Sunday, March 22, 2009

Astros and Predictions

If only hitting was as important as hookers!


This offseason hasn't seen many changes for the Houston Astros. The nucleus of the team is still together with Oswalt, Lee, Berkman and Tejada. A few veteran additions have been added and are expected to contribute heavily. Ivan Rodriguez was signed to a one year contract and will have the every day catching duties. Mike Hampton will likely come in as the number 3 starter in a thin rotation. And the Aaron Boone situation isn't a good one. He was signed a couple of months ago but he will probably never see the field with his heart problem.

So how will the Astros do this season?

My guess is they will struggle. Other than the production they get from Lee and Berkman, everyone else is very suspect. Tejada is on the decline and Pence is still learning. They are going to need major contributions from Bourn, but who thinks it's actually going to happen? Our offense is better than the pitching though. Roy O is our number 1...then a bunch of number 4 starters. Wandy, Hampton and Moehler aren't very dependable. There aren't many other options either, the organization has always struggled with growing young talent. A number two starter is needed as well as some bullpen help. Brocail and Valverde are very good, but they can't do it alone. Wright had a good rookie year and will hopefully continue to grow.

This team is looking at 75 wins at best. Anything better will be a gift. If this team isn't in it at midseason, they should look to trade one of our pieces for young players. That is how you build a team, and this organization is just starting to figure that out.

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Very true. Maybe some young players can come in and make a difference though. I'm very hopeful for this season! GO ASTROS!!

Anonymous said...

No need to trade our stars, it's a good team we have.