Houston Astros for Sale?: I Agree With Justice, I'll Miss Uncle Drayton

It’s become inevitable that Drayton McLane’s time as the owner of the Houston Astros is likely nearing its end.

Sad, but true.

From my very first professional interview ever with Jeff Bagwell, I remember Drayton McLane when I first shook his hand in 1995; and the funny thing is, he’s still pretty much that same guy.

Uncle Drayton loves his ball club like very few owners do; and I guarantee you that Drayton cares more about his Astros than Tiger Woods cared about his wife, but that’s a completely different story for a completely different day.

Today, right now, we are here to talk about Drayton McLane and his past 17 years as the owner of a team I have adored since birth (yes, I really do think I was born with a Houston Astros birthmark back in 1978; it was likely that sweet early 80’s logo).

Richard Justice has written at least a couple columns on this issue since word has surfaced that McLane almost sold the team after the 2008 season; and personally, I completely agree with Justice’s take on McLane.

Justice won’t be the only one missing McLane when he’s gone; I’ll miss him also.

Though many fans are seemingly ready for him to go, they MUST remember that this is the same Drayton McLane that brought Houston to that coveted World Series.

It’s the same Drayton McLane that brought in and kept legends like Jeff Bagwell, Craig Biggio, Lance Berkman, and Roy Oswalt.

And yes, the same Drayton McLane that is equally responsible for Houston’s recent failures in the majors; but I think the Astros are taking steps in the right direction to once again make the original Colt .45s contenders.

One way or the other, I really trust Justice when it comes to inside knowledge on the Houston Astros.

And therefore, that likely means Houston fans will be saying goodbye to McLane in the near future.

While many fans may be celebrating Uncle Drayton’s departure, I’ll personally miss him.

Denton Ramsey may be reached via email at [e-mail]