The Houston Astros announced that they signed second baseman Kaz Matsui for a 3 year for 16.5 million dollars. This is the first deal by Ed Wade that I really don’t care about. Matsui is a good defender, and has speed. However, there is one stat from last season scares me. On the road, Matsui hit .249.

I did say in an earlier podcast if Wade could sign a quality second baseman, we should. I just don’t think this was the right move. Also, this signals to the world that Wade has no confidence in Chris Burke.

I know quite a few fans are down on Chris Burke, but I really don’t think this organization has given him a fair chance. Lets be honest here… If the Astros are going back to the playoffs next year, all of Wade’s moves have to work. Also, we still need to find a closer, and we need two of the younger pitchers have to step up and become top starters. Realistically, is that going to happen?

Most likely not!

I think a more realistic outlook would be, maybe a run at 2009. (However, I concede with the NL Central, who really knows?)
If this is the case, I see no problem giving Chris Burke a shot to see what he can do over a full season at his natural position. If we are not going to the playoffs next year, what is the harm? If Chris can’t do the job, then find someone for 2009.

As a side note, the Astros offered arbitration to Trevor Miller and Mark Loretta. I hope we can keep Loretta, but I have mixed feeling on Miller.

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