AstroCast » Articles http://www.astrocast.net Houston Astros fan based blog and podcast Wed, 19 May 2010 02:55:31 +0000 en hourly 1 ©Lambo and Sketkar sketkar@astrocast.net (Lambo and Sketkar) sketkar@astrocast.net(Lambo and Sketkar) 1440 Astros, Baseball, Houston, Texas, MLB, Major League Baseball, Podcast, Fan based Houston Astros fan based blog and podcast Lambo and Sketkar Lambo and Sketkar sketkar@astrocast.net No no http://www.astrocast.net/Store/AC144.jpg AstroCast http://www.astrocast.net 144 144 Astros v Cardinals Game 1 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/12/astros-v-cardinals-game-1/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/12/astros-v-cardinals-game-1/#comments Tue, 13 Apr 2010 02:03:39 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=212 The Astros opened up the Cardinals home opener by giving the Cardinals a 5-0 win.  Pujols continues to haunt the Astros, hitting a 3-run HR off of Wandy Rodriguez.    Wandy went 4.1 innings, giving up 4 ERs on 7 Hits and 2 BBs.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/12/astros-v-cardinals-game-1/feed/ 0 Phillies sweep Astros, Game 3 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/11/phillies-sweep-astros-game-3/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/11/phillies-sweep-astros-game-3/#comments Mon, 12 Apr 2010 00:47:20 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=209 Roy vs Roy… as two of the dominant pitcher take on in game 3.  The Astros saw their first lead of the season in game two, maybe they can get their 1st win, but it wasn’t meant to be as the Astros bats couldn’t do much against Roy Halladay.   Halladay pitched a complete game, giving up only 1 run on 7 hits, striking out 8.   Oswalt was the only bright spot for the Astros, going a strong 6 innings, allowing 2 ERs on 5 Hits and also striking out 8.

Notes:  6 games into the season now, the astros are 0-6, batting a 0.222 with a on base percentage of 0.244 and Slugging of 0.304.   The Astros have the fewest HRs in the MLB with only 2 and their SO-BB ratio is 43-5.  I hope Lance Berkman comes back soon and hot.   On the Pitching side, the Astros hold a team ERA of 6.00, 3rd worst in the league.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/11/phillies-sweep-astros-game-3/feed/ 1 Astros celebrate 45 years, Astros v Phillies Game 2 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/11/astros-celebrate-45-years-astros-v-phillies-game-2/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/11/astros-celebrate-45-years-astros-v-phillies-game-2/#comments Sun, 11 Apr 2010 14:39:02 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=205 The Astros organization celebrated it’s 45th anniversary and the first game ever played at the Astrodome.   The theme for the entire game was 1965, with $1 dogs and sodas, black and white video, the starletts and the team wearing throwback jerseys.  The first 10000 fans got a replica 1965 jersey.

The astros hitters showed up, knocking Moyer around, scoring 5 runs in the 3rd but in the end, they couldn’t hold the lead, losing 9-6.   Paulino looked inconsistent, pitching 5 innings, giving up 4 ERs on 4 Hits, walking 4 and striking out 4.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/11/astros-celebrate-45-years-astros-v-phillies-game-2/feed/ 0 Astros v Phillies Game 1 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/10/astros-v-phillies-game-1/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/10/astros-v-phillies-game-1/#comments Sat, 10 Apr 2010 17:34:35 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=201 The Astros take on the 2 time NL champion Philadelphia Phillies.  Different opponent, same result as the Astros lose 8-0.  Bud Norris went 6.0 innings giving up 3 ERs on 6 Hits and 3 SOs.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/10/astros-v-phillies-game-1/feed/ 0 Get the broom, Astros v Giants Game 3 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/07/get-the-broom-astros-v-giants-game-3/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/07/get-the-broom-astros-v-giants-game-3/#comments Wed, 07 Apr 2010 21:40:52 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=198 The astros bats showed up today scoring more runs than the first two games combined but it was a little too late as the Giants stomp on the ‘Stros 10-4.   Brett Byers went 6 innings, giving up 4 ERs with 4 SOs.   Fulchino gave up 4 ERs on 4 hits including a HR.

Side Note:  Team Stats, the Astros are hitting at a whopping 0.194 AVG, 26th in the league (30 teams) and have a team ERA of 4.00

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/07/get-the-broom-astros-v-giants-game-3/feed/ 0 Astros v Giants Game 2 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/07/astros-v-giants-game-2/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/07/astros-v-giants-game-2/#comments Wed, 07 Apr 2010 14:19:40 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=196 Astros bats are a no show again, only getting 4 hits and no runs as they lose to the Giants.  Wandy Rodriguez pitched 6 innings giving up 3 ERs and striking out 4.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/07/astros-v-giants-game-2/feed/ 0 Opening day 2010: Astros v Giants Game 1 http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/06/opening-day-2010-astros-v-giants-game-1/ http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/06/opening-day-2010-astros-v-giants-game-1/#comments Tue, 06 Apr 2010 13:59:18 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=192 Roy Oswalt had an decent outing, giving up 3 ER in 6 innings but the Astros bats just couldn’t do anything against two time Cy Young winner Lincecom.

Side note: Lance Berkman begins this season on the DL.  This return timeline is still unknown.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2010/04/06/opening-day-2010-astros-v-giants-game-1/feed/ 0 Carlos Lee hot, as the Astros slam the Cardinals http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/22/carlos-lee-hot-as-the-astros-slam-the-cardinals/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/22/carlos-lee-hot-as-the-astros-slam-the-cardinals/#comments Wed, 22 Jul 2009 14:23:57 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=185  

Another good outing for Wandy Rodriguez, seven innings and five strikeouts but it’s was Carlos Lee’s grand slam that broke the game open as the Astros won 11-6.  They look to sweep and cut the deficit to one game behind the division leading Cardinals.

Note: Matsui injured his right knee on a foul ball.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/22/carlos-lee-hot-as-the-astros-slam-the-cardinals/feed/ 1 Astros bullpen holds as they take game one vs the Cardinals http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/21/astros-bullpen-holds-as-they-take-game-one-vs-the-cardinals/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/21/astros-bullpen-holds-as-they-take-game-one-vs-the-cardinals/#comments Tue, 21 Jul 2009 14:10:41 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=183 Carlos Lee hit a towering 3-run homer down the left field line and that was all she wrote as the Astros bullpen held the cardinals in a 3-2.

Note:  Berkman’s calf injury will sit him a couple of more games.  Astros put Erstad on the DL.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/21/astros-bullpen-holds-as-they-take-game-one-vs-the-cardinals/feed/ 0 Astros cant hold lead, split series with Dodgers http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/19/astros-cant-hold-lead-split-series-with-dodgers/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/19/astros-cant-hold-lead-split-series-with-dodgers/#comments Mon, 20 Jul 2009 05:15:04 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=180  

The Astros lead 3-0 early but the Dodger fought back scoring a run each in the 3, 5, and 7th to tie the game, scoring the winning run in the 8th. This was enough as the Astros lost 4-3.

Side note: Lance Berkman missed the last 2 games due to a strained calf should return on Monday.

Next up for the Astros: St. Louis Cardinals

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/19/astros-cant-hold-lead-split-series-with-dodgers/feed/ 0 Astros score late but can’t catch the Dodgers in loss http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/19/astros-score-late-but-cant-catch-up-the-dodgers-in-loss/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/19/astros-score-late-but-cant-catch-up-the-dodgers-in-loss/#comments Mon, 20 Jul 2009 01:14:35 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=177  

The Astros lost to the Dodgers 5-2 in a strange game where Hampton had an error slamming the ball into his glove in frustration and Cooper was ejected in the eighth.  It seemed nothing would go right for the Astros on this night, they fell behind 2-0 early and then 5-0 late in the 6th.  They tried to claw back but just didn’t have enough.

 

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/19/astros-score-late-but-cant-catch-up-the-dodgers-in-loss/feed/ 0 Astros take game two as Oswalt dominates http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/18/astros-take-game-two-as-oswalt-dominates/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/18/astros-take-game-two-as-oswalt-dominates/#comments Sat, 18 Jul 2009 15:39:06 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=175  

Roy Oswalt pitched a complete game his 3rd of the season.  Allowing only one run on fout hits.  He also struck out five.   With a dominant outing by Wandy in game one and another one by Roy, this could be just the pitching style the Astros need to continue their move up the NLC ladder.

The Astros batted nine in the 1st inning scoring four runs, giving just what he needed, breathing room to work his magic.

 

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/18/astros-take-game-two-as-oswalt-dominates/feed/ 1 Astros take game one 3-0 over the Dodgers http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/17/astros-take-game-one-3-0-over-the-dodgers/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/17/astros-take-game-one-3-0-over-the-dodgers/#comments Fri, 17 Jul 2009 16:47:19 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=172  

Hello all,

Another strong outing by Wandy Rodriguez as he continues his scoreless inning streak, now at 17.  Also,  Astros Catcher Quintero hit his first homerun of the year in the 5th inning vs former Astros pitcher Randy Wolf. 

 

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/17/astros-take-game-one-3-0-over-the-dodgers/feed/ 0 Second half of 2009 season http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/16/second-half-of-2009-season/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/16/second-half-of-2009-season/#comments Thu, 16 Jul 2009 22:06:35 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=168  

Hello all,

Second half of the 2009 baseball season is here.  Starting today your astros will play the LA Dodgers in LA.   In the first half of the season the Astros didn’t look good or bad, maybe a little bad.  But as we all know they are a second half season team or have been of late.   Unlike past seasons, the second half of the season doesn’t look too pleasing. 

Here is something interesting, in the first half of the season the Astros played 13 series against teams above the 0.500 mark and 13 series against teams that were below the 0.500 mark.  Well, the astros finished the first half of the season with a 0.500 record, interesting.  The second have of the season, the Astros have to play 17 series against teams above 0.500 and only 8 series against teams below the 0.500 mark.  If the first half is any indication, this isn’t going to be a very fun second half.  Then again, I’d like to be wrong and the Astros go on another run. 

The next few series will tell, they play the Dodgers, Cardinals, Mets, Cubs.  Here’s to winning a few of these series.  All of these teams have 0.500 records.

We’ll also have to wait and see where they are at the end of July.  The second half trading frenzy is at the end of the month.  Will the Astros look to the immediate future or start rebuilding for the long-term?

I’m out…

 

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/07/16/second-half-of-2009-season/feed/ 0 Tejada Charged with Lying to Congress http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/10/tejada-charged-with-lying-to-congress/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/10/tejada-charged-with-lying-to-congress/#comments Tue, 10 Feb 2009 20:52:09 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/10/tejada-charged-with-lying-to-congress/ Earlier today, Astros Shortstop Miguel Tejada was charged lying to congress about the use of performance enhancing drugs in baseball.

According to the Washington Post, the maximum sentence of a year.  However, the article also stated that the more likely sentence could range from probation to six months in jail.  Tejada is expected to plea guilty tomorrow.

Oddly, Tejada is not being charged about his own steroid use, but lying of his testimony involving former teammate Adam Piatt.

There will be a lot of questions here involving the Astros.  How will they respond if Tejada does get jail time?

Also, how does the Astros handle this from a public relations standpoint? Personally, I always loved the Astros because they historically always had “good men” playing on this team.

It was easy rooting for Clemens, Pettitte, and Caminiti.  We traded for one of the best players in the American League, and only to learn that he did steroids as well.

Sadly, the Steroid Specter is still haunting Jeff Bagwell.  The Houston Astros seems neck deep in the steroid crap.

Can we and should we root for “the good guys” as the Astros ads keep saying?

Here is Alyson Footer’s article on the Astros Website.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/10/tejada-charged-with-lying-to-congress/feed/ 0 Steroids Specter Raises It’s Ugly, Hooded Head, Again….. http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/09/steroids-specter-raises-its-ugly-hooded-head-again/ http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/09/steroids-specter-raises-its-ugly-hooded-head-again/#comments Mon, 09 Feb 2009 16:48:32 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/09/steroids-specter-raises-its-ugly-hooded-head-again/ When the Bud Man thought things couldn’t get worse.  Arguably, the best pitcher and hitter of this generation might see jail time.  Perhaps, the government will let Clemens and Bonds share a jail cell?  Talk about a reality TV show in the making!  Bonds, Clemens and McGwire will never see the word “Hall” associated with their name.  Again as (perhaps a few more “again” can be placed here…) Bud thought the worse was over, turns out A-Rod tested positive as well.

Honestly, I never saw this one coming.  One could observe the Cancer Head and the Popeye Arms and know something wasn’t right. A-Rod always had a more lean build to him.  He didn’t look like someone who was on drugs.  So does this mean that Ken Griffey under a microscope as well? What about other players that we feel are clean?  I don’t think Lance Berkman has.  Sadly, every player is tainted even if they are honest.  Guilt by Association?

Who do we blame? The players themselves who were looking for a edge?  Donald Fehr who fought against the drug tests?   (Personally, I can think of a million things to blame this guy for things.  Global Warming? Lack of peace in the Middle East? Inflation? I will even make more things up because he would deserve those as well.)  Bud Selig for not fighting Fehr harder for testing before it was too late?  Greedy Owners enjoying all time revenues post strike?

Sketkar and I discussed this on the Podcast as well which should be released later in the week.

I feel for the players who played it straight.  If there is one group who have the right to light the torches and grab the pitchforks and then storm MLB and MLB Union headquarters, it is these guys.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2009/02/09/steroids-specter-raises-its-ugly-hooded-head-again/feed/ 0 Brad Ausmus Tribute http://www.astrocast.net/2008/10/02/brad-ausmus-tribute/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/10/02/brad-ausmus-tribute/#comments Thu, 02 Oct 2008 19:27:25 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=151 Hello,

Astros players and management pay tribute to catcher Brad Ausmus with humorous affection

[See post to watch Flash video]

Thanks to the Astros and MLB for this video

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/10/02/brad-ausmus-tribute/feed/ 0 Big Al on Brandon Backe http://www.astrocast.net/2008/07/14/big-al-on-brandon-backe/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/07/14/big-al-on-brandon-backe/#comments Mon, 14 Jul 2008 20:18:39 +0000 Big Al http://www.astrocast.net/?p=144 After watching Brandon Backe shut out the Nats last night, I started to think about his contributions to the team. There has been some criticism as far as his pitching after his injury. Even Lambo has made a mention that this 2008 Season should be the season where Backe needs to step up to the plate and prove himself – so to speak. I love Brandon Backe. I think he has the makings of being our #1 Starter after Oswalt leaves/retires.

Brandon made his Astros debut in 2004 being traded for Geoff Blum from Tampa Bay. His first game with us was against the Cubs where he limited them to four runs in eight innings. Needless to say Houston was excited about his performance. While his 2005 ERA was a below average 4.76, he opened our eyes to his stellar post season pitching.

In 2006 he had undergone Tommy John Surgery which didn’t leave an opportunity to show us the promise that he had. Pitching only 8 games with a 3-2 record, Backe ended his short season with a 3.77 ERA. 2007 was a funny year for us. It was Biggio’s last season, our club was starting to see some shifts in players. Hunter Pence made a strong entrance to the Astros. Backe was still recovering from his surgery and made a few unimpressive starts. However, Backe did finish his five games with a 3-1 record and another 3.77 ERA for the season. It is 2008. What has he done for us lately? Not much. He has given up 22 HR’s, has more Losses than Wins, and has brought his ERA back up to a 4.76. I believe Backe will have a stellar 2009 season. Everybody has a slump season. I think that slump season can be given to Backe and Roy for 2008.

Backe has shown us his potential last night as he has shown us his potential in the past. He has sat on the bench next to Roger Clemens, Roy Oswalt, and Andy Pettite for a few years to learn from the Vets. This is his first season since the injury. And he is making a humble 800,000 dollars this year. Needless to say I haven’t even mentioned his bat yet. In 2007 he had 4 hits of his 10 at bats, right now he is hitting in the .300’s. This really helps us being a National League Team where we don’t have the luxury to cheat and have a DH. Let me also mention he is one of thirty-nine pitchers who have struck out three batters in nine pitches.

I say keep him around for a few more seasons. If Trader Wade wants to bulk up our pitching then we can always move him to the bull pen. He is a Texan and I’d hate to see him on another Non-Texas Team.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/07/14/big-al-on-brandon-backe/feed/ 3 A look from Big Al’s Perspective… http://www.astrocast.net/2008/07/10/a-look-from-big-als-perspective/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/07/10/a-look-from-big-als-perspective/#comments Thu, 10 Jul 2008 22:33:41 +0000 Big Al http://www.astrocast.net/?p=143 Now that Sabathia has been traded to the Brewers, I’ve pretty much given up on the 2008-09 Houston Astros. Why you ask? Everybody had hoped that this might be a World Series wild card team if every Astro lived up to their expectations we the fans had for them. While Bourne and Towles have not lived up to our high expectations, everybody on our offense has (not counting the injury prone Matsui). Unfortunately our pitching has not. Roy is not pitching like the old Roy, Chacon started great but had a bad month of June which led to his current situation, and Backe is Backe. Wandy is seems to be doing well but I don’t see how he can have the low ERA he has and have a record of 3-3. We have a weak bullpen and a closer who had a shaky beginning season. Then, when the pitching does comes together, our offense can’t produce the numbers they are capable of producing.

Like it or not, the Cubs are dominant with 7 all-stars this season. Yes they are playing over their heads but people said the same thing about the likes of Carlos Beltran and Morgan Ensberg in 2005 season. It’s these players that have a stellar one season career that creates a winning team. Now that the Brewers have thrown away their organization of tomorrow for this one season, they are going to be tough to beat. There was always a hope for the wild card for us but we can’t even make it past the Pirates. Meanwhile, we are fighting with the Reds not to be in last place.

There is a better hope! If you look at the Free Agent Market for 2009 here’s the pool – John Lackey (club option), Andy Pettitte, Jon Garland, Livan Hernandez, Pedro Martinez, Mike Mussina, Brad Penny (club option), Derek Lowe, Oliver Perez, Wolf, Burnett (player option), Sabathia, and Dempster. With our offense, these pitchers will give the Astros a strong consideration for next season. Meanwhile I suggest GM Wade spends a little more time overseeing our Minor League Organizations.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/07/10/a-look-from-big-als-perspective/feed/ 0 Biggio Is A Coach! http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/19/biggio-is-a-coach/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/19/biggio-is-a-coach/#comments Mon, 19 May 2008 19:34:12 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/?p=138 Retired baseball player and future Hall of Framer, Craig Biggio is now a head coach in baseball.  Don’t expect to see Biggio in the dugout of Minute Maid later this season.  He is going to coach the local high school, St. Thomas.

I wonder how many extra people will start attending St. Thomas Baseball games!

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/19/biggio-is-a-coach/feed/ 0 Astros vs Giants Game 1, Berkman 13th HR, 4 game winning streak http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/12/astros-vs-giants-game-1-berkman-13th-hr-4-game-winning-streak/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/12/astros-vs-giants-game-1-berkman-13th-hr-4-game-winning-streak/#comments Tue, 13 May 2008 05:46:06 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=137

Houston 7, San Francisco 3 at AT&T Park
Houston Record: (22-17)
San Francisco Record: (16-23)

Winning pitcher - Roy Oswalt (4-3)
Losing pitcher - Vinnie Chulk (0-1)
SV - Jose Valverde (9)

HOU HR - L. Berkman (13)
SF HR - J. Bowker (4)


Next Houston Game: May 13, 2008 07:15 PM PT vs. San Francisco Giants

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 3 0   7 12 0
Dodgers 0 0 2 1 0 0 0 0 0   3 7 2

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/12/astros-vs-giants-game-1-berkman-13th-hr-4-game-winning-streak/feed/ 0 Astros vs Dodgers Game 3, sweep another one! http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/11/astros-vs-dodgers-game-3-sweep-another-one/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/11/astros-vs-dodgers-game-3-sweep-another-one/#comments Mon, 12 May 2008 01:46:56 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=136

Houston 8, Los Angeles 5 at Dodger Stadium
Houston Record: (21-17)
Los Angeles Record: (19-18)

Winning pitcher - Geoff Geary (1-1)
Losing pitcher - Jonathan Broxton (1-1)
SV - Jose Valverde (8)

HOU HR -
LA HR - J. Loney (4)


Next Houston Game: May 12, 2008 07:15 PM PT vs. San Francisco Giants

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 6 1   8 10 2
Dodgers 2 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 2   5 12 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/11/astros-vs-dodgers-game-3-sweep-another-one/feed/ 0 Astros vs Dodgers Game 2, get 2nd shutout http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/11/astros-vs-dodgers-game-2-get-2nd-shutout/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/11/astros-vs-dodgers-game-2-get-2nd-shutout/#comments Sun, 11 May 2008 07:00:07 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=135

Houston 5, Los Angeles 0 at Dodger Stadium
Houston Record: (20-17)
Los Angeles Record: (19-17)

Winning pitcher - Chris Sampson (2-3)
Losing pitcher - Chad Billingsley (2-5)


Next Houston Game: May 11, 2008 01:10 PM PT vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 3 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   5 9 2
Dodgers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   0 3 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/11/astros-vs-dodgers-game-2-get-2nd-shutout/feed/ 0 Astros vs Dodgers Game 1 http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/10/astros-vs-dodgers-game-1/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/10/astros-vs-dodgers-game-1/#comments Sat, 10 May 2008 07:49:20 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=134

Houston 7, Los Angeles 1 at Dodger Stadium
Houston Record: (19-17)
Los Angeles Record: (19-16)

Winning pitcher - Brian Moehler (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Derek Lowe (2-3)

HOU HR - L. Berkman (12)
LA HR -


Next Houston Game: May 10, 2008 07:10 PM PT vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 2 2 0 2 0 0 0 1   7 12 0
Dodgers 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1   1 7 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/10/astros-vs-dodgers-game-1/feed/ 0 Astros vs Nationals Game 3 http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/08/astros-vs-nationals-game-3/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/08/astros-vs-nationals-game-3/#comments Fri, 09 May 2008 05:10:53 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=133

Washington 8, Houston 3 at Minute Maid Park
Washington Record: (15-20)
Houston Record: (18-17)

Winning pitcher - John Lannan (3-3)
Losing pitcher - Brandon Backe (2-4)


WAS HR - W. Harris (1) R. Mackowiak (1)
HOU HR -


Next Houston Game: May 9, 2008 07:40 PM PT vs. Los Angeles Dodgers

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Nationals 1 0 1 0 0 2 0 3 1   8 12 0
Astros 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 2 0   3 10 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/08/astros-vs-nationals-game-3/feed/ 0 Astros vs Nationals Game 2, another nailbiter! http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/07/astros-vs-nationals-game-2-another-nailbiter/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/07/astros-vs-nationals-game-2-another-nailbiter/#comments Thu, 08 May 2008 04:04:25 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=132

Washington 3, Houston 4 at Minute Maid Park
Washington Record: (14-20)
Houston Record: (18-16)

Winning pitcher - Jose Valverde (4-1)
Losing pitcher - Joel Hanrahan (0-2)

WAS HR - R. Zimmerman 2 (5)
HOU HR - L. Berkman (11)


Next Houston Game: May 8, 2008 07:05 PM CT vs. Washington Nationals

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Nationals 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0   3 7 0
Astros 0 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 1   4 7 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/07/astros-vs-nationals-game-2-another-nailbiter/feed/ 0 Astros vs Nationals, late rally leads to 4th straight win http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/06/astros-vs-nationals-late-rally-leads-to-4th-straight-win/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/06/astros-vs-nationals-late-rally-leads-to-4th-straight-win/#comments Wed, 07 May 2008 04:08:47 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=131

Washington 5, Houston 6 at Minute Maid Park
Washington Record: (14-19)
Houston Record: (17-16)

Winning pitcher - Doug Brocail (2-0)
Losing pitcher - Luis Ayala (1-2)
SV - Jose Valverde (7)

WAS HR - A. Boone (2) N. Johnson (5) A. Kearns (3)
HOU HR -


Next Houston Game: May 7, 2008 07:05 PM CT vs. Washington Nationals

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Nationals 0 1 0 0 2 0 1 1 0   5 9 1
Astros 0 1 1 0 1 0 1 2 X   6 12 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/06/astros-vs-nationals-late-rally-leads-to-4th-straight-win/feed/ 0 Astros vs Brewers Game 3, Sweep! http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/04/astros-vs-brewers-game-3-sweep/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/04/astros-vs-brewers-game-3-sweep/#comments Sun, 04 May 2008 23:34:20 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=130

Milwaukee 6, Houston 8 at Minute Maid Park
Milwaukee Record: (16-15)
Houston Record: (16-16)

Winning pitcher - Tim Byrdak (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Mitch Stetter (1-1)

MIL HR - M. Cameron 2 (3)
HOU HR - L. Berkman (10) H. Pence (4)


Next Houston Game: May 6, 2008 07:05 PM CT vs. Washington Nationals

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12   R H E
Milwaukee 1 1 1 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   6 13 1
Astros 0 1 1 0 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 2   8 13 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/04/astros-vs-brewers-game-3-sweep/feed/ 0 Astros vs Brewers Game 2 http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/03/astros-vs-brewers-game-2/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/03/astros-vs-brewers-game-2/#comments Sun, 04 May 2008 03:15:11 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=129

Milwaukee 2, Houston 6 at Minute Maid Park
Milwaukee Record: (16-14)
Houston Record: (15-16)

Winning pitcher - Brandon Backe (2-3)
Losing pitcher - Manny Parra (1-2)

MIL HR - R. Weeks (4)
HOU HR - B. Backe (1) M. Bourn (3)


Next Houston Game: May 4, 2008 01:05 PM CT vs. Milwaukee Brewers

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Milwaukee 1 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0   2 5 0
Astros 0 0 1 0 5 0 0 0 X   6 12 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/03/astros-vs-brewers-game-2/feed/ 0 Astros vs Brewers Game 1, Homerun derby http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/02/astros-vs-brewers-game-1-homerun-derby/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/02/astros-vs-brewers-game-1-homerun-derby/#comments Sat, 03 May 2008 03:54:39 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=128

Milwaukee 4, Houston 7 at Minute Maid Park
Milwaukee Record: (16-13)
Houston Record: (14-16)

Winning pitcher - Roy Oswalt (3-3)
Losing pitcher - Carlos Villanueva (1-3)
SV - Jose Valverde (6)

MIL HR - R. Braun (5) M. Cameron (1)
HOU HR - L. Berkman (9) C. Lee (7) H. Pence 2 (3) M. Tejada (5)


Next Houston Game: May 3, 2008 06:05 PM CT vs. Milwaukee Brewers

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Milwaukee 2 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0   4 7 1
Astros 0 0 0 0 2 4 0 1 X   7 12 3

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/05/02/astros-vs-brewers-game-1-homerun-derby/feed/ 0 Astros vs Diamondback Game 3, this one hurts! http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/30/astros-vs-diamondback-game-3-this-one-hurts/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/30/astros-vs-diamondback-game-3-this-one-hurts/#comments Wed, 30 Apr 2008 23:47:52 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=126

Houston 7, Arizona 8 at Chase Field
Houston Record: (13-16)
Arizona Record: (20-8)

Winning pitcher - Brandon Medders (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Dave Borkowski (0-2)
SV - Brandon Lyon (9)

HOU HR - C. Lee (6)
ARI HR - C. Jackson (5) M. Owings (1)


Next Houston Game: May 2, 2008 07:05 PM CT vs. Milwaukee Brewers

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 4 2 0 0 0 1 0 0 0   7 11 0
Diamondback 2 0 1 2 0 3 0 0 X   8 13 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/30/astros-vs-diamondback-game-3-this-one-hurts/feed/ 0 Astros vs Diamondback Game 2 http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/29/astros-vs-diamondback-game-2/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/29/astros-vs-diamondback-game-2/#comments Wed, 30 Apr 2008 05:46:59 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/?p=125

Houston 6, Arizona 4 at Chase Field
Houston Record: (13-15)
Arizona Record: (19-8)

Winning pitcher - Doug Brocail (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Edgar Gonzalez (1-2)
SV - Jose Valverde (5)

HOU HR -
ARI HR - C. Jackson (4)


Next Houston Game: April 30, 2008 12:40 PM MST vs. Arizona Diamondbacks

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 2 0 4 0 0 0 0 0 0   6 9 0
Diamondback 2 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0   4 7 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/29/astros-vs-diamondback-game-2/feed/ 0 Astros vs Diamondbacks Game 1, lose 3rd straight http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/28/astros-vs-diamondbacks-game-1-lose-3rd-straight/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/28/astros-vs-diamondbacks-game-1-lose-3rd-straight/#comments Tue, 29 Apr 2008 04:27:19 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=124

Houston 3, Arizona 5 at Chase Field
Houston Record: (12-15)
Arizona Record: (19-7)

Winning pitcher - Dan Haren (4-1)
Losing pitcher - Chris Sampson (1-3)
SV - Brandon Lyon (8)


Next Houston Game: April 29, 2008 06:40 PM MST vs. Arizona Diamondbacks

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 1 0   3 5 0
Diamondback 0 0 1 3 1 0 0 0 X   5 7 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/28/astros-vs-diamondbacks-game-1-lose-3rd-straight/feed/ 0 Astros vs Cardinals Game 3, another lost series http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/27/astros-vs-cardinals-game-3-another-lost-series/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/27/astros-vs-cardinals-game-3-another-lost-series/#comments Sun, 27 Apr 2008 21:45:43 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=123

Houston 1, St. Louis 5 at Busch Stadium
Houston Record: (12-14)
St. Louis Record: (16-10)

Winning pitcher - Kyle Lohse (3-0)
Losing pitcher - Brandon Backe (1-3)
SV - Kyle McClellan (1)

HOU HR -
STL HR - T. Glaus (1) A. Pujols (5)


Next Houston Game: April 28, 2008 06:40 PM MST vs. Arizona Diamondbacks

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   1 4 0
Cardinals 0 0 0 0 4 0 1 0 X   5 7 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/27/astros-vs-cardinals-game-3-another-lost-series/feed/ 0 Astros vs Cardinals Game 2, break winning streak in a close one http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/26/astros-vs-cardinals-game-2-break-winning-streak-in-a-close-one/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/26/astros-vs-cardinals-game-2-break-winning-streak-in-a-close-one/#comments Sat, 26 Apr 2008 20:56:52 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=122

Houston 3, St. Louis 4 at Busch Stadium
Houston Record: (12-13)
St. Louis Record: (15-10)

Winning pitcher - Adam Wainwright (3-1)
Losing pitcher - Dave Borkowski (0-1)

HOU HR - L. Berkman 2 (8) K. Matsui (1)
STL HR -


Next Houston Game: April 27, 2008 01:15 PM CT vs. St. Louis Cardinals

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 1 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 0   3 5 0
Cardinals 0 0 3 0 0 0 0 0 1   4 7 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/26/astros-vs-cardinals-game-2-break-winning-streak-in-a-close-one/feed/ 0 Astros vs Cardinals Game 1, Lee blasts late HR, Astros win 6th in a row http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/26/astros-vs-cardinals-game-1-lee-blasts-late-hr-astros-win-6th-in-a-row/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/26/astros-vs-cardinals-game-1-lee-blasts-late-hr-astros-win-6th-in-a-row/#comments Sat, 26 Apr 2008 06:48:46 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=121

Houston 3, St. Louis 2 at Busch Stadium
Houston Record: (12-12)
St. Louis Record: (14-10)

Winning pitcher - Wesley Wright (3-0)
Losing pitcher - Jason Isringhausen (1-2)
SV - Jose Valverde (4)

HOU HR - C. Lee (5)
STL HR -


Next Houston Game: April 26, 2008 12:10 PM CT vs. St. Louis Cardinals

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3   3 6 1
Cardinals 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   2 6 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/26/astros-vs-cardinals-game-1-lee-blasts-late-hr-astros-win-6th-in-a-row/feed/ 0 Astros vs Red Game 2, Cassel starts for Wandy http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/24/astros-vs-red-game-2-cassel-starts-for-wandy/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/24/astros-vs-red-game-2-cassel-starts-for-wandy/#comments Thu, 24 Apr 2008 20:11:05 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=120

Houston 5, Cincinnati 3 at Great American Ball Park
Houston Record: (11-12)
Cincinnati Record: (9-14)

Winning pitcher - Jack Cassel (1-0)
Losing pitcher - Johnny Cueto (1-2)
SV - Jose Valverde (3)

HOU HR - L. Berkman (6)
CIN HR -

Next Houston Game: April 25, 2008 07:15 PM CT vs. St. Louis Cardinals

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 2 1 0 0 2 0 0 0 0   5 9 0
Reds 1 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0   3 8 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/24/astros-vs-red-game-2-cassel-starts-for-wandy/feed/ 0 Astros vs Red Game 1, Astros win 4th straight http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/23/astros-vs-red-game-1-astros-win-4th-straight/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/23/astros-vs-red-game-1-astros-win-4th-straight/#comments Thu, 24 Apr 2008 03:35:57 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=119

Houston 9, Cincinnati 3 at Great American Ball Park
Houston Record: (10-12)
Cincinnati Record: (9-13)

Winning pitcher - Chris Sampson (1-2)
Losing pitcher - Bronson Arroyo (0-3)

HOU HR -
CIN HR - E. Encarnacion (6) K. GriffeyJr. (4)

Next Houston Game: April 24, 2008 12:35 PM ET vs. Cincinnati Reds

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Astros 0 2 0 7 0 0 0 0 0   9 14 1
Reds 1 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 1   3 10 2

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/23/astros-vs-red-game-1-astros-win-4th-straight/feed/ 0 Astros vs Padres Game 2, astros win in late innings http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/22/astros-vs-padres-game-2-astros-win-in-late-innings/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/22/astros-vs-padres-game-2-astros-win-in-late-innings/#comments Wed, 23 Apr 2008 03:59:30 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=118

San Diego 7, Houston 11 at Minute Maid Park
San Diego Record: (9-12)
Houston Record: (9-12)

Winning pitcher - Jose Valverde (3-1)
Losing pitcher - Heath Bell (0-2)

SD HR - A. Gonzalez (4) P. McAnulty (2)
HOU HR - G. Blum (3) H. Pence (1)


Next Houston Game: April 23, 2008 07:10 PM ET vs. Cincinnati Reds

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Padres 0 0 0 0 0 3 0 4 0   7 8 0
Astros 1 0 0 1 0 2 3 4 X   11 15 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/22/astros-vs-padres-game-2-astros-win-in-late-innings/feed/ 0 Astros vs Padres Game 1, Tejada comes up big http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/21/astros-vs-padres-game-1-tejada-comes-up-big/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/21/astros-vs-padres-game-1-tejada-comes-up-big/#comments Tue, 22 Apr 2008 03:53:19 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=115

San Diego 3, Houston 10 at Minute Maid Park
San Diego Record: (9-11)
Houston Record: (8-12)

Winning pitcher - Roy Oswalt (2-3)
Losing pitcher - Justin Germano (0-2)

SD HR - J. Edmonds (1) A. Gonzalez (3)
HOU HR - L. Berkman (5) M. Tejada (4)


Next Houston Game: April 22, 2008 07:05 PM CT vs. San Diego Padres

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Padres 0 1 1 0 0 1 0 0 0   3 8 0
Astros 5 2 0 3 0 0 0 0 X   10 13 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/21/astros-vs-padres-game-1-tejada-comes-up-big/feed/ 0 Astros vs Rockies Game 3 http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/20/astros-vs-rockies-game-3/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/20/astros-vs-rockies-game-3/#comments Sun, 20 Apr 2008 22:39:56 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=116

Colorado 4, Houston 6 at Minute Maid Park
Colorado Record: (9-9)
Houston Record: (7-12)

Winning pitcher - Wesley Wright (2-0)
Losing pitcher - Brian Fuentes (0-1)
SV - Jose Valverde (2)

COL HR - G. Atkins (3)
HOU HR -

Next Houston Game: April 21, 2008 07:05 PM CT vs. San Diego Padres

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Rockies 0 1 1 0 0 1 1 0 0   4 12 0
Astros 0 0 0 1 2 0 0 3 X   6 8 0

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/20/astros-vs-rockies-game-3/feed/ 0 Astros vs Rockies Game 2, close one http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/19/astros-vs-rockies-game-2-close-one/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/19/astros-vs-rockies-game-2-close-one/#comments Sun, 20 Apr 2008 04:03:09 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=117

Colorado 3, Houston 2 at Minute Maid Park
Colorado Record: (9-8)
Houston Record: (6-12)

Winning pitcher - Aaron Cook (2-1)
Losing pitcher - Oscar Villarreal (0-3)
SV - Manny Corpas (4)

COL HR -
HOU HR - J. Towles (4)


Next Houston Game: April 20, 2008 01:05 PM CT vs. Colorado Rockies

  1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9   R H E
Rockies 0 1 0 1 1 0 0 0 0   3 9 1
Astros 1 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0   2 5 1

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/19/astros-vs-rockies-game-2-close-one/feed/ 0 Backe looks good as Astros lose a close one http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/02/backe-looks-good-as-astros-lose-a-close-one/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/02/backe-looks-good-as-astros-lose-a-close-one/#comments Wed, 02 Apr 2008 15:22:52 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=111 Brandon Backe made his pitching return after going through Tommy John surgery and pitched well through 5 innings giving up only 2 runs in the 4th inning on a homerun to Hairston.  He was pulled in the 6th inning for pinch hitter Jose Cruz Jr. with 2 out and a bases loaded situation.  The only astros run in the game and this season so far came on a bases loaded walk.  The padres bullpen was decent after that inning, shutting out the Astros, handing them their 2nd loss, 2-1.

The astros offense seems to be getting hits but have trouble driving runners in as they left 20 on base Tuesday and 13 on Monday.

Other news, 2nd baseman, Matsui took his first BP since surgery.  He will most likely play in a few minor league games before he is cleared to rejoin the Astros.  Pitcher Roy Oswalt was bruised Monday by a comebacker in his right hip.  There is a chance he might miss his start against the Cubs on Saturday.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/04/02/backe-looks-good-as-astros-lose-a-close-one/feed/ 0 Opening Day http://www.astrocast.net/2008/03/31/opening-day/ http://www.astrocast.net/2008/03/31/opening-day/#comments Mon, 31 Mar 2008 23:05:04 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=109 Well it is that time of year again…Smell the green grass, breath the fresh air, and listen for the sound of a wooden bat striking a little white ball…
It’s opening day, folks!

Ed Wade made a lot of moves over the off season and Cecil Cooper has many new toys to play with. Are we a better team? Yes, we are! Can we return to the playoffs? Who knows in the wacky world of the National League Central. Amanda from the Red Hot Mama broadcast made the point that she felt there are a lot of third place clubs in the NL Central. She is absolutely rgiht. Could there be a six way tie for third?

There are only five players that remain from the 2005 World Series team. Seems like a small number doesn’t it?

The offense should be improved: Addition of Miguel Tejada, Hunter Pence playing a full season, veterans of Carlos Lee and Lance Berkman anchoring the lineup.The defense should also be improved with Pence moving to left field and new addition Michael Borne playing center field. Kaz Matsui is an improvement defensively over the retired Craig Biggio.This overall speed of the team is also improved. Borne, Matsui and Pence are all rabbits and should steal some bases this year. The bullpen is also improved with the additions of Oscar Villarreal and last years save leader, Jose Valverde.

I can hear your thoughts now… “Hey, Lambo, what about the starting rotation?”

*Lambo scratches head….

Well, not sure if we can say the rotation is improved over last year, and it is the weakness of this club. Roy Oswalt being the noted exception. If Roy O stays healthy, he has to be considered a Cy Young candidate. The next two spots, I feel are the key to the whole Astros season. Those spots are currently fielded by Brandon Backe and Wandy Rodriguez. Can Backe return from his injury and pitch 200 innings? Last year, Wandy had one of the best home records while having one of the worse road records. Can Wandy be more consistant? For the Astros, these two need to pitch well if we are going to return to the playoffs. If they don’t pitch well, this could be a long season for us folks.

The interesting thing is…. In the wacky NL Central, it will probably only take around 85 games to win the central this year. There are no clear winners and each team has question marks. Again, I point out.. if Wandy and Backe can pitch well, I think 85 is very doable. If not, who knows?

A case can be made for the Reds, Cubs, Brewers, and Astros as possible contenders for the NL Central title. (Sorry, Cardinals and Pirate fans, it is not happening for you this year.) However, these contenders can be pretenders very easily. The question is… which of the four with have the favorable role of the dice and win the title?

Can it be the Astros? Why not!

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2008/03/31/opening-day/feed/ 4 Roger Clemens Makes A Video Statement http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/24/roger-clemens-makes-a-video-statement/ http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/24/roger-clemens-makes-a-video-statement/#comments Mon, 24 Dec 2007 15:26:19 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=105 The embattled Roger Clemens made a video statement and posted it on YouTube. Apparently, he will be interviewed on 60 Minutes soon. Here is his video statement…

[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MGtbYqNQMs0[/youtube]

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/24/roger-clemens-makes-a-video-statement/feed/ 5 Astros get closer Valverde http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/14/astros-get-closer-valverde/ http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/14/astros-get-closer-valverde/#comments Sat, 15 Dec 2007 01:15:16 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=101 Hello all,

Astros make more off season news Friday when the club traded Second Baseman Chris Burke, Relievers Chad Qualls and Juan Gutierrez to the Diamondbacks in exchange for closer Jose Valverde.

According the Astros.com,

Valverde, 28, was 1-4 with a 2.66 ERA and a Major League-leading 47 saves for the Diamondbacks in 2007. His 47 saves also marked a career-high total, and he appeared on the National League All-Star team for the first time.

The Arizona franchise-record 47 saves also ranked tied for 15th all-time in a single season, and Valverde also struck out 78 hitters in 64 1/3 innings while walking 26 and allowing 46 hits

Now, we all knew that acquiring Matzui meant that Burke’s days as an astro were numbered but, I didn’t think Chad Qualls was on the list names available for trading.  As a matter of fact,  in my opinion, I really thought that Qualls would been a good candidate for the “closer-by-committee” method the astros might use.

So, Ed Wade seems to be chipping away at the position players availabilities, with the outfield and infield pretty much set, and now a decent closer, all we really need a good number 2 and number 3 starters.  This task might be the most difficult and tricky, as the Astros really don’t have anything left to give up and there aren’t any good starting pitchers out there on the free agent market.  Anyways, I’d say this trade is a good one… wait, Valverde isn’t on the Mitchell report is he?  Sorry, I haven’t read it yet.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/14/astros-get-closer-valverde/feed/ 4 Senator George Mitchell’s Steroid Report http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/senator-george-mitchells-steroid-report/ http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/senator-george-mitchells-steroid-report/#comments Thu, 13 Dec 2007 19:08:15 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=100 Here is Senator Mitchell’s Report…
Steroid Report

Note- Doing word searches on Adobe Reader, Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio are not listed in the report. Clemens’ name is mentioned 82 times, but I have not read each reference, so I have no idea to why, what, or how Clemens is mentioned. Andy Pettitte is cited 37 times in the report, but again, not reading the report, I can’t state currently what each notation is about.

Also, newly acquired Astro, Miguel Tejada is cited in the report 36 times.

I do plan to read the report this weekend before Sketkar and I record our next show.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/senator-george-mitchells-steroid-report/feed/ 3 Goodbye Adam http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/goodbye-adam/ http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/goodbye-adam/#comments Thu, 13 Dec 2007 17:37:59 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=98 I just wanted to a post a good bye to Adam Everett.  Anyone who has listened to our podcasts, know I am a big Adam guy.  His defense is special, and people will see how much we miss Adam.  Tejada is reported as a good defensive player, but he isn’t the player defensively that Adam is.

Well, I am glad that the Minnesota Twins signed Adam to a contract.  Good luck with the Twins, Adam!

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/goodbye-adam/feed/ 0 Judgement Day http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/judgement-day/ http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/judgement-day/#comments Thu, 13 Dec 2007 15:25:50 +0000 Lambo http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=97 Well….

Today, Senator George Mitchell will release his report on steroid use in Major League Baseball. We know about Bonds. Astro fans, how will you feel if various Houston Astros are on this list?

There are early rumors that Roger Clemens’ name is on the list.

If so, how does this effect the Clemens’ legacy?

There have whispers about Bagwell using steroids. How will you feel if Bags’ name is on this list?

What about the player we just traded for, Miguel Tejada? He is rumored to be on the list.

I have argued on the Podcast that Bonds should not be in the Hall of Fame because of his steroid use. I also acknowledge that I have to remain consistent. If Clemens, Bagwell, any of the Astros, or any other MLB player that I am fan are on Mitchell’s list that I will not support them for a bid for a Hall of Fame, either.

However, I think it needs to be pointed out… There may be some “good” guys on this list. They are still good guys… but a jackass is still a jackass. Sorry, Bonds is still a jackass.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/13/judgement-day/feed/ 0 Rumor no more: Astros trade for Tejada http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/12/rumor-no-more-astros-trade-for-tejada/ http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/12/rumor-no-more-astros-trade-for-tejada/#comments Wed, 12 Dec 2007 18:51:29 +0000 Sketkar http://www.astrocast.net/blog/?p=96 Hello all,

Well as we reported earlier, the Astros were looking at getting SS Tejada.  Well it’s official now, the Astros sent pitchers Troy Patton, Matt Albers, along with Luke Scott, Dennis Sarfate and Michael Costanzo to Baltimore for Tejada.

Miguel Tejada has been looking for “change of scenery” for a while according ESPN and now he’s got it.   The 31 year old Tejada, played for the Oakland As for 7 years and Baltimore Orioles for 4 years.  He has been injury prone last couple of season and hopefully that won’t be a problem for him here in houston.

In 2007 he played in 133 games, with an avg of .296, 72 Runs and 81 RBIs and 18 HRs, his lowest numbers in the 4 year stint with Baltimore.

Okay, so we got Tejada.  He’s not the Tejada of 3 or 4 yrs ago, his stats have been slumping, but he’s a much needed improvement over Everett, at least in the hitting department.

We gave up 5, let me repeat that, 5 players for a SS.  I think thats kinda high, especially for a player that has slumped in stats and been a bit injury prone.  To make things [worse], we gave up to of our young pitchers, Patton and Albers (anyone having flashbacks to the Jennings trade?… I shiver at the thought)  All I can say is I hope Wade knows something that we don’t because yes, our infield and outfield are solid now and so is our hitting (theoretically) but they better get ready for do some serious work out in the field because other than Roy O, we don’t have any other pitchers can consistently shutdown the competition.  Again, maybe there is something we don’t know … yet.

]]> http://www.astrocast.net/2007/12/12/rumor-no-more-astros-trade-for-tejada/feed/ 1