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Messages - pots

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1001
Nice thread title, by the way.

I tried but couldn't resist

1002
Stros up 1-0 with a Lowrie sac fly in the first.  2 on 2 out in the top of the 2nd.  Failed to get the run home from third with one out.


1-0 middle of the second

1003
Good guys
J Altuve 2B
C Gomez CF
C Correa SS
J Lowrie 3B
C Rasmus RF
E Gattis DH
L Valbuena 1B
J Castro C   
J Marisnick LF

A's
B Burns CF
C Crisp LF
J Reddick RF
B Butler DH
S Vogt C
B Lawrie 3B
I Davis 1B
M Semien SS
E Sogard 2B




1004
Talk Zone / Re: Straily DFA Wojciehowski up
« on: August 05, 2015, 03:12:21 pm »
Another question would be why Wojo?  He has not pitched well as of late.  Or perhaps he is in the Straily path.  Perform now or the boot.

1005
Talk Zone / Re: Straily DFA Wojciehowski up
« on: August 05, 2015, 02:51:28 pm »
I would have assumed his replacement would be Hoes or Grossman.  Who else would they bring up?
I deleted the post because they still could move Deduno to the 60 day and get a spot. My guess it has solely to do with them not considering Straily to have any value going forward.  They'll need the spot come September but not now

1006
Talk Zone / Re: Trade Rant
« on: August 05, 2015, 12:23:52 pm »
Before the midseason pickups of Kazmir and Gomez, I thought this was going to be a wild ride and hopefully the Stros could make a wild card spot.  Now a wild card spot is the minimum of my expectations.  Division winner is what I'm expecting.  Last nights loss had no effect on those thoughts.  This lineup is loaded (3rd most runs in the majors) and is picking up one of the best hitters in the league at the end of the month.    The bullpen is stronger with Qualls righting his ship and VV will be added to it in September.  And the rotation though weaker without VV and partially McCullers,  still has a real good top 3 in Keuchel, Kazmir and McHugh. 






1007
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:31:22 pm »
Just a game, still up in the division.  Get em tomorrow

1008
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:27:53 pm »
Damn, Altuve Ks.  Bah

1009
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:24:51 pm »
Castro Ks.  Altuve up...

1010
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:22:09 pm »
damn, Marwin whacks it hard, too hard.  Rasmus can't score on it, Valbueana to second

1011
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:20:16 pm »
Rasmus walk
Valbueana single against the shift

1012
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:18:56 pm »
A man who values understatement.

Missed the play, they mentioned Correa and greatness in review

1013
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:16:04 pm »
Bloop and a blast and Gregerson to close it out.  simple

1014
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:15:15 pm »
Hamilton K
Choo - Groundout
Andrus single
Jimmy singles then steals second
DDS Jr grounds out on a full count.

end of 8, 4-3 the Hated

1015
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:02:49 pm »
geesh, 5 pitches and done.  all ground outs.  The weakness of Diekman was his lack of control.  would have been nice to take a strike

He threw 2 balls and the Astros grounded out on the other 3 pitches.  The guy has walked 25 in 39 innings this year.  Not a good approach against him

1016
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 09:59:09 pm »
geesh, 5 pitches and done.  all ground outs.  The weakness of Diekman was his lack of control.  would have been nice to take a strike

1017
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 09:55:41 pm »
Odor reached on bunt single to pitcher
Fielder flied out to right
Harris relieved Sipp
Beltre flied out to center, Odor to second
Moreland popped out to third

3-4 Rangers after 7.  Like to get them right here in the 8th

1018
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 09:27:22 pm »
All up to the King

1019
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:45:57 pm »
out for a bit.  2-2 after a DDSJr rbi triple

1020
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:40:47 pm »
Marwin grounds out
Castro Ks
Altuve grounds out

Bad news Gallardo is settling in, good news is he's tossed 89 pitches already

2-1 Good guys mid 5

1021
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:31:03 pm »
Straily Ks Andrus......whew

2-1 Good guys after 4

1022
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:24:19 pm »
Fielder homerun
Beltre flies out to right
4 pitch walk to Moreland....

settle down Mr Straily

...Hamilton pops it up to Altuve

Rasmus loses a line drive over his head, Correa bobbles the relay but Moreland had gone back to third

....then Straily sails the first pitch and gets a lucky bounce back to Castro.  3rd out can't come soon enough

1023
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:20:48 pm »
Bah walked out of the room for 3 minutes, Fielder popped one

1024
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:17:15 pm »
Quiet 4th

Gattis flies out to center
Rasmus Ks
Valbuena grounds out

2-0 Good guys after 3 and a half

1025
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:09:44 pm »
Gimenez flies out to center
DDSJr Ks  (much better idea there)
Odor grounds out to first.

2-0 Good Guys after 3

1026
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 08:03:44 pm »
Castro grounded out to second   
Altuve singled to center
Gómez doubled to deep center, Altuve scored
Correa grounded out to shortstop, Gómez to third - real nice play by Andrus to save a run
Tucker Ks swinging

2-0 Good guys after 2 and a half

1027
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:55:51 pm »
Gomez worked a real nice at bat for an RBI double. 

1028
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:45:19 pm »
Straily getting hit decently hard, minimal damage so far

And then Ks Shoo 2 out now man on first


Moreland lined out to left
Hamilton singled to center   
Choo struck out swinging
Andrus flied out to left

1029
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:41:58 pm »
Straily getting hit decently hard, minimal damage so far

1030
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:39:19 pm »

Tucker hit by pitch
Gattis grounded into double play, shortstop to second to first, Tucker out at second
Rasmus walked   (4 straight balls after falling behind 0-2)
Rasmus stole second on a 1-2 pitch
Valbuena singled to right, Rasmus scored
Marwin hit it on a line to third.

1-0 good guys after 1 and a half

1031
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:34:35 pm »
Valbueana with a clutch 2 out hit after a key steal by Rasmus

1032
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:27:51 pm »
I have really negative feelings about alot of these Rangers.

And then they plunk Tucker

1033
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:26:03 pm »
Straily with a wall check in the bottom of the 1st

DDSJR walked
Odor fouled out to third
Fielder flied out to center
Beltré flied out to center

1034
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:18:34 pm »
Walking DDSJr is becoming a habit

1035
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v. Rangers, August 4, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:15:51 pm »
Astros go quietly in the top of the 1st.
 - Altuve flied out to right
 - Gómez popped out to second
 - Correa grounded out to third

1036
Talk Zone / Re: Lineup when Springer returns?
« on: August 04, 2015, 07:08:10 pm »
For those interested, this is a ranking of Astros by the percent of time they've driven in a runner on base this year:
Jose Altuve - 18.3
Carlos Correa - 17.4
Evan Gattis - 16.8
Hank Conger  - 15.2
Chris Carter - 15.1
Preston Tucker - 15.0
Colby Rasmus - 13.9
Jonathan Villar - 12.2
Jason Castro - 12.0
Jed Lowrie - 12.0
Marwin Gonzalez - 11.4
George Springer - 10.4
Jake Marisnick - 10.4
Luis Valbuena - 10.3

The data was taken from BP.

Lowrie's slash line with runners on: 423/595/615

1037
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: August 04, 2015, 02:02:46 pm »
I was thinking about that as well.  It almost seems like Hinch runs everybody in and out of the outfield so much that there's really no 4th outfielder, or maybe there are 4 of them.  Maybe that changes with Gomez here and Marisnick not starting as much in center.

With Springer out, Gomez slips in easy with everyone still getting the same at bats as before.  When Springer returns in September, it will be interesting to see how Hinch spreads out the at bats

1038
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 11:16:48 am »
The move to send McCullers down most certainly has nothing to do with this, but it does have other club benefits, helping to reduce super 2 possibilities

1039
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 04, 2015, 10:22:34 am »
It's interesting to think of the conversations they may have had with McCullers about going down.

Scenario A:  Lance, we're going to need you for the stretch run, and we've got to get you some rest.  That means we may move you up and down a bit to keep the roster stocked.  It has absolutely nothing to do with tonight, we all have our off-nights (except of course for Correa).  We'll see you in 10 days.

Scenario B:  Son, you call that pitching.  That was the worst performance I've seen yet from one of our starters.  Down you go until you get your act together.

Scenario C:  It's got nothing to do with your pitching.  That is the ugliest beard I've ever seen on a grown man.  You shave and we'll think about bringing you back up.

Given they were apparently planning on skipping his next start, there is also a scenario where he was already told he was heading down prior to the game.  They were short a long man in the pen.  It's not like you lose an option with McCullers if you send him down.  Doesn't make sense to keep McCullers on the 25 man if you know you aren't going to use him for 10 days.

1040
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 11:54:12 pm »
For those that have kind of written Colin Moran off, his July splits are .361/.426/.492 /.918

Moran just continues to rake.  Since the AA Allstar break (117 ABs):  368/436/573

1041
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 11:17:08 pm »
Hinch said he wasn't going to pitch next time around in Oakland anyway, so it's not like this move is going to take away a start.
Now that I didn't know.  My point was he had stew for at least 10 days after his worst start but I guess he would of had to anyways

1042
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 11:16:38 pm »
Man that bites for McCullers.  Such a great season and have to go down after that start.
[/quote

Seriously, do you not understand what is happening?

Yes.  McCullers is going down for 10 days

1043
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 11:02:00 pm »
Straily called up to start tomorrow. McCullers sent to Fresno.

Man that bites for McCullers.  Such a great season and have to go down after that start.

1044
Talk Zone / Re: Lineup when Springer returns?
« on: August 03, 2015, 10:54:50 pm »
You are fucking batshit crazy. Take your OBP and go home. That is not why he is on the team.

I'm well aware that he's on the team to get RBIs.  But his all or nothing approach better fits a spot lower in the batting order.  Putting guys like Lowrie who collects RBIs and gets on base for the next guy.  It's my opinion that after Springer returns, Gattis should hit 6th.  7th on games Tucker plays.    He'll still get his RBI opportunities batting 6th. 

1045
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 10:35:24 pm »
In a game where it could have been a blowout, they made the Rangers use their best bullpen guys to close it down.

1046
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 09:44:50 pm »
12-9, that's 4?  I'll never understand baseball.

Well you'll need a 4th eventually

1047
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 09:37:04 pm »
If they can get a field goal here, it could get interesting

1048
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 09:06:02 pm »
No idea why the radio crew is so insistent on a call up for tomorrow.  Everyone can come back on regular days rest

1049
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 09:03:14 pm »
Actually Kazmir would be on regular rest if he pitched tomorrow.  So sure Kazmir can pitch tomorrow

1050
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:59:22 pm »
so is McCullers off the hook for the L?

nope

1051
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:38:50 pm »
who gets sent down?

Some unfortunate fellow with options

1052
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:37:41 pm »
So, does Kazmir pitch tomorrow?

Sipp warming up.

likely a call up

1053
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:36:18 pm »
Come on Fiers man up.  Absolutely need this guy to get some innings.  Bullpen is going to get destroyed game 1

1054
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:33:19 pm »
woohoo an out!

1055
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:29:25 pm »
Fiers ERA is going to require an 'e'

1056
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:27:37 pm »
"Going" to get ugly?  You sir, have low standards of beauty.

They literally can't pull Fiers.  Can't blow the bullpen

1057
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:25:21 pm »
Woof, Fiers has nothing.  This is going to get real ugly. 

Shin-Soo Choo Choo struck out looking
Andrus singled to left
Wilson doubled to deep left center, Andrus scored
DeShields walked
Odor tripled to deep right, Wilson and DeShields scored
Fielder singles and Odor scores. 


1058
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:24:38 pm »
Fiers nibbling

1059
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:21:04 pm »
Fiers better settle down, because they are likely to leave him out there for the long haul regardless

1060
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:14:02 pm »
Fiers in.  Welcome to the Stros

1061
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:13:09 pm »
Good guys go quietly in the third
Gómez fouled out to first
 Correa lined out to right
Tucker popped out to shortstop

1062
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 08:07:26 pm »
Outstanding job by Fields.  Keeps it a 3 run deficit. 

1063
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:58:26 pm »
Likely see Fields for the second and Fiers third+

1064
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:52:52 pm »
Valbuena!  3 to go

1065
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:48:35 pm »
Fiers sturring. 

1066
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:47:10 pm »
Is it just me or does DeShields seem like an ass now that he is a Ranger?

It's real annoying that he put it all together in the majors without having success at AA yet. 

1067
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:45:45 pm »
98 degrees, bandbox, this one isn't over. 

1068
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:41:57 pm »

1069
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:38:25 pm »
Oh yeah, McCullers is a rookie.  Almost forgot

1070
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:37:05 pm »
6 foul balls from 4 different hitters after 2 strikes this inning.  Rangers are being pesky

1071
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:36:09 pm »
I think they said Fields was up.

They did but the pen can't do 8

1072
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:34:07 pm »
McCullers may be eliminating Fiers first start with the Astros

1073
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ stRangers August 3, 2015
« on: August 03, 2015, 07:28:25 pm »
Yikes McCullers getting hammered

1074
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: August 03, 2015, 12:40:10 pm »
With White, Reed and Singleton in the works next year, one suppose that Gattis and/or Carter would be on the trade block this winter. 

1075
Talk Zone / Re: Lineup when Springer returns?
« on: August 03, 2015, 12:27:54 pm »
I would like to see at least one LHer in the top 4 of the lineup against a RH pitcher.

Really, it doesn't matter. Hinch will mix it up almost daily.

That's easy.  Tucker bats 4th against righties.    Though there is a possible other candidate.  That's an impressive right/left split.  SSS but over 2x better against righties

1076
Talk Zone / Re: Lineup when Springer returns?
« on: August 03, 2015, 09:30:10 am »
Does he go straight back to the leadoff spot, or do the additions since he was injured change that?

Springer, Altuve, CarGo, Correa?  Or Altuve, Cargo, Correa, Correa, Gattis, Springer?

Ugh, you got to get Gattis and his horrendous OBP lower in the order. 


1077
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Snakes @ Astros August 2, 2015
« on: August 02, 2015, 02:38:20 pm »
New guy!  Big hit

1078
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 31, 2015, 11:51:00 am »

1079
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 31, 2015, 11:18:07 am »
Singleton optioned to make room for Gomez.

Question.  What is the rule about recalling folks?  Isn't it 10 days unless there is an injury?

1080
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 31, 2015, 06:10:00 am »
I could not agree more and said this during the game. To some, it almost seems like the minors are the more important team.

I can't speak for others but you get attached to these guys you follow in the minors.  I could care less if the minor league teams win or not.  The concern completely goes to what a guy like Phillips would do at the major league level.  Cannon arm, fast, good instinctive fielder, high average guy with some good pop in his bat.  Not just what he's done so far in the minors, but the brass and the experts have been talking up this guy for a while now.  You start to get really excited about what a guy like that will do.  You have to forgive folks if they take pause at what was just lost. 

Even with that.  I'm excited about what the big club has the potential to do this year and am enjoying the ride.  Gomez is really going to help solidify the lineup, adding a tough out in the middle.  No doubt that the trade has improved the club in the short term.

1081
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 31, 2015, 05:50:17 am »
Apparently the addition of Gomez has made Marisnick available for trade

1082
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 30, 2015
« on: July 30, 2015, 10:34:46 pm »
Wow,  What a series.  Big statement. 

1083
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 30, 2015
« on: July 30, 2015, 09:58:29 pm »
End it here

1084
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 09:57:45 pm »
On the flip side, the Astros kept Phillips in Lancaster well beyond his demonstrating mastery of the level.  There may be something to him that only a few in the org know that they don't like.  So, compare his rise to Bregman's who they love.  He's already in Lancaster.

I got to stop following the minors.  It's just so addicting. 

One thing that may have also made Phillips more expendable is Tucker.  He's looking like a regular and not just a 4th outfielder. 

1085
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 30, 2015
« on: July 30, 2015, 09:51:37 pm »
Gomez in town yet?

1086
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 09:02:29 pm »
Boofuckinghoo. There be a draft next year.

Which I'm hoping is pick 30

1087
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 09:01:29 pm »
I think it's going to be important to carry four outfielders that you don't mind playing every day, because I'm afraid that the way Springer goes after everything means that he's going to spend non-trivial periods of time on the DL every year.

So basically that one damn pitch from the KC guy cost the team Phillips and Santana.

1088
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 08:55:16 pm »
It is a little hard to stomach when we knew what the Mets were going to pay for Gomez. Then again, Fiers could be very valuable for several years.

The most important thing here is that the opportunity is now. I am thrilled that the front office is doing their best to take advantage of a chance to make the playoffs the next few years.

This year is definitely going to be a fun ride

1089
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 08:53:56 pm »
Would Phillips beat out Gomez next year at mid-year?

Possibly.  Phillips seems past the point of prospect fallout.  Just too much talent from all angles not to at least be a useful starter and a ceiling that is tough to see.   Gomez seems to be past his peak.  Looks like he peaked in 2013.  So I'd say right about this time next year they'll pass each other, maybe later.   I just don't get why the package is so much bigger than what the Mets were offering.  Is Fiers really that big of an add?

Edit:
Actually most likely 2017

1090
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 08:48:37 pm »
I like this deal. Phillips hurts bad, but the rest of the package doesn't bother me at all.

I fully agree with your prospect assessment.  I'll say I don't hate the trade.   I don't like it because it looks like an overpay. 

1091
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 08:42:00 pm »
God, I hate think kind of stuff. He has been stockpiling talent for this very reason. If Phillips could help the team NOW, he would be in Houston. I am sure he is very talented, but there are lots of others with talent in the system. Folks have been wanting Gomez for weeks, and now we have him, the hand-wringing begins. Gomez has speed and power, and if he was a hot dog elsewhere, he will learn quickly it is not the Astros Way. He is an experienced Springer, and the more interesting issue to me is the lineup tomorrow and whether Luhnow is done or is still pursuing Chapman. Why is Singleton sitting?

The man is trying to win now. Are we so beat down from losing we cannot appreciate what he is doing? Houston is the ultimate, not the Bus Ride.

As much as I'm glad they are going for it.  This was sacrificing the future for now.  The core of this team isn't even arbitration eligible this year.  Why go for broke so early?  Phillips is a 5 tool player who was likely going to be a key piece by mid next year.   Santana, Hader and Houser are easily replaced by other talent in the system.  Phillips on the other hand,  I just don't get it.  The Mets package was no where near this good.

1092
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 08:09:37 pm »
Thought Phillips was untouchable.  Very sad they lost him.  Going for it this year

1093
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 01:41:42 pm »
This is weak 20-20 hindsight. That trade was for the World Series, and I was blown away by Hunsicker's ability to pull it off. I do not care if the Gus we gave up made the HOF. It was a great trade.

There is also the timing of that trade.  Biggio and Bagwell were in their prime in '98.  Going all in made a lot more sense then. 

Now it would be too early.  The core of this team is just starting out.

1094
Talk Zone / Re: Trade Rant
« on: July 30, 2015, 01:35:52 pm »
He chose the teams in October, but your point remains the same.  He still had the chance to come here and said "No", so he obviously had made plans for October that don't involve baseball.  His loss.

Other than Nightengale's tweet, what other evidence/information do we have on Hamels' supposed decision?

1095
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 11:28:46 am »
Again, why deal for a starting pitcher who might not make your post-season roster?  If you best 3 going into the post-season are Keuchel, Kazmir, and McCullers then anyone they pick up has to be better than McHugh.  I don't think there's any guarantee that Ross or Cashner will out-pitch McHugh down the stretch.

You got to get there before you worry about who you are starting   And division winner is sooo much better than wild card.  You could get a wild card spot and be one and done. 

I also have confidence in Luhnow not to give away anything crucial in obtaining a Ross or Cashner


1096
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 11:22:37 am »
Tigers are apparently looking for McCullers or Valesquez as a part of Price rental. Don't think that will happen.

Good Lord no. 

1097
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 11:03:05 am »
I'm in agreement, just pointing out how special McCullers is.

Nobody is questioning McCullers.  The problem is you are going to likely need to shut him down for 5-6 weeks.   That's a lot of starts to hand Straily or Oberholtzer. The Stros already have a 5th starter in Feldman, you'd prefer not to have 2.  Not to mention the fragility of pitchers.  Plus both Ross and Cashner are not rentals.   Both can be traded in the offseason.  I can see the value in gaining one of these guys.  They take McCullers spot immediately and you shut Lance down till September.  And if the unfortunate happens and someone gets hurt, you will still have 5 solid starters in September.  If everything works perfectly you have the envious problem of 6 starters come September.



1098
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 10:27:53 am »
What do Ross or Cashner bring that would be an upgrade over McHugh, Feldman, or McCullers?

McCullers just passed last night his career high for innings pitched in a year.  Not sure about fall/Winter ball

1099
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 30, 2015, 09:23:14 am »
With the Cardinals picking up Moss, that is one less suitor for Lind.  I would guess if they make that deal that Carter or Singleton is in the deal.  (Edit: actually trading Carter in a Lind trade makes little sense given the apparent need for a right handed option to platoon with Lind) 

It's also conceivable that Valbuena would have some value to the Brewers.  With Ramirez gone to the Pirates, I can't imagine they think Perez is a good solution.  Jed now at thirdbase, Valbuena is seemingly on the outside looking in.   Moran would also likely be interesting to them.

Could go crazy and say Lind and Gomez for Singleton, Valbuena, Appel and Moran

1100
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Top Prospect Lists 2015
« on: July 29, 2015, 12:35:24 pm »
New Top 30 prospect list out on mlb.com

And your #1 is.....Bregman.  What?? How can he possibly be put in front of Phillips.  Odd. 

Then:
Phillips
Appel - his resilience on this list is impressive
Daz Cameron
Kyle Tucker
Velasquez - soon to be eliminated from eligibility, but I don't understand why he isn't top 3
Santana
Reed
Feliz
Martes
Fisher
Musgrove
Moran
Hader
Kemp
Davis
Riley Ferrell
Eshelman
Sierra
Guduan
Houser
Teocar Hernandez
Devenski
Paulino
Danry Vasquez
Wojceicowski
Rodgers
Alpin
Fontana
Bostick

1101
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 10:31:30 pm »
Solid win there

1102
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 10:11:14 pm »
Rangers/Yankees now 19-5  Wow.

Amazing what DDSJr has done this year.  He'd be leading the Astros in OBP(unless you count Lowrie).  I doubt even in their wildest dreams the Rangers didn't expected that

1103
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:50:21 pm »
7 triples, 0 stolen bases

1104
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:47:48 pm »
Holy crap.  7 triples!

1105
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:38:22 pm »
Altuve!  5 RBI night

1106
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:33:54 pm »
Ha, nice.  Just a little too worried about the runner at third

1107
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:28:35 pm »
Like to see them put it away here

1108
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:15:02 pm »
You know, I appreciate the things that Valbuena has managed to do this year, and I like the dependable defense he has provided, but the Astros really need a real third baseman. I wonder if they think that's going to be Correa as soon as Bregman is ready.

Or this Jed guy

1109
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:09:00 pm »
Mr RBI.  A mere 156 LOB

1110
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:07:57 pm »
Thatcher has elected free agency

1111
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 08:44:11 pm »
Altuve the RBI man

1112
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 08:20:42 pm »
I disagree.  I think he's been a solid RBI man.

Chances, lots of chances

1113
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 08:17:07 pm »
Lot of folks switching teams today

1114
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros July 28, 2015
« on: July 28, 2015, 08:15:24 pm »
DH is definitely his best position.

Unfortunately his bat isn't quite good enough for that position

1115
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 28, 2015, 09:11:42 am »
It certainly brings CarGo to the head of the conversation.  A severely backloaded contract, he's not cheap.  17 million next year, 20 million in 2017.   Traditionally just average on the road, in 2013 he actually was better on the road.  After being injured last year, he has improved month over month this year (a disgusting 1328 OPS for July).  Still only 29, likely won't see too much of a dropoff.  Would a Santana and Appel based deal get it done?  Perhaps add Carter to the deal for a mlb ready couple of bats

1116
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 27, 2015, 09:21:22 pm »
I really hope they come up short on Hamels.  Real bad feeling as to where he'll be in 2 years versus his salary.  Especially given the rumored level of prospects the Phillies are asking

1117
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Hot sheet
« on: July 25, 2015, 12:47:12 pm »
Couple of Stros on the hot sheet

Quote
10. Colin Moran, 3b, Astros

HoustonAstros

Team: Double-A Corpus Christi (Texas)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: .478/.519/.783 (11-for-23), 7 R, 1 2B, 2 HR, 8 RBIs, 3 BB, 5 SO, 0-for-0 SB

The Scoop: Moran’s season has been dogged by injuries, including a broken jaw when he took a throw in the infield off the face. When he returned in June, his timing was slow to come back, but he’s been outstanding in July, compiling an 1.021 OPS, although the over-the-fence power some scouts project has yet to show.

Quote
14. A.J. Reed, 1b, Astros
HoustonAstros

Team: Double-A Corpus Christi
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: .381/.516/.714 (8-for-21), 6 R, 2 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 7 RBIs, 8 BB, 4 SO

The Scoop: Reed should become the next in a long line of prospects who went from Baseball America College Player of the Year to eventual MLB standout. A standout at the plate and on the mound last year at Kentucky, Reed slipped to the second round, where the Astros got a steal. One of the draft’s elite college performers has had no trouble handling minor league pitching so far, and while much of his success this year has come at high Class A Lancaster, he’s no ballpark fluke. In his first 10 games since getting promoted to Double-A, Reed is batting .333/.455/.576 with nine walks and seven strikeouts. He’s 6-foot-4, 240 pounds, limited to first base and may not have the prettiest build, but he’s a potential plus bat, plus power combo who understands the strike zone and can get on base at a high clip. He’s not going to help them in Houston this year, but he should be their everyday first baseman very soon.

1118
Talk Zone / Re: Marwin
« on: July 25, 2015, 12:32:43 pm »
One of my favorite plays, ever.

I will add Mike Lamb to the list, not as versatile as the others mentioned, but his bat seemed to always be hot, know matter how much playing time he saw.

Clank?

I always liked Keppinger

1119
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals July 24, 2015
« on: July 24, 2015, 09:55:20 pm »
Jed went 2 for 3 with a double and a RBI for the Hooks tonight

1120
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals July 24, 2015
« on: July 24, 2015, 09:51:49 pm »
That game was quite pleasurable.  Awesome debut by Kazmir

1121
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals July 24, 2015
« on: July 24, 2015, 09:50:21 pm »
They ruled a single for Hosmer.  Obviously there's also an error on the play allowing the runner to 3B.

This is what I thouhgt but not what the scoreboard is showing

1122
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Royals July 24, 2015
« on: July 24, 2015, 09:46:42 pm »
What?? How is that not an error?  No way the runner goes to third without the bad throw

1123
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 24, 2015, 05:54:20 pm »
I strongly believe in defense up the middle.  That's why I said to replace Jake, they would need an all around center fielder, meaning that player better be a really good defender as well. Otherwise, you hurt your pitchers.  The only available player that might be worth it is Gomez in Milwaukee, if his defense is good enough. 

And yes, 1B is much easier to upgrade via trade and a position of need as well.

Adam Lind sound interesting?

1124
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 23, 2015
« on: July 23, 2015, 07:37:33 pm »
Looks like a 10 day layoff for McCullers was a bad idea

1125
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 23, 2015
« on: July 23, 2015, 07:26:01 pm »
Miley is not chopped liver. He one hit Anaheim through 7 innings last time out.

Marwin is not impressed

1126
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 04:31:29 pm »
I had not thought about this added benefit of the deal.  If the org believes there's strong mutual interest in a deal for next season, they can sign do so without having to give up a 2016 pick.  I'm assuming he'd qualify as a Type A?

You are correct, if the Astros had signed Kazmir in the coming offseason without making this trade they would have had to forfeit their first round draft pick.  No more type's though just if the A's made a qualifying offer which they most certainly would have done.  So by picking him up now they potentially rescued a first round draft pick.  However they also increased Kazmir's value by eliminating the possibility of a qualifying offer.  Now teams will not have the loss of a draft pick hanging over them should they want to sign him

1127
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 01:22:25 pm »
Bold statement. STL is really good.

Before Garcia returns the Astros are better.  After, it's pretty much even (according to WAR per game and pretty much any stat).    Not to mention they pitch in a pansy league

1128
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 01:05:35 pm »
Good news is Feldman has pitched 151 innings out of the pen.  The bad news is he wasn't very good

1129
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 12:51:47 pm »
Excited about the move.  What is the likelihood the team opts for a 6 man rotation to keep innings down for the younger guys?


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

They have the most off days in the majors for the rest of the year (or at least that is what I heard from the radio guys).  Looking at the calendar they have only 3 weeks without a day off the rest of the way.  And the week of Aug 10th-16th they have 2 days off.

1130
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 12:49:24 pm »
So assuming there's still interest in a bat, who is it?

Wonder if Adam Lind is on the radar

1131
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 12:46:31 pm »
Well certainly, Keuchel, McCullers, Kazmir, McHugh and Velasquez is the best staff in the majors. 

1132
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 12:32:06 pm »
Does he start tomorrow instead of Feldman?

Wonder  if they'll try to trade Feldman now or in the off season.  Only due 8 million next season. 

1133
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 12:30:53 pm »
Neither Nottingham nor Mengden were on the 40-man or were rule 5 issues this off season.  Surprised a bit they didn't trade with that in mind

1134
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 12:21:29 pm »
Wow, Mengden and Nottingham.  That's surprising.  A's have been doing their homework to know to grab those 2.  Likely a good trade for both sides

1135
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 09:31:29 am »
I would think they have enough talent to shore up several positions.  I would think a Velasquez for Arrenado deal would work.  There'd still be enough talent to bring in a rental SP.

I can't understand why the Rockies would trade Arenado.  Have you read anything suggesting they are at all interested in doing this?

1136
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 23, 2015, 08:59:07 am »
Between MLB and AA high end SP young and under control: McCullers, Velasquez, Appel, Musgrove, Hader, Feliz.  That doesn't even include the years of control left over Keuchel, McHugh, and Oberholtzer.  OF in that category: Springer, Tucker, Marisnick, Santana, Kemp, Phillips.  My view is the SP is much deeper than the OF prospects.

I agree on the lack of match.  Too I can't imagine Luhnow is looking for another young and inexperienced arm to put in the rotation.

This really shows why they are interested in a rental only.  There is just no need to bring in a Hamels.  Either a full rental or one of the Padre guys who include next year as well is all you need.  Hamels at age 34 and 35 could be more of a hindrance than a help.  It sounds backwards, but trading for Hamels may be more detrimental to the future than a rental.

1137
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 22, 2015, 04:23:37 pm »
Do you think they want more Hoes?

I realize your sarcasm, but to contemplate what they would want for Gausman...

My guess is they would want more than just a Justin Upton in return.  So either someone better or additional players with an Upton type.   Only way the Astros can get in on this is a third team being involved.  But the move would be for next year as Gausman is still working out the kinks at the major league level.

1138
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 22, 2015, 04:16:58 pm »
Baltimore is rumored to be dangling Gausman to teams in an effort to get an OF bat.  This is the type of player I'd love to see the team go after.  I realize we aren't the best match but a young controllable SP would be well worth giving up some of our best prospects.

The Orioles want a proven OF bat not prospects.  They are thinking of going for it all this year. 

1139
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 22, 2015, 02:35:34 pm »
because he plays LF. this is not a computer game.

They were saying on the radio broadcast last night he played at first in college and high school. 

Quick research:
First base experience: High school. Freshman and sophomore years of college.  Moved to mostly rightfield (63 starts in RF and 9 starts at first) in his Junior year.  Has 13 games in the minors at first.  Absolutely no idea if he is any good defensively at first.
HS and College info
minors

Edit:
They also said on that broadcast that Luhnow has no intentions of playing Tucker at first.  They didn't say why.

Edit 2:
He did manage 3 errors at first in 3 games at AAA last year.  SSS but that's not good

1140
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 22, 2015, 10:45:53 am »
I don't understand his thinking on that unless it is strictly because the price of prospects would be cheaper. Although Price is not going to be cheap under any condition.

Considerably cheaper.  Prices for these rent-a-aces will drop as the deadline approaches.  Youth is the direction things have been heading and continue to head.   Prospects are much more highly regarded these days.   You don't want to be locked into one of the overpriced veterans.  Without the use of artificial means, not many players are performing well into their mid-30s (which is why I really hope they don't land Hamels)

1141
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 22, 2015, 10:22:11 am »
So Luhnow's looking at SP, RP, and bats that aren't high power high strikeout.

Would you do this deal: Hundley and Boone from the Rockies for Castro, Wojo, and Buchanan?

Hundley is having a career year though his road hitting isn't great it's better than Castro's and is a free agent after 2016. Castro is a FA after 2016.
Boone's road work has been very good, and he's a lefty.

No.  Even though Hundley hits slightly better on the road than Castro does overall, he doesn't know the pitching staff and likely would be an overall downgrade.  Boone carries a lifetime 1.5 WHIP with 1.6 this year.  He's very good against lefties, but is horrendous against righties.  So basically a LOOGY.    Not opposed or against Boone I guess, as long as the price is cheap

1142
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 21, 2015
« on: July 21, 2015, 09:12:53 pm »
Carter can take his time on that one

1143
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 21, 2015
« on: July 21, 2015, 07:30:59 pm »
And Gattis settles down the rookie.  GiDP, 1-0 after one

1144
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 21, 2015
« on: July 21, 2015, 07:29:41 pm »
Correa smacks a hard sac fly, 1-0 good guys

1145
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 21, 2015
« on: July 21, 2015, 07:28:32 pm »
Marwin strokes a single to continue the pressure

1146
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Red Sox @ Astros July 21, 2015
« on: July 21, 2015, 07:26:54 pm »
Altuve early harassment of the rookie.  Walk and a sb

1147
Talk Zone / Re: Avg and OBP
« on: July 21, 2015, 03:34:44 pm »
Ahhh, but walks aren't the same as hits.  His avg w/ no runners is .235, and with runners is .257.  Of course his .slg goes way up with runners on, which kinda kills my argument.  And of course he's only hitting .228 with runners in scoring position.

Plus he's only walked 13 times all season, so I guess OBP doesn't matter much.  I'm surprised somebody even bothers to calculate Chuckie's walk rate.

He has definitely been an overall better hitter this year with runners on, not sure if the approach is much different.  Odd that last year he was much better with the bases empty. 

1148
Talk Zone / Re: Avg and OBP
« on: July 21, 2015, 03:07:55 pm »
Speaking of real oddities:  http://espn.go.com/mlb/player/splits/_/id/29486/chris-carter

The odd thing there is he actually is better off missing the first pitch than hitting it.  But that's just this year do to SSS

1149
Talk Zone / Re: Avg and OBP
« on: July 21, 2015, 02:37:52 pm »
More Gattis fun:

The first pitch to Gattis this year is huge:
If he hits the first pitch:   867 OPS  (56 PAs)
If he gets ahead 1-0:        947 OPS (132 PAs)
If he falls behind 0-1:       538 OPS (165 PAs)

And that 0-1 stat has a real oddity.  If he hits an 0-1 pitch he has a 1267 (27 PAs)

Should he collect a second strike(any 2 strike count), put a fork in him.  360 OPS (148 PAs)



1150
Talk Zone / Re: Avg and OBP
« on: July 21, 2015, 02:09:28 pm »
I agree he's a wild swinger (even when I can't spell), but I disagree he doesn't bat differently with runners.  I can prove it with a Fangraphs article.

His walk rate is the same whether there are runners on or the bases are empty.  Chuckie swings away

1151
Talk Zone / Re: Avg and OBP
« on: July 21, 2015, 01:42:33 pm »
Just watch Gaddis.

Gattis has never met a pitch he didn't like.  Runners on means nothing to him. 

1152
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: July 21, 2015, 08:22:41 am »
Fo realz. This kid for some reason thinks he's Jonah Hill talking to the room full of Stoopid Old Scouts in the Moneyball movie. It's really not that black and white, kid.

And just to play Devil's Advocate here: would you rather have a hitter with a career .300/.340/.480 line, or a hitter with a career .210/.350/.480 line?

This was a brilliant trick question.  Kudos to you sir.  300/340/480 is better than 210/350/480.  Walks are good, but singles are better.  A walk never moves a runner from first to third, or second to home.  Of course there is a limit to how much you are willing to sacrifice OBP for BAVG.  In my opinion, Gattis takes it too far.


1153
Talk Zone / Re: Dallas Keuchel and the running game
« on: July 20, 2015, 03:58:17 pm »
That's pretty incredible, especially with how much Conger has caught him this year and how bad Conger is at throwing. In theory "bases taken" stat should be really low because of his control and the amount of grounders he gets. I love that Dallas Keuchel is an Astro

Sent from my HTC One M9 using Tapatalk

How often has it been Conger?

1154
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 20, 2015, 11:12:58 am »
Justin Upton certainly would be helpful if the price was reasonable.  If a package like Carter plus a prospect like Devenski.  They don't seem to have a firstbaseman that can hit for power.  And when Carter hits one it doesn't matter what park he is in

edit: though I don't know who would play first in that scenario.  Not sure if Lowrie can

1155
Talk Zone / Re: Trade rumors
« on: July 18, 2015, 08:15:52 am »
Looks like Carter is DL bound.  Singleton has 2 weeks to show he belongs.

Or it could be a window to see if White can help this year.  He was mysteriously out of the lineup last night

1156
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 10:23:04 pm »
Whew, they survived

1157
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 10:16:47 pm »
I figured that's where I read it.

Singleton swinging through FB after FB. Depressing.

It's okay he has 3 more years to figure it out

1158
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 10:01:13 pm »
DH, First and Third

Not to mention he hits from the right side, given Singleton's and Valbuena's leftedness

1159
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 09:55:14 pm »
Has he been playing 1B?

DH, First and Third

1160
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 09:52:23 pm »
I haven't heard.  He rolled it pretty good, but it wasn't like he had to be helped off the field either.  I'm sure he's "day to day" at this point.

Odd that you sit White with how hot he's been.  Not like DH is that taxing. 

1161
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 09:32:03 pm »
White not in the lineup tonight for Fresno.  How bad is Carter's ankle?

1162
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 09:02:58 pm »
Perez laboring, might get him here

or not

1163
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:56:02 pm »
Perez laboring, might get him here

1164
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:47:01 pm »
Hinch with a long talk to McHugh.  Apparently the conversation was screw it, just go at Fielder.

1165
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:24:42 pm »
McHugh not taking any chances, Ks the side

1166
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:18:38 pm »
Correa having none of it.   (and Gattis)

Veteran Rasmus wisely keeps Perez in the game. 

1167
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:14:41 pm »
Thirdbase coach quickly squashing this rally

Correa having none of it.   (and Gattis)

1168
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:11:13 pm »
Thirdbase coach quickly squashing this rally

1169
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:06:12 pm »
7 hits, 9 outs. No problem.

And only 46 pitches.  Could see 16 hits

1170
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 08:01:58 pm »
DDS Jr with a 9 pitch single

And then proceeds to head too far on a fly ball to right.  Nice job Delino

1171
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:58:30 pm »
DDS Jr with a 9 pitch single

1172
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:54:50 pm »
Why is Evan Gattis not a possibility at 1b?

You could put him on first but then who would DH?

1173
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:52:56 pm »
Hoes hasn't been up long enough to know to strand that runner.  1-0 good guys


Castro comes through, saving the home team from a possible big inning

1174
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:50:32 pm »
Hoes hasn't been up long enough to know to strand that runner.  1-0 good guys

1175
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:46:49 pm »
Are the Astros dead last on getting a runner home from third with less than 2 outs?

1176
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:45:28 pm »
Carter out with ankle sprain

1177
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:30:47 pm »
Just got here. Was there a double play? An out at home?

first single, out trying to stretch to second

1178
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: stRangers @ Astros July 17, 2015
« on: July 17, 2015, 07:29:18 pm »
4 singles, no runs.

1179
Talk Zone / Re: Cautionary tale
« on: July 17, 2015, 04:54:19 pm »
Man, Luhnow should have gotten in on that!

1180
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: July 12, 2015, 03:45:32 pm »
At what point can we start to get excited about White?

1181
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: StrosRays July the 12th, 2015
« on: July 12, 2015, 02:29:39 pm »
Bothers me that a guy with as much power as Gattis only musters a 268 OBP.  Hacks at everything.  He and Altuve are horrendous at pitchers per plate appearance.  At least Altuve maintains a decent average

1182
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: July 11, 2015, 08:17:16 pm »
Aye, every team uses their slot values, but not every team is trading for more picks and spending so much internationally. 

1183
Talk Zone / Re: Former Astros news
« on: July 10, 2015, 12:23:19 am »
"Well on his way" based on what? It's certainly true that the Astros hardly gave him any ABs in 2014 Spring Training, but seriously man, every marginal MLB hitter shows up in March with a "revamped" swing. Brett Wallace did it annually. And while I don't understand why the Astros straight-up released JD (being "nice" to give him an opportunity elsewhere?), there was probably nothing that any non-time-traveler could have seen by that March that indicated he would go from a career 88 OPS+ guy to a 150 OPS+. I'm pretty sure the Tigers didn't expect it either - they were probably just looking for AAA roster depth.

He had already had good success with the changes at winterball.  Came to spring and they just didn't give him many at bats then dumped him.  He absolutely crushed the ball (knocking 10 Hrs in 17 games) for the Tigers at AAA from and was called up on April 21st.  It's not like he spent many months working things out in the the Tigers organization, he had already fixed his issues while he was with the Astros.  "Well on his way" based on he required no time with the Tigers to start performing well. 

I was following JD pretty closely that spring after reading articles like this.   I was surprised when he wasn't really getting any at bats. 

And correct me if I'm wrong on this, was he not on a minor league contract that year?  Could they not have simply sent him to OKC and released him from there if it wasn't working out?  Of course that would have required them to give up on the large Mexican a few weeks earlier.

1184
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: July 09, 2015, 08:01:31 am »
Fine I'll bite.  Appel had a good game last night.  Allowed 9 guys to reach (6 singles, 2 walks and a HBP) over 6 and 2/3rds shutout ball.    10 groundouts and 4Ks

1185
Talk Zone / Re: Former Astros news
« on: July 09, 2015, 07:39:29 am »
J.D. was put on waivers and not one team claimed him. Not even Detroit. And then they only brought him in as a free agent bc of Clark. Seems like most of the league thought J.D. was worthless and they've been proven wrong.

He made his adjustments after that waiver and before the Astros released him.    JD was well on his way to resurrecting his career prior to being released. 

1186
Talk Zone / Re: Say Hello to Fresno
« on: July 08, 2015, 09:18:45 am »
I agree, but the coddling goes on throughout the minor leagues. they likely have no choice with VV because of his injury history. I think I heard on TV he only pitched 55 innings last year.

55.1 at Lancaster (15 games)
8.2 GCL (3 games)
13.2 Salt River (winter ball) (5 games)

77.2 total innings over 23 games

1187
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: July 08, 2015, 09:11:15 am »
Outstanding, well played.  Lots of high quality talent.  Crane is certainly willing to spend everything he can to get prospects.  The draft along with the international signings has been a considerable chunk of change.

1188
Talk Zone / Re: Say Hello to Fresno
« on: July 08, 2015, 08:50:51 am »
I'm definitely not in favor of running young hurlers into the ground like the FTC did with Wood and Prior (and even Zambrano). I just think that coddling pitchers is a principal reason why pitchers have arm injuries.

Damned if you do, damned if you don't.  A whole lot easier to shut them down now and have them for September then to be in the thick of it on September 1st and having to decide to risk the kids' careers.  I really think they pull the trigger on an elite arm this month.  And if Lowrie is going to be out too long, maybe a bat.

1189
Talk Zone / Re: Former Astros news
« on: July 08, 2015, 08:34:17 am »
I'm really happy for JD. Too bad it didn't work out for him and the Astros. No one to blame, he was given ample opportunity in Houston. Who knew he would figure it out eventually?

He never got a chance last spring.  Even after revamping his swing and performing well in winter ball.  He didn't make a minor adjustment, he completely changed his swing.   I'm happy for JD, but the Astros brass wrote him off before the spring started and they paid for it.   It's not like they had this year's outfield blocking him.  Last year's opening day lineup included Guzman at first with Grossman and Hoes in the outfield.  The front office has made some real good moves but this clearly was a mistake.  I would guess that after Luhnow retires and reflects on his career, JD will be in his top 3 list of mistakes.   Not knocking Luhnow, everyone makes mistakes.  Heck considers Trout a mistake and he had 20 other teams in the same boat.

1190
Talk Zone / Re: Say Hello to Fresno
« on: July 08, 2015, 08:17:23 am »
This is such bullshit. We need that kid in order to contend. Oberholtzer is nothing more than a placeholder. VV can be something special. I get that. Oberholtzer-not so much.

The Astros got to where they were before VV's or McCullers' call up.  And with Obie and Feldman coming back, the young guns being saved for the pennant chase in September makes a ton of sense.  Expect to see McCullers get some down time as well.  If the Astros want to make a serious run this year they will add an arm this month.  My money is on Cueto.

Let us learn from the Cubs mistakes instead of repeating them.

1191
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Red Sox July 3, 2015
« on: July 03, 2015, 10:30:29 pm »
I guess not.  Gregerson in.  Not a save situation.

He likely got fully warmed up during that.  Might as well use him

1192
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Red Sox July 3, 2015
« on: July 03, 2015, 10:20:38 pm »
Singleton green lighted on 3-0?

1193
Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains & Muscle Strains
« on: July 02, 2015, 12:37:53 pm »
Actually over the last 10 games Presley has been more successful at the plate than Hoes.

Really?

Hoes: 8 for 30 with 7 walks
Presley: 10 for 34 with 4 walks and a HR

Presley has him in the extra base hit category 5 to 2.  But not exactly crushingly different numbers.  Odd they would make a move to the 40 man for Presley over Hoes. 

Edit:
Perhaps that Hoes to Baltimore thing is more than just a rumor

1194
Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains & Muscle Strains
« on: July 02, 2015, 12:29:10 pm »
Presley just got called up, I assume that mean DL for Springer.  Shit

Well that is odd.  Presley wasn't on the 40 man.  Hoes is.  Hoes is having an outstanding year at Fresno.  Not that Presley has been bad, but Hoes has been on fire

1195
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: July 02, 2015, 12:03:23 pm »
There are girls in college.

All he needs to do is walk onto any random campus, walk into a party and introduce himself as someone who pitches for the Astros and just signed a million dollar contract.  He'll get more that night than the average college student does in a year.

1196
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: July 02, 2015, 09:18:42 am »
Take McCullers for example.  If he went to college and improved like he has, he probably makes 6+ million in a signing bonus this year.  But he'd likely be looking at 2017 as his first year in the majors.  And even if he super 2'd he'd still be one year behind.  And one year to a pticher like himself (career wise) is 8 figures. 

1197
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: July 02, 2015, 09:04:57 am »
That $1.2 MM (or $1.3MM if you will) in turn becomes around $2MM when you factor in the 75% tax.

I think it would be insane for any of these guys to turn down 1.2 million.  If you go to college you push back your rule 5 clock 2 or 3 years.  And if you improve enough in college to elevate your stock to more money, imagine where your stock would be if you did that in the minors with a mlb ballclub.  Basically would be just a year or 2 at most away from being in the majors and getting close to that big pay day.  And if you don't elevate your stock in college, you may never make anything. 

1198
Talk Zone / Re: AL West News
« on: June 30, 2015, 01:15:02 pm »
at some point Luhnow almost has to move some prospects because of the limitations of the 40-man and Rule 5. I'd rather not move the names you mentioned but there are going to be some tough decisions to make for roster management and the trade deadline would be a logical time to make some of those.

Which is why I think a rental ace may make a lot of sense to the Astros.  You move just a couple of top prospects for a 3 month rental (instead of 3 or 4).  You free up 2 spots without doing too much damage to the farm and making the end of year decisions easier.  While still staying young and not committing too much salary.  A contract like Hamels has the ability to be severely detrimental in a couple of years.  A decent amount of risk in him switching leagues and remaining 20+ million dollar effective into his mid 30s.


You add Cueto to Kuechel, McCullers, McHugh and Velasquez.  Keep the losses to just Appel and Santana. 

Then next year one of Feliz, Straily, Wojo, Obie, Rodgers, etc. step up to fill some of the void left by Cueto.  You don't need Appel.  And the Astros have multiple copies of Santana. Or perhaps could add a bat via free agency in the offseason. 

You might also want to sell a little.  Feldman really has no place when he returns.  His contract was front-loaded.  Owed just 8 million next year.  Maybe not now though, more into the offseason for Feldman.  Might need to go a 6-man rotation to keep the innings down on the young guns

Edit #99:
The farm is much more able to handle a rent-an-ace than it was back in 98.  I think the fears of the Big Unit fallout may way to heavily on people's minds.  Plus, IMO, prospects are weighed more heavily now than back then.  So you can get more with less prospects.

1199
Talk Zone / Re: AL West News
« on: June 30, 2015, 08:38:24 am »
Same here. If you can get 3-4 years out of a frontline starter, that's fine. But, 6 years of club control is too much for a two-month rental.

Unfortunately, there is only one pitcher that fits what you want and the asking price will gut the farm.  I'd guess you'd be looking at a package of Appel, Phillips, Feliz and and another player.  And I don't see how you can overlook the fact he's struggled against the AL.   Plus, you will likely be forced to pick up the option year locking you into 100 million over the next 4.5 years.   No thanks.  There are so many more reasons not to do this deal than there is to do it. 


Edit.  gut might be too harsh, but it would severely reduce the near ready prospects.



1200
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Quad Cities
« on: June 29, 2015, 02:43:28 pm »
I was hoping Ferrell would start at least in Lancaster with the potential to help the big league club this year a la Brandon Finnegan last year.

My goodness, why would you want to do that?  Put him in QC and if succeeds then jump him to CC if you want to fast track him.  No pitcher should have to start their career in Lancaster

1201
Talk Zone / Re: AL West News
« on: June 29, 2015, 02:32:12 pm »
MLB traderumors has the Astros targeting Cueto over Hamels.  I like this a lot.  Being a rental he should cost considerably less prospects.  Cueto's interleague numbers are actually slightly better than his career. 

Wonder if a package of Appel and Santana would get it done

1202
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: June 28, 2015, 08:01:05 am »
Appel, Aiken and Correa are all good examples of why top talent shouldn't worry to much about signing bonuses. 

Appel could of really used starting his development a year earlier.  The Ivy League obviously wasn't showing him the holes in his game.  Sure he got paid a little more up front but he will lose in the long run with how long it is going to take him to make it

Aiken is obvious

Correa, his bonus won't even pay the taxes on his first year of his free agency contract.


1203
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 25, 2015, 07:44:09 am »
So with the LSU SS signing, how are the Astros chances of signing Daz Cameron looking?

They saved 915 k on other positions so they have the 4 million for Daz. 

1204
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 25, 2015, 07:42:18 am »
Drellich reporting that the deal for Bregman is expected to be $6M.  LINK

Alex Bregman, the Astros’ top pick in this year’s draft, has agreed to a signing bonus expected to be $6 million, a person close to the process told the Chronicle. The slot value for the No. 2 overall selection is $7.42 million.

Wow, not sure why he commanded 6.  Colorado wasn't taking him and The Rangers pick was 5.026 million.  Figured 5.5 would be the max.   That pretty much eliminates most of the extra slot money.  Now I really wish they looked at Fulmer or Benintendi.  Hell Rodgers only got 5.5 million.  They could of had him and maybe the cash to land one of the long shots.  Well the good news is they really like Bregman.  Must be something special there.

1205
woof, failed to get Ianetta.   not good

1206
Marwin leadoff single, Santana up
FC - 1 down, Castro up
Fly out to center - 2down, Altuve up
and Ground out.  Mid 13

1207
In case anyone is wondering...we're headed to the 13th, still tied at 1.

So much for this being a getaway day.

really shocked they made it unscathed out of the bottom of the 12th. 

1208
Says who?  Another common misconception that you can't be charged an error if you get an out on the play. or you can't "assume the double play".
 
Rule 9.12(d) Comment: When a fielder muffs a thrown ball
that, if held, would have completed a double play or triple play,
the official scorer shall charge an error to the fielder who drops
the ball and credit an assist to the fielder who made the throw.


Carter can absolutely be charged an error on that.

Was referring to Correa.  Correa can not make an error on the play if the runner doesn't advance. 

Curious side note though.  What constitutes a "muff"  Can an untouched ball be "muff"ed?

1209
A runner reaching base on a missed throw is certainly cause for crediting an error.

Nope, you cannot be charged an error if a force out is recorded and no runner was able to advance because of it.  You can throw the relay over home plate and not be charged an error.  You can bounce a throw off Carter's skull into right field, if the runner doesn't advance, no error

1210
More and more Lowrie looking like a first baseman.

DH

1211
Shit.  Carter just whiffed at that double play ball.  I assume Correa will get the error, but it should be on Carter.

No error if an out is made and runners didn't move up

1212
Glad we're making this twiddledick look like Cy Fucking Young so far. STOP POPPING EVERYTHING UP!

if they are making any contact the first time through the order, they'll knock him out the second time through

1213
Talk Zone / Re: AL West News
« on: June 23, 2015, 01:06:09 pm »
Ugh

Let them have him.  His interleague numbers are considerably worse.  He's being paid very well.  Lot of miles on that arm.  Likely hood is while he would be helpful this year, he'll fade considerably during the rest of the contract.  Supposedly this is a seller's year.  Texas will have to give up something real good in return.  I also imagine as payment for the waiving of the no trade clause, he'll want that option year invested.

1214
Talk Zone / Re: AL West News
« on: June 22, 2015, 09:02:31 am »
Impressive.  The A's have a +35 run differential but yet are 10 games below 500.  That's tough to do

1215
Talk Zone / Re: Jakes investigated by FBI for hacking Astros!
« on: June 19, 2015, 01:16:31 pm »
I find it funny how convinced people seem to be that they know the facts or think they have a pretty good understanding.

The locks keep out the innocent cliche doesn't apply if you had to type in a user name and password.  Now if they found the information by just clicking, that cliche might be useful.  But it doesn't matter.  You are taught day one in the business world today that is is unethical and against the law to do anything with another person's/group's confidential information. You immediately get legal involved, they notify the victim that you "accidentally" came across their data and hand over every copy you have. 

The drunken morons hanging around a computer theory is shot if multiple instances over multiple years is true

Certainly, CardinalsWS2017! might lead to some guessable passwords.  But it absolutely doesn't matter how you come across confidential information.  It absolutely does not.  Even if they left it accidentally on a table at Starbucks

1217
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rockies June 18, 2015
« on: June 18, 2015, 04:49:31 pm »
Carter, Valbuena and Castro have combined for 8 strikesouts...in 7 innings.

Why not toss in Marisnick for a cool 10 Ks?

1218
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rockies June 18, 2015
« on: June 18, 2015, 04:39:31 pm »
In field on Carter?  Why?  It's either a K or you want to be back. 

1219
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rockies June 18, 2015
« on: June 18, 2015, 02:42:20 pm »
It was low in the zone and in a bit. It was not a horrible pitch by any means, nor was it really a hanger.

Bah, might as well stare at gameday if the announcer is going to be that wrong. 

1220
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rockies June 18, 2015
« on: June 18, 2015, 02:34:52 pm »
Gonzales has been on fire.

Sparks said it was a hung breaking ball right down the middle

1221
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 18, 2015, 02:27:19 pm »
Saw MLB channel programming this morning talking about batted ball velocity.  I'll might be bricking the numbers here, but they basically said there are ____ players in MLB that have 10+ batted balls this season with a velocity of 100+MPH.  Miguel Cabrerra  and 3 or 4 other players, including Correa lead MLB with 13 of these 100+MPH batted balls.

Kid is a beast!

108 is what I read of this homerun

1222
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 18, 2015, 12:22:04 pm »
Can watch this one all day

Wasn't a mistake pitch.  Man did that get out in a hurry.

1223
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 17, 2015, 08:59:30 pm »
Are you saying you think Riley Ferrell will be overslot by roughly Hermelyn's $272k?

Sorry I meant Eshelman and Ferrel

1224
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 16, 2015, 10:14:50 am »
Plus, I think there were reports of the Twins wanting Tucker at #6, that slot was about $3.9m. For Bregman, on the other hand, Colorado was almost certainly not taking him at #3, leaving the Rangers at #4 with a $5,026,500 slot value as his best shot if the Astros passed on him at #2. So I'd guess his bonus could very well be around $5m.

Likely picks 3 and 4 will cancel each other out and if Bregman and Daz cancel each other out then the Astros will be 772k under slot.  Add on the 864k and that's 1.63 million they could dangle in front of Baker, Sands and Sandoval.

1225
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Rockies @ Astros June 15, 2015
« on: June 15, 2015, 08:31:37 pm »
I don't think Keuchel's worth discussing.

Somebody strangle Ashby (or just distract him)

1226
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 15, 2015, 05:02:06 pm »
That is a bit surprising but not by much.  I was thinking around 3.7-3.8

Actually, come to think of it.  Might be hard to sell a less than Daz signing bonus

1227
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 15, 2015, 04:52:30 pm »
According to Jonathan Mustard, the Astros have signed Kyle Tucker, though only save about $200k off the slot value.

That is a bit surprising but not by much.  I was thinking around 3.7-3.8 

1228
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Sea Shits @ Astros June 12, 2015
« on: June 12, 2015, 09:12:07 pm »
Whoopin!  Just checked the score.  That was Felix?

1229
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Hot sheet
« on: June 12, 2015, 12:54:42 pm »
Even with all the callups they still land two

Quote
5. Domingo Santana, rf, Astros

Team: Triple-A Fresno (Pacific Coast)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: .500/.667/.929 (7-for-14), 5 R, 3 B, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 6 BB, 4 SO

The Scoop: Santana always has had a long swing that leads to lots of strikeouts, but he has evolved as a hitter to show more patience at the plate in recent years. He set a career high with 64 walks in 120 games last year at Triple-A, and he’s taking even more walks this year, which has boosted his on-base percentage to .433. Power never has been in question for Santana, and while he always will have a high strikeout rate, being able to offset those empty at-bats with more walks to go with his power would make him a much more viable player at the next level.


Quote
16. Brett Phillips, cf, Astros

Team: high Class A Lancaster (California)
Age: 21
Why He’s Here: .382/.400/.735 (13-for-34), 9 R, 2 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR, 12 RBIs, 1 BB, 7 SO

The Scoop: Here’s the one guy the Astros won’t call up this year . . . maybe. With the callups of top prospects Carlos Correa, Lance McCullers Jr., Vince Velasquez and Michael Feliz (briefly), Phillips (or possibly Houston’s dual 2015 first-rounders) suddenly has a chance to become the No. 1 prospect in the organization this offseason. But such has been the rise of the Florida prep star who passed on North Carolina State to sign for $300,000 in 2012. His combo of athleticism, feel for hitting and power the past two seasons have made scouts second-guess their doubts about his ability to be an everyday center fielder.

1230
Talk Zone / Re: I don't understand tonight's lineup at all
« on: June 12, 2015, 09:08:13 am »
Who gives a fuck about his OBP. Gattis is here to drive in runs and he has done a pretty good job of that thus far. 5-6 are the perfect spots in the batting order for him.

He drives in runs at the same rate as Carter, but Carter actually takes a walk.  So it makes more sense to me to bat Carter in front of Gattis.  Carter left on base: 68  Gattis left on base: 91

Gattis leads the team in RBIs because of opportunity. 

1231
Talk Zone / Re: I don't understand tonight's lineup at all
« on: June 11, 2015, 04:53:02 pm »
At some point I expect to see 1 Springer, 2 Altuve, 3 Correa.

Yeah that is likely the end game.  Was just thinking the 2 hole would be an easier place for him right now.   But this is good as well

1232
Talk Zone / Re: I don't understand tonight's lineup at all
« on: June 11, 2015, 03:55:17 pm »
He looks like a ten-year vet out there.

Yeah, I'd like to see them get Tucker, Altuve, Springer and Correa together in the lineup.  Maybe  Springer, Correa, Altuve then Tucker. 

SCAT


edit:
Then maybe Carter, Rasmus, Gattis.  Got to get Gattis's 250 OBP the heck out of the middle of the lineup.

1233
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ White Sox June 10, 2015
« on: June 10, 2015, 10:27:47 pm »
Well Springer had a good game

1234
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: June 10, 2015, 09:23:38 pm »
what Brett Phillips has to do to move up to CC.

Think this one is more a matter of working on a few things before moving up.

Devenski on the other hand.  Not sure what he has to do to move up.  Guy has given up 4 runs in 55 innings.   

1235
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 10, 2015, 04:16:49 pm »
#1009 (34th round): Conor Biggio, Notre Dame OF

Courtesy pick.

Reserve player for the Fighting Irish who played in just 18 games this past season, batting .200/.294/.333 in the process. His career numbers as a backup: .223/.348/.257.

Brother Cavan had some nice improvements this year:
2014 - 246/329/353 (5 of 7 SB)
2015 - 259/406/462 (14 of 16 SB)


1236
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 10, 2015, 12:00:50 pm »
Quote
Evan Drellich ‏@EvanDrellich  1m1 minute ago
Sources told me that Daz Cameron’s asking for less than $5 million, which was the rumored figure on draft day.


4,999,999?

1238
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 05:06:03 pm »
and round 10

Weathersby, Scott   U Mississippi (MS)   RHP   R/R   5S   --   6'2" 180lbs DOB: 12/23/91

1240
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 04:27:13 pm »
Round 9
Person, Zac   LSU (LA)   LHP   L/L   SR   --   6'1" 185lbs DOB: 10/13/92


1241
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 03:47:11 pm »
Round 8:
Stubbs, Garrett   USC (CA)   C   L/R   SR   --   5'10" 175lbs DOB: 05/26/93

1242
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 03:06:03 pm »
7th round

Freeman, Michael   Oklahoma State (OK)   LHP   R/L   5S   --   6'8" 235lbs DOB: 10/07/91

Edit;
5S=fifth year senior

1244
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 02:09:15 pm »
After 5, just 3 left on BAs list.  (won't bother to post it again):

Quote
1. Donny Everett, rhp, Clarksville (Tenn.) HS (No. 21)

Everett might be the hardest-throwing prep pitcher in this year’s class. He’s committed to Vanderbilt, so if he is not picked early on Tuesday, he may end up getting to campus.


6. Justin Hooper, lhp, De La Salle HS, Concord, Calif. (No. 39)

Hooper’s ceiling is as high as any prospect in the class. He battled some issues with consistency this spring, but he’s a 6-foot-7 lefthander with elite fastball velocity. Hooper is committed to UCLA.


10. Kyle Molnar, rhp, Aliso Niguel HS, Aliso Viejo, Calif. (No. 53)

Molnar has battled issues with consistency, but he has the potential for three average or better pitches. Molnar is committed to UCLA.



1245
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 01:33:25 pm »
5th round

Astros take Trent Thorton right handed pitcher

1246
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 01:31:10 pm »
After 4, the remaining from BA's list:

Quote
1. Donny Everett, rhp, Clarksville (Tenn.) HS (No. 21)

Everett might be the hardest-throwing prep pitcher in this year’s class. He’s committed to Vanderbilt, so if he is not picked early on Tuesday, he may end up getting to campus.


6. Justin Hooper, lhp, De La Salle HS, Concord, Calif. (No. 39)

Hooper’s ceiling is as high as any prospect in the class. He battled some issues with consistency this spring, but he’s a 6-foot-7 lefthander with elite fastball velocity. Hooper is committed to UCLA.


9. Joe McCarthy, of, Virginia (No. 46)

McCarthy might have been in line to go earlier in the draft if not for a back injury that sidelined him for most of the season. He has been slow to return, but has shown progress in Virginia’s postseason run to the College World Series.

10. Kyle Molnar, rhp, Aliso Niguel HS, Aliso Viejo, Calif. (No. 53)

Molnar has battled issues with consistency, but he has the potential for three average or better pitches. Molnar is committed to UCLA.

1247
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 01:15:38 pm »
Mac Marshall to the Giants.  #126 slot value: $443,800

1248
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 01:02:01 pm »
Chalmers got popped at #97 by Oakland.
Thanks. Missed that one

1249
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 12:53:51 pm »
4th round.

Astros take Anthony Hermelyn.  Catcher

1250
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 12:46:49 pm »
Lot of guys from BA's interesting day 2 player list still available after round 3:

Quote
1. Donny Everett, rhp, Clarksville (Tenn.) HS (No. 21)

Everett might be the hardest-throwing prep pitcher in this year’s class. He’s committed to Vanderbilt, so if he is not picked early on Tuesday, he may end up getting to campus.


3. Dakota Chalmers, rhp, North Forsyth HS, Cumming, Ga. (No. 34)

Chalmers is oozing with projection, and scouts can dream on him as a potential middle-of-the-rotation arm. He is committed to Georgia.

6. Justin Hooper, lhp, De La Salle HS, Concord, Calif. (No. 39)

Hooper’s ceiling is as high as any prospect in the class. He battled some issues with consistency this spring, but he’s a 6-foot-7 lefthander with elite fastball velocity. Hooper is committed to UCLA.

7. Demi Orimoloye, of, St. Matthew HS, Orleans, Ontario, Canada (No. 41)

A dynamic athlete with a high ceiling both offensively and defensively, Orimoloye could be an early pick on Tuesday. He is committed to Oregon.

8. David Hill, rhp, San Diego (No. 44)

Hill asserted himself as one of the most polished pitchers in the college class this spring. His stuff isn’t explosive, but he can pitch in the low 90s and has feel for three average pitches.

9. Joe McCarthy, of, Virginia (No. 46)

McCarthy might have been in line to go earlier in the draft if not for a back injury that sidelined him for most of the season. He has been slow to return, but has shown progress in Virginia’s postseason run to the College World Series.

10. Kyle Molnar, rhp, Aliso Niguel HS, Aliso Viejo, Calif. (No. 53)

Molnar has battled issues with consistency, but he has the potential for three average or better pitches. Molnar is committed to UCLA.


and Mac Marshall

1251
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 12:11:10 pm »
Astros take Riley Ferrell.  relief pitcher.  Mid 90s stuff

1252
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 12:09:38 pm »
Rangers took Matuella

1253
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 12:07:03 pm »
Underway.  Arizona did not take any mentioned in this thread.

Edit:
Rockies also stayed away from this list:
http://www.baseballamerica.com/draft/2015-draft-best-remaining-prospects-day-two/

1254
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 11:43:56 am »
By the way, for those who say the Astros "reached" on Bregman: I have no opinion of him, but he was ranked #4 or so on BA and/or MLB.com lists. Perhaps you can quibble with HOU for not taking Rodgers, but after that, it seems like the next 5-10 guys (Tucker included) had very little separation between them. We'll probably never know if the Astros genuinely think Bregman is a better player than Rodgers, or if they just decided they had to compromise in order to get Cameron at 37. But it's not like they passed on multiple clear-cut superior players in order to take a guy who clearly wasn't in the same league.

Who said reached?   

1255
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 10:59:03 am »
If Metuella is available tomorrow do the Astros take him?  Has he fallen enough to be cheap?

He doesn't have a ton of leverage.  He won't be ready to pitch next year.  No idea what his asking price is. 

Difficult to tell how much extra money if any the Astros have left.  Their second round pick is a 765k slot.  Bregman and Eshelman are under slot.  Tucker is likely a little under slot, and Daz is way over.  850k wiggle room if the top picks sign.





1256
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 10:53:54 am »
Aiken is still with Close. Nix fired* him earlier this year.



*to the degree that an advisor—who has no contract with the draftee, and offers counsel purely out of the goodness of his own heart—can be fired

Nix did himself no favors.  Arizona's first pick today is 801k.  15 picks later he'll be at the value the Astros offered him last year.  Now he did muster a 6 figure settlement but he also lost a year (which if he makes it to the majors could be worth millions)

1257
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 09:24:15 am »
That stand on principle cost him dearly in principal. I strongly suspect that he thought that he could get more money the next year.

Hey sometimes the mechanic was right and now you are out 1200 bucks instead of 600

Edit
Of course if he heals up nicely and makes 100 million in his lifetime, I imagine he'll be quite happy with his decision

1258
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 08:43:17 am »
I find that hard to believe.  More likely, they expected to stay healthy and get more than 5 million.

I don't know, the Astros were the bearer of bad news.  Kind of like when the mechanic tells you your car needs 600 dollars in repairs when that is all you wanted was an inspection.  The car may truly need those repairs but your gut instantly wants to question it.

1259
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 08:22:40 am »
I'm assuming that Close gave Aiken sufficient CYA concerning the $5,000,000 bird in the hand. If he didn't, then the difference between that figure and what he ultimately signs for will be the quantum of the malpractice claim. Surely, Close is too good to have gotten himself into such a pickle.

From what I read, Aiken and his family were at peace with him not joining the Astros organization the night before the deadline.  In the end money was less to do with it. 

1260
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 09, 2015, 07:21:04 am »
Luhnow was the best hire.

He and Elias are certainly fantastic at gaming the system.  Maneuvering pieces expertly to land 3 top 10 picks.  Took Bregman a little high, Tucker a little high and floated to Boras that 5 million awaits Daz at #37.  Think I'd have liked Fulmer or Benintendi over Bregman but still a fantastic haul.


1261
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:53:43 pm »
Kirby off the board, still Matuella

Good chance the D-Backs take him

1262
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:52:58 pm »
Kirby off the board, still Matuella

1263
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:44:44 pm »
Daz is official

1264
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:32:43 pm »
On the clock

1265
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:27:04 pm »
Swanson won't be a big discount for them at 1/1 Maybe $7m?. How could they afford to give Daz $5m at #43?

I thought Swanson's asking price was 5.5-6?

1266
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:15:30 pm »
Funkhouser, Matuella and Kirby.  Assuming Daz at 37, one of those other guys might fall to 46.  Do they have the cash?

1267
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:01:16 pm »
Yankees were a possible Matuella destination, see where they go


.. keeps dropping

1268
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:58:38 pm »
Funkhouser still there as well

1269
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:56:56 pm »
You'd guess either Kirby or Matuella is available at 37.  At this point though, I imagine you don't risk the DBacks trying to make Daz happy and just snag him at 37

1270
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:46:00 pm »
How much can they go over slot?

approx 850,000

1271
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:43:53 pm »
Everybody will want to take a discount in order to play with the developing juggernaut.

You'd have to take Matuella at 37 because he won't slip by the D-Backs to 46

1272
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:39:49 pm »
Oh cool, we get to see 4 picks then

Have a hard time figuring the math for Adding Metualla to the Bregman, Tucker and Daz group.

If Bregman agreed to 4.5 that gets you an extra 3
which Daz will take at #37
Leaves you whatever you can save on Tucker plus 850k and the money for the second pick.  Not sure that is enough,

1273
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:34:13 pm »
Oh cool, we get to see 4 picks then

1274
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:31:25 pm »
Will they get to #37 tonight, or is that a tomorrow thing?

I believe they do everything short of the 2nd round

1275
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:30:40 pm »
Interesting that funkhouser and buehler are both still available.  My uninformed hope is that they land Daz.


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

Honestly more of an expectation than hope at this point

1276
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:07:18 pm »
Bregman, Tucker and Daz would be 4, 5, and 8 on BA's list

4,5, and 7 on mlb.com's list

1277
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:01:49 pm »
Bregman, Tucker and Daz would be 4, 5, and 8 on BA's list

1278
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:47:52 pm »
True BPA.

Or what if Matuella or Kirby make it to #37, can you swing the money for all 4 guys?

1279
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:36:00 pm »
This is looking more and more like a predraft deal by Luhnow.  Let's go for three top 10 guys by overpaying for one at 37.

1280
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:24:47 pm »
Waiting for #37 maybe.  Likely have the 5 million available.  Daz would give them 3 top 10 players

Legal to tell Boras that Daz has 5 million waiting for him at #37 if he avoids getting drafted?

1281
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:17:12 pm »
Luhnow seems less than enthusiastic in the presser.

Waiting for #37 maybe.  Likely have the 5 million available.  Daz would give them 3 top 10 players

1282
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:15:02 pm »
Doubt it. All indications were that the Rangers were on him at 4.

Interesting, so Tate and Bregman are now tied to the Rangers Rivalry

1283
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:05:20 pm »
Luhnow seems to do well with Boras.  Really like Daz at #37 now.  Especially with the savings at 2

1284
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 07:03:45 pm »
I don't get the Bregman hate? He's a very good hitter and doesn't strikeout. He's also a good athlete. 36 walks and just 21 strikeouts. Exactly the kind of hitter this lineup could use in the future. Nothing wrong with a college career slash of .334/.407/.514.

It's not hate.  It's just a lack of excitement.  Personally, I prefer guys that are getting better year over year.

2015 - 312/406/534
2014 - 316/397/455
2013 - 369/417/546

He's worthy of a top 10 pick.  Just seems more like a money savings pick at 2 though.  He'd likely have been there at 5

1285
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 06:39:50 pm »
Saving cash for #37


1286
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draftees and Status
« on: June 08, 2015, 06:19:09 pm »
so far the experts are nailing it

1287
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 05:51:38 pm »
(Edit going bolder)
For a prediction, pretty much this ^^^
 - Rodgers at 2.
 - Tate at 5
 - Daz at #37

Want for me is #2 Swanson, #5 Fulmer, #37 Daz

Oops not enough money for my picks.  Change #37 to Mateulla

1288
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 05:26:01 pm »
It's Daz Cameron. You're thinking of the former Black Flag singer/guitarist, Dez Cadena.

I think for once the experts have the Astros pretty much nailed:
Bregman 2, Benintendi 5, Daz 37.

If the D'backs don't take Swanson, maybe the Astros take him and have to improvise a bit.

FYI, the experts admit they have no idea in each mock.  The DBacks are on 4 guys, Swanson, Stephenson,  Jay and Fulmer.  The DBacks have chosen but they have been mum

1289
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 05:21:29 pm »
It's Daz Cameron. You're thinking of the former Black Flag singer/guitarist, Dez Cadena.

I think for once the experts have the Astros pretty much nailed:
Bregman 2, Benintendi 5, Daz 37.

If the D'backs don't take Swanson, maybe the Astros take him and have to improvise a bit.

Actually I was thinking Dez Bryant.  Never heard of a Daz (till now)

1290
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 04:51:22 pm »
This draft is wacko.  Everything depends on Arizona.  But my guess is, if he isn't taken at #1 then Rodgers is the guy at 2.  If Rodgers is gone at #1 then it's Swanson at 2.  At 5 I'm thinking either Tate or Benintendi or Fulmer.  37 will be a high ceiling high schooler.

(Edit going bolder)
For a prediction, pretty much this ^^^
 - Rodgers at 2.
 - Tate at 5
 - Daz at #37

Want for me is #2 Swanson, #5 Fulmer, #37 Daz








1291
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 08, 2015, 02:07:40 pm »
I just think that with Correa filling it at SS pretty much 100% of the time, Marwin's presence may not be needed.  Villar's speed might play more useful late in games along with his bat.  And his ability to play the outfield. 


1292
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 08, 2015, 01:27:14 pm »
Not an attorney, but I'm pretty sure Marwin has an option left.  He was added to the 40-man in 2012, spent the entire year on the big league roster.  Optioned in 2013, then spent all of last year in the Bigs.  He's only used one option, I believe.

Well in that case it still is either of them to be sent down

1293
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 01:16:05 pm »
I didn't say anything about college players, just safe picks.  I'm sure there are a lot of high upside, high risk picks in the college pool.

Ah, well I was only referring to college players being safer picks than high school players.  Their floor is easier to determine. 

1294
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 08, 2015, 01:02:00 pm »
The 25-man decision doesn't need to be done till Wednesday.  What it does clear up is who.  Villar has options, Marwin does not.  Therefore by DFA'ing Dominguez you can assume they are just sending Villar down. 

Edit:
Ummm, maybe I'm wrong with Marwin's options.  Need an attorney to read this one:
Options

Okay now thinking Marwin has options left

Chart from article

1295
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: June 08, 2015, 12:37:47 pm »
This doesn't clear up the active roster picture.  We have 2 in, 1 out so far on the 25 man.

The 25-man decision doesn't need to be done till Wednesday.  What it does clear up is who.  Villar has options, Marwin does not.  Therefore by DFA'ing Dominguez you can assume they are just sending Villar down. 

Edit:
Ummm, maybe I'm wrong with Marwin's options.  Need an attorney to read this one:
Options

1296
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 12:08:19 pm »
Screw safe picks.  Those are guys you can eventually acquire in free agency.

Just because one went to college and is more developed does not make them average players.  Some of these college guys could be allstars. 

1297
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 11:45:17 am »
I would not be disappointed in Tucker just because I keep hearing he has a higher ceiling than Preston.

Certainly wouldn't be a bad idea to gamble on a top high schooler.  Get one "safer" pick and one high risk/reward type.    Though they seemed poised to snag somebody good at 37.  Likely to be one high schooler that drops due to signability in a field that has a lot of mlb caliber players but no supersrtars (at least that is what I read)


1298
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 11:27:05 am »
Bah, I dislike it when folks peak early.  Like to go after guys like Bryant and Nola where they improve year over year and you don't know where their limits might be.

This being said, my wish list is Swanson and Fulmer.  Both have made big strides each year.  Benintendi would be a nice consolation prize.  Hopefully one of the big high school names falls to them at 37 

1300
Talk Zone / Re: Velasquez up
« on: June 08, 2015, 10:53:15 am »
I'm surprised they didn't opt to keep Buchanan for the pen rather than Hernandez.

Options.  All about options. 

1301
Talk Zone / Re: Velasquez up
« on: June 08, 2015, 10:50:15 am »
Devenski isn't on the 40-man.  That's probably a big part of why.

I really like Devenski, always have.  But I don't think he's the type to skip AAA

1302
Talk Zone / Re: Correa era begins
« on: June 08, 2015, 09:29:10 am »
Is it a foregone conclusion that Villar is the odd man out?   Correa didn't come up here to platoon and does not need a defensive replacement.  Villar has more speed, better bat, and can play more positions (albeit not necessarily better) than Marwin

1303
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 08, 2015, 08:52:27 am »
For the record, I agree with you if we're talking about current Bregman. He looked much better as a freshman.

Bah, I dislike it when folks peak early.  Like to go after guys like Bryant and Nola where they improve year over year and you don't know where their limits might be.

1304
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 07, 2015, 09:00:51 pm »
I haven't seen this noted elsewhere: Heyman has a Draft column where he notes that Casey Close is the advisor for Swanson, Rodgers, and Tucker, among others. Hmmm...

If this made a damn bit of difference the players would have dropped him like a bad habit.  Who in their right mind wants an advisor who is at odds with the team picking second and fifth.

1305
Talk Zone / Re: Trade talk
« on: June 05, 2015, 06:42:02 pm »

I wouldn't be altogether surprised if there are some Scott Boras fingerprints there as well.

Actually it benefits the Astros most if other teams feel he will regain stardom

1306
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 04:11:20 pm »
Bah, Orioles get the last game. 

1307
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 03:57:14 pm »
Not gonna PH with Tucker at this point. That's a ton of strikes with RISP though.

Correct, not likely with a lefty on the mound

1308
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 03:53:44 pm »
Wow that went bad.  Valbuean Ks, Villar Ks and Hinch wastes Tucker as a pinch runner. 

1309
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 03:47:37 pm »
Gattis walks, Carter Ks.  Britton coming in for a 5 out save chance.

1310
Talk Zone / Re: Tal's Hill a goner
« on: June 04, 2015, 03:41:54 pm »
In the interest of accuracy, the hill was a copy, too.

The entire ballpark was designed to mimic many different ballpark features.

1311
Talk Zone / Re: Tal's Hill a goner
« on: June 04, 2015, 03:41:11 pm »
If the hill is a remotely good idea, why does no other ballpark in the world have one?

Not questioning the silliness of it all.  But I do question if it at all is an injury risk.

1312
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 02:53:47 pm »
And Valbuena Ks to end the inning.  (after Altuve stole second).  Tough not getting a run there.  Would have been nice to have Tucker batting after Altuve.

1313
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 02:51:26 pm »
Apparantly Carter missed a mistake pitch on 1-1 and proceeds to strike out. 

1314
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 02:48:35 pm »
Captain Caveman pops up 1 down

1315
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 02:47:56 pm »
Springer walks, Altuve with a single down the thirdbase line.  runners at corners 0 out

1316
Talk Zone / Re: Tal's Hill a goner
« on: June 04, 2015, 02:44:57 pm »
I never liked the hill -  a silly and potentially dangerous gimmick.  Good riddance.

Knock on wood.  Has anyone even so much as sprained an ankle on that hill in 15.5 years?

1317
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 02:08:12 pm »
Easy 4th for Keuchel.  1-1 Mid 4

1318
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 01:57:56 pm »
Conger DONG!  1-1

1319
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 01:55:37 pm »
Davis GOs.  0-1 after 2 1/2.  Keuchel tossing 64 pitches already

1320
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 4, 2015
« on: June 04, 2015, 01:39:02 pm »
Orioles run in the first was manufactured.  Machado beat out an infield single to short. After 2 outs, took off to second just before Keuchel started his motion.  And then scored on an opposite field flare by Davis.  Keuchel struck out everybody else that inning.  has 5 ks through 2

1321
Talk Zone / Re: Tal's Hill a goner
« on: June 04, 2015, 12:57:54 pm »
Quote
"And if we go to the playoffs we might be working more than 24 hours a day and we hope that's the case."

Union might have something to say about this

1322
Talk Zone / Re: Club Astros
« on: June 04, 2015, 12:32:47 pm »
Correa is illegally drinking an '85 Henri Jayer Richebourg Grand Cru, Cote de Nuits, France.

Yes but they paid way less than market price for the bottle

1323
Talk Zone / Re: Club Astros
« on: June 04, 2015, 09:44:09 am »
Luhnow ordered a sweaty mexican lumberjack, but sent it back.

1324
Talk Zone / Re: Club Astros
« on: June 04, 2015, 09:38:01 am »
Colin McHugh has occasional trouble locating his highball.

Well that is because Gattis drank it

1325
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 2, 2015
« on: June 03, 2015, 04:06:02 pm »
Yes, the ball acts like a spring to store energy that is released after the ball is hit. The speed of the ball coming off the bat is much more sensitive to the bat speed though.

And correct me if I'm wrong, the closer to the sweet spot in the bat the more spring. 

1326
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 2, 2015
« on: June 03, 2015, 03:30:41 pm »
According to the game feed, Tucker's grounder came off the bat at 100 MPH. By comparison, Gattis' HR came off the bat at 102 & Luis' HR came off the bat at 103.  Carter's single in the was 107 MPH

Tucker's 1st inning  (ground out to second) was hit hard too at 103 MPH. They didn't give exit speeds for his other two ABs.

Is not the speed of the ball off the bat effected by the speed of the pitch?  I mean if I take a stationary bat and deliver a ball at 100 MPH into the sweet spot it's coming back at me at a decent speed versus a soft toss that hits the sweet spot that isn't coming back much.

1327
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Orioles @ Astros June 2, 2015
« on: June 02, 2015, 05:09:58 pm »
Interesting that Tucker is now a regular and we seem to have an official platoon of Marisnick/Rasmus. 

1328
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 02, 2015, 03:55:21 pm »
It doesn't have to be a press release saying who they are looking at, but writers do get a sense of who some teams are considering.

I'd bet money that at least the Rockies and Rangers have extra scouted folks that they are less interested this year.   The Astros having the 2nd and 5th pick really muddies the situation.  Let's say the DBacks take Swanson and the Astros are pretty much in a toss up between Rodgers, Tate and Fulmer.  Worse case scenario they draft one and the Rockies and Rangers take the other 2.  But let's say the Rangers are just plain stupid and make it obvious they want either Tate and if not then Jay.  Well then you take Tate knowing you will get one of Rodgers or Fulmer with the 5th pick.


1329
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 02, 2015, 03:44:23 pm »
I'll quite happily take Swanson as the 2nd pick.

Certain Swanson has Beltran'd his way to the top.

1330
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: June 01, 2015, 02:08:09 pm »
My money is still on Rodgers.  There is no way any real information has floated out of the Astros camp.  It's not like they are just in a situation where they take who Arizona doesn't, they have the 5th pick as well.  So they really can't even float a we are looking at these 6 players list. 

And for that matter, Colorado and the Rangers have to be super mum on who they like.  Because if the Astros have 2 guys they really want and 1 is likely to fall to 5 then they'd draft the other in hopes to get both.

Especially if Arizona is mudding the waters trying to draft cheap at 1-1 to land a great pick at 2-1.  Now you are in a situation where Rodgers may truly be the BPA, but neither the Astros, Rockies or Rangers are going to say a word about him hoping he comes to them.  And the Twins and on wouldn't even be talking about Rodgers since he's unlikely to be there at 6.

1331
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 30, 2015, 11:38:25 pm »
Well he's got the major league club written all over him.  When he wasn't homering or clearing the bases with a double, he K'd.

What a game for him.  4 for 6, 12 RBis, 3 Hrs and a double.   

1332
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 30, 2015, 11:03:48 pm »
holy shit. He now is 4-5 with the 3 HRs and a 2B. For the day, 12 RBIs and 11 TBs.

Not everyday you get 3 chances with the bases loaded.  Even less often when you clear them all 3 times

1333
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 30, 2015, 10:19:57 pm »
and then he strikes out

1334
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 30, 2015, 10:09:06 pm »
Ha! Homered in first 2 ABs for the JetHawks.

Make it 3!  3 at bats into A+ and his OPS still sitting at 5000

1335
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: White Sox @ Astros May 30, 2015
« on: May 30, 2015, 05:58:48 pm »
Wow great game by Keuchel. 

1336
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Revisiting the 2009 draft
« on: May 28, 2015, 12:50:17 pm »
It is softening the blow because you if you do your draft correctly, you should get your best players early not later.  You can chose to take several views of how this draft worked out. 

1. The Astros were better at scouting college players than HS players in that draft.
2. They got lucky and got some late round bargains. And they were unlucky with injuries with some of their top picks.

Not sure lucky is the right word.  You scout all the players you draft.  Certainly Keuchel is not a lucky pick.  Stevenson was all over him.  The only place I think you can use lucky is if you drafted an injured guy and really have no idea if he'll regain his form.  Like say Armstrong.  Or maybe if someone fell down to you for signability reasons like McCullers.  Mengden is a bit lucky.  He was battling a back injury, was really hard to tell how he was going to turn out. 

1337
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Revisiting the 2009 draft
« on: May 27, 2015, 04:28:14 pm »
Awesome summary.

I find the Keuchel signing a great story for those that don't know it. 

Scouts recollection:
Quote
Stevenson, who signed one-time top prospect Yovani Gallardo, said Keuchel is the pick he takes the most pride in. The scout compares him to Kenny Rogers and Mark Buehrle.

"You would go away unimpressed (in college if you watched him once)," Stevenson said. "You'd walk away and go, 'Ho hum.' If you didn't know him and didn't catch him on a regular basis, you could not appreciate what he did week after week after week."

Stevenson would put down his radar gun when Keuchel took the mound to pretend he had little interest.

When draft day came around in 2009, Keuchel hadn't been seen by Astros scouting director Bobby Heck - only by Stevenson and crosschecker Ralph Bratton.

Stevenson thought the lefty was second-round material.

"I was wearing out Ralph," Stevenson said. "I'm at home watching it on the Internet and literally (telling Bratton), Dallas Keuchel, Dallas Keuchel, Dallas Keuchel. Just wearing him out."

He was theirs in the seventh round.

From Heck:
Quote
Dallas Keuchel, I didn't see him pitch that spring," Heck said. "First time I saw Dallas Keuchel was instructional league, after his draft. There's always some anxiety when you take a guy in the first 10 rounds and you didn't see him as scouting director. And then when I saw him, you want to hug the guys that did a good job on him."

Also from article referring to the miss on Trout:
Quote
The Astros, like most teams, missed out on Mike Trout in the 2009 draft. The team's first-round pick that year, shortstop Jiovanni Mier at No. 21 overall, hasn't developed offensively. Trout went four selections later.

"I think we could have done a better job on Michael Trout," Heck said. "You know Jio Mier, at the time we thought we were taking the best high school shortstop in the draft."

Heck said the Astros just didn't scout Trout well enough.

1338
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 27, 2015, 12:45:56 pm »
I'm not sure why you're calling him out.  Generally speaking more prospects fail than succeed.  Until last year Phillips looked like he might not figure it out.  Vasquez looks like he might have figured things out as a 21 year old.  Both guys could end up being AAAA players.

I'm not calling him out.  I was propping up Phillips.  IMO, when it comes to Phillips, they will promote him to AA when they feel he will benefit more by being there.  Regardless of where Danry or any other prospect is.  Phillips is a far better prospect.  At this point, likely has a better chance of at least being a MLB regular than a AAAA player.  And a ceiling of an Allstar. 

1339
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 27, 2015, 12:16:34 pm »
Vasquez isn't org filler.  He and Phillips are the same age.  Vasquez has enough talent to be a major league player.  And they both have a lot of room to grow.

On the verge was a poor choice of words.  But with Danry, the odds are likely still against him on succeeding at being a MLB regular.   Not from a personal standpoint, but prospects similar to Danry fail more than succeed.   Not impossible of course.   

One correction:
I was wrong with Phillips age.  He'll be 21 on Saturday,  Read his DOB wrong. 



1340
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 27, 2015, 11:03:37 am »
I believe Vasquez is Rule 5 eligible after this season.  Could be part of the equation.  Phillips isn't.

I just seriously doubt Danry has anything to do with Phillips' progress.  One is on the verge of organizational filler the other is a top prospect.  If they want Phillips in CC they will move him there and there isn't anyone currently at AA that will block him.  Phillips is still 20, will be so all year.  He has tons of growing to do yet.  Certainly hasn't learned how to steal a base yet.   Just guessing, but if Phillips is in Lancaster, it's because they want him there

1341
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 27, 2015, 08:44:21 am »

1342
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 27, 2015, 08:21:25 am »
Both were putting up great numbers, Phillips arguably better. But, Vasquez having a full season+ at Lancaster was likely the tie-breaker. I imagine Phillips won't be too much longer.

Phillips is not in the same class as Vasquez.   Highly doubt Phillips' promotion is tied to anything other than Phillips. 

1343
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Orioles May 26, 2015
« on: May 26, 2015, 03:20:43 pm »
Springer at leadoff both today and yesterday. I guess trying to protect Altuve?

Well he isn't going to move anyone over anyways.  Might as well bat him first so his walks/speed pay off the most

1344
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Orioles May 26, 2015
« on: May 26, 2015, 03:09:28 pm »
Tucker batting 3rd.   Interesting.  Certainly can't say it isn't warranted.

1345
Talk Zone / Re: AL West News
« on: May 26, 2015, 09:59:36 am »
I think we need to get used to players succeeding on other teams.  There is a ton of talent in this system and the rules won't allow them all to stay.

I don't see it is necessarily damning of the current leadership but a pat on the back of the prior leadership.   Turns out Wade/Heck did a real good job.  They started with almost nothing and really started a great base of talent.   They weren't perfect, but they made more good moves then bad. 

ETA.
Just to be clear.  It is not a damning of Luhnow/Elias.  They are doing quite well in their own right.  The team is 5.5 games up on the division due to them aggressively filling holes in the team.   Yeah they let some folks get away.  They weren't their guys though.  It's not uncommon for new leadership to not see the same in players as the past leadership. 


1346
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 22, 2015, 09:25:48 am »
Not sure I agree with you about Villar.  If it comes down to keeping Marwin or Villar, I don't think it clearly falls in Marwin's favor.

Is Villar out of options?

1347
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 22, 2015, 08:51:49 am »
Weakest two position players are Carter and Villar.  Singleton and Correa waiting in the wings.  Won't have to buyers in the trade market this year.  Well at least not for position players

1348
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 22, 2015, 01:33:10 am »
Singleton has been ridiculous lately.

Last 10 games
6HR
18 hits
27 RBIs
2 SBs
8 BBs
and only 4 Ks

1349
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Tigers May 21, 2015
« on: May 21, 2015, 03:03:32 pm »
Preston!

Brother Kyle looking better everyday

1350
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Tigers May 21, 2015
« on: May 21, 2015, 12:22:31 pm »
Agent Martinez!  (hits a 3-1 pitch into an inning ending double play)

1351
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Tigers May 21, 2015
« on: May 21, 2015, 11:57:16 am »
Is there some particular reason why this is a day game?

High unemployment

1352
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: A's @ Astros - Day Game Style! 5/20
« on: May 20, 2015, 05:03:58 pm »
I think we'll have a better feel for how good this team is after Detroit.

I honestly don't think it matters who they are playing.  10 of their 14 losses have been against some of the worst teams.



 

1353
Talk Zone / Re: McCullers to start Monday
« on: May 18, 2015, 02:47:25 pm »
Interesting.  Not that I don't buy that his change has improved, I just don't believe that can account for his apparent jump from a promising A+ pitcher to an dominant AA pitcher.  Similarly, I've never had the impression that Fernandez was an absolute stud due to the presence of his change in his repertoire, but instead due to his consistent mastery of two dominant pitches. 

Judging by the clips they show from his CC outings, that curve is absolute filth.  If he can locate a mid 90s fastball and avoid too many hangers, one would expect him to compete.

I'm no expert mind you but I imagine if a guy has a filthy curve you would just take a strategy of sitting on the fastball.  A plus change would seemingly destroy that strategy.

1354
Talk Zone / Re: McCullers to start Monday
« on: May 18, 2015, 02:35:31 pm »
Son of a Baby Goose

1355
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 18, 2015, 11:59:15 am »
I would not be surprised to see Appel to be a part of a trade package for a top pitcher if one is made this year.

Boy I can't imagine trading him now would be worth it. 

1356
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 15, 2015, 10:23:47 pm »

They have the Astros taking Swanson and Tucker, saying rumor is Luhnow loves all 3 Vandy guys including Buehler.


Kyle is suppose to be better than his brother....sold!

1357
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Hot sheet
« on: May 15, 2015, 11:56:05 am »
Michael Feliz #18 on this week's Hot Sheet.

Interesting to see Nola being so dominate.  He was my dark horse candidate for #1 last year. 

1358
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 14, 2015, 04:28:22 am »

1359
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 13, 2015, 04:36:56 pm »
Elias was hired in January of 2012 and was considered Luhnow's "right-hand man" in St. Louis. There is no question that Heck had input but I think Elias had a bunch of pull as well.

The Houston Astros amateur scouting director helped select Carlos Correa in 2012 then made the call to draft Mark Appel first overall in 2013.

http://www.sportsnet.ca/baseball/mlb/astros-elias-details-search-for-elite-draft-talent/

Luhnow on Elias:

"I knew that I wanted him over here," Luhnow said. "He could help in a variety of ways. At the time, I didn't know if he would end up being a scouting director or farm director or assistant general manager. I knew there would be some role for him. He did such a nice job helping [former scouting director] Bobby [Heck] out in that first Draft."

http://www.crawfishboxes.com/2014/5/29/5761432/thursdays-three-astros-things

Elias was also based in Florida already due to his time with the Cards and was one of the guys at Correa's workout.

Astros staff was "blown away" by Carlos Correa's workout in Kissimee this weekend. One says he's the best Puerto Rican talent since Beltran

https://twitter.com/pgammo/status/206874435104419841

Yes he helped out, no doubt.    Joey Sola made the comment about Beltran

1360
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 13, 2015, 03:39:36 pm »
Luhnow has a history picking Vandy guys.

That led to a trivia question.  Which college has Luhnow drafted from the most over the last 3 years combined?

Answer:
Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College

1361
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 13, 2015, 03:03:11 pm »
But 15 or a bit more isn't out of the question at all.

At shortstop that's pretty good.  And welcome to the board

1362
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 13, 2015, 12:51:40 pm »
Your initial point, though, was that Luhnow had a pattern of taking the consensus BPA. And I don't think that's true, regardless of the extent to which Correa was a Heck-driven choice. In 2013 consensus was about 50/50 Gray-Appel, with Bryant close behind. Even in 2014 when Aiken became the consensus #1 by Draft day, in some ways the Astros bucked expectations by not taking Rodon. I don't think we can assume they'll take Rodgers even if the Dbacks don't.

The Appel/Gray tie was broken by the positive drug testing from what I remember.  I think everyone had Aiken at the top by draft day last year.  In 2012, Appel was considered the consensus #1.   Given Luhnow said that Appel was their guy from start to finish in 2013, tends to make me think Heck had a lot to do with Correa being the choice in 2012.  But my opinion is definitely all inference.  I can find no definitive quote anywhere that gives the level of influence Elias had.  The scouts given the credit for Correa were Larry Pardo (Heck's guy) and Joey Sola (not sure if he was hired pre-Heck or not).





1363
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 13, 2015, 08:28:13 am »
Heck was just a  figurehead by that point. They only kept that group in place because they had already been scouting the 2012 class for several months. There is no doubt in my mind that Heck with final say would have gone with Buxton looking at his past picks for the team (raw, toolsy guys with upside and speed to burn like Springer and DDJ). Heck always said he liked to pick "best athlete available". Luhnow brought Elias in prior to that draft and Elias was one of the guys blown away by Correa's workout in Kissimmee. Correa was Luhnow/Elias all the way.

No doubt Elias had input on the choices made for the 2012 draft,  But I disagree with the figurehead comment.  Heck and the people he put in place did all leg work for that draft.  And Heck was heavily involved in it right to the end.  Heck was very big on up the middle defensive positions early in the draft.  Certainly both Correa and Buxton fit that bill.   Neither of which would have been a bad choice.  And from everything I've read that choice was made the day of the draft.  And the financial flexibility that Correa provided was likely the final factor. 

1364
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 12, 2015, 05:05:06 pm »
I meant from the standpoint of the volatility of the top 3 or so.  The Aiken and Appel years seemed to be fairly stable with the names at the top.  This year not as much.

There is not suppose to be any confusion with the top spot.  Rodgers is suppose to be 3-hitter talent that should be able to stick at shortstop.  Arizona is apparently is upsetting the apple cart by trying to save a few million on the first pick.   

And then there is the Astros, who some folks are saying the Astros are not in on Rodgers.  Though that is admittedly hearsay by Law.  It will be interesting if the Astros buck the consensus BPA, because they really haven't done that since Elias has taken over (admittedly a small sample size). 

1365
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 12, 2015, 01:11:05 pm »
This year looks much more like the Correa year to me.

Correa was Heck.  Luhnow didn't want to mess with the draft so he let Heck finish out his job through the draft.  That's not to say Elias can't do the same. 

Your Fuhmer pick at #2 would be like a Correa pick.  Well at least at this point.  This year seems so unstable.  Fuhmer could be at the top of the draft lists by the time June 8th roles around. 

1366
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 12, 2015, 12:58:58 pm »
I think that given Luhnow's track record of secrecy everything out there in print is a smokescreen.

In the post-Heck era, it's been consensus.  Lot's of predraft names floated around, then they've taken the one that tops everyone's list.  Just 2 years so far, but Appel and Aiken were the consensus #1.  Small sample size of course.  But if they stay consistent, Mr Rodgers will be in the neighborhood. 

1367
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 11, 2015, 02:39:28 pm »
Right, they have to wait until enough other guys get called up this season so that he's outside of the top 22% of service time among players brought up to the majors this season.

yeah but then you have to hope they don't get sent back down.

1368
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 11, 2015, 02:38:49 pm »
So if they delay Correa some more, then he won't have enough service time to be in that top 22%?

Yes.  Just a money savings.  Same number of years of control. 

The silly 11 days in April thing is for an extra year of control

1369
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 11, 2015, 02:31:24 pm »
Can someone explain in simple terms a physicist can understand what this Super 2 timing stuff is about?

Certain number of players end up being arbitration eligible a year early by their total service time alone (regardless of quality once they are there)


The exact terms:
● If they have less than three years of service time, but more than two.
● If they rank within the top 22% of all 2-year players in terms of service time.

1370
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 11, 2015, 02:29:14 pm »

1371
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 11, 2015, 11:40:56 am »
Don't have access to the article but BPs mock today has:

1. Whitley
2. Swanson
3. Rodgers

edit:
The letters came off the finger tips but in the wrong order. 

1372
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 10, 2015, 10:35:45 pm »
Well it's very possible that you've paid better attention than me. I'm assuming Matuella and Allard go in the Top 20 (a la Hoffman, Fedde, Giolito), Aiken is irrelevant for the Astros, Kirby seems likely to go before #37. Who else is there that's viewed as a Top-15-type talent?

I realize, of course, that a lot can change between now and June 8th, and that there may also be signability guys (a la McCullers) who drop that far, too.

What I read was the draft while lacking a lot of elite talent guys, still has a good amount of players that are expected to be able to reach the majors.  It's my guess there is going to be a decent number of picks made in the first 15 picks that weren't suppose to go that early driving down some talented players.  And then you are choosing between the injured players and other highly talented players.  And some folks will fall.    And as you mention, add the signability factor in and you have a mess.  Anyways, a lack of top tier talent with the same number of major league potential prospects should make for some opportunities around the Stros 3rd and 4th picks. 

1373
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 10:38:38 pm »
Velasquez not too shabby in his 2015 debut. 5/3/1/1/10.  52 strikes in 74 pitches.

Nice!   Between McCullers, Devenski, Hader and now Valesquez.  Statistically, Appel is your 5th starter

1374
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 10:23:46 pm »
Pots, in his interview, Tucker said he was expecting fastball and got a change and was out early on it.  Just happy to hit it hard.

Thanks.  That makes sense.  Didn't realize it was a change.  Not a lot of movement on it. 

1375
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 06:57:35 pm »
You guess?  He didn't hit a blooper.  He didn't get lucky.  He stood in there, got a pitch to handle, turned on it, kept his head on the ball and drove it.  All of that with a tough closer on the mound, in the 9th inning, down by a run, and the tying run in scoring position.  You're bitching that it wasn't the side of the field you would have liked?  Seriously?

This will be my last post on this.  Your ability to exaggerate what someone has said knows no bounds,  It was just an opinion that I felt he should be hitting a pitch like that the other way.  I was and am still happy with the result.  I am truly sorry I stated my opinion on this.

1376
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 04:26:45 pm »
No kidding. He drove the ball past a diving infielder. He hit the ball hard, which is all he should try to do.  Unreal complaint.

The result was great and I guess that is all we should care about.  Good job Tucker.   Rah Rah Rah

1377
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 03:41:47 pm »
I'm not sure what you were watching.  That wasn't a slow roller with eyes, the ball was stung pretty good.  More importantly, I still can't understand why you're upset with it.

Never said it was a slow roller.  Never said I was upset with it.  i said I felt it was a pitch he would have better off driving the other way.   I feel that he had a better chance of succeeding that way.  I'm glad that it worked out.  Happy they won.  Happy Tucker had a taste of success.  He is not a dead pull hitter.  Has had 3 homeruns this year the opposite way and one to straight away center (out of 10).  I think when he settles in he'll hit that pitch a long ways to left.

1378
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 02:44:50 pm »
He certainly got enough of it, squarely enough to get it through on 3  bounces.  Tucker has good power and a pitch on the outside like that is one I would think he could drive a long ways the other way.   I'm certainly not advocating he try and draw a walk. 

1379
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Hot sheet
« on: May 08, 2015, 12:35:23 pm »
3 bus riders on the list this week.  #6 Reed, #8 Correa, and #9 McCullers

1380
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: May 08, 2015, 10:23:42 am »
Interesting. That made me look up Bagwell's minor league stats (not that he was there long) and oddly enough he only had 6 steals and was caught 8 times according to b-r. :o

A lot about Bagwell was late blooming.  Likely the only reason he wasn't a Red Sox.

About the closest player I can think to compare Correa to is Griffey Jr.   (And Junior had all of 68 at bats at AA making his major league debut at 19).  Seriously don't see any reason why they are holding Correa back at this point.  Just call him up and get it started already.

1381
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 09:13:15 am »
Your going to be negative about an Astros player getting a hit with a runner in scoring position??

Not really.  I'm glad they won.  It is not wrong to still try to learn even though it didn't end up being a mistake.  Must they lose to learn?

1382
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Halos May 7, 2015
« on: May 08, 2015, 08:40:50 am »
Good comeback by the good guys. Tucker needs to drive that pitch the other way though.  Kind of got lucky that wasn't an inning ending double play.  His father is pretty laid back.  I think I would have been jumping out of my seat. 

1383
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 07, 2015, 08:02:01 pm »
Wild man McCullers with 7 ks through 3.  But 3 walks, hit batter and wild pitch.   Finished well.  Ended up with 9Ks in 5 innings.
5.0/3/0/0/3/9/0

1384
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 07, 2015, 07:42:32 pm »
This doesn't seem like a draft where a $3-4m-type player is going to be available at #37, though, does it?

Actually I read the opposite.  Certainly a bunch of injured guys that could drop

1385
Talk Zone / Re: Say Hello to Fresno
« on: May 07, 2015, 07:36:28 pm »
So that's what broke the streak.  Once Justice got on board, the boat started leaking.

Don't worry, he'll be the first one off

1386
Talk Zone / Re: Tell your family, tell your friends
« on: May 07, 2015, 05:09:23 pm »
Quote
C – Hank Conger:  Acquired from the Angels via trade in the offseason (in what was Luhnow’s most head-scratching move so far).  Rated as the best pitch framer in all of baseball.  Barely hit his weight in LA, has done better at the plate so far with a little pop.  Switch-hitter, so if Castro struggles, could push to be the starter.

Yeah, still trying to wrap the noggin around that trade.  Tropeano was the most obvious loss, and then there was that toss in of Perez.  Well he's been on fire.  Raked at AAA and now is playing for the big league club. 

1387
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 07, 2015, 04:50:34 pm »
They also have pick 5.  An underslot deal could add another 1 mil or so.

Plus if they sign all their top 10 picks they could go $868,519 over without losing a draft pick.

1388
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 07, 2015, 03:03:51 pm »
Kiley McDaniel of FG on what he's hearing about the D-Backs and their plans for 1/1:

He also indentifies the price tag for SS Brendan Rodgers is "at least" $6MM and Tate would be "just below" that.

Take Tate at 5.9 and you have 1.5 million for later.  Could easily make a 3.5 million dollar pick at 37 (which comes before the Diamondbacks second pick of the draft). 

1389
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 07, 2015, 12:58:35 pm »
Law was responding to a question that directly asked if money was why the Astros might not be interested and he indicated otherwise.

By health issue I mean maybe something that Law in his expert opinion doesn't think is a big deal but the Astros do. But I have no clue what that could be, or how anyone would know about it.

Maybe Rodgers has Close as his agent, and that's what he meant. He also said "may be giving them pause" so it's entirely speculative.

Yeah I read the question and answer a couple of times.  It's 2 questions.  One is why would they pass and the second is money.   And the money question is just a couple of dollar signs.  He mentions nothing in his response about money.  and eludes to an irrelevant factor.  Which for most analysts, signability is irrelevant.  Health is almost never irrelevant.  Personality is usually not irrelevant and often referred to as intangibles. 

So my guess is either some weird statistic that Law does not believe in or he meant signability.  (whether that be due to Close, money demands, etc.).  Law is purposefully being vague.  Likely due to talking out his a__.  I mean when an analyst admits it's all hearsay and not from a "reliable" source, you know it's just wild speculation.


1390
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: May 07, 2015, 10:27:35 am »
Wonder what "variables" he could be referring to? Health issue? Personality?

Hard to imagine that personality and health could be considered irrelevant.  Could be money or perhaps he's a Cubs fan.

My guess is money.  The Astros are in a use it or lose it situation with their second pick.  Plus, with a plethora of top level injured players, picks 37 and 46 could be huge

1391
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Quad Cities
« on: May 07, 2015, 08:41:16 am »
I don't really know the answer to your question, but I suspect you can add the Aggie pitcher, Mengden.  Pretty high draft choice who is doing well.

Yes defintely Mengden.  Played through a stress fracture in his back his last year of college.  Hurt his velocity and his draft position.  Healthy now and looking good.   Love the 10:1 K to BB ratio.

1392
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaBrooms @ Astros May 3, 2015
« on: May 03, 2015, 09:00:00 pm »
Cards are 18-6.

oops i had it filtered by league

1393
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaBrooms @ Astros May 3, 2015
« on: May 03, 2015, 06:11:04 pm »
Now up 7 games on the division.   

Not to mention they are 1.5 games up on the Tigers with the best record in baseball

1394
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaBrooms @ Astros May 3, 2015
« on: May 03, 2015, 04:08:18 pm »
Seabags came in on a 3 game win streak poised to take a chunk out of their 4 game deficit on first place.  They leave on a 4 game losing streak 8 games out of first.

1395
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaBrooms @ Astros May 3, 2015
« on: May 03, 2015, 04:03:41 pm »
Ballgame! Sweep  Wow, who are these guys?

1396
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaBrooms @ Astros May 3, 2015
« on: May 03, 2015, 02:56:40 pm »
Nothing like being down by 4 and getting caught stealing

1397
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaShits @ Astros May 2, 2015
« on: May 03, 2015, 02:31:41 am »
Boy, pretty sure I would have thought someone insane if they said the Astros would be in first place by 6 games on May 2nd.

1399
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: May 01, 2015, 03:24:31 pm »
I really like Rasmus but since he's on a 1-year deal I'm wondering if the 2016 OF isn't Tucker/Marisnick/Springer

Yup with Santana in the mix and perhaps Phillips knocking on a mid-season call up

1400
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 01, 2015, 03:22:41 pm »
Non-displaced jaw fracture, just to clarify.

That is some awful luck there. 

1401
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaMaggots @ Astros April 30, 2015
« on: May 01, 2015, 03:16:07 pm »
Why is that odd?  On walk off hits, the batter is entitled credit for as many bases as he would otherwise get, so long as he runs them out. The caveat being he can only get credit for as many bases as the winning run advances. So for example, last night Marwin was in 2B, so Altuve could have been credited with a double had he ran all the way to 2B. However, if Marwin had been on 3B, he could only have been credited with a single. The exception is a home run. On a walk off HR, the batter gets credit for the HR and any runs it drives in count, again provided he touches all the bases.  If he doesn't touch them all, he only gets credit for as many bases as the winning run advancesa.  An infamous example of this is Robin Ventura's would be walk off grand slam, that turned into a single when his teammates mobbed him in between 1b and 2b and didn't let him finish his trot. Instead of a HR and four RBIs, he was awarded a single and one RBI.

They said "he had to stop on second"  It looked like he ran through second, but you really can't tell.  He wisely turned around to brace for the oncoming celebration.  Perhaps he just missed the bag.  video


Actually upon further review, he likely came with in an Altuve short of second. 

1402
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: May 01, 2015, 09:22:52 am »
Good outing for Hader last night in a Hooks 8-1 win.  5/5/1/1/0/5.  Devenski was even better in his four innings.

Nice to see Devenski putting it all together at AA.  Been following him since this game

1403
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: May 01, 2015, 09:19:14 am »
Bret Maverick Phillips sitting at .341 after last night with a 3-5 including a HR (#4) and double.

Yeah and he gunned down a runner at home.   Imagine he'll be in Corpus by months end.

1404
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaMaggots @ Astros April 30, 2015
« on: May 01, 2015, 09:11:48 am »
Interesting.  So Altuve could have went and stopped at second for the winning hit to count as a double?  Odd

1405
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: SeaMaggots @ Astros April 30, 2015
« on: April 30, 2015, 10:35:36 pm »
Radio crew mentioned yesterday, Bud Black was yelling across the diamond before the game yesterday asking if Hinch was going to sit Altuve

1406
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Former Bus Rider News
« on: April 30, 2015, 11:47:42 am »
DDSJr with a whole 15 plate appearances so far this year,  Rangers should just suck it up and trade for him. 

1408
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 05:01:56 pm »
there is this thing called the score. what is it?

5-1 Gattis on first, no one out.  Kimbrel pulled

1409
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 05:01:26 pm »
Closer in a non-save situation 

1410
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 05:00:16 pm »
Astros running wild!

1411
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 04:59:41 pm »
Lack of DH ends Keuchel's day

1412
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 04:56:25 pm »
could get pinch hit for.  now likely as carter moves to second, no one out and Dallas in the hole

Well unless they just wild pitch carter home

1413
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 04:54:09 pm »
i'm sending him back out, but I will not be surprised to see the closer.

could get pinch hit for.  now likely as carter moves to second, no one out and Dallas in the hole

1414
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:44:20 pm »
She's pretty weird.

Don't get me wrong I was 6 in 1979.  But I grew up in the country.  I remember going to the library once or twice.  there was never anyone else there other than the librarian.

1415
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:39:41 pm »
Rasmus!

My wife thinks Rasmus looks like someone you'd find in a public library in the 1970s. We've started referring to him as "the Library."

Seriously? 

1416
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:26:34 pm »
I thought this was pretty common Astros lore.  At any rate, you learn something new every day.

 I knew it, then forgot it, now I know it again.

1417
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:23:14 pm »
Marwin being annoying.  19 pitches in 2 at bats

1418
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:15:12 pm »
I assume this is rhetorical and you know this, but for anyone who doesn't...

Eight...by Jim Deshaies of the Houston Astros

I didn't know, but was just looking to jinx it

1419
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:13:39 pm »
So what is the record for strikeouts to start a game?

works everytime

1420
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 29, 2015
« on: April 29, 2015, 03:11:21 pm »
So what is the record for strikeouts to start a game?

1421
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: April 29, 2015, 02:56:47 pm »
I think next year, Correa is the starting SS and Lowrie is playing 3rd.  Lowrie is signed thru 2017, so unless they dealt him, he is gonna play.  3rd seems as good as spot as any for Jed.

Lowrie has a front loaded contract (same as Feldman)
2015 - 8 million
2016 - 7.5 million
2017 - 6.5 million
2018 - 6 million (club option with 1 million buyout)

Valbuena makes 4.2 million this year, arbitration next year then free agency.



1422
Talk Zone / Re: Correa
« on: April 29, 2015, 10:15:03 am »
According to Astros.com, Luhnow likes the idea of Correa facing the pitchers in the 8-team Texas League multiple times, so they can make adjustments to him and he can adjust to those adjustments. Luhnow resistant to the idea for now.

http://m.astros.mlb.com/news/article/121141388/jed-lowrie-injury-wont-speed-astros-prospect-carlos-correa-ascent

As long as he doesn't start getting the Barry Bonds treatment, it makes sense. 

1424
Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains & Muscle Strains
« on: April 28, 2015, 01:39:55 pm »
Villar not in the Fresno lineup today...

I'm going to presuppose this into a positive sign that Lowrie will only be out a short stint

1425
Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains & Muscle Strains
« on: April 28, 2015, 11:35:28 am »
Pooholes skipped AA and had a whole 14 ABs at AAA

1426
Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains & Muscle Strains
« on: April 28, 2015, 11:21:08 am »
That tweet was from April 9th.  I just don't see them calling up CC at this point, but it would be exciting as hell if they did.

Exactly, that was before he started abusing the pitchers of the Texas League.  Certainly shows Luhnow isn't adverse to skipping AAA.   Though I imagine more than 16 games at AA was likely in his thinking. 

For those that don't make it over to the bus.  No idea where this landed

1428
Talk Zone / Re: Aches, Pains & Muscle Strains
« on: April 28, 2015, 08:39:30 am »
I'm 99% certain it will be Villar.

might depend on the severity of the injury.  2 weeks and it's Villar.  2 months and I don't know.  I can't imagine there is anyone in the organization that believes Villar starting at shortstop is the best option.  They are 3 games up on the rest of the division.  Nothing brings back the fans like the playoffs

1429
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Padres April 27, 2015
« on: April 28, 2015, 03:13:40 am »
Astros: Lowrie will return to Houston on Tuesday and have an MRI. "It's swollen. It doesn't feel good," he said

Ugh. 

1430
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Corpus Christi 2015
« on: April 27, 2015, 09:49:59 am »
Wow.  Just amazing.  Those were crushed.  20-25 homerun power my ass.  That's 30+ easy.  Move over Buxton, you just got lapped

1431
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v Athletics, Saturday April 25
« on: April 25, 2015, 06:58:54 pm »
Nice if Carter and Springer are warming up, we could be looking at a lot of crooked numbers

1432
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v Athletics, Saturday April 25
« on: April 25, 2015, 03:49:51 pm »
The three of them combined?

No that would be ridiculous

1433
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros v Athletics, Saturday April 25
« on: April 25, 2015, 03:48:03 pm »
There are now 4 players on the team with more homers than Gattis, Carter and Springer

1434
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Hot sheet
« on: April 24, 2015, 01:22:57 pm »
Correa made last weeks list

Quote
12. Carlos Correa, ss, Astros
Age: 20
Why He’s Here: .345/.441/.655 (10-for-29), 6 R, 6 2B, 1 HR, 10 RBIs, 4 BB, 6 SO, 1 HBP, 1-for-1 SB

The Scoop: A modern marvel, Correa has shown no ill effects from the season-ending broken leg he suffered last June at high Class A Lancaster. By hitting .326 with two home runs in 20 games this spring, he was the toast of big league camp, but what’s really impressive is how he has rapidly adjusted to life at Double-A after missing the entire second half of 2014 and also winter ball. He leads the Texas League with six doubles and 10 RBIs, and just two minor league players have collected more extra-base hits than his seven thus far.

This week there were 2 astros
Quote
8. Brett Phillips, of, Astros
Team: high Class A Lancaster (California)
Age: 20
Why He’s Here: .484/.515/.742 (15-for-31), 9 R, 3 2B, 1 3B, 1 HR, 6 RBIs, 2 BB, 7 SO, 1-for-3 SB

The Scoop: Phillips, who skyrocketed up the Astros’ list to No. 6 entering the season after a fantastic season at low and high Class A in 2014, is only adding to his resume this season in what should be a brief repeat of the California League. His over-the-fence power might be his only question mark, but he rates as a solid-average hitter with good bat control. He plays an aggressive game and has three triples already this season.

Quote
10. J.D. Davis, 3b, Astros

Team: high Class A Lancaster (California)
Age: 22
Why He’s Here: .419/.444/.710 (13-for-31), 7 R, 3 2B, 2 HR, 9 RBIs, 3 BB, 8 SO, 0-for-0 SB

The Scoop: The Astros’ third-rounder out of Cal-State Fullerton, the 6-foot-3 righthanded hitter has slid in adeptly at third base, the position Houston scouted him at Fullerton when Matt Chapman, the A’s first-rounder last June, was injured. A two-way player for the Titans, the Astros liked what they saw after moving him to third.  They were already impressed was his above-average raw power, which he has carried into 2015. The Astros are loaded at first base and DH at the major league level, so the move to third base could speed his ascension. The mature Davis could be in Double-A by midseason if he continues to have success.

1435
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: April 21, 2015, 08:35:59 am »
After tonight's game, now 15-29 during 7-game hitting streak.

5 consecutive multi-hit games.  Whatever adjustments he was making to start the year,  adjustment period is over. 

1436
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: April 21, 2015, 08:26:09 am »
Springer, Gattis and Carter. 

Who had Valbueana, Lowrie and Rasmus leading the Astros in homeruns?

1437
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: April 20, 2015, 01:15:40 pm »
The more I look the more I'm thinking that if Rodgers goes 1 then Fulmer goes 2.

The more I look, the more I think I haven't a clue who is going first and second.  I'm guessing all the fluctuation is a strong sign the draft is weak.  Seems like any kind of a roll these guys have pushes them to the front of the conversation.   And any bad start sends them to the back of the pack.  Scouts will be earning their salary this year

1438
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: April 19, 2015, 09:12:15 pm »
Maybe Aiken was calling the shots and ignored Close's advice. It's possible.

Maybe, but it doesn't fit the facts.  Close was outspoken through the whole negotiation.   Hard to believe he was saying take the deal while bad mouthing the Astros. 

1439
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: April 19, 2015, 05:18:32 pm »
Wow...career ending.  I want the Astros to look good in this, but if that happened I would definitely feel bad for the kid.

Why isn't the media frying Close over an open flame? 

1440
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Halos @ Astros April 19, 2015
« on: April 19, 2015, 04:47:13 pm »
woohoo first place

1441
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: April 17, 2015, 01:29:29 pm »
Certainly you don't really believe that do you? 

I do.   I don't remember a single swing by Bagwell where he didn't swing the at as hard as he could.  He did not get cheated.  0-2, runner at 3rd, it didn't matter.  Full swing, everything he had. 

Not talking results, I'm talking about philosophy of hitting

1442
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: April 17, 2015, 12:03:59 pm »
Springer is the one who worries me the most, much more than Singleton.  It's been basically a year now, and it appears that like Baez, he is entirely unwilling or unable to change his approach.  Specifically, swing for the fences on just about every pitch.

Bagwell used to swing for the fences on every pitch.  His theory was swing hard because you just might hit it

1443
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: April 16, 2015, 04:00:17 pm »
Neither Chapman or Hoyt seem in much of a hurry to get back to Houston.  Hoyt came into the game with a 5 run lead, failed to get a batter out, and left with the bases loaded and the lead down to 3.  Chapman took over and allowed all 3 runs to score ... tie game.  Grizlies finally won in the 11th after starting out by scoring 7 in the 1st.

And in other news, they are slated to face Nick Tropeano tonight.

I wasn't there or heard the game, but checking the box score:

Pitching Change: Kevin Chapman replaces James Hoyt.
Alex Yarbrough out on a sacrifice fly to right fielder L. J. Hoes. Marc Krauss scores.
Jett Bandy singles on a ground ball to left fielder Preston Tucker. Josh Rutledge scores. Roger Kieschnick to 2nd.
Offensive Substitution: Pinch-hitter Alfredo Marte replaces Charlie Cutler.
Alfredo Marte strikes out swinging.
Daniel Robertson doubles (1) on a ground ball to left fielder Preston Tucker. Roger Kieschnick scores. Jett Bandy out at home on the throw, left fielder Preston Tucker to shortstop Ronald Torreyes to catcher Max Stassi.

Salt Lake Top of the 10th
Grant Green called out on strikes.
Kyle Kubitza strikes out swinging.
Marc Krauss called out on strikes.

Salt Lake Top of the 11th
Josh Rutledge walks.
Roger Kieschnick strikes out swinging.
Alex Yarbrough strikes out swinging.
Jett Bandy pops out to third baseman Matt Dominguez in foul territory.


Doesn't seem like Chapman did horrible.  The 2 of the hits were ground balls.  Now that may have been smashed, can't tell.

1444
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Fresno 2015
« on: April 15, 2015, 11:31:47 am »
Preston Tucker with his 2nd and 3rd deep flies of the year as Fresno wins 12-4 to go 4-2. Andy Aplin finally sees action and goes 2-2 with a 2B, 2 walks and a swipe of third base.

Singleton with 3 walks and a k on a 1 for 2 night.  For the short season so far, that is now 5 walks to 3 strikeouts.  Very encouraging. 

1445
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Lancaster 2015
« on: April 15, 2015, 11:12:44 am »
Wilson Karaman of Minor League Ball gets an early look at some of the JetHawks:

He also discusses Brett Phillips and Edison Frias.

Awesome.  I was hoping his slow start might be due to him making adjustments.  Good to read that very well might be true.

1446
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rainjizz April 12, 2015
« on: April 12, 2015, 05:51:43 pm »
Harris with perfect inning

1447
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rainjizz April 12, 2015
« on: April 12, 2015, 05:20:19 pm »
Well one thing is for sure, Gattis is due

Well you can't break out of it watching strike 3.

1448
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rainjizz April 12, 2015
« on: April 12, 2015, 05:12:25 pm »
Well one thing is for sure, Gattis is due

1449
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Rainjizz April 12, 2015
« on: April 12, 2015, 02:41:54 pm »
10 whiffs, 16 ABs. Okay.

At least he's not letting his offensive struggles hurt him in the field

1450
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Indians @ Astros April 9, 2015
« on: April 09, 2015, 03:19:34 pm »
Wow this Gattis fellow is amazing.  9Ks in 12 at bats.   Fantastic

1451
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: 4/8/2015 - Indians @ ASTROS
« on: April 08, 2015, 07:21:37 pm »
One seeing-eye single in the top of the first but Feldman needed his full arsenal and 22 pitches

1452
 - Brantley grounds out on a 0-1 , 1 down
 - Altuve makes a grounder interesting but finishes 2 down
 - Gomes strikes out swinging on an 0-2  Astros win!

Now that is closing.  Up by 2 and threw 0 balls

1453
Another hard hit ball to start the bottom of the 8th 1 out

Kluber looking for the complete game loss

Lowrie is having none of it though  6 pitch walk
Rasmus base hit, runners at the corners

Kluber gone  (They were tagging him for 8 consecutive batters)

Marisnick with a sac fly  2-0 Good guys
Altuve gounds out.   Onto the ninth.   And our new closer gets tested early

1454
 - Sipp comes back down 2-0 to get Ramirez swinging
 - Agent Bourn down half swinging, 2 away
 - Fly ball to left, 3 down

Mid 8th, Good guys up 1-0

1455
Hit the ball pretty solidly in the bottom of the 7th.  No luck though, onto the 8th

1456
No way that Keuchel can make it without an out-pitch

1457
Talk Zone / Re: Race for the Lid XVII
« on: April 03, 2015, 10:18:04 am »
89

1458
Talk Zone / Re: Baseball Fandom according to Facebook
« on: April 02, 2015, 10:51:44 am »
Quite shocking New Orleanians are Yankee fans.  Given they hate the North

1459
Talk Zone / Re: Cuts
« on: April 02, 2015, 02:47:43 am »
Petit wasn't on the 40-man so they still have 1 person to drop.  I see Thatcher on the 40-man now but still no Hernandez

1460
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Preliminary Rosters Announced
« on: April 02, 2015, 02:41:58 am »
Would have liked to see Phillips at AA.   Seemed ready for bigger challenges.

1461
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: April 01, 2015, 04:36:44 pm »
One more reason to hate the Rangers

1462
Talk Zone / Re: Cuts
« on: April 01, 2015, 10:12:30 am »
Yeah the website has 39 on the 40-man with Thatcher and Hernandez still missing

1463
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2014-2015 Minors Transactions
« on: March 31, 2015, 11:18:24 am »
Some more well known names released


Courtesy of What The Heck Bobby:


Quote
1B/C M.P. Cokinos - Drafted in the 31st round in 2012
RHP Jamaine Cotton - Drafted in the 15th round in 2010
RHP John Gatlin - Signed as a non-drafted free agent in 2014
1B/C Ricky Gingras - Drafted in the 18th round in 2012
RHP Gerardo Juarez - International Free Agent signed April 2013
3B Jonathan Meyer - Drafted in the 3rd round in 2009
OF Jordan Scott - Drafted in the 14th round in 2010
RHP Robert Stock (MiLB free agent signed earlier this month)

1464
Talk Zone / Re: Cuts
« on: March 31, 2015, 09:07:15 am »
I wonder if they want Wojo to open in minors to have him under club control for another year. If Hernandez is shaky they bring him up later.

Staring at the 40-man and having trouble deciding 2 players to go...priceless. 

My guess is Hoes or Dominguez would be the second candidate.  I doubt they are willing to give up White or Buchanan.  With Moran and Correa rising fast, Domniguez may never get another shot anyways.

1465
Talk Zone / Re: Cuts
« on: March 31, 2015, 02:22:45 am »
astros.com saying Carmonandez has been told he's in the rotation. Wojo could still make it if Obie's not ready to start the season.

So they'll need to create 2 spots on the 40-man. Looking it over, Hoes seems an obvious candidate, and maybe Presley, who's out of options anyway. Or do they cut bait/risk losing someone like White or Buchanan?

Nice thing about putting Presley through waivers, if anyone takes him they are on the hook for a million

1466
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 29, 2015, 03:09:30 pm »
Huh,  Dominguez gad an option.  well that was easy

1467
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 28, 2015, 01:10:08 am »
I think what the reaction of Drellich and some others boils down to at this point is basically "Ok, so maybe the Astros had good reason to to do what they did, but... they still, potentially, might have sort of been jerks about it. Ok, maybe not jerks, but at least slightly too business-like and computer-y, and not super-nice warm fuzzy touchy-feely guys like we seem to believe every GM and executive should be."

Would I prefer to have strong reason to believe that the members of the Astros FO are all super-nice, compassionate and considerate guys who go out of their way to treat every player and employee well no matter what? Sure.

Do I need to believe that in order to enjoy rooting for the success of the Houston Astros baseball team? No.

Would them being occasionally less than super-nice, compassionate and considerate, and perhaps a little too focused on conducting business in a business-like fashion make them different from the vast majority of upper-level management people in America? I doubt it.

What it boils down to is people's inability to just say they were wrong.  What troll step is Drellich on?

1468
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 27, 2015, 02:17:29 pm »
I normally like what he has to say, but I disagree heavily with CJ Nitkowski's take on the situation (the first part is Aiken's statement):

What's he supposed to say, that he really should have taken the money and that he had some measure of guilt with how things played out last year?  Please.  Not only does that imply fault in his camp's behavior, but also that he should have acknowledged then that he was a medical risk.  That's just not going to happen.

As for the "support system" crap, what does that even mean?  He felt pretty comfortable with the organization before the medical or he wouldn't have flown in to sign the contract.  Could the organization have handled some things better?  I would agree that they could have.  But, the nature and context of his comments do nothing to further indemnify them. 

http://blog.chron.com/ultimateastros/2015/03/27/ex-astros-pitcher-aiken-surgery-hardly-a-win-for-team/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter#12840101=0

CJ seems to neglect/forget/whatever that the Astros get the #2 pick this year instead.  No doubt the kid has talent, but no doubt the next kid will too.  And hoepfully (knock knock) a healthy elbow.

1469
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2014-2015 Minors Transactions
« on: March 26, 2015, 01:35:29 pm »
Not sure exactly what it entails, but there is this:


Yeah, it means they have less starting pitching talent.  The tandem made a lot of sense when you had many more pitchers than spots in the rotations.   Between the trades, promotions and the recent drafts, all of a sudden finding a spot in the rotation for players is easy


1470
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 26, 2015, 01:32:16 pm »
Aiken at 1...interesting.

Eh, from a talent standpoint he's number one.  But no shot of actually being taken there due to the unknown ligament issue.  I'm assuming BP isn't taking that into account because they have no facts on the situation.

1471
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 25, 2015, 11:31:00 am »
He still needs to clear waivers though and he may not. If you look at his numbers last year at QC he looks like he needs more time in A-ball.

At least KC didn't stash him in their pen for the year which seemed like their initial plan (the 8 man bullpen article that was printed)

1472
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 25, 2015, 07:41:53 am »
Boy the difference 9 days can make.  On Mar. 14th, first base seemed to be all Singleton's.  Only 3Ks in 18 ABs with 3 walks.  444/524/722 slash line.    But 2 for 19 with 10Ks has changed that.  Singleton to AAA easily clears the picture.  Gattis DH, Carter 1B, Rasmus LF, Mrasnick/Grossman center and Springer right.  Now you just need to pick 2 of Gonzalez, Dominguez, Villar and Petit. 

1473
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros vs Mets 3/24/15
« on: March 24, 2015, 03:46:06 pm »
That Valbuena must be the best player in ML history for a WAR of about 11.

Well there is also the entire lineup factor.  By replacing one horrendous bat with a feared bat, the other bats around it get better.  This was the theory being batted around when they added Kent.  I agree with the theory partially. 


1474
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: Tracking the Rule Fivers
« on: March 24, 2015, 03:38:40 pm »
Any team that claims him subject to the same rules (must keep him on the 25-man roster all season). If not claimed on waivers, then gets offered back to the Astros.

Wow kind of shocked at this.  He seemed to be doing okay. 

1475
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 23, 2015, 04:26:01 pm »
Pots, minor nit here; they didn't pay Nix $1.5m, the settlement was for a "six-figure" sum.

So Whitey heard wrong then.  Honestly, this isn't just a nitpick.  If it was full amount then the Astros just went way too far too early in negotiations (If I recall correctly they had Nix wrapped up in mid-June before late June finding out about Aiken). His case would have had to be pretty solid for full amount.  But being a partial amount of unknown quantity adds more unknowns.  6 figures could be as low as 10%.  A token payment to just get rid of an unfounded grievance.

1476
Grossman in a slump.  Wonder if he can play his way out of a job that he may have played himself into.  Still a couple of weeks left.  Should be interesting

Grossman out of slump I guess

1477
Grossman Ks, Villar walks and steals 2nd, Valbuena walks, Gattis hits into 6-4-3 DP. End of the 1st. Braves 2-0.

Grossman in a slump.  Wonder if he can play his way out of a job that he may have played himself into.  Still a couple of weeks left.  Should be interesting

1478
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 23, 2015, 12:43:54 pm »
I'm not sure that was a mistake.  The mess with Aiken was unprecedented in the new CBA with cap limits.  He had agreed to a number and everything was going on as normal.  A wacky physical from out of nowhere derailed it.  I think of it more as a something to be learned under this CBA.

It's not unprecedented to have bad things show up in a physical.  Unlikely sure, but not unprecedented.  And they knew that the money from Nix came from the leftovers of the Aiken signing.  They put the cart before the horse and paid 1.5 million for that mistake.   This was the 3rd year of the new CBA.  One the Astros have manipulated well in the past.   No idea why they felt the need to go too far with Nix early.  What benefit would it have served?   

1479
The Bus Ride Discussion Forum / Re: 2015 Draft Thread
« on: March 23, 2015, 10:47:40 am »
They had to offer a minimum amount (4.5 mil) to be able to get the compensation pick for not signing him.  Then they sweetened that pot to try to avoid losing Nix as well. 

Wasn't just Nix.  5 million was the cap to land Nix and Marshall.  Certainly seemed like the only way the Astros were willing to risk Aiken was if they got both Marshall and Nix.  (because the 6.5 million original offer lands Nix while still being under the cap.)   

IMO, the Astros played things out very business like.  Aiken/Close camp seemed to go more the emotional/taking it personal route (given there seems to be no conceivable way he ever makes more than 5 million draft bonus and the statements made to the public).    And to me, Close is suppose to be the business end of that camp, which IMO puts the vast majority of the blame on him. 

The only mistake the Astros made was with Nix.  They never should have taken it as far as they did with him till the money was guaranteed.  And they paid for it.


1480
I still don't quite understand that signing.  I was happy with an outfield of Springer, Marisnick, and some combo of Grossman/Gattis/Presley/Hoes.

Grossman no at bats since Tuesday.  Hope he comes off the bench today.

1481
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 20, 2015, 01:14:09 pm »
Off day Wednesday, DNP Thursday, out of the starting lineup today.  Grossman starting to not get at bats.  Is he dinged up?  Or is the fact that he has options determined his destination.  Certainly not his performance.

1482
Houston up 10-4. Correa just homered.

Another solid day for Grossman 2 for 2 and a walk.  Singleton still slumping, 0 for his last 9 with 5 Ks

1483
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 17, 2015, 10:10:47 am »
I will stand by that.

I actually agree with this.  Dominguez does have more talent.  But J.D. has all those intangibles.  The guy has just refused his entire career to be held back by talent.  Where as say DDS Jr is oozing a trail of talent all the way to obscurity.

1484
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 17, 2015, 10:00:31 am »
By what metric?

I was using dWar.

...and things I've read and heard about his defensive regression.  Wonder if the shift screws with the numbers though?

1485
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 17, 2015, 09:24:24 am »
It should also be noted that except for in 2008 at low-A he has never ever dominated at the plate at any level.  Dominguez reminds me of Jiovanni Mier with some power.  

1486
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 17, 2015, 09:07:08 am »
Dominguez's defense was league average last year

1487
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 16, 2015, 02:10:04 pm »
Let's look at 2013 which was the last season in which they both got significant ABs together. One had a .403 SLG and .690 OPS in 152 games. The other had a .378 SLG and a .650 OPS in 86 games. Care to match the player with the stats? Dominguez is two  years younger and a good defensive player. JD was as big a flyer as Dominguez would be.

You are choosing to ignore the 607 plate appearances that Dominguez had last year.  Not to mention the defensive fall off he had last year.  You've compared 2 players who had similar statistics in 2013 and have concluded that both of J.D.'s expected 2014 production and Dominguez's 2015 production are equal.  Not to mention that J.D. made a huge adjustment in his swing and proved in the winter leagues that he may have made a change that could turn around his career.


1488
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 16, 2015, 01:39:30 pm »
Someone would pick up Dominguez if he was released. Someone picked up JD Martinez and that turned out pretty good for them.

So not that same thing.  Did Dominguez spend the winter reinventing his swing?

ETA.

That's one reason why I'm worried about losing Grossman.   He spent the winter reinventing himself as well.  And has had some good early results.

1489
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 16, 2015, 12:42:33 pm »
It's just me trying to get things straight. Aren't they both out of option years?

No option needed.   I can't see any team picking up Dominguez.  Out of all 3rd baseman that qualified last year, Dominguez's was last in OPS.  67 points less than the next player.  He had a historically bad year.  And he is showing no signs of improving this spring.   I don't see how they can keep him.  


ETA.
Even though he isn't on the 40-man, you have to wonder if Petit hasn't jumped Dominguez on the utility depth chart.  Both he and Gonzalez can play all positions.  If they go with 4 outfielders, my current money is on Petit and Gonzalez.

ETA2
I don't know.  Maybe I'm wrong. I was just under the impression that they were done losing.  I see nothing that says Dominguez is fighting to stay on the team.  Perhaps a partial platoon has always been the plan.  He had a whole one plate appearance as a substitute last year, so no one really knows if he could be any good at it.  Think I'd prefer a Petit that is a little more used to not getting playing time every day. 

1490
Talk Zone / Re: Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 16, 2015, 12:27:00 pm »
Locks : Altuve, Lowrie, Carter, Gattis, Springer, Rasmus, Valbuena, Gonzalez, Dominguez, Castro, Conger

That leaves two slots for: Singleton, Marisnick, Grossman, Villar, Presley

can't see Presley making the team and villar is a long shot.  But where did you hear Gonzalez and Dominguez are locks?

1491
Talk Zone / Outfield/1B/DH
« on: March 16, 2015, 10:31:13 am »
This one just is not going to be easy I think (which is a good thing).  Grossman had a nice 3 out of 4 on-base effort Saturday to break a mini slump.  Marisnick has been quite steady at the plate as well.  Singleton has been solid.  Rasmus has done well also.

Gattis/Carter/Springer are all guaranteed full time positions somewhere.

Srping stats of the others (Plate Appearances/OPS)
Grossman  23/1110
Singleton  24/1077
Marisnick  29/1099
Rasmus   14/1167

Carry 5 outfielders? 


1492
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 02:06:47 pm »
Interesting game today, Grossman, Singleton, Mrasnick, Dominguez, Villar and Petit all in the line up.  All of them fighting for a position/role on the team

Both Grossman and Singleton improved their cases today.  Grossman 1 for 2 with a walk.  Singleton 2 for 3 with a double

1493
Game Zone 2015 Archive / Re: Astros @ Blue Jays March 9, 2015
« on: March 09, 2015, 12:49:23 pm »
Grossman has now reached base 8 out of 11 times this year

1494
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 11:59:40 am »
Interesting game today, Grossman, Singleton, Mrasnick, Dominguez, Villar and Petit all in the line up.  All of them fighting for a position/role on the team

1495
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 11:57:48 am »
Outside of the TV, having some semblance of a bullpen (fingers crossed) is probably what I am most excited about when it comes to the actual roster. 

That and a much improved offense.  

Valbuena > Dominguez
Lowrie > Villar/Gonzalez/Petit
Singleton (2015) > Guzman/Singleton/Krauss (even if we get 2014 Singleton, Guzman and Krauss were worse)

Outfield 2015 > Outfield 2014 even with the loss of fowler


1496
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 09:28:11 am »
not looking forward to the defense, and very curious to see how the assembled pitching staff performs.  

Definitely want to keep the ball away from the left side.  Lowrie at short and a DH in left

ETA
Though if they get a lead they can put Gonzalez in a at short and remove the DH in left.  The defense would go from below average to above average. 

1497
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 09:25:52 am »
I seem to remember Singleton starting off fairly strong when he was called up then fading for the rest of the season. I don't know if that is the fault of the pitcher's knowing what he will swing at or something about Singleton.

If Singleton's OPS ends up north of 1000 for the spring, there doesn't seem to be anyway you can send him to AAA.  I can see a Rasmus/Grossman platoon in center.  Robbie has done all of his damage from the right side this spring.  But what do you do with Mrasnick?  Does he have options?  Presley seems like no brainer trade/release at this point.

And then there is Dominguez/Gonzalez.  If Singleton makes the club and Mrasnick then one of them is gone.  I'd assume that means Dominguez is gone because of Gonzalez covers more positions.


1498
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 09:04:03 am »
well, the season hasn't really started yet either.

Yeah but there is stuff to talk about now.  Mr. Singleton's 429/556/827 slash line in his first 9 appearances has made things interesting.  Yeah small sample size, but they only get 60 appearances all spring.  So Gattis to left?  But wait then there is Grossman: 625/600/1125.  Uh oh, perhaps Rasmus won't get enough playing time?   And in what world does Presley make the team (so glad they burned a 40-man spot on him)?

1499
Talk Zone / Re: Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 08:38:34 am »
If they win, they will come.

eh, people were here last year when there was no hope of winning.  Was a third awful season the straw that broke the camel's back?

1500
Talk Zone / Quiet, too quiet
« on: March 09, 2015, 08:30:51 am »
Is the serious lack of posts due to the crappy level of play at the major league level the last few years or is this forum dying?  I mean this team has a legit shot at greater than 500 this year.  Albeit we can relate to only a handful of players.  Perhaps that is it.  Such a huge turnover of personnel has fans struggling to get into it. 


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