Author Topic: Corpus Christi - 2011 (Read 75660 times)

OregonStrosFan · « **on:** April 06, 2011, 11:58:48 am »

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

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #1 on:** April 07, 2011, 10:34:43 am »

George Vondracek of the Corpus Christi Caller Times with a player-by-player breakdown of the Hooks' pitchers (LINK) and position players (LINK).

Reuben · « **Reply #2 on:** April 07, 2011, 09:06:32 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on April 07, 2011, 10:34:43 am

George Vondracek of the Corpus Christi Caller Times with a player-by-player breakdown of the Hooks' pitchers (LINK) and position players (LINK).

Thanks for posting that (although their formatting leaves a bit to be desired). I found this very interesting, about Keuchel: "Scouts and Internet wags fret about Keuchel's declining velocity but his breaking and off-speed pitches remain very effective. He has major league potential, especially if his fastball improves."

I also didn't realize Keuchel had a 3.38 ERA at Lancaster- wow. You'd think that would earn him respect on Prospect lists, but I guess the declining velocity comment explains that. I've never seen him pitch, but I really like everything I've read about him.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #3 on:** April 07, 2011, 10:09:18 pm »

Quote from: Reuben on April 07, 2011, 09:06:32 pm

I've never seen him pitch, but I really like everything I've read about him.

I have nothing substantive to support my 'impression,' but I've generally thought of Keuchel as a Myers-type pitcher (i.e. not the greatest 'stuff' in the world, but is a 'workhorse' with a 'bulldog' mentality on the mound... Did I miss any sports colloquialisms there?).

drew corleone · « **Reply #4 on:** April 13, 2011, 05:54:39 pm »

Is Seaton going tonight?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #5 on:** April 13, 2011, 05:55:28 pm »

Quote from: drew corleone on April 13, 2011, 05:54:39 pm

Is Seaton going tonight?

Corpus is off tonight I think.

drew corleone · « **Reply #6 on:** April 14, 2011, 10:52:34 am »

Yeah, I misread the schedule.

matadorph · « **Reply #7 on:** April 15, 2011, 01:38:01 pm »

Any of you Metro patrons know what is up with Chia Jen Lo? I remember something about him having arm troubles last year and getting shut down for a time. I saw that he is listed on the 7 day DL, from BA, but I can't find anything else about his health and projected 2011 role.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #8 on:** April 16, 2011, 09:27:08 am »

Seaton with another ho-hum start: 5 IP, 9 H, 4 ER, but he did have a 5-1 K/BB ratio and kept the ball on the ground (6-1 GB-FB). I don't know how he's looked, but if he keeps up the ratios, he should see improvement. He also hit a 3-run homerun in the game, for good measure.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #9 on:** April 16, 2011, 07:20:06 pm »

Heads up from the GZ...

Quote from: pots on April 16, 2011, 06:59:51 pm

Keuchel's start on milb.tv tonight

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #10 on:** April 18, 2011, 10:34:16 am »

Joel Raza lays the gauntlet down for Corpus Christi fans. LINK

Ron Brand · « **Reply #11 on:** April 18, 2011, 10:50:37 am »

Nice article, thanks!

VirtualBob · « **Reply #12 on:** April 18, 2011, 10:56:48 am »

After twice through the order, here is how things stand in Corpus Christi.
Record: 3-7

Rotation:
Cedeno: 0-2 9.95 3K/6BB 2.37 WHIP
Aristil: 0-1 3.86 7K/3BB 1.07 WHIP
Seaton: 0-0 12.86 8K/1BB 2.43 WHIP
Keuchel: 1-0 1.29 8K/0BB 0.64 WHIP <-WOW
Greenwalt: 0-1 6.10 6K/2BB 1.36 WHIP

Notable: Apart from Keuchel, who has dominated, the rest of the Lancaster crew seem to have brought the thin air with them. Aristil looks like he might have been a good pick up.

Bullpen:
The bullpen has been even busier than in Oklahoma with 44 IP through the first 10 games and three guys (Urckfitz, Abreu, Carrillo) with more than 7 IP. Carpenter (1.93; 4K/3BB 1.07 WHIP) & Leon (0.00; 3K/6BB 1.94 WHIP) seem to have the best starts, but both are walking too many. Urckfitz (1.17; 2K/6BB WHIP 1.83) got shellacked in his last outing but all six runs were unearned. The rest of the staff sport ERA’s above 6.

Behind the Plate:
Hernandez is the regular catcher, but with a batting line of .069/.100/.276 one wonders how long that will last. In an oddity, both of his hits are homers. Esposito, hitless in 11 AB and 2 starts provides bench “strength”.

Infield:
Sutil was forced back to CC by the glut of journeyman middle infielders above, and has started every game at SS, hitting .455/.510/.568 with 5 SB. Other regulars include Flores (3B), Paredes (2B) and Van Ostrand (1B). Simunic & Wikoff are backups. Other than Van Ostrand’s struggles (.139/.184/.222 with 8K in 36 AB) and 7SB from Paredes, nothing notable.

Outfield:
Martinez has started every game (8 in LF & 2 at DH) and is living up to expectations with a .368/.422/.658 line and 2 HR & 16 RBI. Steele (CF; .231/.250/.333 with 6 SB) and Gaston (RF; .324/.390/.432) are the other regulars, while Barnes (.364/.348/.545) has two starts each in LF & CF plus one appearance at DH. Having yet to draw a walk, he has that rare line with OBP less than AVG.

Hornstros · « **Reply #13 on:** April 25, 2011, 09:15:04 pm »

Brandon Barnes is playing 2B tonight. There's a way to get that power in the line up

Paredes is out for the second straight night. Is he injured?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #14 on:** April 25, 2011, 09:20:38 pm »

Quote from: Hornstros on April 25, 2011, 09:15:04 pm

Paredes is out for the second straight night. Is he injured?

Per Greg Rajan (via Twitter):

Wladimir Sutil, Jimmy Paredes out with injuries for @cchooks tonight in Midland.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #15 on:** April 26, 2011, 07:38:25 pm »

Jon Gaston with two triples in two at- bats tonight. What is the TL record for triples in a game, I wonder?

VirtualBob · « **Reply #16 on:** April 26, 2011, 07:49:00 pm »

Koby Clemens o e-ups him by Homering twice in the same inning. Good night for the Hooks.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #17 on:** April 27, 2011, 07:19:04 am »

Quote from: VirtualBob on April 26, 2011, 07:49:00 pm

Koby Clemens o e-ups him by Homering twice in the same inning. Good night for the Hooks.

It was late. Mea Culpa.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #18 on:** April 29, 2011, 06:37:23 pm »

Okay, so this Greg Rajan Twitter experiment (i.e. finally getting around to creating an account) has been a pretty informative exercise... (from the Rajan Twitter feed):

[We knew about Meszaros, but it appears that Aroldis Chapman's BFF is being assigned to Corpus from extended Spring Training as well]: Moves for @cchooks: RHP Danny Meszaros activated from suspension, IF Jose Carlos Thompson activated from extended spring ...

[And, from the news of the "hey dudes, that was VERY uncool, couldn't you have waited at least 1 friggin' day to do this" files]: And last @cchooks move: RHP Cesar Carrillo released. *** Carrillo's release ... came on his 27th birthday. Ouch.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #19 on:** April 29, 2011, 09:49:18 pm »

Meszaros made his 2011 debut tonight. Line: 2.0 IP, 0 H, 0 R, 0 ER, 0 BB, 2 SO (19 pitches, 13 strikes). LINK

jbm · « **Reply #20 on:** April 30, 2011, 12:53:35 pm »

Watched the video of Meszaros two innings. I had seen him live once and on tv once. I had never seen the breaking pitch I had read about. He had it last night. Very impressive. One of those pitches with sharp, late break that hits the dirt before the plate, but the batters can't recognize, and will swing at multiple times in the same AB. He threw about six that made the hitters look real bad.

When I saw him live, his fastball was low to mid nineties. Not good enough to make many mistakes with, but good enough to make a few mistakes. He doesn't command his fastball well, so I'm not sure how often he can set up that breaking pitch, and I don't know how consistent that breaking pitch is, but last night, he looked like a real late inning prospect.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #21 on:** May 01, 2011, 04:26:56 pm »

Seaton breezed thru 6 innings today (something like 60 pitches), but ran into some trouble in T7.

Per Rajan (via Twitter): Three straight quality starts for Seaton, only one win to show for it. The @cchooks bullpen has done him zero favors.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #22 on:** May 03, 2011, 01:43:24 am »

15-6 win; Keuchel, Flores and Gaston all injured on violent collisions (all 3 left the field on their own power, but were all taken to a hospital for further evaluation); grand slam, etc., etc., etc... Just gotta read Rajan's game story... LINK

MusicMan · « **Reply #23 on:** May 03, 2011, 02:15:43 pm »

Two comments from BP today:

Quote

J.D. Martinez. OF, Astros (Double-A Corpus Christi): 2-for-4, HR (3), 2 R, 4 RBI, BB, K. Hitting .348/.407/.587 and is gaining believers in his bat by the day.

Quote

Jimmy Paredes, 2B, Astros (Double-A Corpus Christi): 4-for-5, HR (2), 4 R, 3 RBI, SB. Acquired from Yankees in Lance Berkman deal; .311/.354/.443 in 16 games and profiles as solid everyday infielder.

Our two trades at the deadline look better every day.

jbm · « **Reply #24 on:** May 03, 2011, 02:20:17 pm »

Anyone seen Paredes field. Does he have a good glove?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #25 on:** May 03, 2011, 03:11:52 pm »

Per Rajan (via Twitter):

LHP Dallas Keuchel placed on @cchooks disabled list after collision during Monday's game. RHP Erick Abreu back from Oklahoma City.

When asked by KRIS 6 sports reporter Notoras "jow ugly was that collision at #cchooks game last night?", Rajan responded: "Quite ugly, and avoidable."

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #26 on:** May 03, 2011, 05:50:52 pm »

Kuechel on DL with a concussion. Flores and Gaston are listed as day-to-day: Rajan article LINK

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #27 on:** May 03, 2011, 05:53:59 pm »

Quote from: jbm on May 03, 2011, 02:20:17 pm

Anyone seen Paredes field. Does he have a good glove?

Haven't seen him, but scouting report in BA Handbook doesn't think he can stick in the middle infield. Sees him as utility guy. He'll make it interesting if he keeps hitting, though.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #28 on:** May 04, 2011, 10:58:58 am »

Dallas Keuchel profile piece at the Hooks' website: LINK.

Reuben · « **Reply #29 on:** May 04, 2011, 11:27:36 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 04, 2011, 10:58:58 am

Dallas Keuchel profile piece at the Hooks' website: LINK.

Great read, thanks. I like him even more now.

hostros7 · « **Reply #30 on:** May 05, 2011, 08:49:03 pm »

Martinez tweeting he has a pulled hammy. Shucks.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #31 on:** May 05, 2011, 09:47:19 pm »

Quote from: hostros7 on May 05, 2011, 08:49:03 pm

Martinez tweeting he has a pulled hammy. Shucks.

FIFY

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #32 on:** May 15, 2011, 07:18:44 pm »

Keppinger's line thru 4 games with the Hooks: 7-16, 4R, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 3 BB, SO (.438). IIRC, the plan was for him to play 4 in Corpus then join OKC for some games (4 as well?).

chuck · « **Reply #33 on:** May 15, 2011, 10:29:46 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 15, 2011, 07:18:44 pm

Keppinger's line thru 4 games with the Hooks: 7-16, 4R, 2B, HR, 2 RBI, 3 BB, SO (.438). IIRC, the plan was for him to play 4 in Corpus then join OKC for some games (4 as well?).

The tv guys said that he'd be off to OKC for their next game. I don't remember how many games they projected he'd spend there.

Ron Brand · « **Reply #34 on:** May 15, 2011, 11:29:17 pm »

I think I saw that he was expected to be in OKC for three games.

Reuben · « **Reply #35 on:** May 16, 2011, 10:58:49 am »

Quote from: Ron Brand on May 15, 2011, 11:29:17 pm

I think I saw that he was expected to be in OKC for three games.

That should give Hall a chance to rack up 8 or 10 more strikeouts, but he's going to need to PH a lot if he wants to stay among the league leaders.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #36 on:** May 16, 2011, 03:52:00 pm »

Quote from: Reuben on May 16, 2011, 10:58:49 am

That should give Hall a chance to rack up 8 or 10 more strikeouts, but he's going to need to PH a lot if he wants to stay among the league leaders.

Wouldn't that be more of a PK?

Reuben · « **Reply #37 on:** May 16, 2011, 11:05:46 pm »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 16, 2011, 03:52:00 pm

Wouldn't that be more of a PK?

I guess it's better than a PGIDP...

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #38 on:** May 20, 2011, 02:58:02 pm »

Martinez is back, per Footer re-tweet

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #39 on:** May 22, 2011, 05:00:35 pm »

Seaton gets the W in the Hooks 3-2 win over Midland. Meszaros with the save. (Gameday; BOX SCORE; Hooks game story).

Seaton's line: 7.1, 5 H, 2 R, 2 ER, 3 BB, 3 SO, 0 HR (97 pitches, 63 strikes).

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #40 on:** May 25, 2011, 04:20:58 pm »

Sickels (Minor League Ball) on J.D. Martinez: LINK

**Houston Astros outfield prospect J.D. Martinez is hitting .321/.398/.518 so far in 31 games for Double-A Corpus Christi, very much in line with what he did last year. A 20th round pick in 2009 from Nova Southeastern University, Martinez doesn't have the prettiest swing in the world, but still generates plenty of bat speed, controls the strike zone well, and so far has hit excellently in pro ball despite his lack of a big draft pedigree. He is now a career .341/.403/.549 hitter in 241 games, including .309/.374/.449 in 81 Double-A contests. His below average range and mediocre arm strength limit him defensively and kept him from a high draft slot, but he can hit.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #41 on:** May 26, 2011, 05:02:32 pm »

Solid piece from MiLB on JD Martinez. LINK (h/t Astros County)

Misc. quote from JD (though the entire piece is worth a read): "Well when you get drafted in the later rounds like I did, it's always because the scouts see something they don't quite like," said Martinez. " I'm not a five-tool guy, few are, but in no way am I going to drop balls out there. The Astros know I can play defense, and I've been working with Milt Thompson, our roving outfield instructor on my routes to fly balls. I'm confident that I can get to balls now, and the Astros have noticed I've improved out there."

chuck · « **Reply #42 on:** May 26, 2011, 08:08:45 pm »

Great find, OSF. I am incredibly excited to learn that JD is serious about his defense. He is easily - far and away - the best hitter in the system that I have seen. If they can find somewhere to play him I really think he would give the big league club an immediate offensive boost.

pots · « **Reply #43 on:** May 26, 2011, 08:41:45 pm »

Speaking of JD, no show for a couple of games now...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #44 on:** May 26, 2011, 08:45:36 pm »

Quote from: pots on May 26, 2011, 08:41:45 pm

Speaking of JD, no show for a couple of games now...

I'd asked Rajan about that, and here was his response: LINK

Not sure. It's a NL-rules series, and I don't think he's ready to play the outfield. I'm not in Springfield, so I'm not certain.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #45 on:** May 26, 2011, 09:18:26 pm »

0-0 thru 7 innings in Springfield. Xavier Cedeno on the mound for the Hooks, sitting at 109 pitches... Might be worth listening to / following. Just sayin'... LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #46 on:** May 26, 2011, 09:32:35 pm »

Uh, nevermind... 1st batter B8 gets a pinch-hit sharp IF single (hit the 2B bag, but nothing Parades could do with it). Amazingly, Cedeno gets to stay in for 2 more outs, finishing at 123 pitches. On to the T9 now, 0-0.

pots · « **Reply #47 on:** May 26, 2011, 09:47:37 pm »

And JD with a pinch hit, 2 out, go ahead, RBI single in the top of the 9th

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #48 on:** May 26, 2011, 09:58:48 pm »

Quote from: pots on May 26, 2011, 09:47:37 pm

And JD with a pinch hit, 2 out, go ahead, RBI single in the top of the 9th

And lose it B9 after getting jobbed on a call at 1B earlier in the inning...

FWIW, Martinez was immediately pulled for a pinch runner after the single. Radio guy said it wasn't new injury related (not ready to play defense, do a ton of running yet).

austro · « **Reply #49 on:** May 26, 2011, 10:02:55 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 26, 2011, 09:58:48 pm

FWIW, Martinez was immediately pulled for a pinch runner after the single. Radio guy said it wasn't new injury related (not ready to play defense, do a ton of running yet).

I'm confused: has he been out with a leg injury prior to this?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #50 on:** May 26, 2011, 10:13:27 pm »

Quote from: austro on May 26, 2011, 10:02:55 pm

I'm confused: has he been out with a leg injury prior to this?

Hammy. Just came off the DL on the 20th or so. Been playing DH (I think).

austro · « **Reply #51 on:** May 26, 2011, 10:17:44 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on May 26, 2011, 10:13:27 pm

Hammy. Just came off the DL on the 20th or so. Been playing DH (I think).

Thanks. I'm obviously not paying close enough attention.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #52 on:** May 27, 2011, 12:43:20 am »

Here is the MiLB game story on Xavier Cedeno's near no-no: LINK

VirtualBob · « **Reply #53 on:** May 29, 2011, 09:11:56 pm »

Dallas Keuchel with a 7-hit complete game shutout tonight. Very encouraging.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #54 on:** May 30, 2011, 08:09:56 am »

Quote from: VirtualBob on May 29, 2011, 09:11:56 pm

Dallas Keuchel with a 7-hit complete game shutout tonight. Very encouraging.

If he keeps going like he has all season, it's not too hard to picture him in OKC this summer.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #55 on:** May 30, 2011, 09:47:20 am »

Quote from: astrosfan76 on May 30, 2011, 08:09:56 am

If he keeps going like he has all season, it's not too hard to picture him in OKC this summer.

or even to replace Lyles?

Jacksonian · « **Reply #56 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:44:38 am »

The move to AA agrees with Altuve. He grew 2 inches.

MusicMan · « **Reply #57 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:47:20 am »

Quote from: Jacksonian on June 01, 2011, 10:44:38 am

The move to AA agrees with Altuve. He grew 2 inches.

Herbal supplements?

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #58 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:47:42 am »

Quote from: Jacksonian on June 01, 2011, 10:44:38 am

The move to AA agrees with Altuve. He grew 2 inches.

And put on 22 pounds. Everything's bigger in Texas?

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #59 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:48:57 am »

So one of Sutil or Paredes appears to be staying put it. That is a crowded middle inf with Altuve, Villar and Sutil/Paredes

jbm · « **Reply #60 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:49:26 am »

Quote from: Jacksonian on June 01, 2011, 10:44:38 am

The move to AA agrees with Altuve. He grew 2 inches.

That's funny. I thought I heard Altuve tell Goldstein he was 5'6" which means he probably is 5"5". Maybe I misremember.

Jacksonian · « **Reply #61 on:** June 01, 2011, 12:25:26 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 01, 2011, 10:48:57 am

So one of Sutil or Paredes appears to be staying put it. That is a crowded middle inf with Altuve, Villar and Sutil/Paredes

They're going to have to make one more move. They have 25 men on the active roster. AA limits are 24 men.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #62 on:** June 01, 2011, 02:23:14 pm »

Per Farmstros (via Twitter):

Emerson Frostad, C heading to @CCHooks to join Jose Altuve and Jonathan Villar http://lancasterbarnstormers.com/news.cfm?newsid=772

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #63 on:** June 01, 2011, 02:53:36 pm »

McTaggart with a piece on the roster moves: LINK

MusicMan · « **Reply #64 on:** June 01, 2011, 03:00:07 pm »

Paredes to 3b? Throwing in the towel on him?

Jacksonian · « **Reply #65 on:** June 01, 2011, 03:07:03 pm »

Quote from: MusicMan on June 01, 2011, 03:00:07 pm

Paredes to 3b? Throwing in the towel on him?

Sounds more like a condemnation of his defense. Disappointing for a guy already on the 40-man.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #66 on:** June 01, 2011, 03:12:34 pm »

Quote from: MusicMan on June 01, 2011, 03:00:07 pm

Paredes to 3b? Throwing in the towel on him?

Levine (via Twitter): Heard back from Fred Nelson, who said Jimmy Paredes will go to third base. Not necessarily permanent position change.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #67 on:** June 01, 2011, 03:14:19 pm »

Does this mean Wikoff who is hitting .408 and has been playing third for Corpus gets a promotion?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #68 on:** June 01, 2011, 03:35:31 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 01, 2011, 03:14:19 pm

Does this mean Wikoff who is hitting .408 and has been playing third for Corpus gets a promotion?

Per Levine (via Twitter): "Figuring utility, plus there are always days off and a rotation through DH, which lets guys play more in minors."

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #69 on:** June 01, 2011, 06:44:01 pm »

Looks like the last roster move was made, Corpus Christi Hooks placed RF Jon Gaston on the temporarily inactive list.

pots · « **Reply #70 on:** June 01, 2011, 07:24:57 pm »

Altuve RBI single first AB! Out trying to stretch it at 2nd

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #71 on:** June 01, 2011, 07:54:53 pm »

2 Run Homer in his second AB! How is that for "runs created?"

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #72 on:** June 01, 2011, 07:57:18 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 01, 2011, 07:54:53 pm

2 Run Homer in his second AB! How is that for "runs created?"

Now that was funny!

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #73 on:** June 01, 2011, 08:33:32 pm »

Paredes-Villar-Altuve is going to suck for opposing catchers; might be kind of fun for Martinez, though (granted Altuve leaves any runners for him).

roadrunner · « **Reply #74 on:** June 01, 2011, 09:10:56 pm »

Wasn't Paredes projected as kind of a utility guy anyways?

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #75 on:** June 01, 2011, 09:17:39 pm »

I dunno, but Jose Altuve is hitting .750 in Double-A!

ETA re: Paredes - the hope was for more I believe...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #76 on:** June 01, 2011, 09:59:13 pm »

Villar with a walk-off HR for the Hooks in B9. 2-5, HR, Altuve 3-4, HR. Not a bad day for the call-ups...

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #77 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:03:46 pm »

Wow, what a start for those two kids. CC just got a lot more fun to follow, I really wanna get down there this summer to catch a game.

roadrunner · « **Reply #78 on:** June 01, 2011, 10:09:48 pm »

This is pretty exciting. It doesn't seem like all of the "prospects" are buried in the low levels anymore...starting to push up.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #79 on:** June 02, 2011, 11:38:25 am »

Another little tidbit about Altuve and Villar from Caller-Times Greg Rajan's game story: LINK

Jose Altuve and Jonathan Villar began their travel odyssey at 6 a.m. and didn’t get to Whataburger Field until 90 minutes before the first pitch on Wednesday night.

***

"We were a little bit tired (after traveling),” Altuve said. “But as soon as we got here, we saw the lineup and (learned) we were playing. We switched our mind (to playing) and it felt good."

jbm · « **Reply #80 on:** June 02, 2011, 12:54:29 pm »

Thanks for that tidbit. I always forget to check the Caller-Times, but was sort of shocked to see them in the lineup last night after playing out west the night before.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #81 on:** June 02, 2011, 06:32:32 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 01, 2011, 10:03:46 pm

Wow, what a start for those two kids. CC just got a lot more fun to follow, I really wanna get down there this summer to catch a game.

I'm getting Ensberg/Ginter flashbacks ... hope it works out better for this pair.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #82 on:** June 02, 2011, 10:15:40 pm »

May in Review – Corpus Christi

Rotation

The CC rotation has been very consistent all year … Cedeno, Aristil, Seaton, Keuchel, Greenwalt. Shane Wolf had a spot start while Keuchel spent a few days on the 7-day DL, but other than that it has been clockwork. That may be about to change, though, as Erik Abreu started May 30th and Greenwalt, who has struggled mightily (1-4 with a 14.43 ERA in 5 May starts), came out of the pen. ABreu earned a shot at the rotation with a 2.13 May ERA and 0.87 WHIP.

Keuchel has been the standout; 2.37 ERA in May (3.04 for the year) and a complete game shutout in his last outing. Xavier Cedeno (2-1 with a 2.94 ERA and 30K in 33 2/3 May IP) has also looked very good. Seaton & Aristil have both been inconsistent, bit both have had dominant outings.

Bullpen

The bullpen has been a bit of a revolving door. Carpenter & Meszaros both earned promotions to AAA after solid performances in Corpus. Meanwhile, David Berner was demoted to Lancaster and Andrew Robinson was sent back there after both struggled. The bullpen holdovers (Wolf, Urckfitz, Leon & Navarro) all struggled in May with a collective ERA approaching 9 and a WHIP the wrong side of 2. Sammy Gervacio was activated from the DL late in the month and Blake King was signed; we’ll see if they figure more prominently in June.

Lineup

Corpus has struggled this year with an 18-32 record through May 31st. That may have been a factor in the Memorial Day Roster Shake-up. Altuve & Villar take over the middle of the infield beginning June 1, while Jimmy Paredes moves to 3B and David Flores heads for California. Brandon Wikoff with his .373/.466/.400 May line (.407/.481/.469 on the year) is still the odd man out. Wikoff has played all over the infield (10G each at 2B & SS plus 7 at 3B) and has only committed 2 errors. As a 2009 5th rounder, I do not understand why he is not being given more opportunity to perform.

Flores, on the other hand, has hit a very consistent .212/.284/.333 on the year and is being sent back to Lancaster. It is increasingly obvious that he does not really have much of a future in baseball. Jimmy Van Ostrand completes the infield, and he had a very good May … .310/.393/.440. At 26 though, he is probably not a prospect to get excited about.

In the OF, Jake Goebbert was promoted when JD Martinez was injured, and has been a fixture in LF. His .299/.400/.506 May line has been an offensive boost as well. JD returned from the DL late in May (though mostly at DH) and seems to be getting back into the groove; his season numbers are .320/.403/.496 and he still leads the team with 32 RBI. TJ Steele (.232/.275/.295 in May) and Jonathan Gaston (.187/.253/.494) make up the rest of the OF, but both are underperforming. Gaston went on the temporary inactive list with the recent roster moves, so we will see what develops. Meanwhile, Wlad Sutil slumped badly in May (.229/.314/.286 after a .418/.480/.5378 April) and looks to be a career minor leaguer. The same is probably true of 25-year-old Andrew Simunic, who slumped to .189/.283/.208 in May after returning from a brief stint at AAA.

The Astros catching woes really come into focus here. Federieco Hernandez has gotten the bulk of PT so far this year, but his .134/.173/.228 line may not really describe how overmatched he has been. Eye witness reports indicate that he has been lucky so far at the plate. !! He has also thrown out only 21 of would-be base stealers. Meanwhile, Brian Esposito got promoted to Oklahoma City on the strength of his .150/.164/.167 line. Jonathan Fixler may have picked a bad time to retire. Maybe Emerson (sans Lake & Palmer) Frostad can take up the slack.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #83 on:** June 03, 2011, 11:36:16 am »

Couple quick hits from BA and BP on Villar and Altuve.

From BA; "Villar and Altuve are two very different players, but they have become one of the most intriguing middle infield combinations in the minors.....A 6-foot-1, 195-pound switch-hitter, Villar has more explosive tools than Altuve, including 70 speed and a 70 arm on the 20-80 scale....Altuve, a 21-year-old righthanded-hitter from Maracay, Venezuela, hit.408/.451/.606 in 235 trips to the plate for Lancaster, but how he fares against Double-A pitching will be much more telling if his bat is for real."

http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/2011/06/daily-dish-jonathan-villar-jose-altuve-strike-in-double-a-debut/

From BP

"Jose Altuve, 2B, Astros (Double-A Corpus Christi): 3-for-4, HR (1), R, 3 RBI. You having fun yet? I know I am. After torching the California League to the tune of .408/.451/.606 in 52 games, the podcast's favorite second baseman showed no signs of slowing down in his Double-A debut, but the best part is how he suddenly grew. Listed at 5-5, 148 with Lancaster, Altuve told us he was 5-foot-6 when interviewed a couple of weeks ago, but the Hooks are now listing him as 5-7, 170. At that rate, he'll be 5-11, 210 by the time he gets to the big leagues and the size won't be a concern anymore."

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=14122

Matt · « **Reply #84 on:** June 03, 2011, 12:17:31 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 03, 2011, 11:36:16 am

Couple quick hits from BA and BP on Villar and Altuve.

From BA; "Villar and Altuve are two very different players, but they have become one of the most intriguing middle infield combinations in the minors.....A 6-foot-1, 195-pound switch-hitter, Villar has more explosive tools than Altuve, including 70 speed and a 70 arm on the 20-80 scale....Altuve, a 21-year-old righthanded-hitter from Maracay, Venezuela, hit.408/.451/.606 in 235 trips to the plate for Lancaster, but how he fares against Double-A pitching will be much more telling if his bat is for real."

http://www.baseballamerica.com/blog/prospects/2011/06/daily-dish-jonathan-villar-jose-altuve-strike-in-double-a-debut/

From BP

"Jose Altuve, 2B, Astros (Double-A Corpus Christi): 3-for-4, HR (1), R, 3 RBI. You having fun yet? I know I am. After torching the California League to the tune of .408/.451/.606 in 52 games, the podcast's favorite second baseman showed no signs of slowing down in his Double-A debut, but the best part is how he suddenly grew. Listed at 5-5, 148 with Lancaster, Altuve told us he was 5-foot-6 when interviewed a couple of weeks ago, but the Hooks are now listing him as 5-7, 170. At that rate, he'll be 5-11, 210 by the time he gets to the big leagues and the size won't be a concern anymore."

http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=14122

Wow they are really hung up on his size. I hope he proves them all wrong.

chuck · « **Reply #85 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:11:17 pm »

Quote from: Matt on June 03, 2011, 12:17:31 pm

Wow they are really hung up on his size. I hope he proves them all wrong.

I really, really don't understand the issue. He can either defend the position or he can't. Is he able to leap up and snag a line drive that a guy 6'2" could get to? No. Does being two and a half inches shorter than Craig Biggio spell doom? I highly doubt it.

Matt · « **Reply #86 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:25:35 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 03, 2011, 01:11:17 pm

I really, really don't understand the issue. He can either defend the position or he can't. Is he able to leap up and snag a line drive that a guy 6'2" could get to? No. Does being two and a half inches shorter than Craig Biggio spell doom? I highly doubt it.

He sounds like a motherfuckin' ball player and that's what the Astros need.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #87 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:33:37 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 03, 2011, 01:11:17 pm

I really, really don't understand the issue. He can either defend the position or he can't. Is he able to leap up and snag a line drive that a guy 6'2" could get to? No. Does being two and a half inches shorter than Craig Biggio spell doom? I highly doubt it.

Could Spud Webb really dunk a basketball? If I hadn't seen it with my own two eyes, not sure I'd have believed the answer was yes (and often spectacularly I might add). To an extent its the same thing here. Folks have not seen a 5'5" kid do what Altuve is doing before. There is an aura of disbelief about it. I can understand that. However, at some point folks are going to start looking at the kid as a baseball player, rather than as a 5'5" baseball player, and when they do so I think they'll be (justifiably) impressed. Double-A will be that place IMO.

Also, can't say I have any actual back-up for this, but my gut feeling about what the Astros actually think about Altuve is not far off from how some of the pundits see him. I don't have a real basis for this, but it comes from quotes I've read over the years from them. Kinda think this is along the lines of their thinking: "Kid is a ballplayer. Not sure how he does it, and not sure he can continue to do it, but he is earning his shot. Don't think it can continue, but what the heck, hope he proves us wrong and we'll give him that opportunity. As long as he keeps pushing us, we'll keep pushing him..."

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #88 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:36:04 pm »

And to add, I'll be the first one in line to buy a Jose Altuve MLB jersey!

EasTexAstro · « **Reply #89 on:** June 03, 2011, 01:37:34 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 03, 2011, 01:36:04 pm

And to add, I'll be the first one in line to buy a Jose Altuve MLB jersey!

Will they come in adult sizes?

austro · « **Reply #90 on:** June 03, 2011, 05:28:24 pm »

Quote from: Matt on June 03, 2011, 12:17:31 pm

Wow they are really hung up on his size. I hope he proves them all wrong.

Freddy Patek, baby!

Duman · « **Reply #91 on:** June 05, 2011, 05:51:37 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 03, 2011, 01:36:04 pm

And to add, I'll be the first one in line to buy a Jose Altuve MLB jersey!

Your analysis is right on.

Here is the other thing that keeps getting ignored this season. I have heard nothing of his Winter ball #s where he was playing in the LVBP which is often compared to AA/AAA level. He was supposed to be just a fill in until some AAAA guys made it to the team. He ended up starting all year long. He hit .284 during the season there. I think his High A domination was in part due to him proving he should have started at AA to begin with. I was shocked to see him at High A to start the season.

BTW I will knock you down to make sure I get that jersey first. It is on!

Reuben · « **Reply #92 on:** June 06, 2011, 10:32:44 am »

The fact that the Astros moved Paredes to 3B (albeit maybe not permanently) I think speaks volumes about what they think of Altuve right now. I mean, if he's moved past Paredes on the 2B depth chart, and with Deshields who knows how many years away, that means Altuve is the closest thing to "2nd baseman of the future," right?

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #93 on:** June 06, 2011, 10:44:42 am »

Altuve is having a real rough time adjusting to AA and being away from hitter friendly Lancaster.... he is 8 of 19 in with almost a 1200 OPS so far in 5 games. Will wait for BA's report on his runs created though before passing judgement.

accougars · « **Reply #94 on:** June 06, 2011, 11:13:43 am »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 06, 2011, 10:44:42 am

Will wait for BA's report on his runs created though before passing judgement.

I would think that they have to come up with something new. Maybe that he hasn't performed well against lefties since being moved up to AA?

MusicMan · « **Reply #95 on:** June 06, 2011, 11:17:10 am »

Altuve was what, #5 on their most recent Hot Sheet? I'm having a hard time understanding all the butthurt around BA.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #96 on:** June 06, 2011, 11:56:21 am »

I enjoy BA. I am not at all offended by what they wrote. Just poking fun.

accougars · « **Reply #97 on:** June 06, 2011, 12:25:02 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 06, 2011, 11:56:21 am

I enjoy BA. I am not at all offended by what they wrote. Just poking fun.

Same here. Just thought BA's runs produced comment was lame.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #98 on:** June 06, 2011, 02:54:44 pm »

Video from Jose Altuve's 3-run double last night (hit almost the same place as his triple earlier in the game): LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #99 on:** June 09, 2011, 05:03:26 pm »

Goff (via Twitter):

2B Jose Altuve is hitting .429 (12-for-28) with a homer, six RBI, two doubles and one triple since being promoted to Double-A Corpus Christi

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #100 on:** June 09, 2011, 05:35:44 pm »

Hooks Baseball... There's an App for that!

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #101 on:** June 09, 2011, 08:16:43 pm »

Altuve is 1-3 thusfar tonight with a HR (2nd in Double-A).

austro · « **Reply #102 on:** June 09, 2011, 08:18:20 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 09, 2011, 08:16:43 pm

Altuve is 1-3 thusfar tonight with a HR (2nd in Double-A).

Hurting his average.

jbm · « **Reply #103 on:** June 09, 2011, 08:35:53 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 09, 2011, 05:35:44 pm

Hooks Baseball... There's an App for that!

You are always providing good stuff. Thanks, it's appreciated.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #104 on:** June 09, 2011, 08:37:28 pm »

Quote from: jbm on June 09, 2011, 08:35:53 pm

You are always providing good stuff. Thanks, it's appreciated.

You're welcome!

Matt · « **Reply #105 on:** June 09, 2011, 11:21:56 pm »

Quote from: austro on June 09, 2011, 08:18:20 pm

Hurting his average.

And his runs created.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #106 on:** June 11, 2011, 07:31:20 am »

Keuchel allowed just one single last night over 7 innings (8 K's) to lower his ERA to 3.16. Yep, someone's ready for OKC. Oh, and Altuve had the audacity to go 2-4 again, adding a double and 2 RBI, to raise his average to .444. Slacker.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #107 on:** June 11, 2011, 06:59:50 pm »

Quote from: astrosfan76 on June 11, 2011, 07:31:20 am

Keuchel allowed just one single last night over 7 innings (8 K's) to lower his ERA to 3.16. Yep, someone's ready for OKC. Oh, and Altuve had the audacity to go 2-4 again, adding a double and 2 RBI, to raise his average to .444. Slacker.

I was wondering why he was pulled for the 8th (was at 90ish pitches or so), but as Appy Astros pointed out, the box score said it was 104 degrees at game time... WOW!

matadorph · « **Reply #108 on:** June 12, 2011, 06:09:31 pm »

Altuve continues to produce at the plate. 2 for 4 so far tonight with a triple, rbi, and run scored. .422 BA.

moriartp · « **Reply #109 on:** June 12, 2011, 06:38:39 pm »

"Runs created? Fuck that noise." -Jose Altuve

Duder · « **Reply #110 on:** June 12, 2011, 07:24:48 pm »

Quote from: matadorph on June 12, 2011, 06:09:31 pm

Altuve continues to produce at the plate. 2 for 4 so far tonight with a triple, rbi, and run scored. .422 BA.

His second hit was a double. He's been an extra base machine since the promotion.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #111 on:** June 13, 2011, 03:08:11 pm »

Hooks sending 4 to the Texas League All-Star game. LINK

Outfielder J.D. Martinez, shortstop Wladimir Sutil and southpaw hurlers Xavier Cedeno and Dallas Keuchel have been selected to the Texas League South Division All-Star Team... The North and South All-Stars meet in the 75th Texas League All-Star Game Wednesday, June 29, at San Antonio's Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium.

moriartp · « **Reply #112 on:** June 14, 2011, 07:12:16 pm »

Altuve starting at 3B tonight. Box

jbm · « **Reply #113 on:** June 14, 2011, 07:21:45 pm »

That's pretty interesting. Wonder if he has a legit arm for that position.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #114 on:** June 14, 2011, 07:23:56 pm »

Quote from: jbm on June 14, 2011, 07:21:45 pm

That's pretty interesting. Wonder if he has a legit arm for that position.

Was wondering the same thing...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #115 on:** June 14, 2011, 07:50:28 pm »

Quote from: moriartp on June 14, 2011, 07:12:16 pm

Altuve starting at 3B tonight. Box

And in other Hooks news, Seaton is getting lit up tonight...

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #116 on:** June 16, 2011, 12:01:09 am »

I'm getting to the point where you're gonna have to convince me that Keuchel is not a major leaguer rather than he is...

chuck · « **Reply #117 on:** June 16, 2011, 12:46:44 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 16, 2011, 12:01:09 am

I'm getting to the point where you're gonna have to convince me that Keuchel is not a major leaguer rather than he is...

I had no idea that Keuchie is a lefty. Maybe I should start paying attention.

MusicMan · « **Reply #118 on:** June 16, 2011, 08:36:20 am »

Quote from: chuck on June 16, 2011, 12:46:44 am

I had no idea that Keuchie is a lefty. Maybe I should start paying attention.

And yet lefties are hitting .303 off him, vs. .217 for righties.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #119 on:** June 16, 2011, 09:11:17 am »

Quote from: MusicMan on June 16, 2011, 08:36:20 am

And yet lefties are hitting .303 off him, vs. .217 for righties.

It's alright, lefties don't face left-handed pitchers in the majors.

jbm · « **Reply #120 on:** June 16, 2011, 09:45:01 am »

Quote from: MusicMan on June 16, 2011, 08:36:20 am

And yet lefties are hitting .303 off him, vs. .217 for righties.

I watched one of his start against lineup of lefties. Thought to myself "well, let's see if that plays against righties." Then I saw that stat.

The guy keeps performing. I'd imagine he'll get his shot on the big club.

...edited to have it make a little more sense

drew corleone · « **Reply #121 on:** June 17, 2011, 11:35:47 am »

Quote from: chuck on June 16, 2011, 12:46:44 am

I had no idea that Keuchie is a lefty. Maybe I should start paying attention.

I had no idea it was pronounced KIKE-ul (no racist), not KOOCH-ul, until I heard JD mention him the other day.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #122 on:** June 17, 2011, 09:14:04 pm »

Altuve 2-4, 2 groundouts, a single and a HR into the B7 for Corpus tonight.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #123 on:** June 18, 2011, 03:44:35 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 17, 2011, 09:14:04 pm

Altuve 2-4, 2 groundouts, a single and a HR into the B7 for Corpus tonight.

Ended up 2-5, grounding out with 2 on and 2 out in B9 (fought off some tough pitches after going 1-2).

As an aside, it's one thing for us BusRiders to see something in a prospect that we think is worth keeping an eye on, but its quite another when the feats of said BusRider make it up to the likes of F-House... On her radar? Jose Altuve. Enjoy the read!

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #124 on:** June 18, 2011, 05:26:03 pm »

More good stuff from Examiner.com's Stephen Goff, this time on Dallas Keuchel. LINK (and IIRC - per Mr. Happy - Examiner.com pays its folks based on readership, I'll just let y'all click away rather than post some blurbs...).

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #125 on:** June 21, 2011, 08:45:29 am »

Keuchel continued his mission yesterday, holding San Antonio to 1 run over 7 innings. His ERA now stands at 2.84. Hyphen might want to start pitching better...

roadrunner · « **Reply #126 on:** June 21, 2011, 08:48:09 am »

And Altuve has a 15 game hitting streak

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #127 on:** June 21, 2011, 01:35:06 pm »

Quote from: roadrunner on June 21, 2011, 08:48:09 am

And Altuve has a 15 game hitting streak

And yet has seen his Double-A average 'plummet' to the high .390s during that same time span...

Matt · « **Reply #128 on:** June 21, 2011, 02:43:46 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 21, 2011, 01:35:06 pm

And yet has seen his Double-A average 'plummet' to the high .390s during that same time span...

Cut him.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #129 on:** June 22, 2011, 06:45:31 pm »

And meet the newest Hook, Chris Wallace. Who needs Lancaster, anyway?

jbm · « **Reply #130 on:** June 22, 2011, 07:05:37 pm »

I remember his coach saying he should skip Lancaster, but I am still surprised.

Anyone know if he can handle the position, or is he destined for somewhere else?

chuck · « **Reply #131 on:** June 22, 2011, 08:10:29 pm »

Quote from: jbm on June 22, 2011, 07:05:37 pm

Anyone know if he can handle the position, or is he destined for somewhere else?

That is a fantastic question. Has anyone seen him?

BudGirl · « **Reply #132 on:** June 22, 2011, 09:07:55 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 22, 2011, 08:10:29 pm

That is a fantastic question. Has anyone seen him?

I saw him in spring training 2010. little guy.

chuck · « **Reply #133 on:** June 22, 2011, 09:33:04 pm »

Quote from: BudGirl on June 22, 2011, 09:07:55 pm

I saw him in spring training 2010. little guy.

I'm not sure I know what you mean. Did you see him in uniform on the field or did you like meet him at the Ale House?

BudGirl · « **Reply #134 on:** June 22, 2011, 09:43:22 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 22, 2011, 09:33:04 pm

I'm not sure I know what you mean. Did you see him in uniform on the field or did you like meet him at the Ale House?

I watched him at a practice. I liked him. Remarked somewhere on the board at the time that I liked him but he was very little. There was just something about him. That is my usual scouting report, I like or don't like someone. Not sure what it is I'm seeing though.

BudGirl · « **Reply #135 on:** June 22, 2011, 10:13:11 pm »

Quote from: BudGirl on June 22, 2011, 09:43:22 pm

I watched him at a practice. I liked him. Remarked somewhere on the board at the time that I liked him but he was very little. There was just something about him. That is my usual scouting report, I like or don't like someone. Not sure what it is I'm seeing though.

I kind of lied, maybe, but I did see him. It was bonfante that i apparently really liked. Not sure what he's doing now.

but next year, with plans to go to spring training, i know i'm going to want to watch at least one or two days of the minors practicing/playing. i like that best.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #136 on:** June 23, 2011, 01:27:00 pm »

Yeah, Wallace is listed as 6'0" 205. Not huge for baseball standards, but not a small guy, either.

jbm · « **Reply #137 on:** June 23, 2011, 02:18:45 pm »

I remember watching a clip of a Legends-Hagerstown game early in the year. Can't remember the beginning of the play, but there was a play at the plate. The throw was well in time, with Wallace having control of the ball well up the third base line, firmly situated inside the line waiting to tag the incoming runner who was still a few strides away. The runner, a Mr. Bryce Harper, figures he should veer at Wallace and try to plow him over four feet from the plate. Wallace is kind of caught off guard by this tactic, but holds onto the ball as both he and Harper hit the ground. He then rushed over in a rage to confront Mr. Harper, who gave a look like "what, why are you so pissed." Wallace quickly realized that it was more appropriate to walk away.

Who knows for sure, but I had little doubt Harper's smug ass would have lost that brawl. I enjoyed watching both impulses of Wallace, the one to teach the little prick a lesson, and the one to let it go.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #138 on:** June 23, 2011, 02:42:05 pm »

Crawfish Boxes on Keuchel: LINK

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #139 on:** June 23, 2011, 04:41:25 pm »

Good stuff (yet again) from Examiner.com's Stephen Goff - this time on Jonathan Villar: LINK

MusicMan · « **Reply #140 on:** June 24, 2011, 09:38:11 am »

Altuve 2 for 3 again last night.

I hereby move that two hit games be referred to as "The Altuve", in the manner of taking The Sombrero.

Two for three is the "Golden Altuve", and two for two is the "Platinum Altuve".

chuck · « **Reply #141 on:** June 24, 2011, 11:51:48 am »

I watched the game last night. Altuve gets on base (often) and looks like a kid out there. I mean, literally. The first base coach comes over and towers above him and I swear you think you're watching a little league game.

EasTexAstro · « **Reply #142 on:** June 24, 2011, 03:42:10 pm »

http://blog.timesunion.com/christopher/mickey-mouse-ballclub/3283/

6th picture gives an idea of how Altuve stacks up with some other players.

Duder · « **Reply #143 on:** June 24, 2011, 07:56:25 pm »

A few notes from Greg Rajan's twitter.

RHP Sammy Gervacio to Triple-A Oklahoma City. OF Jon Gaston activated from inactive list.

IF Jimmy Paredes will play in the Texas League all-star game, replacing the injured Vince Belnome.

Not good news for @cchooks: SS Jonathan Villar is being helped off the field after tweaking something while running the bases.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #144 on:** June 25, 2011, 10:31:43 pm »

Looks like Martinez decided to pull out the power bat this evening. 2-4, 2 R, 2 HR, 3 RBI, SO. Box Score

And Keuchel was his usual Keuchel-self. 7.0 IP, 6H 1 R, 1 ER, 1 BB, 6 SO, 0 HR, ERA 2.72.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #145 on:** June 25, 2011, 10:40:41 pm »

Greg Rajan (Caller-Times) via Twitter:

In his past 28 innings, Dallas Keuchel has allowed three runs, with only one ER or fewer allowed in five of his past six @cchooks starts.*** That begs one to ask: Why is Keuchel still with the @cchooks? His last Texas League appearance better be Wednesday's all-star game.

BUWebguy · « **Reply #146 on:** June 26, 2011, 11:29:53 am »

Quote from: EasTexAstro on June 24, 2011, 03:42:10 pm

http://blog.timesunion.com/christopher/mickey-mouse-ballclub/3283/

6th picture gives an idea of how Altuve stacks up with some other players.

Wow -- looks like an optical illusion, where Altuve is actually standing 20 feet behind the other guys.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #147 on:** June 26, 2011, 01:37:28 pm »

During the weekly GM show w/ Milo, Wade talked for a few minutes about prospects, mainly the Corpus crew. Part of the discussion was about the thought that good prospects at AA can jump to the majors. Wade mentioned that Heck recently scouted Keuchel and proclaimed him as being the pitcher closest to the majors. I didn't get to listen as intently as I would have liked, but the way it came across was that they were saying Keuchel was the closest of any of our pitchers in the minors to the majors. So, there's that.

chuck · « **Reply #148 on:** June 26, 2011, 01:49:10 pm »

There sure as hell isn't anyone in OKC. Arguello, maybe.

pots · « **Reply #149 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:08:46 am »

Quote from: chuck on June 26, 2011, 01:49:10 pm

There sure as hell isn't anyone in OKC. Arguello, maybe.

I assume he is referring to starting pitching, because I can't imagine Carpenter isn't the next call up. He fits the profile: Closer for OKC and already on the 40-man. And it doesn't hurt that he is tearing up AAA batters.

Reuben · « **Reply #150 on:** June 27, 2011, 09:35:29 am »

Quote from: pots on June 27, 2011, 08:08:46 am

I assume he is referring to starting pitching, because I can't imagine Carpenter isn't the next call up. He fits the profile: Closer for OKC and already on the 40-man. And it doesn't hurt that he is tearing up AAA batters.

And a way for Wade to show off to his new boss one of his savvy-er trades: getting anything at all for Pedro Feliz.

I guess the fact that they can't bring F-Rod back for however many days (15?) could indeed lead to Carpenter getting the call when they send Esposito down.

chuck · « **Reply #151 on:** June 27, 2011, 07:43:26 pm »

Cedeño is dealing. He has nine Ks through three innings. That's right. NINE.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #152 on:** June 27, 2011, 07:59:24 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 27, 2011, 07:43:26 pm

Cedeño is dealing. He has nine Ks through three innings. That's right. NINE.

First 2 Frisco batters grounded out in T4, but he came back with K10 on the third batter for a nice 7-pitch inning.

pots · « **Reply #153 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:16:29 pm »

At what point do we start getting anxious?

chuck · « **Reply #154 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:22:04 pm »

Quote from: pots on June 27, 2011, 08:16:29 pm

At what point do we start getting anxious?

If I'm a Rough Rider I'm anxious as fuck at around about the on-deck circle. This guy's curve is ridiculous.

chuck · « **Reply #155 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:22:17 pm »

FUCK.

pots · « **Reply #156 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:23:00 pm »

bah, great run though

nice finish to the 6th, 13th K of the day so far

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #157 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:25:07 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 27, 2011, 08:22:17 pm

FUCK.

Guy fought off a couple of good 2-2 pitches (not sure how he got a piece of the 2nd one he barely got wood on) and earned that clean hit just over the outstretched glove of Van Ostrand. Retired the 1st 17 batters of the game, striking out 12 in the process (ties a Hooks record). Kid was just surgical... Set a Hooks franchise record with his 13th K to end the 6th. Hooks up 1-0.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #158 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:26:26 pm »

This is the 2nd time this season Cedeno has legitimately flirted with a no-hitter.

chuck · « **Reply #159 on:** June 27, 2011, 08:28:50 pm »

Altuve stands on the fucking base and he's not as tall as the first baseman.

Matt · « **Reply #160 on:** June 27, 2011, 09:56:44 pm »

Quote from: chuck on June 27, 2011, 08:28:50 pm

Altuve stands on the fucking base and he's not as tall as the first baseman.

Ah but he's on base.

pots · « **Reply #161 on:** June 27, 2011, 10:02:28 pm »

Quote from: Matt on June 27, 2011, 09:56:44 pm

Ah but he's on base.

That explains the extra 3 inches he's grown this year

MusicMan · « **Reply #162 on:** June 27, 2011, 10:12:43 pm »

Quote from: pots on June 27, 2011, 10:02:28 pm

That explains the extra 3 inches he's grown this year

He'll be seven feet tall by the time he makes the majors. He will also consume fastballs with fire from his eyes, and curveballs with bolts of lightning from his ass.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #163 on:** June 27, 2011, 10:16:10 pm »

Cedeno goes 6.1 1 hit, 0 runs, 0 BB, 14Ks

The Hooks bullpen goes 2.1, 8 hits, 6 runs, 2 walks, 3 Ks.

Hooks lose 6-3

In other news, Altuve goes 3-4, 2 runs, 1 RBI and a double.

chuck · « **Reply #164 on:** June 27, 2011, 10:30:29 pm »

Quote from: Matt on June 27, 2011, 09:56:44 pm

Ah but he's on base.

He is always on base, dude. Always.

And you know how little league age kids stand on the very top of the bag and sort of bounce on it? That's sort of what Altuve does.

Although he did fuck up a bunt play that played a role in the disaster inning. He needs to get the infield signs together.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #165 on:** June 28, 2011, 12:17:27 am »

McTaggart (via Twitter):

Brian Esposito was telling me yesterday how nasty Xavier Cedeno was. Kid struck out 14 tonight for Corpus Christi.

astrosfan76 · « **Reply #166 on:** June 28, 2011, 09:06:57 am »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 27, 2011, 10:16:10 pm

Cedeno goes 6.1 1 hit, 0 runs, 0 BB, 14Ks

The Hooks bullpen goes 2.1, 8 hits, 6 runs, 2 walks, 3 Ks.

Hooks lose 6-3

Major-league ready

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #167 on:** June 28, 2011, 10:03:36 am »

He is 24 (will be 25 in August) and has been pitching int he minors for 6 years. He didn't pitch at all last year, so I am assuming he was injured.

He has never put up numbers in the past like he has this year. Also of note, before missing last season he spent all of 2009 pitching out of the pen, which was a first for him. Up to that point he had only pitched as a starter.

pots · « **Reply #168 on:** June 28, 2011, 11:30:38 am »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 28, 2011, 10:03:36 am

He is 24 (will be 25 in August) and has been pitching int he minors for 6 years. He didn't pitch at all last year, so I am assuming he was injured.

He has never put up numbers in the past like he has this year. Also of note, before missing last season he spent all of 2009 pitching out of the pen, which was a first for him. Up to that point he had only pitched as a starter.

Must have been doing right for a 31st round draft pick to be promoted throughout his first 4 years. Personally hoping that whatever they were seeing is now finally happening...

Duder · « **Reply #169 on:** June 28, 2011, 12:32:24 pm »

Quote from: Navin R Johnson on June 28, 2011, 10:03:36 am

He is 24 (will be 25 in August) and has been pitching int he minors for 6 years. He didn't pitch at all last year, so I am assuming he was injured.

I think I read at the start of the season that Cedeno wasn't injured but simply couldn't find a job last season. If true, that's quite surprising for a lefty with a pulse.

Navin R Johnson · « **Reply #170 on:** June 28, 2011, 02:17:36 pm »

Quote from: Duder on June 28, 2011, 12:32:24 pm

I think I read at the start of the season that Cedeno wasn't injured but simply couldn't find a job last season. If true, that's quite surprising for a lefty with a pulse.

Just googling it, that appears to be the case. He was cut by the Rockies in April of 2010.

http://www.insidetherockies.com/2010/04/03/carte-baumgardner-cedeno-bright-among-minor-leaguers-released-by-colorado-rockies/

I couldn't find any articles mentioning an injury.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #171 on:** June 28, 2011, 03:18:10 pm »

Looks like Brad James has found his way back onto the Hooks roster. LINK

Matt · « **Reply #172 on:** June 28, 2011, 04:13:38 pm »

Anyone have a scouting report on what Cedeno throws? Pitches, velocity, etc.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #173 on:** June 28, 2011, 04:21:30 pm »

Quote from: Matt on June 28, 2011, 04:13:38 pm

Anyone have a scouting report on what Cedeno throws? Pitches, velocity, etc.

Kids got a wicked bender, that I do know...

Dude from Corpus Christi over at The Crawfish Boxes said this about him:

[Fastball velocity] 88-91; change is 80-82 and hook is 76-77

Matt · « **Reply #174 on:** June 28, 2011, 07:58:58 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 28, 2011, 04:21:30 pm

Kids got a wicked bender, that I do know...

Dude from Corpus Christi over at The Crawfish Boxes said this about him:

[Fastball velocity] 88-91; change is 80-82 and hook is 76-77

Another Wandy maybe?

chuck · « **Reply #175 on:** June 28, 2011, 11:44:37 pm »

Quote from: Matt on June 28, 2011, 04:13:38 pm

Anyone have a scouting report on what Cedeno throws? Pitches, velocity, etc.

He has a giant fucking curve ball that mystified every batter in the line up. Neither his fastball nor his change demanded too much of my attention, nor did he throw them very much Monday.

Uncle Charlie · « **Reply #176 on:** June 30, 2011, 04:11:23 am »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 13, 2011, 03:08:11 pm

Hooks sending 4 to the Texas League All-Star game. LINK

Outfielder J.D. Martinez, shortstop Wladimir Sutil and southpaw hurlers Xavier Cedeno and Dallas Keuchel have been selected to the Texas League South Division All-Star Team... The North and South All-Stars meet in the 75th Texas League All-Star Game Wednesday, June 29, at San Antonio's Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium.

Nice outing by the Hooks. Keuchel pitched 2 innings, sending 3 north all-stars on a slow walk back to the dugout. Martinez went 1 for 4 while Paredes came off the bench to deliver a double.

Not sure why Paredes was there instead of Sutil, but you guys might. I suspect that Cedeno didn't make an appearance due to his outing against Frisco a few nights earlier.

I haven't noticed because we haven't talked about him much recently, but JD is putting together another solid year.

pots · « **Reply #177 on:** June 30, 2011, 08:18:54 am »

Quote from: Uncle Charlie on June 30, 2011, 04:11:23 am

but JD is putting together another solid year.

He needs to keep up the recent power surge. The Astros have enough corner outfielders and infielders that can't hit for a ton of power.

Reuben · « **Reply #178 on:** June 30, 2011, 10:23:32 am »

Quote from: pots on June 30, 2011, 08:18:54 am

He needs to keep up the recent power surge. The Astros have enough corner outfielders and infielders that can't hit for a ton of power.

Well, having 3 or 4 guys who hit .320 ain't bad either. You can win with that (in the NL at least) if you have at least one HR hitter, and other guys with decent pop. The problem with this year's Astro offense isn't necessarily a lack of big HR hitters, it's that most of the guys just don't hit. If Lee were having a big year and Johnson were hitting like he did last year (maybe he's coming around), the offense would be fine given what Bourn, Kepp, Pence, and Wallace have done. Of course, the pitching staff would still be the disaster it has been.

I'm thinking about the '80's Cardinals, with Jack Clark the only big HR threat, or even maybe the 2006 Tigers, with Polanco, Granderson, Odonez, Guillen et al.

pots · « **Reply #179 on:** June 30, 2011, 10:43:53 am »

Quote from: Reuben on June 30, 2011, 10:23:32 am

Well, having 3 or 4 guys who hit .320 ain't bad either. You can win with that (in the NL at least) if you have at least one HR hitter, and other guys with decent pop. The problem with this year's Astro offense isn't necessarily a lack of big HR hitters, it's that most of the guys just don't hit. If Lee were having a big year and Johnson were hitting like he did last year (maybe he's coming around), the offense would be fine given what Bourn, Kepp, Pence, and Wallace have done. Of course, the pitching staff would still be the disaster it has been.

I'm thinking about the '80's Cardinals, with Jack Clark the only big HR threat, or even maybe the 2006 Tigers, with Polanco, Granderson, Odonez, Guillen et al.

Don't get me wrong, I like JD. I just feel the Astros will need good power from left field. Hunter is a 25 HR guy, good power not great. Wallace seems like 15-20 HR guy at his best. Same with CJ. I'd really like to see JD generate 25-30 a year. Now he did have an untimely hammy, which very well may have stunted his numbers this year. But his chances of promotion in left field could hinge on him hitting for more power. Just my opinion of course.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #180 on:** June 30, 2011, 02:22:58 pm »

Sickels on Cedeno: LINK

Cedeno works with an 88-92 MPH sinker. He has a diverse arsenal including a curveball, cutter, and changeup. The curve is the best of his secondary pitches and was especially good on Monday night according to Corpus Christi sources.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #181 on:** June 30, 2011, 02:48:31 pm »

Goff article on JD Martinez. LINK (again, legit read in its entirety).

"I don't mean to sound rude or disrespectful. [Being drafted so low] motivates me to play hard. I do a lot of little things to keep up my intensity. If you look at my batting gloves, you'll see No. 611 written on them. That was my draft number in the 20th round in 2009. It's just a reminder to me not to lose focus. I want to prove to everybody I can do it."
***
"When I started off in 2009, the Astros told me I was just an organizational player, and that I wasn't even supposed to really play. I slowly became a prospect in their eyes and wound up being named the team's Minor League Player of the Year. My goal from the very start was to prove everybody wrong."

pots · « **Reply #182 on:** June 30, 2011, 03:23:12 pm »

I definitely like J.D. Pulling for him to continue to improve. Last year his power developed later in the year, if memory serves. Perhaps the 3 HRs in the last 7 games is just the beginning of his power surge.

BudGirl · « **Reply #183 on:** June 30, 2011, 04:28:55 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on June 30, 2011, 02:48:31 pm

Goff article on JD Martinez. LINK (again, legit read in its entirety).

"I don't mean to sound rude or disrespectful. [Being drafted so low] motivates me to play hard. I do a lot of little things to keep up my intensity. If you look at my batting gloves, you'll see No. 611 written on them. That was my draft number in the 20th round in 2009. It's just a reminder to me not to lose focus. I want to prove to everybody I can do it."
***
"When I started off in 2009, the Astros told me I was just an organizational player, and that I wasn't even supposed to really play. I slowly became a prospect in their eyes and wound up being named the team's Minor League Player of the Year. My goal from the very start was to prove everybody wrong."

sounds like the kind of motivation that pujols had.

MusicMan · « **Reply #184 on:** June 30, 2011, 05:22:09 pm »

Quote from: BudGirl on June 30, 2011, 04:28:55 pm

sounds like the kind of motivation that pujols had.

LaRussa is "pulling" for him?

Reuben · « **Reply #185 on:** June 30, 2011, 06:08:26 pm »

Nice article. I like these quotes from Martinez, too:

Quote

"My family and friends have pushed me in the right direction to love the game and put the integrity of the sport up on a pedestal. Some people just look at it as a business, but I look at it like a goal in life. Making it to the big leagues is going to be the ultimate self-accomplishment, if it happens. "

"I feel like I can still improve,"
&
"Whatever is in front of me or whatever is going on, I will work very hard to do well and basically try to exceed everyone's expectations."

He sounds like he has a good mix of humility, confidence, and intelligence.

Reuben · « **Reply #186 on:** July 04, 2011, 03:47:23 pm »

Article from McTaggart on the talent collecting at Corpus with the Hinze promotion: Link

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #187 on:** July 04, 2011, 08:32:02 pm »

Looks like JD is beginning to heat up again after the hammy injury. Hit a 2-out grand slam last night and a solo HR tonight. 7/4 Gameday LINK. Chris Wallace also hit a 2-out grand slam last night, and Parades also HR'ed. 7/3 Box Score LINK.

Reuben · « **Reply #188 on:** July 05, 2011, 08:16:20 am »

Wait a minute... the Astros have moved Altuve to 3B, and Paredes back to 2nd? From Levine:

Quote

The Hooks’ addition of Hinze will create an infield of three prospects who received in-season promotions, with Hinze at first, Jonathan Villar at shortstop and Jose Altuve, who moved from second base to third.

The other starting infielder, Jimmy Paredes, is still just 22 and had a brief fling at third base before returning to second.

Looks like that was the case in at least the last couple games... anybody else heard about this? (by the way, JD Martinez hit another HR last night, and had an outfield assist. Left for a PR after walking to lead off the 9th).

jbm · « **Reply #189 on:** July 05, 2011, 08:22:52 am »

Haven't heard anything official, but they had Altuve play third a few times in the past. Maybe they have no long-term confidence in CJ, and will try anyone who can possibly field the position at third.

Jacksonian · « **Reply #190 on:** July 05, 2011, 09:01:49 am »

Without having anyone admit anything, I believe Paredes had trouble at 3b. That does not mean Altuve is a 3b long-term. They need to get them all at-bats, and that defensive alignment seems to be the least troublesome.

VirtualBob · « **Reply #191 on:** July 05, 2011, 12:15:10 pm »

Quote from: Jacksonian on July 05, 2011, 09:01:49 am

Without having anyone admit anything, I believe Paredes had trouble at 3b. That does not mean Altuve is a 3b long-term. They need to get them all at-bats, and that defensive alignment seems to be the least troublesome.

For several weeks they have been moving Altuve & Paredes back and forth between 2B & 3B ... maybe a problem for Paredes or maybe just giving them both reps there to see how they each do. It is development, after all.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #192 on:** July 05, 2011, 08:30:36 pm »

JD homered in T5 for the Hooks tonight, and has homered in 3 consecutive games. Gameday LINK

Uncle Charlie · « **Reply #193 on:** July 06, 2011, 04:55:35 am »

Seems to have recovered.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #194 on:** July 07, 2011, 04:43:20 pm »

Another good MiLB piece from Stephen Goff at Examiner.com.

LHP Xavier Cedeno evolving into inspirational, feel-good story in Astros' system

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #195 on:** July 07, 2011, 10:57:41 pm »

There are a number of things to be excited about with the Hooks right now. Unfortunately, relief pitching isn't one of them...

In other news, Footer was in Corpus tonight, and had a little something to say about Jose Altuve. LINK

MusicMan · « **Reply #196 on:** July 07, 2011, 11:01:29 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on July 07, 2011, 10:57:41 pm

a little something to say about Jose Altuve.

I see what you did there.

OregonStrosFan · « **Reply #197 on:** July 08, 2011, 01:44:47 pm »

Footer's midday notes from Corpus: LINK

A little nugget:

[Hooks manager] At the more traditionally offensive positions — corner outfield, first base, third base, catcher — Lawless stresses hitting. He has told Hooks left fielder J.D. Martinez — by far the Astros’ top hitting prospect — “You can’t play left field and be a singles hitter in the big leagues.” (Go ahead, Astros fans, get the snarky comments out of your system. I’ll wait.) “You have to drive the ball to the gaps and hit home runs.”

“I think he understands that now,” Lawless added.

Andyzipp · « **Reply #198 on:** July 08, 2011, 02:44:50 pm »

Quote from: OregonStrosFan on July 08, 2011, 01:44:47 pm

Footer's midday notes from Corpus: LINK

A little nugget:

[Hooks manager] At the more traditionally offensive positions — corner outfield, first base, third base, catcher — Lawless stresses hitting. He has told Hooks left fielder J.D. Martinez — by far the Astros’ top hitting prospect — “You can’t play left field and be a singles hitter in the big leagues.” (Go ahead, Astros fans, get the snarky comments out of your system. I’ll wait.) “You have to drive the ball to the gaps and hit home runs.”

“I think he understands that now,” Lawless added.

Catcher is a traditionally offensive position?

JaneDoe · « **Reply #199 on:** July 08, 2011, 02:49:42 pm »

Quote from: Andyzipp on July 08, 2011, 02:44:50 pm

Catcher is a traditionally offensive position?

Well it is this year. I can't tell you how much Towles and Corporan have offended me.