Bleacher Report - Articles by Jason Cardwell

Houston Astros Update: Good News and Bad News...What Do Ya Want First?

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 04 May 2009 01:24:09 -0400

The Astros won the series against Atlanta and are 4-2 on their road trip…why am I not excited?

The Stros are BEAT UP right now. Valverde out at least three weeks which could end up being five, Chris Sampson takes a line drive off the ankle and is unavailable for no less than a few days, and Doug Brocail JUST got of the DL only to injur his hamstring. Brocail says, ”Of course it will be a [disabled-list stint…No doubt.”

I said I’m not excited but I am happy with the effort the team has shown the last two games. LaTroy Hawkins, or LeHawk, has been picking up the slack and giving the Stros someone to close out games with.

With Moehler coming off the DL Houston has another reliever somewhere, and right now that is Felipe Paulino. We’ll see what happens after Mo’s start.

I think that the bullpen is going to do their best to step up but after the last two games, Houston really needs a starter to go deep. This could be difficult with Moehler making his first start since coming off the DL.

But, for some reason, I see Lance Berkman benefiting from this…weird right? It’s not that I think Berkman is going to swallow some magic pill and start hitting all of the sudden, but I do think he is going to see a team that he can really help and find his stroke…call it a hunch.

Ok, enough rambling. Houston is going to be in a difficult spot for a while and that isn’t going to change until they get healthy or their offense catches fire.

I for one am always bummed with Houston loses or gets rained out, so this Atlanta series has been an interesting one. But they are going to Washington where it’s been raining for…all season.

It seems like the Nats have had half their games rained out. There is chance that Houston may get a day off to get well and as much as I want to watch my team play, I wouldn’t be totally bummed.

Houston Astros @ Washington Nationals series preview tomorrow. Moe and Roy O.

Houston Defeats Cincinnati 4-1 Behind Great Oswalt Performance

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 27 Apr 2009 22:08:46 -0400

Houston 4
Cinci 1

Man, what does a guy gotta do to get a W around here? Apparently be a relief pitcher.

Houston's offense was slumbering aside from a Berkman bomb in the sixth. The O finally woke up in the ninth with three hits and three runs, two singles from Lee and Miggy, respectively, and then a two run double from Hunter Pence, who ended up on third after a fielding error from Jay Bruce.

Hitting Line:
Matsui 1-4, K
Bourn 1-4, 2B, K
Berkman 1-3, HR, RBI, BB, K
Lee 1-4, GIDP, R
Tejada 3-4, R (Guess I was wrong, sorry Coop.)
Pence 2-4, 2B, 2 RBI, R, K
Blum 0-3, RBI, Sac Fly
Rodriguez 0-4, K
Oswalt 1-3

Pitching Line:
Roy Oswalt
7 IP, 6 H, 2 K, BB, 1 ER
Tim Byrdak
.2 IP, 1 H
Chris Sampson
1.1 IP, 1 H, K, (w)

Good News: Berkman's bomb opposite field is a good sign; however, you will know when Lance is feeling comfortable again when he starts to hit doubles.

Starting pitching was also very good tonight, and our bullpen was great the past two games.

Defensively, the Astros played well, turning three double plays. Hat tip to Pudge Rodriguez, who made two great plays coming out from behind the dish to throw runners out at first.

Bad News: Our offense was non-existent until the top of the ninth. It would be nice if the offense could produce with some consistency and get our starting pitching more wins.

Chris Sampson W (2-0)

Houston has Wandy Rodriguez, who has been great so far this season, on the bump to take on Aaron Harrang tomorrow in game two of this three game series.

Houston 8-12
Cinci 10-9

Houston Loses 2-0 to Dodgers But Takes Series

Jason Cardwell — Thu, 23 Apr 2009 23:21:06 -0400

Tough loss for Houston. They battled but just couldn't mount an attack against the duo of Billingsley and Broxton.

Wandy Rodriguez pitched another great game and is one of three pitchers in the majors with four quality starts. The offense couldn't string any hits together.

Hitting line:
Matsui 0-3, Sac bunt
Tejada 2-4, 2B
Berkman 0-4, GIDP, K
Lee 0-4, 2 K
Blum 0-3, BB, K
Erstad 1-4, K
Rodriguez 0-2, BB, GIDP
Bourn 1-2, BB, SB
Wandy Sac Bunt
Michaels 0-0 HBP
Pence 0-1, (lined out on a hard hit ball to short)

Pitching Lines:
Wandy Rodriguez 6 IP, 5 H, 1 ER, 4 K's, 2 BB
Geoff Geary 1 IP, 2 H, 1 ER, K
Wesley Wright 1IP, 1 H

Good News: Wandy Rodriguez had another quality start to make it his fourth out of four starts. That's about it. Geary pitched better, even though he gave up one run.

Bad News: Houston's offense was non-existent tonight.

Tough night for Houston. They just flat out got beat. Great pitching performance by L.A.

Wandy Rodriguez (1-2)

Houston starts a series against Milwaukee tomorrow night at 7:05 with Felipe Paulino facing Yovani Gallardo at 7:05 and I'll be there. Can't wait!

Dodgers 2
Stros 0

Houston Ends Dodgers' Streak, 8-5

Jason Cardwell — Wed, 22 Apr 2009 00:08:51 -0400

Boy, this was a long one.

Houston: 8
Dodgers: 5

After Ortiz struggled through the first, I thought we were going to be in trouble tonight. However, Ortiz battled and got his first win in nearly two years.

The Astros' bullpen did well, aside from Jeff Fulchino giving up a two-run shot to Manny, who actually didn't stand at the plate.

Carlos Lee hit a monster two-run shot and Houston performed much better with RISP this evening.

Jose Valverde came in with a run lead, and gritted through the inning to get his first save. There was a gutsy performance by Jose.

Good performances up and down the lineup tonight. Hunter Pence was the only Astro not to reach base.

Matsui: 1-2, 2 BB, two RBI, two R, SB
Tejada: 2-5, three RBI, R, K
Berkman: 1-4, RBI, K
Lee: 2-4, two run HR, two RBI, 1 R
Pence: 0-4, K
Michaels: 1-3, two B, BB
Rodriguez: 2-4, three R
Keppinger: 2-3, R, HBP
Ortiz: 0-1, Sac Bunt
Bourn: 0-0, Sac Bunt

Matsui, Tejada, and Lee were the standouts for tonight's offense, but Rodriguez and Keppinger were also major cogs as well.

Pitching Lines:
Russ Ortiz: Five IP, five BB, three hits, three ER, two K
Wesley Wright: one IP, one H, zero ER
Jeff Fulchino: one IP, two H, BB, HR, two ER, BB
LeHawk: one IP, one H, zero ER
Jose Valverde: one IP, one H, one error, BB, two K, first save

Good News: Haven't been able to say this much this season but the offense. Great job getting key hits and driving in runs, giving Ortiz his first win of the season. Carlos Lee hit his second home run in as many games.

Bad News: Seems like Houston has left the bases loaded at least once the last few games. Bullpen was a little rough but better.

Russ Ortiz, W: (1-0)
Jose Valverde, S: (1)

Tomorrow, Houston has its ace on the mound in Roy Oswalt, who will face Randy Wolf. Game time is at 7:05 Central Time.

Great win tonight for Houston, which ended the Dodgers' streak.

Houston (5-9)
L.A. (10-4)

Houston Astros Vs L.A. Dodgers Series Preview

Jason Cardwell — Tue, 21 Apr 2009 02:19:26 -0400

First off, let me say that I really don't like Manny Ramirez. Not because he is such a good hitter and is a tough out, but because I don't like the way he plays the game.

If I was a pitcher and Manny stood at home plate after hitting a home run I would ask the umpire for a new ball and bean him as he ran around the bases. If you are going to any of the games this week bring some tomatoes to chunk at Manny. Hopefully he doesn't push the PR guy for the Dodgers down coming through Houston this time.

That being said, here is a look at your series pitching match ups:

Tuesday:
Russ Ortiz (0-0 6.23) vs Clayton Kershaw (0-0 1.50)

Earlier this week Steve Phillips was comparing Kershaw to Sandy Koufax on Baseball Tonight which could spell trouble for our struggling offense.

Wednesday:
Roy Oswalt (0-2 4.26) vs Randy Wolf (1-1 3.93)

This is Randy's first start back at MMP after leaving the Astros in the offseason. Maybe Houston can get Roy his first win.

Thursday:
Wandy Rodriguez (1-1 1.89) vs Chad Billingsley (3-0 2.84)

Wandy needs to keep up his pace and keep the struggling offense in the game. Although, you can't ask for much more from our starting staff.

Astros can win this series if: If they can keep Manny Ramirez from hurting them and somehow figure out Kershaw. Also, Jeff Keppinger will get starts in the first two games if he stays healthy. He will need to bring some production to the line up.

Astros won't win this series if: They can't score runs and their bullpen doesn't get it together. L.A. is on a roll coming in to Houston so the Astros are going to have to step it up.

My series prediction: Lance Berkman heats up and Hunter Pence takes tonight's loss personally and starts being productive in the five-hole. Houston takes series two games to one. The one loss to Kershaw, sorry Russ.

I'm going to be at the game Friday night when Houston takes on the Brew Crew and I personally can't wait. Hopefully Houston is 7-9 come Friday.

Astros Lose Game Four and Series to Cinci, Waste Good Start By Hampton

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 23:25:23 -0400

Reds 4, Astros 3

Mike Hampton pitched six plus innings, giving up three earned.

Geoff Geary came in for Mike Hampton, with a runner on second in the top of the seventh, and proceeded to give up a single and a walk to load the bases for Joey Votto.

Tim Byrdak was brought in to face Votto and gave up a two-run double. Bourn, Blum, and Rodriguez teamed up to gun down Hairston at the plate, preventing him from scoring on the double as well.

Houston had a great opportunity to tie the ball game in the bottom of the eighth, with Berkman at the plate and runners at first and third, following a lead-off double by Jason Michaels and a walk by Miguel Tejada.

Berkman couldn't come through and eventually Hunter Pence was struck out on a called third strike to end the inning with the bases loaded. Pence is 0-4 this year with the bases loaded.

Matsui 1-3, K, sac bunt.
Tejada 0-3, BB, GIDP
Berkman 1-4, HR, 1 RBI, 1 R
Lee 1-3, HR, BB, 1 RBI, 1 R
Pence 2-4, K, R, 4 LOB
Blum 3-4
Rodriguez 1-4, RBI, GIDP
Bourn 1-4, K
Hampton 0-2
Michaels 1-1, 2B

Pitching line:

Hampton 6.1 IP, 8 H, BB, 5K, 3 ER
Geary 0.0 + IP, 1 H, BB, 1 ER
Byrdak .2 IP, 1 H, 1K
LaHawk 1 IP, BB, HBP, K
Valverde 1 IP, K

Good news

Berkman and Lee each hit homers, Berkmans first from the left side. Mike Hampton pitched six strong innings.

Bad news

Houston has managed to blow three-out-of-four great starts from their starting pitching. The club continues to struggle with RISP. Hunter Pence left four on tonight and Berkman failed to bring home a gimme RBI. Geary is not pitching well right now either, earning his second loss tonight.

Geary (0-2)
Arroyo (3-0)

Houston (4-9)

Astros Defeat Reds 7-0, behind a Two Hit Effort from Rodriguez

Jason Cardwell — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 22:05:08 -0400

It was one of those games where you would have taken some of these runs last night, but it was a great win for Houston.

Wandy Rodriguez pitched another great game, getting his first win of the season.

Geoff Blum led the squad today with three RBI.

Bourn 1-5, 1 H, 1 R, 3 SO, 4 LOB, SB
Tejada 1-4, 2 R, SB
Berkman 0-4, 1 R, 1 BB, 1 K, 2 LOB (Berkman has as many strike outs this season as he does walks, 11)
Lee 3-3, 3 Hits, 1 RBI, 2 R, BB
Pence 2-4, 1 RBI, 1 K, 4 LOB, SB
Blum 3-4, 3 RBI, 1 R,
Rodriguez, 2-4, 2 RBI,
Smith 0-4, 2 K (not looking good for Jason)
Erstad 1-1 (first hit of the season and remains as the only bench player not to have a start)
Michaels 0-1

Great game out of the offense today, now if they could only put up some runs with some consistency.

Pitching Lines:Wan-rod!!
7 IP, 2 H (that’s right, two hits), 2 BB, 10 K (ties a career high for Wandy, who got 10 K’s during a previous contest against the Reds)
Sampson 1IP, 1 BB
Fulchino 1IP

Zero earned for Houston pitchers tonight.

Good news, Wandy "freaking" Rodriguez is pitching like the ace of the staff right now. That’s three solid starts for the little lefty who got his first win tonight.

Houston scored seven runs tonight also a good sign. Carlos Lee had a great game tonight, but the offensive MVP goes to Blummer, who got his first RBI of the season tonight and added two more to give him three on the day.

Bad news, Houston stranded nine runners on base.

Something has to be wrong with Lance Berkman. He hasn’t done anything from the left side this year, and he already has 11 K’s.

Wandy Rodriguez W (1-1)

Tomorrow will have Felipe Paulino facing Edinson Volquez at 1:05 PM (CST).

Houston (4-7)

Cincinnati (5-5)

Houston Astros Send Drew Sutton to Cincinnati For Jeff Keppinger

Jason Cardwell — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:59:12 -0400

From astros.mlb.com:

“The Astros announced Thursday that they have sent Minor Leaguer Drew Sutton to the Cincinnati Reds to complete the trade that brought Jeff Keppinger to Houston near the end of Spring Training.

"Sutton, 25, will report to the Louisville, the Reds’ Triple-A affiliate. He was hitting .267 (4-for-15) over his first five games with Triple-A Round Rock.

"The utility man had a breakout season last year at Double-A, hitting .315 for Corpus Christi with 20 home runs and 20 steals, all while playing a variety of positions.

"Sutton was Corpus Christi’s Most Valuable Player and was a Texas League All-Star in 2008. He led the Astros organization in a host of offensive categories, including batting average, hits, runs, walks, doubles and extra-base hits.

"He was originally drafted by the Astros in the 14th round of the 2004 First-Year Player Draft.”

Sutton? I was really hoping it would be someone else. Bummer.

Hopefully we can hold on to Kepp and get more out of him than just this season.

Post info: By cardsjason on April 16, 2009

Houston Astros Defeat Pittsburgh Behind Berkman Bomb to Win First Series

Jason Cardwell — Thu, 16 Apr 2009 18:55:34 -0400

I was at class today so I didn’t get to watch/score the game so here is the wrap from Astros.com:

Bourn 1-3, 2 BB, 2B, 2 R
Tejada 2-4, BB, R
Berkman 1-4, BB, K, 3 RBI, R, 3-run HR
Lee 1-4, RBI
Pence 1-4, BB, RBI, HR, K
Blum 1-5
Rodriguez 1-4, BB, K
Keppinger 1-2, R, BB, 3B
Ortiz 1-2, RBI

Pitching lines:
Ortiz 4.2 IP, 5 H, 3 ER, 2 BB, 2 SO
Wright .1 IP, 0 H, 0 ER (got the W)
Sampson 1.2 IP, 3 H, 1 BB, 0 ER
Byrdak 1.1 IP, 1 H, 2 K, 0 ER
LeHawk 1 IP, 1 H, 0 ER, (save)

Good news: Berkman and Pence both went yard for the second and third home runs respectively. Keppinger and Tejada stayed hot and our bullpen didn’t give up any runs. Russ Ortiz also hung in there and kept Houston in the game.

Bad news: Ortiz didn’t quite go five innings. Houston left 10 on base.

Wright (1-0)
LeHawk (Save)

Tomorrow has Roy Oswalt taking on his favorite team the Cincinnati Reds for the start of a 10 game home stand for Houston.

Houston Astros Defeat Pittsburgh Pirates 4-1, Hampton Tosses a Gem

Jason Cardwell — Wed, 15 Apr 2009 22:32:49 -0400

Mike Hampton pitched six great innings as the Astros defeated the Pirates 4-1.

Houston came out early and scored in the first inning for the first time all season with a sac-fly from Lee and Pence. Houston scored again in the third off of a two-run double from Carlos Lee.

Bourn 0-2, BB, R, ends hit streak
Tejada 3-4, 2B, 2 R
Berkman 2-4, 2B, R, K
Lee 1-3, 3 RBI, 2B, Sac Fly, K
Pence 1-3, RBI
Blum 0-3, BB
Rodriguez 0-4, GIDP
Keppinger 1-4, 2B
Hampton 0-3, K
Erstad 0-1, K

The real story of today’s game is the performance by Mike Hampton.

Pitching line:
Mike Hampton 6 IP, 8K, 1BB, 4 hits, no runs allowed
Geoff Geary 1 IP, 1BB, 2 hits, no runs allowed
LaTroy Hawkins 1 IP, 0 BB, 1 hit, nor runs allowed
Jose Valverde 1 IP, 1K 2 hits, 0BB, HR, 1 earned run.

Good News: Tejada, Berkman, Lee went 6-11 today producing three RBI. The best news, however, is Mike Hampton who is today's MVP for the game after helping Houston snap their five-game losing streak.

Bad News: Houston left six runners on base. Michael Bourn also went 0-for ending his hitting streak. However he did get on base in his first at bat with a walk and eventually scored a run.

Mike Hampton W (1-1)
Houston (2-6)

Tomorrow is the first game for Russ Ortiz and he will face Jeff Karstens.

Game time tomorrow is early, 11:35 a.m. central

Houston Astros Drop Game 2 @ St. Louis in a Blowout

Jason Cardwell — Sat, 11 Apr 2009 19:12:17 -0400

I felt like I was serving a court ordered punishment watching this game today.

Instead of posting a pitching line for the Houston hurlers I'm just gonna post this:

Albert Pujols 2-4, 2 HR, 7 RBI.

I want to puke.

Oswalt's came out dealing.

Houston looked like they were going to be in good shape, with two runners on in each of the first 3 innings. However they couldn't drive any runs across and missed out on all three opportunities.

After the fourth, Roy had given up only a run and the game was still in hand. However, in the fifth, Roy gave up another run and eventually had to face Albert Pujols with the bases loaded who, as Albert Pujols tends to do, went yard for the breakfast at Denny's.

My mom txt'd me and called Cooper, "an idiot for pitching to Pujols."

I don't agree.

Yes Pujols is a monster and the bases were juiced but he had his ace on the hill who had been dealing up until this inning. I pitch to the guy too.

Later, Wright comes in and gives up two bloops for singles and has to face Pujols, who hit his second jack, for three runs and after that I gave up all hope for today's game having any silver lining at all.

In the bottom of the ninth, Blum singled and Bourn hit an RBI triple, which is great for Michael, who went 1-3 with a BB. Smith brought Bourn in with a sac fly to left giving Houston their only 2 runs of the game.

Cardinals win it 11-2.
Wainwright gets the win and Roy Oswalt starts the season with two losses.

Cripes...glad this one is over.

Houston Astros Series Wrap Up: Astros Vs. Cubs

Jason Cardwell — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 19:49:58 -0400

The Chubs…err Cubs, won the series with Houston two games to one.

Runs Scored:
Chicago 17
Houston 11

This is how Houston ended up in playoff contention last year while being outscored by their opponents. They win the close low scoring games and lose big on occasion, ala’ when they face the Texas Rangers or when Brian Moehler gives up eight runs in two innings.

Hits:
Chicago 31
Houston 18

Chicago definitely outhit Houston, but if you take away Moehler’s 10 hits in two innings, the margin of difference is a little closer, but alas, those hits count.

Quality Starts:
Chicago 2
Houston 2

The difference was in the third game when Houston lost the slug fest.

Bullpen Runs Allowed:
Chicago 2
Houston 4

Defense:
Chicago 1 Error, E6.
Houston 2 Errors, both E6. Tejada did have some nice defensive plays however.

Chicago nearly outperformed Houston in all areas deservedly giving them the series win.

Series MVP: This is tough. Hunter Pence hit two home runs, Lance Berkman, Miguel Tejada and Michael Bourn were all consistent as well. Our bullpen also pitched well and you can not forget Wandy Rodriguez.

However, my pick goes to Jeff Keppinger. He won game two in his first at bat and singled and homered in his second and third at bat as an Astro. Welcome to the team J-Kepp.

Series let down: Carlos Lee. 1-for-12 with two GIDP. I don’t expect Carlos to be the series let down too often.

Series Record: (0-1)
Team Record: (1-2)

Place in the division: Tied for last with Cinci. One game back of first.

Cubs-Astros: Houston Loses Game Three and First Series to Chicago, 11-6

Jason Cardwell — Thu, 09 Apr 2009 00:42:51 -0400

Brian Moehler was pulled after one-and-two-third innings and seven earned runs.

Moehler didn’t get any breaks as the Cubs had at least three broken bat singles in the first. Those days will happen.

Russ Ortiz came in and immediately gave up a three-run shot to Ryan Theriot. Although the line won't show it, Russ pitched well with six Ks in his first outing since 2007.

The story for tonight, other than Chicago scoring four runs in both the first and second inning, was the bats for Houston.

Jeff Keppinger "J-Kepp," Lance Berkman, Kazuo Matsui, and Hunter Pence all hit solo shots, with Pudge Rodriguez hitting a two-run shot as well to account for five home runs and all Houston runs tonight.

Matsui 1-5, HR, RBI, R
Keppinger 2-5, HR, RBI, R
Berkman 1-4, HR, RBI, R, K
Lee 1-4, 2B, first hit for Lee
Tejada 1-4, R
Pence 2-4, HR, 2B, R, RBI
Pudge 2-4, HR, 2B, 2 RBI, R
Bourn 1-4, K

Good News

Houston’s offense was looking better with the five home runs. Russ Ortiz pitched well, though he gave up three runs. Carlos Lee got his first hit and Bourn continues to hit. J-Kepp is proving to be a great pick up and seems as though he can do no wrong. Hunter Pence two homers in two games and is swinging the bat well. Michael Bourn will head to St. Louis with a three-game hitting streak.

Bad News

Obvious here, Moehler only pitched 1.66 innings. He didn’t pitch poorly, but the Cubs were putting the ball in play and getting hits. It will be interesting to see how Moehler bounces back.

Pitching Lines

Brian Moehler 1 2/3 IP, 8 hits, BB, K, HBP, seven earned
Russ Ortiz 3 IP, 4 hits, 4 BB, 6 K, 1 HR, three earned
Chris Sampson 1 1/3 IP, 1 hit, zero earned
Geoff Geary 1 IP, 1 hit, 1 K, zero earned
Wesley Wright 1 IP, 1 hit, 1 K, zero earned
Doug Brocail 1 IP, 1 hit, 1 HR, 1 BB, one earned

Ted Lilly gives up four bombs and gets the win (1-0)
Brian Moehler takes the loss (0-1)

Houston is off tomorrow but will travel to St. Louis to take on the Cardinals Friday with Mike Hampton facing Joel Pineiro.

Houston Defeats Cubs 3-2: Jeff Keppinger Extra Inning Walk Off

Jason Cardwell — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:57:27 -0400

In a game that started with great pitching from Wandy Rodriguez and Ryan Dempster, the game was decided long after each player left the game.

J-Kepp hit a walk-off bases-loaded single in his first at-bat, driving in Pudge Rodriguez.

Hunter Pence homered for his first hit of the game and finished 2-for-3. Kazuo Matsui added a triple.

Lineup

Matsui 1-3, 3B, SB, CS, BB
Rodriguez 1-4, BB, R, 3K
Berkman 1-4, BB, 2K
Lee 0-4, GIDP
Tejada 1-3, 2BB
Blum 2-4
Pence 2-3, BB, HR, RBI
Bourn 1-4, RBI
Michaels 0-1
Keppinger 1-1, RBI
Erstad 0-1, K

Pitching

Great performance from Wandy Rodriguez
6 IP, 4 hits, 1 earned run, 4 K (3 were Soriano), 3 BB

Samspon
1 IP, 0 hits, 0 earned runs, 0 K, 0 BB

Hawkins
1 IP, 2 hits, 1 HR, 1 earned run, 1 K, 0 BB

Valverde
1 IP, 0 hits, 0 earned runs, 2 K, 0 BB

Byrdak
2/3 IP, 0 hits, 0 earned runs, 2 K, 0 BB

Brocail
1/3 IP, 0 hits, 0 earned runs, 0 K, 0 BB

Good performance for the Houston pitchers tonight. Aside from Hawkins dinger to Soriano, Wan-Rod shut down the Cubs, including striking out Soriano three times.

Brocail gets the win.

Good News

Houston is back at .500 with good pitching and a walk-off base-knock from Jeff Keppinger.

Atta’boy J-Kepp!

Bad News: Pudge struck out three times, and Lee is still o'fer on the season with two GIDP.

Houston wil play Chicago again tomorrow at 7:05 central to determine who takes the series.

Ted Lilly (0-0) V. Brian Moehler (0-0)

Houston Astros Opening Day Recap: Carlos Zambrano Outduels Roy Oswalt

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 22:39:51 -0400

Houston loss today's contest against the Chicago Cubs 4-2 as Carlos Zambrano pitched just over 6 innings giving up only earned run and striking out six.

Roy Oswalt went seven innings and gave up three earned runs including a leadoff home run by Alfonso Soriano, his 50th lead-off dinger, and another home run by Aramis Ramirez to lead off the second inning.

Houston struggled at the plate, logging eight hits but none for extra bases. Michael Bourn hit an infield single in the seventh to score Miguel Tejada. Hunter Pence hit a sac fly in the ninth that also scored Tejada, who scored both of the Astros runs.

Matsui 1-3, BB
Rodriguez 0-4, 2K
Berkman 1-2, 2BB
Lee 0-4, GIDP
Tejada 3-4, K, CS, 2 R
Blum 1-3, BB
Pence 0-3, RBI, GIDP, K
Bourn 2-4, K

Good news: Roy pitched pretty well and hopefully will probably settle down on the home run tip. I doubt Roy is ever going to pitch a no-hitter in his career, because he is such a strikeout/pitch to contact type power pitcher. Also, Bourn was 2-for-4.

Bad news: Pence, Lee, and Rodriguez did not look really good at the plate. I was surprised by how free swinging Pudge is.

Pitching Lines:
Roy Oswalt 7 IP, 3 ER, 2 SO, 1BB (0-1)
Geoff Geary 2 IP, 1 ER, 2 SO, 1 BB

Houston takes on the Cubs again tomorrow at 7:05 with Wandy Rodriguez taking on Ryan Dempster.

Houston 0-1

Houston Astros 2009 Predictions

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 06 Apr 2009 22:37:10 -0400

I’m going to do something a little different and go through each part of the team and pick an MVP, breakout, possible let down, and make an over all bold prediction. Then I’ll give you my NL Central picks.

Line Up

Matsui
Rodriguez
Berkman
Lee
Tejada
Pence
Blum/Kepp
Bourn

MVP: Lance Berkman of course.

Breakout: Hunter Pence with Michael Bourn a close second.

Let Down: Blum/Kepp platoon or Matsui if he misses too much time on the DL.

Bold Prediction: Hunter Pence hits 30 home runs this season and Michael Bourn has an OBP of at least .350.

Bullpen

Valverde
Brocail
LaHawk
Geary
Sampson
Byrdak
Wright

MVP: Valverde with a nod to Chris Sampson

Breakout: Wesley Wright

Let down: Brocail or LaHawk. If either is hurt or gets in a rut it will be a big blog tot he pen.

Bold prediction: Geoff Geary is traded sometime this season and Alberto Arias takes his spot in the pen.

Starting Rotation

Oswalt
W. Rodriguez
Hampton
Moehler
Ortiz

MVP: Roy Oswalt.

Breakout: Wand-Rod. This is wandy’s year and if it isn’t I don’t think it will ever be Wandy’s year.

Let Down: Moehler.

Bold Prediction: Roy Oswalt wins at least 20 games and Hampton tosses 200 innings.

NL Central

Cubs
Astros
Cards
Reds
Brew Crew
Pirates

Really, 2-4 are tough to call. I think that the 'Stros, 'Cards, and maybe the Reds are going to make the NL Central race an interesting one this season.

Also, as more and more time passes before the season, the Cubs don’t look nearly as good as everyone else says they do. I still think they are gonna win the division, but it won't be by nearly as wide of a margin as last season.

There ya have it. Will any of this actually happen? No clue.

Houston Astros 3B Prospect Chris Johnson To Be Sent Down

Jason Cardwell — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 18:30:59 -0400

After today’s game against the Red Legs, Chris Johnson was informed that he will be sent down to AAA Round Rock following the Astros contest against the Corpus Christi Hooks.

“He took it well—it wouldn’t be fair to leave him wondering about all of this,” Cooper said. “This kid’s handled himself like a big leaguer. He’s handled himself well, he’s held his own here. He handled his business in a professional manner. I could tell he was all ears — not as much talking, just listening. His work habits were great.”" - astros.com

Although Johnson didn’t make the club out of spring training, he did open up a lot of eyes and turn a lot of heads. It won't be long until we see him in an Astros uniform. It is nice to know that if and when Houston suffers injuries this season, they have some capable players who can come up and fill in.

Houston Astros Blowout the Cincinatti Reds, 7-2

Jason Cardwell — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 17:39:18 -0400

Roy tossed fpur innings in his last start before the season opener (woohoo!) and Chris Johnson isn’t going out without a fight…even though, in reality, he doesn’t have a chance.

'Stros at the Plate

“Michael Bourn led off the third with a double, stole third and scored on a base hit by Kazuo Matsui. Darin Erstad knocked a solo homer in the sixth. Chris Johnson drove in a run with a triple in the seventh and scored on a Reggie Abercrombie sacrifice fly.”

After looking at the box score for today’s game, it looks like Bourn was3-3 with a walk. If you are counting that is an OBP of awesomeness. Keep it up Michael! J-Kepp was 0-2.

'Stros on the Bump

“Roy Oswalt pitched four innings in his final spring tuneup before Opening Day. He allowed one run on three hits with three strikeouts. Tim Byrdak followed with two innings, during which he allowed one run on three hits.”

Jose Valverde, Doug Brocail, and Geoff Geary all tossed scoreless frames.

Houston Astros Grapefruit Leage record: 11-17-3

From more on the game visit astros.com

Braves-Astros: El Caballo Does His Thing in 8-3 Houston Win

Jason Cardwell — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:53:24 -0400

The scoop from stros.com:

Carlos Lee...er the 'Stros at the plate: “Michael Bourn opened the game with a triple and scored on Pudge Rodriguez’s base hit. Carlos Lee lifted a sacrifice fly to score Rodriguez, who had advanced to third on Darin Erstad’s double. Lee drove in another run in the third with a double. Jason Smith led off the fifth with a double and scored on a Rodriguez base hit. Lee knocked a two-run homer in the seventh.”

More of this, please. Thank you. Carlos could have won the game on his own with his four steaks.

'Stros on the bump: “Russ Ortiz, the projected fifth starter, allowed three runs—two earned—on five hits over six innings. ”

Alyson Footer gives the fifth spot to Ortiz, and I don’t think anyone else disagrees.

And the Houston Astros' Grapefruit League record is: *drum roll please*

10-18-3

Double-digit wins!

Houston Astros Acquire Jeff Keppinger

Jason Cardwell — Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:50:48 -0400

The Houston Astros have acquired Jeff Kieepinger from the Cincinnati Reds for a minor league player to be named later. Here is the news from stros.com:

“Nearly two weeks after losing Aaron Boone for the season due to a heart ailment, the Astros found an alternative solution. Keppinger will assume Boone’s duties as the right-handed complement to Blum at third, but he’ll also receive time at short and second when Tejada and Matsui get those promised days off this season.

Keppinger, who turns 29 on April 21, hit .266 with three home runs and 43 RBIs over 121 games for Cincinnati in 2008. He struck out just once every 20.9 plate appearances, the best ratio in the Major Leagues last season.”

The strikeout ratio is definitely a plus for the impatient Astros. Keppinger, or as I am going to call him until anyone thinks of a better nickname J-Kepp, post good numbers against lefties.

“An even bigger selling point: Keppinger hit .351 and slugged .515 against left-handers last year. He logged 94 hits in 268 at-bats versus lefties, recording 17 doubles, three triples, seven home runs and 35 RBIs. He drew 22 walks and struck out eight times.”

This should make for a nice platoon at third for the Astros. Hey it’s no Wiggy but it’ll do.

Baseball Musings Previews the NL Central: Houston Astros

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 22:21:19 -0400

This is easily the best prediction for the NL Central I have encountered so far. Here is what he has for Houston and where each team will finish:

Houston Astros

Position player WAR: 20.5
Starters WAR: 7.3
Closer WAR: 0.8
Total WAR: 28.6

Lance Berkman carries the big bat for the Astros. Photo: Icon SMI

The Astros tie up a good chunk of their core value wins in two players, Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt. Together they combine for 10.6 of the 28.6 value wins from 2008. Berkman is more than twice as good as the next nearest position player, beating Carlos Lee 6.9 to 3.4 in value wins. Oswalt isn’t quite that far ahead of Wandy Rodriguez, 3.7 to 2.7, but Wandy hasn’t been consistent through this career. If anything major happens to Lance or Roy, the Astros are in big trouble.

There is some upside in two of the younger hitters, Hunter Pence and Michael Bourn. Both posted very strong on-base averages in the minors, which neither of them have come close to in the majors. Pence adds power to that equation. If the two can get on base at around a .360 rate, they should bring this offense a bit closer to the Cubs. I just don’t believe there’s enough at the back of the rotation, however, to catch Chicago.

Pretty much nails it. Hopefully this Berkman shoulder injury is a short-term deal and Oswalt can stay healthy. I have a feeling Bourn is going to get on base more this season and Hunter Pence is going to be more productive offensively, so maybe, just maybe, Houston can compete with Chi-town. I’m banking on the wild card if anything, though.

Baseball Musings’ predictions for the end of the year:

Prediction

Here’s how I see the six teams finishing, with my chance of their winning the division:

Cubs, 55%
Cardinals, 15%
Astros, 12%
Brewers, 10%
Reds, 7%
Pirates, 1%

The Cubs should win this division easily provided they stay healthy. Even with a couple of injuries they have enough depth to put together a very good season. The Cardinals should challenge for the wild card, but for the Astros, Brewers and Reds, they need unexpected players to post career years or some youngsters to really improve. It seems to me the excitement in the central this season will once again come from the wild card race rather than a close battle with the Chicago.

I agree with his slotting the Astros third. I think that it is definitely going to be between them and St. Louis for the second spot in the division and the possible wild card in the NL.

You can read the rest of David’s post here.

Houston Astros Fall to Philly 13-3: Hampton and Wright Roughed Up

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 30 Mar 2009 18:36:24 -0400

It was a bad day on the mound today for the Astros. From astros.com:

'Stros at the plate: “Kazuo Matsui went 3-for-3 with a double,a run scored, and an RBI, and Hunter Pence went 1-for-3 with a double and an RBI. Edwin Maysonet hit a solo home run to left field off of right-hander Chad Durbin in the sixth inning.”

That’s two 3-3 days for Kaz in the past three games. Maysonet is showing some pop while vying for that back-up infield position, making the decision even tougher for Coop.

'Stros on the bump: “Left-hander Mike Hampton allowed seven hits, seven runs, three walks, and three home runs in five innings. He struck out three.”

From Brian McTaggart of the Houston Chronicle: “The Phillies hit four homers off the Astros, with Wesley Wright giving up four runs, a homer, and two walks in one inning to raise his ERA to 3.60. Chris Sampson pitched two innings, allowing three hits and two unearned runs.”

Tough day on the mound for Hampton and Houston but, those days are gonna happen, just ask Mike Hampton:

“I’ll have one during the season, too, probably more than just one,” he said. “That’s just part of it. You try to minimize the damage as much as you can, but I made some good pitches at times, and there were some times I left the ball over the plate and got hit.”

In Hampy’s defense, Coop says he got squeezed a little.

Houston’s Grapefruit League record: Astros 9-18-3

Houston Astros Prospects Bud Norris and J.R. Towles Sent to Minors

Jason Cardwell — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:13:12 -0400

In an article on astros.com Alyson Footer discusses Bud Norris’ and J.R. Towles’ demotion to minor league camp. However, much of the article is spent in praise of Norris:

“Norris didn’t pitch his way onto the team this spring, but he accomplished something just as important—he flew up the depth chart, and as soon as a need arises on the Major League level, the 24-year-old right-hander is going to be the first considered.”

Sounds like things are going well for Air-Bud.

On the drive to the town where I grew up today (Liberty, TX) I went through Houston and caught an interview on 1560 with Alyson Footer (apparently her nickname is scrunci?). In her interview she discussed the demotion of the two prospects and went further in to detail on Towles.

She basically said that Towles did not help himself at all with his spring performance and, with Pudge on the club this year and Castro on his way, J.R. may have missed his window of opportunity.

Tough news for J.R. especially since it isn’t his fault the club handled him so poorly last season

…And Justice For Miggy: A Little Clarification, Please?

Jason Cardwell — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:10:42 -0400

For anyone who was wondering what the “community service” part of Miguel Tejada’s sentencing will be, here is a little clarification from astros.com:

“Miguel Tejada’s punishment for lying to federal investigators about performance-enhancing drugs consists of three parts: a fine of $5,000, probation and community service."

The first two elements are self-explanatory. Tejada has to pay money, and he needs to be on his best behavior for the next year if he doesn’t want to suffer more consequences for his actions.

The community service part, however, isn’t nearly as clear.

How will he serve these 100 hours? What will he do? Where will he do it? Explanations given by Tejada and his lawyer, Mark Tuohey, suggest this portion of Tejada’s punishment will be what every Astros player is expected to contribute, community-wise, every year—only more of it.

Tejada’s program will be handled in conjunction with the Astros’ community program. He’ll talk to kids about, according to Tuohey, “baseball, baseball-related skills, educational outreach and life situations.”

“Like his colleagues in professional baseball, he is a role model for kids,” Tuohey said. “He made a mistake. I don’t view this as punishment. It gives Miguel a chance to spend time with the kids. He’s very committed to this.”

Tuohey anticipates Tejada will complete the 100 hours during homestands through the upcoming six-month baseball season. For his part, Tejada said he would gladly exceed the 100 hours.

“For me, community service is going to be all my life,” Tejada said. “I know it’s 100 hours, and for me, I don’t need to track the hours. I can do it every year, every season. It’s not like I’m going to try to do 100 hours just to do it. I do clinics with kids because I love it. I’m going to enjoy it.

“Tracking the hours, it’s not going to be a big deal for me. I want to do more than 100 hours.”

Tejada is so happy he isn’t going to jail. I do think he is being genuine in what he says about going beyond the 100 hours, because that is just the kind of guy Miguel is.

So for all of you expecting to see Miguel in an orange jump-suit on the side of the road picking up trash, no dice.

By the way, Miggy went 3-for-3 with a dinger in today's game.

Houston Astros Win Again; Can't Stop the Stros Train!

Jason Cardwell — Sat, 28 Mar 2009 02:06:45 -0400

Houston got the bats out today and defeated the Phillies 6-5.

From the all-mighty astros.mlb.com:

'Stros at the plate: “Miguel Tejada logged three hits, including a solo homer in the fourth and an RBI double in the sixth. Geoff Blum’s RBI single off Ryan Madson in the sixth broke a 3-3 tie, and his double in the eighth gave Houston a three-run lead. Lance Berkman doubled in the sixth and scored on Tejada’s double. Hunter Pence logged three singles, marking back-to-back three-hit games.”

Tejada is playing like a free man. Kazuo Matsui also had three knocks today.

Stros on the bump: “In his first outing since returning from the World Baseball Classic, Oswalt allowed 10 hits and three runs over six innings. He did not issue a walk and struck out six. LaTroy Hawkins (LaHawk!) pitched a scoreless seventh. ”

Roy said his main goal for todays outing was to throw around 100 pitches and he threw 96. Roy should get one more start before Opening Day which is right around the corner!

Astros’ Grapefruit League Record: 8-16-3. Two more wins for double digits, baby.

Who Will Better Perform in 09? Hunter Pence vs Nate McLouth

Jason Cardwell — Thu, 26 Mar 2009 22:09:41 -0400

Hunter Pence of the Houston Astros and Nate McLouth of the Pittsburgh Pirates are both up and comers in the NL Central. Each player, though young, is an important piece for their respective teams.

It is easy to draw comparisons between the two youngsters but which one will develop more and greater help their team in 2009?

Last year was the first full year in the majors for both players so I am going to use their 2008 stats as well as their 2009 Spring Training numbers to this point when making a comparison.

Total at bats:

Nate McLouth 597

Hunter Pence 595

Spot most often slotted in batting order:

Nate McLouth first

Hunter Pence sixth

One of my Astros vs Pirates memories of last season was watching Houston play the Bucs and McLouth hit a double to pass Lance Berkman for the doubles lead at the point. I think it was his 33rd double or so.

That is a pretty big deal considering Lance Berkman, one of the best hitters in the big leagues, nearly doubled his doubles output last season, hitting 46 doubles, 22 more than the previous season.

Although Berkman’s 2007 extra base hit numbers were down, that is still pretty good company for Nate.

By the way, Nate finished withas many doubles as Lance. Hunter Pence finished the season with 12 less doubles than McLouth, 34.

Another area where McLouth finished higher than pence is on base percentage. OBP is important for any player but especially important for those players hitting higher in the lineup.

McLouth OBP .356

Pence OBP .318

McLouth also out slugged Pct.

McLouth SLG .497

Pence SLG .466

Almost half of McLouth’s hits were for extra bases. McLouth’s second most often spot slotted in the batting order was third. I think that was where he was batting for the Buc’s that day when they played Houston.

As far as homers go McLouth hit 26 while Pence hit 25, so I’ll call that one a wash.

McLouth stole 23 bases and was caught stealing three times while Hunter Pence stole 11 bases and was caught stealing 10 times! Looks like McLouthwas better around the sacs as well.

As an Astros fan, and a Hunter Pence fan, I got to watch Pence go through some struggles at the plate last year. By the end of the year it seemed as though he was more comfortable and striking out less.

Pence has got to let that plate discipline carry over into this season if he is going to be successful and progress as a player.

McLouth dominates Pence in the strike out category with Pence striking out 124 times last season and McLouth 93. McLouth also walked almost 20 more times than Pence last year, hence the edge in OBP.

How is each player doing in spring so far?

Nate McLouth: In 40 at bats 13 hits, 2 doubles, 3 homers, 8 RBI, 6 BB, 12 SO, and a .413 OBP.

Hunter Pence: In 54 at bats 15 hits, 2 doubles, 1 triple, 2 homers, 2 RBI, 6BB 12 SO, and a .350 OBP.

Both are showing the same strike out to walk ratio but considering Pence has 14 more AB’s, McLouth again seems to be showing better discipline at the plate with more walks in less at bats. But, McLouth also has as many strike outs in 14 less at bats.

All in all, they are pretty close this spring.

Who will perform better in 2009? The numbers say Nate McLouth. As an Astros’ fan and a Hunter Pence fan, I think he has a chance to bust out this season. Check back with me at the All Star break and again in October.

Houston Astros Injury Report: Wandy Rodriguez and Chad Paronto Recieve Good News

Jason Cardwell — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 20:15:43 -0400

Alyson Footer from astros.mlb.com reports that all is well for the Magic Wandy and Chad Paronto.

“By the end of the workday Wednesday, two Astros pitchers had breathed sighs of relief - Chad Paronto, after discovering his shoulder injury isn’t as serious as he first thought, and Wandy Rodriguez, after pitching four innings without feeling any lingering effects from a fingernail issue that hampered him in his last outing.”

Although Coop will not come right out and say it, it looks like Wandy will be the clubs No. 2 starter, while Paronto will probably start the year in Round Rock.

JJO on Wandy at chon.com said, “Although Cecil Cooper has been coy about how he will line up his rotation, it appears evident that the Astros want to at least have Rodriguez lined up as an option to start the second game of the season."

Barring a setback, Rodriguez will start Saturday on three days of rest instead of the usual four. That would put him in line to start an exhibition game again on April 2, and then April 7 against the Chicago Cubs on the second day of the season.

“We’re going to bring him back a little sooner so we can try to line him up a little bit,” Cooper said.

Asked what he was lining Rodriguez up for, Cooper retreated back into his recent stance.

“I’m lining it up,” he said with a chuckle. “You can figure it and fumble all you want.”

Cooper was pleased after watching Rodriguez throw four scoreless innings to beat the Mets 8-0 Tuesday at Osceola County Stadium.

Houston Astros Win Five in a Row: Rodriguez and Rodriguez Lead the Way

Jason Cardwell — Tue, 24 Mar 2009 20:13:26 -0400

Houston blanked the Mets today while their offense produced eight runs. Here are the details from astros.mlb.com:

'Stros at the plate: “Ivan Rodriguez hit his first spring homer, a solo shot in the fifth inning. The Astros scored six in that frame, with a timely contribution from Geoff Blum, who drove in three with a double.

Michael Bourn singled and came all the way around to score on an error by Bobby Kielty.”

I-Rod goes yard and Blum is starting to show signs of life. I could get used to this whole winning thing. Hopefully come April it won’t be out of the ordinary.

'Stros on the bump: “Wandy Rodriguez allowed two hits over four innings, walking two and striking out two. LaTroy Hawkins pitched one scoreless inning, as did Doug Brocail. ”

Glad to see Wandy, the rumored No. 2 starter, pitching and feeling well.

Houston’s Grapefruit League record currently stands at 6-16-3. Keep shooting for the double digits in the win column H-town! By the way, Houston has scored 18 runs in the last two games!

Houston Astros Win Fourth Spring Training Game in a Row: Berkman Belts Two Bombs

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 23 Mar 2009 17:46:53 -0400

Houston scored 10 runs today to out-slug the Florida Marlins 10-8.

From astros.mlb.com:

'Stros at the plate: “Lance Berkman homered in the third and the fifth, driving in three runs. Michael Bourn drove in a run in the fifth with an RBI double, and Miguel Tejada drove in the go-ahead run with a double in the seventh. ”

Good games today from both Berkman and Bourn. Killer B’s anyone?

'Stros on the mound: “Mike Hampton allowed three runs on seven hits over five innings, striking out four. Chad Paronto left the game after one-third of an inning with a right shoulder muscle strain, and Gilbert De La Vara yielded two runs over two-thirds of an inning. ”

Hampton got hit a little but looked good on the mound as he kept the ball down for the most part, and Sampson pitched a scoreless inning. Keep up the good work Samp.

From chron.com:

Cooper on the bats: “Lance put some good swings up,” Cecil Cooper said. “Lance had some great swings today. Every at-bat was good swings. It was good to see that. Kaz had some good swings today. Tejada had some good swings. They all did.

There were quite a few. It was nice to see J.R. swing the bat like that. Today was probably our best day swinging the bats.”

Cooper on the arms: “Hampton was very good, got his pitch count up to the high 80s, so that’s good,” Cooper said. “He pitched down. I liked the way he pitched today. Bud (Norris) I thought was very good. His fastball was exploding out of his hand today.”

Houston Astros To Sign Pudge Rodriguez

Jason Cardwell — Mon, 16 Mar 2009 17:20:50 -0400

You can now add nine for 15 with two homers to the numbers of the Houston Astros catchers this spring with the soon-to-be-official signing of Pudge Rodriguez.

Here’s the news from Astros.mlb.com: ”Ivan Rodriguez is expected to sign with the Astros, pending a physical exam that will be taken upon the completion of Puerto Rico’s participation in the World Baseball Classic.”

So let’s all hope Pudge doesn’t hurt himself in the classic.

Here are the specs for the deal: "The contract will be for one year at $1.5 million with another $1.5 million possible in incentive bonuses, ESPN.com reported."

This is a good acquisition for a good price. Pudge doesn’t deserve to make more than that, and Houston doesn’t have to concern themselves with the offensive hole at the catcher position, unless the Pudge from the New York Yankees shows up.

Thanks Uncle D-Mac.