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General Discussion => The Bus Ride Discussion Forum => Topic started by: Duman on April 02, 2009, 07:44:26 am

Title: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 02, 2009, 07:44:26 am
This will be your thread to discuss the goings on with the Hooks this season.  Sit back and enjoy the bus ride.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 02, 2009, 07:46:57 am
Here is the Hooks roster for the exhibition game against the Astros (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3798251).  The opening day roster will not be finalized until after the two exhibition games are played:

Quote
Pitchers - Erick Abreu, Douglas Arguello, T.J. Burton, Paul Estrada, Casey Hudspeth, Brad James, Jeremy Johnson, Felipe Paulino, Sergio Perez, Chris Salamida, Rob Semerano, Polin Trinidad, Andy Van Hekken, Chad Wagler

Catchers - Brian Esposito, Lou Palmisano

Infielders - Jhon Florentino, Mark Ori, Drew Meyer, Felix Molina, Chad Spann, Wladimir Sutil

Outfielders - Collin DeLome, Mitch Einertson, Josh Flores, Andrew Locke, Jimmy Van Ostrand
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 03, 2009, 12:15:19 pm
Video Highlights of the Hooks win over the Astros from KRIS.TV (http://www.kristv.com/global/video/flash/popupplayer.asp?ClipID1=3615553&h1=Hooks%20Beat%20Astros%206-5&vt1=v&at1=Sport&d1=105000&LaunchPageAdTag=Sport&activePane=info&rnd=32109503)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: jonbloozy on April 03, 2009, 12:35:45 pm
Video Highlights of the Hooks win over the Astros from KRIS.TV (http://www.kristv.com/global/video/flash/popupplayer.asp?ClipID1=3615553&h1=Hooks%20Beat%20Astros%206-5&vt1=v&at1=Sport&d1=105000&LaunchPageAdTag=Sport&activePane=info&rnd=32109503)

Nice job on the recap (http://www.spikesnstars.com/2009/04/03/hooks-walk-off-with-win/) Duman.  It was a fun game to watch.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on April 03, 2009, 02:21:58 pm
Nice job on the recap (http://www.spikesnstars.com/2009/04/03/hooks-walk-off-with-win/) Duman.  It was a fun game to watch.
Yes.  Well done.  Glad to see you report the rotation plans, too.  I suppose this means that Paulino will be back in RR where we expected him all along?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 03, 2009, 02:36:55 pm
Yes.  Well done.  Glad to see you report the rotation plans, too.  I suppose this means that Paulino will be back in RR where we expected him all along?

Yes, Paulino will be in RR.  I was surprised to see James so far down the rotation.  Makes me wonder if he is still having some "yips" as reported in spring training.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: farmstros on April 05, 2009, 10:14:45 pm
http://www.caller.com/news/2009/apr/05/hookscaps-txt/#gallery

This link from the CC Caller Times shows Jason Castro as a Hook?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Reuben on April 05, 2009, 11:43:28 pm
http://www.caller.com/news/2009/apr/05/hookscaps-txt/#gallery

This link from the CC Caller Times shows Jason Castro as a Hook?
see their outlook:
Quote
(Castro) is slated to start at High-A Lancaster in his native California. His arrival in Corpus Christi could be soon,
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: farmstros on April 06, 2009, 07:40:19 am
good catch.  I was so mesmerized by his listing in CC that I stopped reading!
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 06, 2009, 08:19:40 am
In addition to Castro being considered for moving up to AA,  some at AA were recently highlighted for possible move up. (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/apr/05/riskreward-astros-general-manager-believes-more/).

Quote
While the Astros’ talent pool is held in low regard by some, Bennett said newcomers such as first baseman Mark Ori and infielder Jhon Florentino and holdovers including pitchers Brad James, Sergio Perez and Polin Trinidad were potential candidates for advancement.

BTW - I am going to miss having Salem in the system.  Their paper was the best with Katrina Waugh doing a great job as the beat reporter.  Now the Caller takes up the banner as the best coverage in the system with Lexington right behind.  I am not optimistic about the coverage from Lancaster.  Round Rock's coverage is okay but nothing to write home about.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on April 06, 2009, 09:03:14 am
Anybody else see the game yesterday?

Positive impressions:
Casey Hudspeth has a good curve and seemed to fool most of the batters most of the time for four innings.
Josh Flores seemed to be running well and made a couple of good plays in CF
Polin Trinidad has a *wicked* curve and some sort of hard slider or cutter that also looked good.

Negative impressions:
Meyer at 2B is going to make a long season.  Should have been given an error on a muffed grounder scored as a hit, and several other misplays.
Esposito should know to run straight to the bag even on a grounder that got knocked down;  Getting thrown out by Kata after taking a big loop on the way to 1B is *not* a good way to impress anyone.

Random impressions:
Colin "duh-LOAM"?  I always assumed it was "DELL-uh-may"
Mitch "EEN-ertson"?  Again ... I always assumed "EYE-nertson"
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: jonbloozy on April 09, 2009, 11:49:10 am
2009 Hooks Roster (http://www.cchooks.com/roster/default/)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on April 09, 2009, 01:22:56 pm
2009 Hooks Roster (http://www.cchooks.com/roster/default/)
26 players and this one includes Fixler, too.  Odd.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 09, 2009, 01:27:40 pm
26 players and this one includes Fixler, too.  Odd.

MILB roster has Lou P on the 7 day DL.  So Fixler will be the back up so that the C&C show in Lancaster can go on as scheduled.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on April 30, 2009, 08:49:13 pm
Good and Bad Report for April is at the bus stop (http://www.spikesnstars.com/2009/04/30/corpus-christi-aprils-good-bad-report/)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on May 04, 2009, 02:22:31 pm
Looks like Trinidad is back.  3 H & 3 K in 4 IP earning the save in relief of Backe.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on May 05, 2009, 08:06:14 am
Looks like Trinidad is back.  3 H & 3 K in 4 IP earning the save in relief of Backe.
Earning his first save since 2005.

Other notes from Greg Rajan at Caller.com:
 (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/may/04/backe-pitches-hooks-to-victory/)
Quote
Shortstop Wladimir Sutil, who hasn't played since tweaking a hamstring on April 26, was placed on the disabled list. To replace Sutil, infielder Mike Diaz was called up from the Astros' extended spring training camp in Kissimmee, Fla.

Interesting replacement move.  It will be interesting to see if Diaz is just there to fill a roster spot and sit on the bench or if he actually gets into any games.  He hit .282 with Tri Cities last year after being drafted in the 30th round.

The Hooks are riding 2 straight shutouts for an 18 inning scoreless streak. 
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on May 07, 2009, 09:08:02 am
Video of Drew Locke's swing and arm. (http://www.kristv.com/global/video/flash/popupplayer.asp?ClipID1=3728412&h1=Locked%20In%3A%20Hooks%20Outfielder%20Does%20It%20All&vt1=v&at1=Sport&d1=107000&LaunchPageAdTag=Sport&activePane=info&rnd=91806309)  The first HR is a monster shot to left.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on May 11, 2009, 09:40:10 am
Check the bus ride for blurb on catcher Jon Fixler.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: jbm on May 18, 2009, 11:30:26 am
I got to see a couple of Hooks games last week, one of which was already televised.

I'm curious to see Backe's fate.  His fastball was high 80s and his curve was very poor by his standards.  I heard they have to make a decision on him in a week or so.  I'm not sure what options the Astros have with him, but he did not look ready.

As Duman pointed out in another thread, none of their position players destined for everyday major league ball.  Locke did seem like a damn good hitter for that level.  Two bombs to left.  The lefty got him with three changeups, but otherwise, I was impressed.  Delome hit a nice opposite field shot one night but looked bad the next.  Flores looked overmatched every other at bat it seemed. 

There was nothing about Smoak that made me feel the Astros missed some big opportunity.

James' fastball, when down in the zone is a very nice pitch: lows 90s with good movement.  Up in the zone, not much.  I take it this guy has not progressed too much, in developing secondary pitches or fastball command.  It's a shame cause at times, that fastball is impressive.  Don't know why he only threw three innings.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on May 18, 2009, 12:28:17 pm
I got to see a couple of Hooks games last week, one of which was already televised.

I'm curious to see Backe's fate.  His fastball was high 80s and his curve was very poor by his standards.  I heard they have to make a decision on him in a week or so.  I'm not sure what options the Astros have with him, but he did not look ready.

As Duman pointed out in another thread, none of their position players destined for everyday major league ball.  Locke did seem like a damn good hitter for that level.  Two bombs to left.  The lefty got him with three changeups, but otherwise, I was impressed.  Delome hit a nice opposite field shot one night but looked bad the next.  Flores looked overmatched every other at bat it seemed. 

There was nothing about Smoak that made me feel the Astros missed some big opportunity.

James' fastball, when down in the zone is a very nice pitch: lows 90s with good movement.  Up in the zone, not much.  I take it this guy has not progressed too much, in developing secondary pitches or fastball command.  It's a shame cause at times, that fastball is impressive.  Don't know why he only threw three innings.
that was Jacksonian who said that about the position players.  I agree... just wanted to give credit where credit is due.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Jacksonian on May 18, 2009, 01:53:09 pm
that was Jacksonian who said that about the position players.  I agree... just wanted to give credit where credit is due.

No worries.

James looked like a mess.  Location was terrible esp up.  Fortunately for James he was out of the zone a lot.  They took him out, IIRC, because he'd thrown a lot of pitches and his command wasn't coming around.  I don't remember hearing if James's mechanics were coming apart.  I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case though.

Locke is pretty well blocked at AAA so I think he'll be helping out the Hooks lineup for some time.

Flores lost a full year of development.  Time I fear he couldn't afford to miss.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on May 18, 2009, 02:26:46 pm
No worries.

James looked like a mess.  Location was terrible esp up.  Fortunately for James he was out of the zone a lot.  They took him out, IIRC, because he'd thrown a lot of pitches and his command wasn't coming around.  I don't remember hearing if James's mechanics were coming apart.  I wouldn't be surprised if that was the case though.



There was talk in the spring about him having the "yips" about hitting batters.  Sounds like the biggest battle he is fighting is in his head right now.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on May 26, 2009, 03:07:30 pm
There was talk in the spring about him having the "yips" about hitting batters.  Sounds like the biggest battle he is fighting is in his head right now.

Heard the 'yips' comments a number of times in ST, although I don't particularly remember them being about hitting batters (rather thought it was being on the mound generally).  Heard anything on whether the en vogue 'anxiety disorder' diagnosis (e.g. Willis, Greinke, Khalil Green) is being looked at or might have any application here?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on May 26, 2009, 03:11:01 pm
Re: Offensive Pitching (http://).  "The Hooks surrendered 53 runs in the 4 game series...".   Now that is offensive... (as is a 21 run per game average from both teams in a 4 game series).
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on May 28, 2009, 05:12:36 pm
FYI, Hooks vs. Travelers on FS Houston tonight at 7:00.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on May 28, 2009, 07:10:45 pm
FYI, Hooks vs. Travelers on FS Houston tonight at 7:00.


Crap. James is pitching. He was on he mound the last time Hooks were on. I'd like to see Trinidad.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on May 28, 2009, 08:36:31 pm

Crap. James is pitching. He was on he mound the last time Hooks were on. I'd like to see Trinidad.

Agreed, but Meszaros warming up in the pen.  Looking forward to watching him work.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on May 28, 2009, 09:28:54 pm
Agreed, but Meszaros warming up in the pen.  Looking forward to watching him work.


Much, much better performance tonight by James.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: jbm on May 29, 2009, 08:24:22 am
He showed why it is hard to just give up on him, but he is still so far away.  It has been awhile since I have seen someone so up and down in one game.  I think there were at least three times where he threw four or five balls in row, but then he would figure it out.  A lot of mound visits by the pitching coach.

I hope to see Meszaros again and see that "hit and miss" curve they talked about.  He did not have it last night.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on May 29, 2009, 09:18:19 am
He showed why it is hard to just give up on him, but he is still so far away.  It has been awhile since I have seen someone so up and down in one game.  I think there were at least three times where he threw four or five balls in row, but then he would figure it out.  A lot of mound visits by the pitching coach.

I hope to see Meszaros again and see that "hit and miss" curve they talked about.  He did not have it last night.


Did he even throw a breaking pitch last night (Meszaros). I wasn't watching that closely but I just saw FB's. Or, did he throw a couple but as you said "didn't have it" so he abandoned it. Anyway, the least successful outing of the year for the guy.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: jbm on May 29, 2009, 09:40:01 am
The first inning, I think it was straight fastballs.  The second inning, he attempted one that ended up helmet high over the plate.  He might have tried again, but it was unrecognizable as a breaking pitch.

Interestingly, James threw less than a handful of breaking pitches.  I think he was told to keep it simple and just throw fastballs.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: austro on May 29, 2009, 09:52:18 am
Did he even throw a breaking pitch last night (Meszaros).

I saw one that broke a seat back way out in the left field stands.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on May 29, 2009, 10:26:02 am
I saw one that broke a seat back way out in the left field stands.

So the HR was on a curve ball?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: austro on May 29, 2009, 10:31:12 am
So the HR was on a curve ball?

No, I don't think so, but I don't really remember. I was trying to make a play on "breaking pitch", but I guess I whiffed. Anyway, Meszaros didn't really appear to be fooling anybody last night.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on May 29, 2009, 11:23:00 am
No, I don't think so, but I don't really remember. I was trying to make a play on "breaking pitch", but I guess I whiffed. Anyway, Meszaros didn't really appear to be fooling anybody last night.


Yea, I didn't see anything that explained as early success. He certainly wasn't overpowering but perhaps that was just an off-night.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on June 02, 2009, 03:04:30 pm
Good & Bad report posted for April.  Tropical Depression Warning (http://www.spikesnstars.com/2009/06/02/the-good-bad-report-corpus-christi-may-09/)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on June 02, 2009, 05:27:31 pm
Good & Bad report posted for April.  Tropical Depression Warning (http://www.spikesnstars.com/2009/06/02/the-good-bad-report-corpus-christi-may-09/)
You make Hudspeth look like a younger (really!) version of Eny Wandy.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on June 07, 2009, 05:44:31 am
Douglas Arguello on the DL with "an ailment to his pitching elbow." (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jun/07/einertsons-blast-lifts-hooks-to-win/)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on June 07, 2009, 09:59:01 pm
Douglas Arguello on the DL with "an ailment to his pitching elbow." (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jun/07/einertsons-blast-lifts-hooks-to-win/)
Bad news indeed.  I guess that explains why Lopez took his slot in the rotation today.  I was wondering about that.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: 5+7 on June 08, 2009, 10:08:51 am
Castro promoted to Corpus after last night's game.

http://www.jethawks.com/news/press-releases/view/?id=914
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: StrosKids12345 on June 08, 2009, 11:37:10 am
Here is a story I found by the local paper out there, who spoke to castro.

http://avpress.com/n/08/0608_s9.hts
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Jacksonian on June 08, 2009, 11:56:46 am
Castro promoted to Corpus after last night's game.

http://www.jethawks.com/news/press-releases/view/?id=914

I was expecting it at the ASB rather than now.  We'll see how he does over the rest of the year.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Reuben on June 08, 2009, 12:01:45 pm
Here is a story I found by the local paper out there, who spoke to castro.

http://avpress.com/n/08/0608_s9.hts
I knew he'd gotten the Astros/JetHawks' defensive player of the month honors, but I had no idea he'd been so successful throwing out runners. 59%! Wow.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on June 08, 2009, 05:58:54 pm
Jon Fixler is being sent down the Lancaster to make room on the roster.  Guess he finally started hitting singles and they sent him down.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Jacksonian on June 08, 2009, 09:05:00 pm
Jon Fixler is being sent down the Lancaster to make room on the roster.  Guess he finally started hitting singles and they sent him down.

I thought that's what might happen.  Astros want the more experienced back up in Corpus.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Leeaire on June 10, 2009, 07:09:24 pm
Hey guys, Castro playing in AA tonight :D.

I'm watching it on the website:

http://b2cabletv.com/?channelsid=74

If some of you didn't know its there.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on June 10, 2009, 09:29:13 pm
Hey guys, Castro playing in AA tonight :D.

I'm watching it on the website:

http://b2cabletv.com/?channelsid=74

If some of you didn't know its there.


What else do you think we watch on the bus?  Valverde is pitching now
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Bench on June 10, 2009, 10:28:43 pm
What else do you think we watch on the bus?  Valverde is pitching now

So... what happened?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on June 10, 2009, 10:38:02 pm
So... what happened?
Midland Top 8th

Pitcher Change: Jose Valverde replaces Polin Trinidad.
Adrian Cardenas walks.
Josh Donaldson strikes out swinging.
Alex Valdez pops out to shortstop Wladimir Sutil.
Michael Affronti walks. Adrian Cardenas to 2nd.
With Matthew Sulentic batting, wild pitch by Jose Valverde, Adrian Cardenas to 3rd. Michael Affronti to 2nd.
Matthew Sulentic strikes out swinging.

Courtesy of http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Bench on June 10, 2009, 10:44:56 pm
Midland Top 8th

Pitcher Change: Jose Valverde replaces Polin Trinidad.
Adrian Cardenas walks.
Josh Donaldson strikes out swinging.
Alex Valdez pops out to shortstop Wladimir Sutil.
Michael Affronti walks. Adrian Cardenas to 2nd.
With Matthew Sulentic batting, wild pitch by Jose Valverde, Adrian Cardenas to 3rd. Michael Affronti to 2nd.
Matthew Sulentic strikes out swinging.

Courtesy of http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/


Awesome. How did Castro look?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Noe on June 10, 2009, 10:46:27 pm
Awesome. How did Castro look?

He looks very smooth behind the dish.  He's bigger than I realized, however he's very lanky, not big in the sense of a heavy looking catcher.  Hitting, I saw only his first at bat and he looked a bit jumpy.  It will take time to settle in.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Reuben on June 11, 2009, 09:37:52 am
Nice night for Trinidad, just a first-inning single and nothing else in 7 IP, on 75 pitches. And DeLome with his league-leading 12th HR.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on June 13, 2009, 06:18:06 am
Josh Flores out for season -  (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jun/12/hooksnotestxt/)

Quote
According to manager Luis Pujols, Flores will have surgery on the knee, which was operated on after the 2007 season and caused him to miss all of last year. Flores went to Houston on Friday to be examined by Astros doctors.

Flores had a good May (.289) and was showing signs of being back from the knee injury that made him miss all of 08. 
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on June 13, 2009, 11:22:46 am
Josh Flores out for season -  (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jun/12/hooksnotestxt/)

Flores had a good May (.289) and was showing signs of being back from the knee injury that made him miss all of 08. 


Tough break for Josh. The organization has alot of talent in CF now and Flores is going to be passed by some no doubt. A change of organizations may be best for him.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on June 14, 2009, 06:35:10 am
Douglas Arguello on the DL with "an ailment to his pitching elbow." (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jun/07/einertsons-blast-lifts-hooks-to-win/)

Left-hander Douglas Arguello, on the disabled list, with an elbow ailment, played catch and according to manager Luis Pujols, “he threw fine.” (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/jun/14/hooks-notebook-061409/)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Hornstros on June 15, 2009, 07:41:43 pm
Hey guys, Castro playing in AA tonight :D.

I'm watching it on the website:

http://b2cabletv.com/?channelsid=74

If some of you didn't know its there.


Does this website broadcast every game?  I went to it tonight (game in progress) and all that is playing is country music.   
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Noe on June 15, 2009, 08:01:36 pm
Does this website broadcast every game?  I went to it tonight (game in progress) and all that is playing is country music.   

b2networks only broadcast certain games.  You have to keep on eye on the schedules to find out what is broadcast.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on June 20, 2009, 10:09:07 pm
I just watched the Hooks on TV against Frisco. Frisco won 2-1 with a run in the bottom of the 9th but I was very impressed with Trinidad. He went all nine and looked very poised. Threw strikes and moved the ball around in the zone. Not afraid to pitch tight to RH hitters. Keeps the ball down in the zone alot. He reminds me of John Candalaria. Lanky, 3/4 arm slot. Kinda buggy whip motion. Reached 20 scoreless innings tonight before allowing a run on three singles in the 6th. did himself in with a 2 base error on an infield chopper in the ninth on a throw the firstbaseman didn't handle. Got beat with a blooper over the infield. Doesn't throw particularly hard but his most effective pitch is a 2-seam FB. There were not many balls hit hard against him. I predict he will be in the Houston rotation possibly as early as sometime next season.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Reuben on June 21, 2009, 03:42:16 pm
Trinidad was in CC most of last year (and did fairly well), right? I'm curious if anyone knows why he hasn't made it up to RR yet.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: VirtualBob on July 06, 2009, 04:59:50 pm
With Trinidad joining the rotation in Round Rock and Hudspeth being sent down to Lancaster, there would appear to be some holes in the Hooks' rotation.  I am hoping that Arguello is back to fill one.  Any hard data on the situation?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duder on July 07, 2009, 12:27:53 am
With Trinidad joining the rotation in Round Rock and Hudspeth being sent down to Lancaster, there would appear to be some holes in the Hooks' rotation.  I am hoping that Arguello is back to fill one.  Any hard data on the situation?

Looks like Kenny Baugh may be filling one of them.  He started tonight for the Hooks and didn't have very impressive line.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Hornstros on July 07, 2009, 09:40:35 am
Looks like Kenny Baugh may be filling one of them.  He started tonight for the Hooks and didn't have very impressive line.

Van Hekken started the other night too.   He had mostly been coming out of the bullpen this season.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on July 14, 2009, 08:54:23 pm
Zach Levine at the Chronicle is headed to Corpus Thursday and Friday (http://blogs.chron.com/unofficialscorer/2009/07/astros_am_report_road_trip_to.html) and is taking questions for the players or Luis Pujols.  If you have 'em, send 'em to him.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on July 16, 2009, 05:07:38 pm
German Duran making his Hooks debut tonight.  Will be batting leadoff. LINK (http://twitter.com/thescorer/status/2676644069)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: SaltyParker on July 31, 2009, 08:36:29 am
What's the word on Abreu, anyone seen him pitch? He is putting up good numbers and is age 26. I am just wondering if he has major league stuff.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on July 31, 2009, 10:38:35 am
I have nothing to add on Abreu but I see Castro was 3-5 last night with two doubles. Now back up to .309 after a slump that took him down to about .270 just a couple of weeks ago.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Jacksonian on July 31, 2009, 11:51:00 am
What's the word on Abreu, anyone seen him pitch? He is putting up good numbers and is age 26. I am just wondering if he has major league stuff.

I've only ever heard career minor leaguer.  Who know's though?  Maybe a late bloomer.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Hornstros on August 03, 2009, 09:35:19 am
Brad James had another case of the yips last night

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?sid=milb&t=g_box&gid=2009_08_02_coraax_mroaax_1

This guy has really taken a step back.  He's repeating Double A this year and his numbers are worse than last season.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 03, 2009, 11:34:16 am
Wow. I'm sure his days on the 40-man are numbered.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: tbone421998 on August 06, 2009, 07:48:21 am
http://www.mysanantonio.com/sports/missions/Locke_leads_Hooks_hit_parade_vs_Missions.htmlLocke looks to be good.  100 RBIs in 107 games. 
Quote
Locke, who took over the Texas League lead in hitting with a .330 average, was a big part of the Hooks' 16-hit attack, recording his league-leading 100th RBI with a double off Missions lefty Nathan Culp (5-7) during a three-run fifth, before scoring on Jhon Florentino's two-run triple.
 
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duder on August 07, 2009, 11:19:07 pm
Check out this play by Wladimir Sutil.  Apparently this was the number 2 play on SportsCenter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM7GMVjfevY
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 08, 2009, 09:40:09 am
Check out this play by Wladimir Sutil.  Apparently this was the number 2 play on SportsCenter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM7GMVjfevY


Wow. The look from the baserunner was pretty amusing.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 09, 2009, 11:04:54 am
Castro at .320 today after a 3-4 last night.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Ron Brand on August 09, 2009, 01:59:40 pm
Check out this play by Wladimir Sutil.  Apparently this was the number 2 play on SportsCenter.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM7GMVjfevY

He looked like Curly Neal out there.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Hornstros on August 12, 2009, 12:43:34 pm
There's a cover story on BA's website right now about Jason Castro living up to the expectation of being drafted #10 overall last year.   I don't have a BA subscription, but i know some folks here do.   if anyone can pass along any info from the article it would be much appreciated
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: domedogs on August 12, 2009, 04:29:10 pm
It's mostly talking about how he is making Heck and Wade look smart for passing on Smoak.  Castro discusses how once he got settled in at Corpus his offense started coming around (he was more concerned with learning the pitching staff and getting that in order first).  He also mentions that he will work this offseason to put on some weight.

The theme of the article is "He is good, not just 'good for a catcher'" 

Pujols praises how intelligent he is and how he can make adjustments on the fly after being coached.

Levine comments that the seabreeze in from right field may be impacting his power numbers, but Bennett says he's seen marked improvement in driving the ball to the gaps.

not a lot of meat and potatoes regarding the nuts and bolts of what he is working on.   I have been disappointed in my subscriptions except for the access to scouting reports on the top 10 prospects for each club.

Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on August 13, 2009, 09:23:36 pm
Brad James being moved to the pen (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/aug/12/hooksnotestxt/?partner=RSS).

“We thought a change of scenery would do him good,” pitching coach Stan Boroski said.

In 107 career appearances, all but six had been starts for James, who started all 48 outings with the Hooks since 2007.

“We’ll see if we can build some confidence in him,” Pujols said. “We talked to him about it last week before his last start. He felt good about (the move).”
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Jacksonian on August 13, 2009, 10:28:46 pm
Brad James being moved to the pen (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/aug/12/hooksnotestxt/?partner=RSS).

“We thought a change of scenery would do him good,” pitching coach Stan Boroski said.

In 107 career appearances, all but six had been starts for James, who started all 48 outings with the Hooks since 2007.

“We’ll see if we can build some confidence in him,” Pujols said. “We talked to him about it last week before his last start. He felt good about (the move).”


He was a closer at community college before being drafted.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on August 14, 2009, 04:37:01 pm
It will allow him to pitch more frequently and that will allow him to tweak things.  If he can get that sinker working again, he could be good as a person to come in when you need that double play ball.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 14, 2009, 04:50:01 pm
Recorded his first blown save last night.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Uncle Charlie on August 20, 2009, 09:00:14 am
Will that new pitcher from the Rangers organization be sent to Corpus or somewhere else?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on August 20, 2009, 09:22:12 am
Will that new pitcher from the Rangers organization be sent to Corpus or somewhere else?

I would guess no higher than Lancaster since he was in Low A ball for the Rangers.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 20, 2009, 09:27:57 am
I would guess no higher than Lancaster since he was in Low A ball for the Rangers.

I think I heard Brown say Lexington on the broadcast last night.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: SaltyParker on August 20, 2009, 10:11:51 am
I think I heard Brown say Lexington on the broadcast last night.
Yes, I heard him say that as well
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Hornstros on August 20, 2009, 12:04:00 pm
MiLB.com shows Nevarez on Lexington's roster

http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?t=t_ros&cid=495&stn=true&sid=t495
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Uncle Charlie on August 22, 2009, 04:42:30 pm
Thanks about Nevarez.  I thought I had read some something about him getting promoted in the trade to see what he can do.  He's got what, 1-2 years or so before needing to be on a 40-man?  That's not a lot given his level right now.

Another topic - I have a chance to see the Hooks in Frisco next month, but I don't know if Castro will still be there or already headed to Team USA.  Does anyone know when he's leaving the team?
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 23, 2009, 10:02:17 pm
Thanks about Nevarez.  I thought I had read some something about him getting promoted in the trade to see what he can do.  He's got what, 1-2 years or so before needing to be on a 40-man?  That's not a lot given his level right now.

Another topic - I have a chance to see the Hooks in Frisco next month, but I don't know if Castro will still be there or already headed to Team USA.  Does anyone know when he's leaving the team?


That tourney starts Sept 9th. Not sure when Castro leaves but obviously a few days before that.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: farmstros on August 24, 2009, 10:44:13 am
Nevarez was drafted in 2005 out of high school, so he is Rule 5 eligible this year.

The USA team starts training for the World Cup in Cary, NC on Sept. 2  according to the USA baseball website http://web.usabaseball.com/teams/index.jsp?team=940.  The Hooks media relations coordinator does not know departure date yet. 

FYI, Jimmy Van Ostrand is also leaving the Hooks to play for Canada.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Uncle Charlie on August 24, 2009, 02:46:22 pm
Nevarez was drafted in 2005 out of high school, so he is Rule 5 eligible this year.

The USA team starts training for the World Cup in Cary, NC on Sept. 2  according to the USA baseball website http://web.usabaseball.com/teams/index.jsp?team=940.  The Hooks media relations coordinator does not know departure date yet. 

FYI, Jimmy Van Ostrand is also leaving the Hooks to play for Canada.

So I guess that pretty much only leaves Locke as somone to watch during the series.  If they start training on the 2nd, surely He's gone by the time they get to Frisco.  Crap.


Do you think Nevarez would be selected in the Rule 5?  He seems like a classic candidate.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: juliogotay on August 24, 2009, 03:17:58 pm
So I guess that pretty much only leaves Locke as somone to watch during the series.  If they start training on the 2nd, surely He's gone by the time they get to Frisco.  Crap.


Do you think Nevarez would be selected in the Rule 5?  He seems like a classic candidate.


I think they can find room on the 40 man if they really like him.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Duman on August 25, 2009, 06:44:07 am

I think they can find room on the 40 man if they really like him.

I expect Brad James' slot will be available.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on August 27, 2009, 08:08:23 pm
Greg Rajan at the Caller-Times is reporting Hooks pitcher Wilton Lopez has been called up by the Astros. LINK (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/aug/27/hooks-pitcher-heading-majors/?partner=RSS)

How long Lopez stays depends if reliever Alberto Arias, who has a sore right knee is placed on the disabled list. If Arias goes on the DL, Lopez will take his spot in the bullpen. If not, Lopez likely will return to the Hooks.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: Reuben on August 28, 2009, 10:55:36 am
Not sure if someone noted this elsewhere, but McTaggert writes, "T.J. Burton, right-handed pitcher at Double A Corpus Christi, collapsed Wednesday in the clubhouse in Corpus Christi. He was taken to the hospital and admitted into the ICU with a possible viral infection. He is still undergoing tests and remains in the ICU."
Link (http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/)
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on August 28, 2009, 01:12:58 pm
Not sure if someone noted this elsewhere, but McTaggert writes, "T.J. Burton, right-handed pitcher at Double A Corpus Christi, collapsed Wednesday in the clubhouse in Corpus Christi. He was taken to the hospital and admitted into the ICU with a possible viral infection. He is still undergoing tests and remains in the ICU."
Link (http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/)

Update last night from Rajan at Caller-Times: LINK (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/aug/28/hooks-notebook-082809/?partner=RSS)

Hooks reliever T.J. Burton remained hospitalized on Thursday, but the team appeared to have more information on why he became ill before Wednesday’s game.

Manager Luis Pujols said Burton was being treated for tetanus and was moved out of the intensive care unit.

“The doctors believe it’s tetanus and they’re going to start the antibiotics (treatment) for it right away,” Pujols said.

Pujols and several of Burton’s teammates visited him in the hospital Thursday, with Burton telling them he planned to listen to their game on the radio.

“He looked better than the last time I saw him,” Pujols said.

Burton was placed on the disabled list and in all likelihood won’t pitch again during the final 11 games of the season.
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on August 31, 2009, 04:51:58 pm
Read last night that Locke left in the 4th inning after being hit in the hand by a pitch.  Levine just tweeted (http://twitter.com/thescorer/status/3674157195) that "Locke [is] done for the season with broken hand. Not expected to be back for winter ball."

Crappy news for the kid...
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on August 31, 2009, 05:23:55 pm
Crappy news for the kid...

This (http://www.oursportscentral.com/services/releases/?id=3897406) may help some.  Then again, not really...

Hooks outfielder Drew Locke and shortstop Wladimir Sutil have been named to the 2009 Texas League Post-Season All-Star Team...
Title: Re: Corpus Christi 2009
Post by: OregonStrosFan on October 12, 2009, 04:57:22 pm
Hooks named Texas League organization of the year (http://www.caller.com/news/2009/oct/12/hooks-named-texas-league-organization-year/?partner=RSS)

League president Tom Kayser called the award “a recognition of overall club operations” as well as pointing out the Hooks’ work to promote baseball at all levels in South Texas.