't make it to full season ball this year? Extended Spring Training? What are they doing, drills all day? Scrimmages? Just curious.

390

Talk Zone / Ryan Howard signs 5 year extension

« on: April 26, 2010, 01:54:42 pm »

$125 million from 2012 through 2016 with a $23MM option for 2017 with a $10MM buyout. Apparently no 'home team discount,' limited no-trade clause, and the contract begins with his age 32 season. LINK

391

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros vs. Pirates: 4/24

« on: April 24, 2010, 05:08:47 pm »

Sit your lazy ass down, Carlos. LINK

Astros lineup

CF Michael Bourn
2B Jeff Keppinger
3B Pedro Feliz
1B Lance Berkman
RF Hunter Pence
LF Cory Sullivan
SS Tommy Manzella
C Humberto Quintero
P Wandy Rodriguez

Pirates lineup

2B Aki Iwamura
1B Bobby Crosby
CF Andrew McCutchen
RF Garrett Jones
LF Ryan Church
LF Lastings Milledge
3B Andy LaRoche
C Jason Jaramillo
P Chris Jakubauskas

Roof open. Go 'Stros!

392

Talk Zone / Roy heading to Mississippi

« on: April 24, 2010, 03:43:08 pm »

Per McTaggart and Footer tweets:

McTaggart: Oswalt has left to drive to Mississippi where his parents' house was destroyed by tornado, according to the team. No injuries, team said

Footer: Mills said Roy came to him earlier today and said his parents' house was "flattened" by tornado. They've lived there 40 years. Roy drove home and will be given all the time he needs. With the off day Mon., he'll likely make next start Thursday.

393

Talk Zone / Reds' Volquez suspended for 50 games

« on: April 20, 2010, 02:08:31 pm »

For PEDs, per Heyman tweet.

394

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Levine's Minor League Notebook

« on: April 20, 2010, 06:56:54 am »

Zach Levine at the Crhon writes about JD Martinez, Fernando Abad and a couple others. LINK

Misc. on Martinez:

An outfielder all his life, Martinez moved temporarily to first base and began to have knee problems. He was diagnosed with patellar tendinitis, and it has bothered him ever since and caused him to keep close watch on it. “Some days it's better than others,” Martinez said. “This year it's a lot better because I've been monitoring it. It's not a big deal; it's just something that's going to bug me.”

395

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Astros @ FTC: 4/18/2010

« on: April 18, 2010, 01:16:10 pm »

Astros

CF Michael Bourn
2B Jeff Keppinger
3B Pedro Feliz
LF Carlos Lee
RF Hunter Pence
1B Geoff Blum
SS Tommy Manzella
C Humberto Quintero
P Wandy Rodriguez

FTCs

SS Ryan Theriot
CF Marlon Byrd
1B Derrek Lee
3B Aramis Ramirez
RF Xavier Nady
LF Alfonso Soriano
2B Jeff Baker
C Geovany Soto
P Ryan Dempster

396

Game Zone 2010 Archive / FTC: 4/16/2010

« on: April 16, 2010, 12:15:48 pm »

Astros

1. Bourn - CF
2. Kepp - 2B
3. Feliz - 1B
4. Lee - LF
5. Pence - RF
6. Johnson - 3B
7. Manzella - SS
8. Quintero - C
9. Paulino - P

FTCs

1. Theriot - SS
2. Fukodome - RF
3. D. Lee - 1B
4. Ramirez - 3B
5. Byrd - CF
6. Soriano - LF
7. Fontenot - 2B
8. Hill - C
9. Silva - RHP

397

Talk Zone / Slumpbusting 'Stros style

« on: April 16, 2010, 12:10:49 am »

Advil, NSYNC and rest for bats. Via Footer. LINK

398

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Jackie Robinson Day 2010: HOU at STL

« on: April 15, 2010, 12:38:18 pm »

Astros

1. Bourn - CF
2. Keppinger - SS
3. Feliz - 1B
4. Lee - LF
5. Pence - RF
6. Matsui - 2B
7. Johnson - 3B
8. Quintero - C
9. Norris - P

Co-ards

1. Schumaker - 2B
2. Ludwick - RF
3. Pujols - 1B
4. Holliday - LF
5. Rasmus - CF
6. F. Lopez - SS
7. Molina - C
8. Freese - 3B
9. Lohse - RHP

399

Talk Zone / 4 innings of perfection

« on: April 14, 2010, 04:48:24 am »

Nice piece on Florida H.S. Pitcher Overcomes Loss of Leg to Start Again

400

Game Zone 2010 Archive / 4/10/10: PHI at HOU

« on: April 10, 2010, 03:36:16 pm »

Astros lineup:

Michaels (CF)
Keppinger (2B)
Pence (RF)
Lee (LF)
Feliz (1B)
Johnson (3B)
Manzella (SS)
Quintero (C)
Paulino (P)

401

Talk Zone / On a positive note...

« on: April 09, 2010, 10:34:47 pm »

Bagwell to join JD and Brownie in the booth for Saturday home games. LINK

402

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Where are they now (Heck draftee ed)

« on: April 09, 2010, 06:28:45 am »

The Astros signed 32 of their 52 picks in 2008.

1 is in Round Rock (Round 1)
5 are in Corpus (Rounds 1S, 4, 6, 7, 48)
7 are in Lancaster (Rounds 2, 3S, 8, 13, 18, 19, 26)
3 are in Lexington (Rounds 5, 17, 35)
3 are in Extended Spring Training (Rounds 9, 27, 28)
1 I am not sure (Round 14)
12 have been released (Rounds 10, 11, 12, 15, 24, 25, 29, 30, 31, 37, 47, 49)

All 7 high school signees remain in the system:

1 at Corpus: Lyles(1S)
3 at Lancaster: Austin (2), Seaton (3S), Dydalewicz (8)
1 at Lexington: Garcia (35)
2 in Extended Spring Training: Cruz (9), Grimmett (28)

Draftee
Castro, Jason
Lyles, Jordan
Austin, Jay
Seaton, Ross
Steele, Thomas
Duncan, David
Shuck, Jack
Gaston, Jonathan
Dydalewicz, Brad
Cruz, Luis
Holloway, Jarred
Priday, Jacob
Hulett, Jeff
Godfrey, Kyle
Hicks, Christopher
Disher, Phil
Simunic, Andrew
Flores, David
Mowdy, Ashton
Meier, Danny
Hacker, Michael
Wolf, Shane
Pettus, Nathaniel
Grimmett, Zachary
Jackson, Christopher
Diaz, Michael
Rummel, Philip
Garcia, Rene
Rivers, Kirkland
Metroka, Nathan
Meszaros, Daniel
Lehr, Chase

Round
   1
  1S
   2
  3S
   4
   5
   6
   7
   8
   9
  10
  11
  12
  13
  14
  15
  17
  18
  19
  24
  25
  26
  27
  28
  29
  30
  31
  35
  37
  47
  48
  49

Class
   JR
   HS
   HS
   HS
   JR
   JR
   JR
   JR
   HS
   HS
   J2
   SR
   J2
   J2
   JR
   SR
   SR
   SR
   J3
   SR
   J2
   SR
   J1
   HS
   JR
   JR
   SR
   HS
   SR
   J2
   SR
   J2

POS
  C
  P
OF
  P
OF
  P
OF
OF
  P
  P
3B
OF
SS
  P
  P
1B
2B
3B
  P
OF
  P
  P
  P
  P
SS
2B
  P
  C
  P
OF
  P
  P

Where Now
Round Rock (AAA)
Corpus (AA)
Lancaster (High A)
Lancaster (High A)
Corpus (AA)
Lexington (A)
Corpus (AA)
Corpus (AA)
Lancaster (High A)
Extended Spring Training
Released
Released
Released
Lancaster (High A)
??
Released
Lexington (A)
Lancaster (High A)
Lancaster (High A)
Released
Released
Lancaster (High A)
Extended Spring Training
Extended Spring Training
Released
Released
Released
Lexington (A)
Released
Released
Corpus (AA)
Released

403

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Extended Spring Training

« on: April 08, 2010, 10:04:57 pm »

Farmstros has the roster posted over at his blog: LINK

Pitchers: Ruben Alaniz; Wander Alvino; Ricardo Batista; Garrett Bullock; Luis Cruz; John Frawley; Angel Gonzalez; Murilo Gouvea; Zach Grimmett; BJ Hagen; Mark Jones; Andrea Lucati; David Martinez; Nate Pettus; Carlos Quevedo; Euris Quezada; Philip Rorabaugh; Travis Smink; and Brenden Stines.

Catchers: Luis Alvarez; Ernesto Genoves; Carlos Mojica; Wilder Parra; Jose Vargas; and Bubby Williams.

Infielders: Ricardo Bonfante; Erik Castro; Oscar Figueroa; Enrique Hernandez; Jhonny Medrano; Ben Orloff; Ronald Sanchez; and Nicholas Stanley

Outfielders: Emilio King; Telvin Nash; and Garen Wright.

404

Talk Zone / Uniwatch talks Astros throwback

« on: April 07, 2010, 05:38:27 am »

The Astros throwback game coming up this Saturday sent Uniwatch on a quest to find some Astros Spacette and groundskeepers photos. LINK

Great info and links included within so check 'em out. The piece also references a documentary about the dome, a trailer of which can be found on one of the Fleer Sticker Project links as well as a link to an Astrodome promo video.

405

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Lyles debuts for the Hooks

« on: April 06, 2010, 11:11:25 pm »

Pitched 5 2/3 innings and gave up 1 run in a 2-0 loss in exhibition against the Express (69 pitches, 5 hits, 3 Ks). Story link

ETA: Rajan (Caller-times) article with box. LINK

406

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / JB Macdonald retires

« on: April 06, 2010, 09:00:01 pm »

2009 18th rd pick J.B. Macdonald has retired from baseball. LINK (h/t Astros County)

407

Talk Zone / How'd they get their names

« on: April 05, 2010, 03:58:13 am »

Mental Floss goes over the history of the nicknames of the current MLB teams. LINK

408

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Lyles to Corpus

« on: April 03, 2010, 05:41:53 pm »

Levine has the minor league full season rosters posted at his blog.

Some of the notables:

Lyles, Millar and Nevarez head to Corpus. Chia-Jen Lo remains there.
Keuchel, Dydalewicz, and Seaton to Lancaster.
Mier, Bushue, J.D. Martinez and Altuve to Lexington.

409

Talk Zone / Sorry mom!

« on: March 31, 2010, 06:26:51 pm »

Wow... LINK

Twins outfielder Denard Span.. was leading off the game against the Yankees' Phil Hughes when he fouled a 3-2 pitch directly to the left of the visitors' third-base dugout, where a group of friends and family members were settling in for the game. The ball struck his mother, who was sitting three rows from the field and wearing a Twins jersey with Span's name on it, with a thud that was audible to the players on the Minnesota bench. Span immediately dashed into the seating bowl, consoling her as help arrived.

410

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Cuts

« on: March 31, 2010, 06:16:42 pm »

BA is reporting the following folks have been released: LINK

RHP Casey Hudspeth [2006: 5th rd], RHP Ben Paxton [ind. league signee], RHP Jordan Powell [2007: 35th rd], LHP Spencer Hylander [2009: 50th rd], LHP Antonio Noguera [2004 signee from Ven], LHP Kirkland Rivers [2008: 37th rd], 2B Craig Corrado [2007: 14th rd], 2B Mike Diaz [2008: 30th rd], 3B Gabriel Suarez [2004: 26th rd /ind. league signee], OF Sean Barksdale[2009: 38th rd]

Farmstros is noting a couple more 'unconfirmed' cuts as well: LINK

Scott Migl [2009: 34th rd] and Jack Tilghman [ind. league signee]

411

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / MiLB Organizational preview

« on: March 30, 2010, 09:34:17 am »

Mayo has his 2010 organization preview and top 10 prospects to watch articles at Astros.com.

412

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / "A heavy emphasis on winning at all levels in 2010"

« on: March 23, 2010, 05:03:48 pm »

Assistant Tri-Cities GM Vic Christopher has a brief Q&A with ValleyCats manager Jim Pankovits in his blog today. LINK

What can ValleyCats fans expect in the upcoming season?

The Astros organization has placed a heavy emphasis on winning at all levels in 2010. I can asure you that we will field the best team possible and we will be competitive.

***

Which former ValleyCats in particular have impressed you at the start of Spring Training?

Barry Butera (2009 ValleyCats MVP) has really opened up some eyes. He’s in great shape and he’s taken well to playing some shortstop this spring after being used primarily in the outfield last season.

J.D. Martinez (2009 New York-Penn League Batting Champion) picked up right where he left off and continues to be an offensive force at the plate. He’s swinging a real hot bat right now.

Dallas Keuchel (2 wins in 2009 CWS) Is having an outstanding spring. Everyone here is excited to see a well-rested Dallas pitch after an arduous 2009 season.

413

Talk Zone / Arias 'likely' headed to the DL

« on: March 23, 2010, 03:42:43 pm »

McTaggart LINK:

Astros right-hander Alberto Arias appears headed to the disabled list after he was diagnosed with posterior cuff impingement and rotator cuff weakness in his right shoulder.

"He'll spend some time in the trainer's room tying to get the rotator cuff strengthened, but at this point, we're probably looking at a DL," Wade said. "I don't think it's going to be something that's going resolve in the short term, where it's something he's going to be pitching in games and [be] game ready. We'll cross that bridge when we come to it, but it's probably where we're headed at this point."

414

Game Zone 2010 Archive / Jakes at 'Stros, 3/22/10

« on: March 22, 2010, 02:46:44 am »

Reminder: the Co-ards at Astros game is being televised today (FSH and MLB.tv) at 12:05 CDST.

Also: Levine at the Chronicle is having a live chat at 11:30 CDST. LINK

415

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / BA article on Bushue

« on: March 19, 2010, 04:49:31 pm »

"Don't Call It A Comeback" re: Tanner Bushue is behind the pay wall. Anyone with a BA subscription care to share the highlights?

416

Talk Zone / Arnsberg on Paulinos progress

« on: March 18, 2010, 09:34:29 pm »

Per Footer, Arnsberg had this to say about Felipe Paulino on Astrosline last night: LINK

"I had (A.J.) Burnett and (Josh) Beckett and Doc (Roy Halladay) and (Ryan) Dempster, I've had some tremendous arms. This is as good an arm as I've been around in a long time. We just need to clean the delivery up where he's going to be able to repeat in that window and get a lot of strikes thrown out of that arm."

"He's really in the process of making nice adjustments. It's going to be a little bit of a longer process, the cleanup of the delivery. It's something that's imperative to this kid. We really cleaned him up out of his windup and I think he's been successful out of that since then. We then moved to his stretch. You wish you could climb that mountain in a day but sometimes it's a longer proces than we all want.

"We've done a lot of work out of his stretch. He was kind of a leave-the-rubber early type person and we're starting to match the lower half up with the upper half. I can see where it's already helped him so far. "

417

Talk Zone / Atlantis STS-132 Mission poster

« on: March 18, 2010, 09:18:24 pm »

Wezen-ball.com has the mission poster for the final mission of the Space Shuttle Atlantis. Pretty friggin' cool! [Poster blow-up].

418

Beer and Queso / Scouting the Longhorns

« on: March 17, 2010, 09:37:16 pm »

John Sickels at Minor League ball was at the Texas / Iowa series recently and had this to say.

419

Beer and Queso / Joey, do you like movies about gladiators?

« on: March 14, 2010, 09:13:24 pm »

Actor Peter Graves dead at 82. LINK RIP!

420

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / "On the Farm" at cchooks.com

« on: March 10, 2010, 06:29:42 pm »

The Hooks website has been doing an 'on the farm' feature that provides an overview of various prospects in the Astros system. Profiles thusfar include: Florentino, Gaston and Greenwalt; Corrado, DeLome and Dydalewicz; and Cabral, Cespedes and Clemens.

421

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / The Fixler Files

« on: March 10, 2010, 12:13:11 am »

Mike Tauser (aka Farmstros) has conned Jonathon Fixler into periodic blog entries this season over at Farmstros. LINK

You should definitely read the entry in its entirety, but a couple of highlights to peak your interest...

Phil Disher will now be referred to only as Bronco

Brian Esposito is not Mike "the situation" from the Jersey Shore

Jordan Powell watches "The Bachelor" while eating pudding and bananas that his wife prepares for him

Drew Locke not only is the batting champion from the Texas League but is also the president of the "One Tree Hill" fan club

Brian Pellegrini could crush me into a paste so I am going to leave him alone. I hope he has a great season, and I remain on his good side

Drew Meyer logged more hours of "Call of Duty" this off-season than I did hours slept

422

Talk Zone / Arias out w/ strained trapezius

« on: March 09, 2010, 09:20:12 pm »

Per Levine. LINK

Alberto Arias suffered a strained trapezius muscle in the right shoulder/neck/back area and will be shut down until this weekend when he will be examined further by a doctor.

Arias had been pitching with some discomfort for a while but it was never as bad as it was on his first pitch Tuesday against the Mets. He then gave up a home run and a walk.

423

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Chia-Jen Lo

« on: March 09, 2010, 09:10:41 pm »

McTaggart has a nice article about him at Astros.com. LINK

424

Talk Zone / Morgan Ensberg's "Baseball IQ"

« on: March 08, 2010, 12:15:43 am »

Footer introduces us to Baseball IQ, a blog by Morgan Ensberg.

Per Footer:

As a reporter, there were times that I enjoyed covering Morgan Ensberg and times that he made me want to pull my hair out.

Don't get me wrong -- Ensberg was everything a reporter would want in a player: talkative, intelligent, insightful, reflective. But there was one topic that would make Morgan clam up, and at times, it was simply infuriating.

I tried my best to write about things the fans wanted to know about, and from 2006 through '07, fans wanted to know about Ensberg's ever-changing batting stance. It was becoming increasingly obvious to just about the entire viewing public that the third baseman was struggling with looking, and feeling, comfortable at the plate.

So I asked. And asked. And asked again. Either he changed the subject, talked around it or was so vague that by the end of the conversation, I was more confused than when I first approached him. After a while, I gave up. It didn't take a genius (thankfully) to figure out the guy simply didn't want to talk about it.

But now, as a retired player, Ensberg is no longer avoiding the topic. He has started a blog -- morganensberg.wordpress.com -- and he's touching on many interesting topics, many of which he didn't want to discuss during his playing career. The blog is titled "Morgan Ensberg's Baseball IQ," which he hopes gives "solid fundamentally based strategy and teaching" insight into the game. "Each week I will teach you something about the game," Ensberg writes. "Either at the professional or amateur level."

425

Talk Zone / Chuck, Live From Kissimmee (pt. 1)

« on: March 06, 2010, 07:05:08 pm »

Chuck, Live from Kissimmee (pt. 1) is posted on the front page. Excellent first-hand info from a fellow SnS'er about all things Astros Spring Training. Thanks Chuck!

426

Talk Zone / Breaking down how breaking balls are breaking Hunter Pence

« on: March 03, 2010, 08:43:28 am »

Verducci at SI: Breaking down how breaking balls are breaking Ryan Howard.

Not that I particularly give a crud about Howard, but the article included a number of stats supporting the premise that didn't bode particularly well for Pence (or Oswalt and Moehler for that matter).

Most breaking balls seen in 2009: (1) Ryan Howard 1,127; (2) Dan Uggla 931; (3) Mark Reynolds 930; (4) Hunter Pence 928.

Largest percentage of breaking balls seen in 2009: (1) Ryan Howard 39.7; (2) Alfonso Soriano 39.6; (3) Hunter Pence 36.9.

To put this into perspective, the NL average of breaking balls seen in 25.25% (i.e. Pence is seeing about 50% more breaking balls than the average NLer).

As for Oswalt and Moehler, Verducci had this to say about how folks fared when pitching against Howard:

The six most effective pitchers against Howard (minimum of 20 plate appearances, including the top three lefties) have been right-handers Livan Hernandez, Derek Lowe and Tim Redding, and left-handers Oliver Perez, Pedro Feliciano and John Lannan. According to Stats Inc., those pitchers have thrown breaking balls in 49.4 percent of their 682 total pitches to Howard.

Now look at the least effective pitchers against Howard and you'll find the list populated with pitchers who don't spin the ball well or often: right-handers Brian Moehler, Roy Oswalt, Tim Hudson and Mike Pelfrey and left-handers Tom Glavine, Johan Santana and Scott Olsen. Howard feasts off those guys. Why? They have thrown breaking balls in only 23.2 percent of their 779 total pitches to him.

427

Talk Zone / Puma One Liners

« on: March 01, 2010, 04:18:03 pm »

Footer has set up another Twitter account, this time to share various one-liners that she (and a couple of others) hears from various folks associated with the Astros. Twitter LINK; story LINK

Major League Baseball players come in all shapes and sizes. They have an array of personalities, from serious and reserved to fun-loving and carefree. There are the intellectuals and the pranksters, the high-intensity veterans and the high-energy rookies.

We watch them play every day, and sometimes it's hard to remember they're not robots, but instead, people with thoughts, interests, families and insights, just like the rest of us.

With that, we introduce you to a new Twitter account to follow: PumaOneLiners. This will be solely dedicated to quotes from your Astros, ranging from the funny witticisms to postgame comments from the clubhouse and anything we pick up in between.

It's obviously named after our resident hilariously funny superstar, Lance Berkman, who named himself Big Puma a few years ago when he grew tired of the "Fat Elvis" label. By naming the Twitter account after Puma, we're saluting our beloved first baseman and all of the laughs he's provided over the years. But PumaOneLiners won't be limited to just Berkman witticisms. We'll draw from everyone -- the players, manager, coaches and, of course, our broadcasters, whose senses of humor are displayed nightly on the airwaves.

428

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Badler (BA) talks international signings

« on: March 01, 2010, 03:57:57 pm »

Ben Badler at BA discusses international signings by MLB franchises. LINK: Which Teams Have Signed The Most International Prospects?

Decent general discussion on international signings by MLB teams.

429

Talk Zone / Evaluating Lindstrom and Lyon

« on: February 28, 2010, 04:16:32 pm »

Justice blogs about how the Astros evaluated Lindstrom and Lyon prior to picking them up. LINK

Includes info from the Astros scouting reports on each, so definitely worth the read...

430

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Minor league mini-camp begins today

« on: February 26, 2010, 02:16:32 pm »

The Astros welcomed 37 players Friday to a weeklong Minor League mini camp that will include some of the bigger prospects in the system. LINK

LHPs (6) - Douglas Arguello, Brad Dydalewicz, Dallas Keuchel, Ross Seaton, Jon Switzer, Patrick Urckfitz.

RHPs (10) - Tanner Bushue, Matt Ginter, Kyle Godfrey, Kyle Greenwalt, Chris Hicks, Jordan Lyles, Dan Meszaros, Juan Minaya, Sergio Perez, Brandt Walker.

Catchers (4) - Luis Alvarez, Rene Garcia, Frederico Hernandez, David Williams.

IFs ( - Jose Altuve, Erik Castro, Koby Clemens, Phil Disher, Enrique Hernandez, Jonathan Meyer, Jiovanni Mier, Brandon Wikoff.

OFs (9) - Jay Austin, David Cook, Collin Delome, Jonathan Gaston, Andrew Locke, J.D. Martinez, Telvin Nash, J.B. Shuck, T.J. Steele.

431

Talk Zone / Arnsberg: the anti-Dewey?

« on: February 26, 2010, 02:09:47 pm »

Footer begins her 'Touching Base' series (letting Astros fans get to know the Major League coaching staff) with a piece on Brad Arnsberg. [Caution: the 'something you didn't know' tidbit at the bottom of piece is something you really didn't want to know...]

Toronto media portrayed Arnsberg as loyal and as someone who makes no apologies for backing his pitchers 100 percent of the time, no matter what. Perhaps this didn't sit well with some of the higher-ups working for his former employers, but don't bother "Arnie" with such speculation. He's not a politician. He's a coach who is protective of his pitchers, who believes in them and who gives them his time and his ear.

"My early days here, it's more about putting the name with the face and putting a face with the delivery I've seen," Arnsberg said. "Mostly just get my feet on the ground and get to know the guys and start to build the pitcher-coach-pitcher bond with the group. I try to establish that real family feel early in camp. I try to go out of my way to get all 28, 29 guys into games as early as possible."

"I went to camps when I was younger where I didn't even see Spring Training innings and I kind of went backward," he said. "I need to make sure their feet are on the ground and know that they're wanted and needed."

432

Talk Zone / Baseball Tonight crew in Kissimmee today

« on: February 26, 2010, 11:54:58 am »

Per Footer tweet: Baseball tonight crew is in Kissimmee...check out their coverage today; lots of Astros-related features and interviews.

433

Talk Zone / Pinwheel on Oswalt

« on: February 25, 2010, 11:42:56 pm »

Oswalt still gets delight from pitching

“I hate losing,” [Oswalt] added. “I've never lost. Even coming through the minor leagues, we won at every level. Losing is not an option. It's something I'm not acquainted with.”

The comment above got me curious. Any thoughts on whether 'developing a culture of winning' (or losing) at the minor league level translates to winning or losing in the major leagues?

434

Talk Zone / Perhaps Spaz should just

« on: February 25, 2010, 04:30:24 pm »

put a couple of glass companies on retainer in Kissimmee. Might save him some time in the future. LINK

435

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Abad emerging as a sleeper prospect

« on: February 23, 2010, 05:31:16 pm »

Per Alden Gonzalez at Astros.com. LINK

"He's really getting close," assistant general manager Ricky Bennett said. "I think one thing that he does well is throw strikes. If you look throughout the course of his career, he's always shown the ability to throw strikes."

"[His stuff is] not overpowering, but it's in the strike zone, it's deceptive, and he's got some movement on his two-seamer, so all those things you look at as a left-hander," Bennett said. "And when you compete and you throw the ball over the plate, you make the hitters put the ball in play. And that's what he does."

"You look at the numbers that he puts together, the command that he has really stands out," Astros manager Brad Mills said. "And any time you can get a left-handed pitcher with the command he has, that's a nice thing to see."

"They know I throw strikes and I'll get outs anywhere," Abad said. "So, it's in their hands to see when I pitch in the big leagues. I'm just going to keep showing what I can do."

436

Talk Zone / Puma, Wright and Footer clips on The Game

« on: February 22, 2010, 09:28:12 pm »

1560 podcast links.

Berkman with John and Lance (2/22/10): Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3;

No habla. Classic Puma!

Wesley Wright with Hoffman and Nuno (2/22/10): LINK; and

Footer with Sean and John (2/17/10): Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3.

437

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Bennett on Lancaster

« on: February 21, 2010, 07:40:24 pm »

Farmstros with some good info from Bennet about deveolping pitchers and hitters in Lancaster. LINK

438

Talk Zone / Spring (training) has sprung!

« on: February 20, 2010, 07:50:29 pm »

Footer provides us with some of the sights from the beginning of Astros Spring Training 2010. LINK

439

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros MiLB in review

« on: February 18, 2010, 01:47:25 pm »

I've been remiss for not linking to this yet, but Astros County has been posting write-ups Astros minor leaguers throughout the offseason. Here is a link showing all of his posts tagged 'in review,' which is what he's called this series. You can also search via MiLB affiliate name to look at players from a particular team. Pretty decent overview of the players in the organization and worth the read when you have a chance.

440

Talk Zone / Arb hearing today

« on: February 17, 2010, 11:25:05 am »

Wandy's arbitration hearing is set for today in St. Petersburg, FL. A decision is expected by Thursday. LINK

Maury Brown at the Biz of Baseball tweets: "Early look at Wandy Rodriguez salary arb comps. Based on just the salaries/asking figs from look-backs, I think he could lose. $7M too high " LINK

441

Talk Zone / A run of the Mills conversation

« on: February 11, 2010, 11:26:27 pm »

From Crasnick at ESPN. LINK

442

Talk Zone / Shameless self and site promotion

« on: February 05, 2010, 02:01:08 am »

Once again Jacksonian was asked to write the Astros top 20 prospects guide for Scout.com, and was nice enough to bring me in for a bit of an assist this time. SpikesnStars is of course prominently featured in the byline.

If you're so inclined, pick up a copy or two, and with any luck Scout.com will come back to John and SnS for yet another prospect guide next year.

The magazine is the '2010 FANTASY BASEBALL & scout.com PROSPECT GUIDE.' It has a nice big FOX SPORTS.com logo in the upper left corner opposite a large block FANTASY caption.

Read away, and let un know your thoughts!

Feel free to throw out your own Top 20 prospect list as well and see how it matches up.

443

Talk Zone / Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

« on: February 05, 2010, 01:46:12 am »

In Kemah, Astros style. LINK

444

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Top 11 Astros Prospects

« on: February 03, 2010, 11:18:14 am »

+4 add'l... LINK

445

Talk Zone / Bud Norris profile

« on: February 02, 2010, 11:50:38 pm »

By John Sickels at Minor League Ball. LINK

446

Talk Zone / Q&A with Bill Brown

« on: February 02, 2010, 10:22:49 pm »

Houston Astros Examiner LINK.

447

Talk Zone / Redass announces his retirement

« on: January 28, 2010, 05:54:59 pm »

Former Astros Pitcher Brocail Retires

"I am retiring because it's harder to get my arm in shape and the talent just isn't there anymore," Brocail said. "There's no use in just hanging on."

"I've had a great career and why not go out when I'm feeling good," Brocail said. It's time to hand it off to the younger generation.

"I thought this decision would be emotional, but it's not one iota," Brocail said. "When you're talent runs out, it's a little different.

"I always said when I was through with baseball, I didn't want to be in baseball. I've talked to the Astros a little bit and we'll see what happens."

448

Talk Zone / Ausmus a Dojer again

« on: January 26, 2010, 04:05:20 pm »

Per Olney tweet: Heard this: Brad Ausmus got $1 million on a 1-year deal from the Dodgers.

449

Talk Zone / Arbitration update

« on: January 25, 2010, 12:39:05 pm »

At this point, all arbitration eligible players except Wandy have signed with the club. The numbers stack up as follows (most have additional incentive clauses in their contracts as well):

Pence: $3.5 million
Bourn: $2.4 million
Lindstrom: $1.65 million
Byrdak: $1.6 million
Keppinger: $1.15 million
Sampson: $815,000
Quintero: $750,000

Wandy's arb request is for $7 million and the Astros have offered $5 million. Wandy has until the close of business today to come to an agreement with the club or face Tal and co in arbitration.

450

Beer and Queso / Your country needs you, Limey

« on: January 24, 2010, 11:31:36 pm »

LINK (SFW)

451

Beer and Queso / A little help...

« on: January 22, 2010, 01:20:06 am »

I've been craving seafood gumbo (specifically Papadeauxs seafood gumbo) for a couple of weeks, but haven't the foggiest idea of how to make it. If anyone'd be willing to pass along step-by-step instructions on how to make it I'd appreciate it. Be warned though that to call me a novice cook would be an insult to novice cooks everywhere, thus keep it as simple as possible...

ETA: the hotter the better!

452

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Fernando Abad

« on: January 20, 2010, 12:18:31 am »

Levine blogs about an interview with Wes Clements, and has a bit to add about Fernando Abad.

453

Beer and Queso / Interesting app for you Little League moms and dads

« on: January 04, 2010, 02:21:43 am »

GameChanger iPhone app. LINK

454

Talk Zone / Drayton is a cheap bastard?

« on: December 28, 2009, 10:23:57 pm »

The almost 900 million dollars he spent on salaries over the past 11 seasons would tend to say otherwise (although how well the money was spent is a question for another day...).

Maury Brown over at the Biz of Baseball has posted his End of the Year Salary Totals for MLB from 1999-2009. LINK

Where do the Astros rank?

1999-2008: $781,490,161 (12th)
1999-2009: $889,549,247 (11th)

And the rest of the NL Central (1999-2009):

Brewers: $606,657,131 (23rd)
Cardinals: $957,953,019 (8th)
Cubs: $1,013,681,100 (5th)
Pirates: $468,555,278 (28th)
Reds: $623,823,010 (22nd)

1st: Yankees $1,878,874,506
2nd: Red Sox $1,304,776,440
29th: Rays $458,004,843
30th: Marlins $404,236,839

455

Talk Zone / Astros sign Eric Young

« on: December 18, 2009, 07:31:26 pm »

to be the club's Minor League outfield and baserunning roving instructor that is. LINK

"Eric brings an enormous amount of baseball knowledge and energy to our organization" Bennett said. "The vibrant personality and leadership he showed as a player will have a valuable impact on the young players in our system."

456

Talk Zone / Co-ards offering $128M/8 yr to Matt Holliday?

« on: December 15, 2009, 01:03:56 am »

Strauss at the St. Louis Post-Dispatch says as much (LINK):

The Cardinals have intensified discussions with the lead representative for free agent Matt Holliday and on Monday "tweaked" a standing offer they hope will allow them to retain the left fielder for at least eight seasons.

General manager John Mozeliak and agent Scott Boras revisited the framework of the Cardinals' lengthy proposal first tendered last Wednesday. Though both parties refuse to discuss details, the deal is worth around $16 million a season, making it easily the most lucrative deal ever offered by the Cardinals.

hmmmm...

457

Talk Zone / Best baseball autobiography since Ball Four?

« on: December 12, 2009, 05:34:48 pm »

Keith Olbermann reviews BlueJays pitcher Dirk Hayhurst's new book "The Bullpen Gospels".

458

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros sign Dominican LHP Edgar Ferreira

« on: December 12, 2009, 04:02:09 pm »

Per Jorge Arangure of ESPN.

Major League source says LHP Edgar Ferreira signs with Houston Astros for 350k LINK

New Astros signing Edgar Ferreira's DOB is 10/15/92. Was born in Santo Domingo. LINK

In workouts Ferreira has thrown 93-94 mph LINK

Some more info on Ferreira at Astros County: LINK

Baseball America named Ferreira the 11th-best Latin American prospect.

Natsfarm.com called Ferreira "raw" with a 90-91mph fastball.

459

Beer and Queso / Facebook snafus

« on: December 10, 2009, 07:01:22 pm »

Via the Huffington Post. LINK

460

Beer and Queso / Colt named 2009 O'Brien Award Winner

« on: December 10, 2009, 06:44:42 pm »

Beats out finalists Tebow and Keenum. LINK

“Colt McCoy has led his team to an undefeated season and a berth in the BCS National Championship game. As a starter, he’s led Texas to more wins than any other college quarterback. Ever. And, he’s a great student. Those are just a couple of reasons why Colt McCoy is a richly deserving winner of the 2009 O’Brien Award,” said Verne Lundquist, chair of the national selection committee.

461

Talk Zone / '10 NRIs

« on: December 08, 2009, 05:35:54 pm »

Per Levine (via Twitter):

Astros non-roster invites: Roy Corcoran, Casey Daigle, Gary Majewski, Drew Meyer, Oswaldo Navarro, Alex Romero, Ryan Sadowski, Chris Shelton

462

Talk Zone / Live Chat w/ Brad Mills on 12/8

« on: December 08, 2009, 01:16:19 am »

JdJO will have a live chat with Brad Mills at 11:00 CST over at his blog.

463

Talk Zone / Valverde declines arbitration

« on: December 07, 2009, 10:57:15 pm »

Per Rosenthal and Tim Brown (of Yahoo) via Twitter.

464

Talk Zone / Penny a Co-ard

« on: December 07, 2009, 06:31:01 pm »

Per Olney: via Twitter

The Cardinals and Brad Penny have a letter of agreement, for a $7.5 million base and $1.5 in performances bonuses. Physical likely on [Tues]

465

Talk Zone / Neyer on Bagwell and the HOF (sort of)

« on: December 04, 2009, 04:39:54 pm »

Though thrown in at the close of a discussion of Edgar Martinez' HOF candidacy, looks like Rob Neyer is a Bagwell for HOF supporter: LINK

I've been going back and forth on Edgar Martinez for years. Today, though, I'm convinced. He belongs. He wasn't nearly as valuable during his career as Frank Thomas or Jeff Bagwell, both of whom richly deserve enshrinement. But he was valuable enough.

466

Talk Zone / Too easy (to caption)?

« on: November 28, 2009, 05:52:27 pm »

Caption this

467

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros sign Ben Paxton of the Frontier League (IND)

« on: November 25, 2009, 06:13:52 pm »

Per the Charleston West Virginia Gazette. LINK (h/t to Astros County).

Paxton pitched this past summer for the Evansville Otters of the independent Frontier League, finishing with a 1.12 earn run average in 40 innings. The Astros bought his contract Nov. 3 and will assign him to the high Class A affiliate in Lancaster, Calif. Paxton, who made two NCAA tournament appearances for Western Kentucky, was named the No. 4 prospect in independent professional leagues in October by Baseball America.

468

Beer and Queso / Caption this

« on: November 25, 2009, 01:21:09 am »

Katie Couric party photo (#1)

Or if you prefer, this Katie Couric party photo (#2)

469

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Dick Scott hired as Minor League Field Coordinator

« on: November 17, 2009, 05:33:50 pm »

Per Footer tweet earlier today:

The Astros have hired Dick Scott as their Minor League Field Coordinator. He replaces Al Pedrique, who was promoted to bench coach.

Background into on Scott from new Round Rock Express blog "Straight From The Pen": LINK

Tuesday, the Astros named Dick Scott as minor league field coordinator. Scott had served as director of player development for the Toronto Blue Jays since November 2001. ***

A 17th-round draft pick in 1981 MLB Draft by the New York Yankees, Scott reached the Majors with the Oakland Athletics in 1989. An infielder by trade, he played exactly 800 games over 10 seasons in the minor leagues. ***

Scott began his coaching career with the Athletics organization in 1991 and was Class A Manager of the Year with Scottsdale that season. He also was so honored in 1992 and 1994 and was named USA Today/Baseball Weekly Minor League Manager of the Year the second of those two seasons. Scott joined the Arizona Diamondbacks organization in 1997 and became a Major League scout for the Diamondbacks the next year.

470

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Coaching shakeup

« on: November 14, 2009, 05:18:20 pm »

Zach Levine discusses the ripple effect created by Romero and Bailey taking taking jobs in Greeneville and Corpus. LINK An official announcement is expected next week.

471

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Evan Englebrook

« on: November 11, 2009, 07:16:16 pm »

BAs Ben Badler with some more love (sort of) for 27 year old RHP Evan Englebrook today (via Twitter):

Speaking of enormous humans, Astros 6-8 RHP Evan Englebrook threw 94-96 last inning. Could help HOU bullpen next year

Didn't have much of a clue who he was until the AFL this year (and still don't), but after Badlers mention again today am curious.

Englebrook's AFL line is: 0W/ 0L/ 4.35 ERA/ 9G/ 10.1IP/ 12H / 6R/ 5ER/ 2HR/ 3BB/ 9SO/ .286AVG.

AFL pitch selections (per pitch FX as still available or elsewhere recorded):

11/11 (15 pitches): 12 4-seam FB (5x94, 6x95, 1x96); 1 slider (83), 2 changeups (80, 81);
11/6 (6 pitches): 3 4-seam FB (2x94, 1x95); 1 slider (83), 2 changeups (82); and
10/24 (15 pitches): 15 4-seam FB (2x94, 4x95, 5x96, 4x97)

Anyone had a chance to see him/have any thoughts on him?

Besides throwing a 4-seamer 94-97 MPH how does the FB look, does he have any other decent pitches / how are his change and slider?

472

Talk Zone / Let the Hot Stove season begin

« on: November 05, 2009, 01:08:12 am »

Important dates (feel free to add to or correct...) LINK

November 5th - 19th: teams have exclusive rights to their own free agents. Players can talk with other teams, but only in general terms.

November 20th: Reserve lists for all Major and Minor League levels filed.

December 1st: Last date for former Club to offer salary arbitration to receive compensation.

December 7th - 10th: Winter Meetings, Indianapolis

December 10th: Major League Rule 5 Draft -- Winter Meetings, Indianapolis

December 12th: Tender deadline

473

Talk Zone / Jamie Quirk hired as bullpen coach

« on: November 04, 2009, 12:56:00 pm »

Per Footer (via Twitter):

The Astros have hired Jamie Quirk as bullpen coach. He spent '09 as a scout for the Reds after serving as COL bench coach from 2003-08.

474

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Aaron Bray blogs (sort of)

« on: November 02, 2009, 01:10:46 pm »

2009 27th round pick Aaron Bray has been posting a weekly mini-blog over at Astros County this off season. Typically not a ton of in-depth info, but an enjoyable read nevertheless. LINK

That said, did find his comments on fellow teammate Juri Perez insightful (among other comments of course...).

A: I would have to say the guy on our team with the best stuff was Juri Perez. He had command of everything and worked at a good pace. He threw his off-speed well, not a lot of people can do that. He threw hard and painted on the corners. Along with good stuff, he used his head when he pitched, he was smart. That is the most important thing to do as a pitcher.

475

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Catching up with Jio

« on: November 02, 2009, 12:50:43 pm »

Solid recap on Mier's first professional season from Zach Levine: LINK

476

Talk Zone / Brad Arnsberg named as pitching coach

« on: October 30, 2009, 05:05:47 pm »

Per McTaggart tweet.

Bio from Blue Jays site.

477

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros '09 draft report card

« on: October 28, 2009, 11:14:21 am »

Came out from BA today. Would be curious to hear BAs take, as it is behind the pay wall... Thanks!

478

Talk Zone / Welcome to Houston Mr. Mills!

« on: October 28, 2009, 01:11:48 am »

Random reactions, comments and notes on the hiring of Brad Mills as Astros Manager.

479

The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Neither here nor there... but...

« on: October 26, 2009, 07:15:46 pm »

Some info on Dickie Thon's son (Dickie Joe Thon) in Baseball Americas 'Ask BA' column this week. LINK

480

Talk Zone / Mac's back, LaRussa extended?

« on: October 25, 2009, 05:06:25 pm »

MLB Trade Rumors passes along into that Mark McGwire has been hired as hitting coach for the Co-ards and that LaRussa has signed a new multi-year contract (via Olney) to return as manager.

Screw the jakes!

481

Talk Zone / Astros announce 2010 Spring Training Schedule

« on: October 25, 2009, 04:49:41 am »

The Houston Astros unveiled their 2010 Spring Training schedule today. The club returns to Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee, Florida for the 26th season, where they will play 14 of their 28 scheduled Spring Training games. LINK

2010 Houston Astros Spring Training Schedule

(as of Oct. 23, 2009 and subject to change, all times TBA)

Friday March 5 Detroit Lakeland TBA

Saturday March 6 Atlanta KISSIMMEE TBA

Sunday March 7 Atlanta Orlando TBA

Monday March 8 Toronto KISSIMMEE TBA

Tuesday March 9 New York Mets Port St. Lucie TBA

Wednesday March10 Florida KISSIMMEE TBA

Thursday March 11 Washington Viera TBA

Friday March 12 Toronto Dunedin TBA

Saturday March 13 Washington KISSIMMEE (SS) TBA

St. Louis Jupiter (SS) TBA

Sunday March 14 Atlanta KISSIMMEE TBA

Monday March 15 OFF

Tuesday March 16 New York Yankees Tampa TBA

Wednesday March 17 Washington KISSIMMEE TBA

Thursday March 18 Detroit Lakeland TBA

Friday March 19 Toronto KISSIMMEE TBA

Saturday March 20 New York Yankees KISSIMMEE TBA

Sunday March 21 New York Mets KISSIMMEE TBA

Monday March 22 St. Louis KISSIMMEE TBA

Tuesday March 23 Pittsburgh Bradenton TBA

Wednesday March 24 New York Mets Port St. Lucie TBA

Thursday March 25 Philadelphia Clearwater TBA

Friday March 26 Pittsburgh KISSIMMEE TBA

Saturday March 27 Tampa Bay KISSIMMEE TBA

Sunday March 28 Florida Jupiter TBA

Monday March 29 Pittsburgh Bradenton TBA

Tuesday March 30 Philadelphia KISSIMMEE TBA

Wednesday March 31 Atlanta Orlando TBA

Thursday April 1 Detroit KISSIMMEE TBA

Friday April 2 TBA MINUTE MAID PARK TBA

Saturday April 3 TBA MINUTE MAID PARK TBA

482

Talk Zone / Ex-USC player remembers his Series

« on: October 25, 2009, 04:41:03 am »

Adam Everett reminisces a bit on the '05 series. LINK

483

Talk Zone / The Crimson Chin w/ some love from the NYT

« on: October 22, 2009, 01:48:23 pm »

Eric Bruntlett, Phillies’ Pinch-Runner Extraordinaire, Is Good-Luck Charm

484

Beer and Queso / C'mon now, are you really THAT apathetic?

« on: October 22, 2009, 12:25:35 pm »

I know it's The Void and all, but are you really so apathetic that you can't take the time out of your busy lives to heap ridicule on Steve Phillips for his own personal fatal attraction with this woman? Even when the Glenn Close wannabe writes letters to the soon-to-be ex-spouse? Really?

I mean its Steve Phillips. Yes, that Steve Phillips. Yep, him.

Has Monica Lewinsky taught people nothing?

485

Talk Zone / 2010 Free Agent Closer Market

« on: October 22, 2009, 01:59:19 am »

Just trying to help Mr. Wade out here...

Here is a list (via MLB Trade Rumors) of Closers and relievers with closing experience (as of 9/29):

Trevor Hoffman,
Fernando Rodney,
LaTroy Hawkins,
Mike Gonzalez,
Rafael Soriano,
Jose Valverde,
Kevin Gregg,
Billy Wagner,
Luis Ayala,
Danys Baez,
Miguel Batista,
Joaquin Benoit,
Rafael Betancourt,
Chad Cordero,
Octavio Dotel,
Kelvim Escobar,
Eric Gagne,
Tom Gordon,
Bob Howry,
Jason Isringhausen,
Jorge Julio,
Brandon Lyon,
Troy Percival,
J.J. Putz,
Takashi Saito,
Justin Speier,
David Weathers,
Eddie Guardado,
Kiko Calero

Presuming Wade doesn't want to (or cannot) go 3 yrs - 36 million for a closer (i.e. Valverde), what are the options?

486

Talk Zone / Paging Mr. Matsui, Mr. Kazuo Matsui

« on: October 19, 2009, 12:20:19 pm »

Mariners catcher Kenji Johjima Opts out of his contract (via MLB Trade Rumors): LINK

Catcher Kenji Johjima has opted out of the final two years of his contract, according to a press release from the Mariners. He'll resume his career back in Japan. The Mariners are freed from the $16MM they'd have owed Johjima over 2010-11, though Larry LaRue of the Tacoma News Tribune says the parties "came to an agreement on a buyout."

487

Talk Zone / Puff piece on Randy Wolf

« on: October 19, 2009, 12:10:18 pm »

Piece on Randy Wolf by Amy K. Nelson. Worth the read: LINK

488

Talk Zone / Pimping Brad Ausmus

« on: October 19, 2009, 10:40:29 am »

SI with a nice piece on Ausmus: LINK

(Some good quotes throughout, including: Ausmus did once tie a single-season National League batting record, as an Astro in 2002, when he equaled Ernie Lombardi's 64-year-old mark by grounding into 30 double plays. "I had two weeks to break it, and didn't hit into another one," Ausmus says. "I blame the people in front of me for not getting on base.")

489

Talk Zone / Path of the Pros: Lance Berkman

« on: October 16, 2009, 01:29:35 pm »

Berkman featured in MLB.com's Path of the Pros series. LINK

490

Talk Zone / No, not Cruuuuuuuuuuuuuuuz

« on: October 13, 2009, 10:10:32 pm »

JdJO reporting that the Astros will not be retaining Jose Cruz as a coach. LINK

Tal Smith and Ed Wade told [Cruz that] his services as a major league coach will no longer be needed with the club. *** Cruz, 62, said he was offered a role similar to the community outreach jobs held by Larry Dierker and Jimmy Wynn.

491

Talk Zone / Gas Can retiring?

« on: October 13, 2009, 12:00:12 pm »

Mike Puma at the New York Post says Wagner is 'eyeing retirement'. LINK

Billy Wagner may have thrown his last pitch in the major leagues.

The former Mets pitcher told The Post yesterday he's planning to retire rather than pursue a closer's job -- and 400 career saves -- next season.

"I don't plan on talking to nobody," Wagner said, when asked where he might pitch next season.

Does that mean retirement?

"Why wouldn't I?" he said. "I've got nothing else to [accomplish]."

ETA (from the end of the piece): A source close to the situation said Wagner might just need a cooling period before deciding to pitch in 2010, but also cautioned that the lefty is making his family a priority and could very well be serious about retirement.

492

Talk Zone / Manager search - open interview process

« on: October 09, 2009, 03:18:02 pm »

Per McTaggart's blog, the Astros will be conducting an 'open interview process' in their managerial search ("like they did when Wade was hired").

That means they're going to announce who's coming in to interview (or in some cases who they are going to interview) the day before the interview happens, and the candidate will be made available to the media when the interview is over. Not that we'll gain any great insight from these guys after they interview, but it will be nice to know who the candidates are and what they bring to the table.

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Talk Zone / Playoff trivia

« on: October 08, 2009, 10:53:20 pm »

Not an authorized Ding™ distributor so no points to be awarded for this one... but... saw this bit of trivia from Zach Levine at the Chron and thought I'd pass it along.

11 former Astros in the 2009 playoffs: (How many can you name before you look?)

Answers LINK.

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Beer and Queso / Obama taking American imperialism to new heights

« on: October 08, 2009, 05:46:35 pm »

NASA to bomb the moon tomorrow morning. LINK LINK

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Talk Zone / Garner with a little advice for Astros managerial candidates

« on: October 08, 2009, 06:35:53 am »

Advises Garner: Know club's goals (JdJO story LINK)

Garner preaches honesty during the interview process. [Candidates] should ask for honest assessments from Drayton McLane, Tal Smith and Ed Wade regarding the club's expectations.

“Find out what the owner's and general manager's expectations are,” Garner said. “And then look at the team and see if you can meet the expectations.”

As far as media centers, though, Garner says Houston is a welcoming town.

“In this town, a new manager gets a first-year honeymoon period. The second year is a bit harder. Then the third is make-or-break, but that's been Drayton's modus operandi. Everybody knows that.”

There's something else people should know about managing in Houston and Texas if you win:

“There's a great sense of pride and responsibility if you live here,” Garner said. “If you win, people throughout the city and the state will thank you and send you thank-you letters. ... I think Houston's a very good city to manage.”

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Talk Zone / Ed Wade interview w/ Randy McIlvoy

« on: October 07, 2009, 12:32:35 am »

Transcript link from interview.

On manager search:

I have 3 pages of names, we'll whittle it down to under 10. Guys don't eliminate themselves. Case of us doing our homework and looking at a body of work and to see if he fits the profile of our personalities here. I've told people, end of day, we'd like to have a mgr, we bump into a player at the airport and he says-- "the best manager I ever played for was that guy in Houston in 2010".

On payroll:

The economy has impacted sports now. We're recognizing we have to pick and choose between some of the guys we have. *** we'll have to make tough decisions because of economic environment. but at end of the day it's a try to put best team on field and we'll make every effort to make those decisions work to our advantage.

On how critical it is to add another experienced starting pitcher:

Opportunity is out there. list of FA is a small list.. Randy Wolf who was here year ago, would of been great to retain him last year. there's 2 or 3 guys there. realistically, we'll have to be aggressive to have those conversations. I don't think we can fall back into mode of signing guys that we "hope" are healthy...

On Jason Castro:

Castro- would be great if he's ready for opening day we'll probably plan that he's not and be surprised if he is.

On preaching patience to the fans:

I'm one of the most impatient people in the world. Hard to preach it to myself. We're going to try , when i got this job, go on parallel paths. try to be championship caliber at big league level. Get good and stay good. Scouting development has to prevail in process. Will there be rough spots? sure there will be. As we get away from '09 and focus on 2010, we'll work like crazy to get this club straightened out to get off to better start early in season and put pressure on . If we can get on to a good start, the momentum will build, put the pedal to metal and see what happens.

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Talk Zone / Astros pick up their portion of Moehler's option

« on: October 06, 2009, 08:28:19 pm »

JdJO LINK

The Astros informed Brian Moehler today that they plan to pick up their portion of the mutual option they hold on the righthander for 2010.
***
“We informed Moehler today that we want to pick up his option,” Ed Wade said. “He has the right to decline. We’re optimistic that Brian is going to be back with us next year.”

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Talk Zone / Astros for sale?

« on: October 01, 2009, 04:11:31 pm »

Headlining in the 'whatever' category today is Tracy Ringolsby at Fox Sports: LINK

Word is two other teams [in addition to the Rangers] are available — the Houston Astros and Arizona Diamondbacks — although there is no indication that there have been any serious talks with a prospective buyer for either team.

WHATEVER.

(h/t to Astros County for the link)

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Talk Zone / "If I'm on, I'm going to go,"

« on: October 01, 2009, 01:22:37 pm »

Evidently the record is on the mind of Budgirl's "sweet baby Bourn": LINK

Bourn stole his 61st base of the season in the second inning Wednesday against the Phillies, putting him within four of tying Gerald Young's club record of 65 set in 1988.

"If I'm on, I'm going to go," Bourn said. "As far as [the club record] being in my mind, it's not on my mind to where it's going to bug me. It's in my mind because I know what the record is. If I got the opportunity to get it, I'm going to try to get it. I'm going to try to tie and break it. That's only if the opportunity presents itself and how much I get on base. We'll what happens the last few games."

Bourn said next year he wants to try to steal third base more often. He has stolen third base four times.

"I'm more laid back and let Lance [Berkman] or Carlos [Lee] drive the ball," Bourn said. "It makes it easier on them to make contract with the ball and drive it to the outfield or hit the ground ball and I can get in either way. Just have it in the pitcher's mind that I might go, so he can't concentrate on Lance and Carlos and he might leave a pitch up."

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The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Astros playing winter ball - 2009

« on: October 01, 2009, 12:36:11 am »

As noted in Ed Wade's live chat yesterday, Wesley Wright is going to play winter ball in the Dominican and will be a starter there. SNS LINK

Levine also notes in his blog that Drew Locke has healed better than expected to this point and is looking to play winter ball as well. LINK

I spoke with Class AA Corpus Christi MVP Drew Locke when he was picking up his award in Houston over the weekend. He said his hand was feeling much better and that he hopes to play winter ball, which was unexpected based on the prognosis I got from the club when he was hit by a pitch with a week to go in the minor league season.

"We are currently trying to contact a few Winter Ball teams to see if they are willing to accept him when he is ready to return to action around November 1," Bennett wrote in an e-mail.

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