Team Clemens

[Taras Bulba]

The Chronicle reports Hendricks as saying while he "respects" the Astros' decision, he "might have done it differently" and that Roger was "somewhat surprised" at Drayton's decision "like most fans."  I get it now.  The nerve of the Houston organization to ask that people behave in a professional and respectful manner.  To think that not a single emissary bearing chests of gold and baubles was sent to the headquarters of Team Clemens--an outrage!

When he pitched for the Astros, Clemens was a prick, but he was our prick. To hell with him, now.

[BUWebguy]

It appears the Astros called Clemens'/Hendricks' bluff this time.

[jwhudson]

They tell you do what you think best, and then they're suprised by the outcome.  WAKE UP! You have to pay attention to what you say.  I'm sure these guys are Lawyers right?

[Bench]

Quote:
They tell you do what you think best, and then they're suprised by the outcome.  WAKE UP! You have to pay attention to what you say.  I'm sure these guys are Lawyers right?

Yeah, they're lawyers. And they have a phenomenal softball team. Just wiped the floor with us in a tournament last year.

That being said, the "Astros need to do what's best" and "we'll see" and now "we're sad" is all public posturing, I'm sure the direct negotitations were a bit more shark-toothed.

[Holly]

Quote:
It appears the Astros called Clemens'/Hendricks' bluff this time.

Kinda like in what was it... 2000, with Elarton/Hidalgo/BalloonPayment in exchange?

[cc]

I think Team Clemens has miscalculated the reaction by both Astros brass and fans to their PR ploy.  First, they didn't think Drayton/Purpura would ever refuse arbitration.  Second, if he really cares about his image he's boxed himself in now: either he retires or he comes back to the Astros in May.  He'll have overspent on any hometown hero capital he's accumulated the past two seasons if he goes to NY, Boston or Arlington.  He won't be able to spin it as Drayton's bottom-dollar outlook if he contradicts all his previous reassurances about really wanting to be close to his family.

Now, the Count has to go out there and actually do something "exciting" to show that he intends to improve the ballclub, with or without Rocket.  Then Roger, it's your move.