This will be short and sweet. Is there any value in bringing Vince Young in to compete for the backup job?

Against him:

- He can't even spell accuracy.

- The pressure to perform may be to much in his home town.

- He could be a distraction.

- We know he's not a great passer.

- We know that his game is all about his legs and he's about to be 29.

- We also know that bringing him in could turn into a media circus if Schaub struggles a little early.

For him:

- His family is here.

- He has won at this level.

- Kubiak is a very good QB coach.

- Kubiak like to roll QB's out.

- This offense has a lot of 10-15 yard routes.

- He didn't have Andre Johnson or any receiver close to that level in Tennessee.

- We have a great running game.

- Excellent TE's

- Very good offensive line

I am personally neither for or against him being here as the #2 or #3. What do you think?

It is doubtful that this will be a popular post and that is your prerogative.

If you are buying tickets to this extended spring training season you should be hailed as the greatest Astros fan ever.

1B – Carlos Lee - somewhat auditioning for whoever he is traded to or for his next team in 2013.

2B – Jose Altuve - one of two (maybe 3) players on the current roster that has a chance to be around when the Astros are contenders again.

3B - Chris Johnson – a placeholder for the next real 3rd baseman that the Astros find.

SS – Jed Lowrie – another placeholder for Jiovanni Mier. If he can hit with any consistency and still flash the leather.

LF – J.D. Martinez – Should be at least "one of" the best players on the team when we are competitive.

CF – Jordan Schafer – Placeholder for George Springer but still potential 4th OF in 2014ish

RF – Brian Bogusevic – Placeholder for Fernando Martinez if he keeps hitting in AAA. (.347/3HR/14RBI/4BB) (GOOD GRIEF WHY ISN’T HE HERE NOW???)

C – Jason Castro - Who needs to figure out what that stick in his hand 4 times a game is for, or he’ll be a placeholder for Ben Heath next year.

To pay to watch this team is extraordinary. It’s hard to watch "try outs" at the major league level let alone pay to see it. As it is said about the NFL every year; "Pre-season football at regular season prices." That’s what we are getting now; spring training baseball at regular season prices.

It would be ridiculous for the Texans to trade down in this years draft. It would be like losing 3/5 of your O-Line in the same off-season.... ridiculous. It would be like trading a starter and getting oh...lets say a 4th round pick in exchange.... ridiculous. Well, maybe it's not so ridiculous. The Texans are in need of depth and young players that can come in and push the "incumbent" or "new starter" whichever the case may be. Trading out of the first round to possibly pick up an additional pick and possibly a future pick makes sense. Here's why.

First, anyone who thinks any of the top 4 receivers in the draft will be available late in the 1st round is fooling themselves. So the possibility of finding the next Andre Johnson is almost non-existent. Second, the only player that is expected to be there for the Texans that makes solid sense is Nick Perry. A hybrid DE/OLB that might be able to replace Mario Williams. Lets come to our senses. The idea of replacing Williams production should not be the question. The question is who are we going to have behind Brooks Reed and Conner Barwin in case the unthinkable happens. You can get depth in the 2nd and 3rd round. The point is that the Texans are not drafting from a need standpoint for any of the solid prospects who will be available. The only way to get an impact receiver is to trade up...not happening! Nick Perry would be a good pick; but the Texans can get more value out of the pick by moving down.

It would not be a surprised to see the Texans trade back go depth, depth and more depth. If they want a receiver; no problem. Alshon Jeffery and Rueben Randle will be there in the top of the 2nd round.

Some players to watch:

Ryan Miller - G - Colorado - 6'7 312lbs

Keenan Robinson - OLB - Texas - 6'3 242lbs

Nigel Bradham - OLB - FSU - 6'2 241lbs

James-Michael Johnson - ILB - 6'1 241lbs

Mychal Kendrick - ILB - 6'0 241lbs

Mike Harris - CB - FSU - 5'10 188lbs

These players should provide value in the late 2nd and lower rounds.

Sleeper for the 7th round (If he's still on the board???):

Jordan White - Western Michigan - 6'0 215 (4.6 - 40)

2011: 140 Rec/ 1911 yds/17TD's/ Coming off leg injury so that will scare some teams away.

As you scoff at this remember; Marques Colston was #252 in the 2006 draft. That's very late in the 7th round.

When did Drayton Mclane take over the Texans?

Just a little levity to lighten the mood this morning. I'm sure we are all equally confused as to the direction of the Texans and we need a little humor.

I am hoping as I am sure you all are; that there is a plan in place to replace these players so that the progress that was made last year does not go to waste.

Here is a quick poll to see what you are feeling today after the trade.

Have you noticed a lot of talk on radio and a few posts here and there concerning player loyalty...or lack thereof? Here's a question; If you were given an opportunity to leave a job that you had been at for several years and had seniority for a new job that would pay you twice as much; would you take it? If your answer is yes; then where is your loyalty. Here's a twist. You own a company. You have several long term employees that make a lot of money. You have an opportunity to lay off half of those highly paid employees and replace them with younger, less experienced, lower salaried employees that could be trained by the experienced half. Would you do that? If so; where is your loyalty.

The fact that Mario Williams and Mike Breisel have left the Texans for more money says nothing about their loyalty. The also known fact that the Texans released Eric Winston to clear cap space says nothing about their loyalty.

Loyalty is much overplayed in sports as it is in business. And yes, sports is a business. Most of us would have done the same thing the players or the team management has done given the same situations. Should we like what has happened? No. As fans we have no reason to. But, we have to accept the fact that this is the reality of sports today.

As much as we may hate losing our favorite players; it's a reality. Next year we could lose Matt Schaub, Duane Brown and Conner Barwin. It depends on how creative the Texans can get with cap space. But if we do lose those players to another team; don't question their loyalty. Question the teams ability to manipulate the salary cap.

I'm sure that this is late and many of you have already voiced your opinion of this. Sometimes other countries Internet access is...well...we'll just go with limited.

If the MLB will not allow the Astros to wear the actual logo that the Colt 45's wore then why would we even wear it. If this is the stance of MLB then I want the following done immediately.

-San Diego Padres must change their name because it reminds to many of religion.

-The bat on the Cardinals jersey that the cardinal sits on must be removed because it is a threat to the cardinal.

-Chicago Cubs must change their name because I am not sure what type of bear cub that is and it could be an endangered species.

-The Pirates must change their name because pirates were known for violence.

-The Texas Rangers carry guns and have been know to use them.

- The NY Yankees must change their name because it reminds people of the Civil War and cause distress.

- The tomahawk must be removed from the Braves uniform because it is a weapon.

STOP THE INSANITY!!!

The Colt 45's are part of our history and the uniform should be worn as it was in the 60's. If it's not complete and we still wear it...Bud Selig wins again and has been able to take yet one more part of our history away.

STOP SELIG!!!

Make no mistake about it I am in the "Keep the Astros the Astros" camp. But As I pondered a new name; I began to wonder... should we go back to our roots?

Houston Buffs were a minor league team (missing a few years) from 1888-1961. They were an American Minor League team for the Cardinals and some well known players came through Houston as minor leaguers such as Dizzy and Daffy (Jerome and Paul) Dean, Joe Medwick, Hal Epps and Solly Hemus. In Houston's last minor league season they were the AAA team for the Cubs in 1961. (Any wonder why there are still plenty of Cardinals fan here?)

In 1962; Houston was granted the NL team known as the Colt 45's. Later the name was changed to the Astros Or officially the Houston Astronauts honoring Houston's association with the Space program and NASA.

Would there be support for re-naming the Astros the Buffaloes (for Buffalo Bayou), Colt 45's (The original name) or perhaps taking a jab at Bud Adams from the baseball side and using the Oilers (anything that upsets Bud is a good thing in my mind)??

What do you think?

Fact: Jim Crane is the owner of the Astros and has the right (within league rules) to do as he pleases with the team.

Fact: The move to the AL has been; for the most part, a very unpopular idea for the fans and it is understood that Jim Crane did not ask to move he is being forced by Bud Selig to do so.

Fact: There are times when change is good when you are not changing for the sake of change.

As we approach the first season under the new owner of the Astros; it is clear that change is a key word for this franchise. Ticket prices are changing, food and drink prices are changing, front office is almost completely changed and we will see a change in a few positions on the field. But; these are the potential positive changes for this franchise.

A change in logo or a change in uniform is not a big deal for most fans. But to change the name and identity of a franchise that has been so named for 50 years is a bad idea. While the forced move to the AL will alienate some fans; a change in team name will only do further damage to the fan base.

Mr. Crane needs to change personnel on the field until he has the players that will bring the Astros back into prominence. He has already made positive change in the front office that will help in the previously addressed area. But changing the identity of this team is simply a bad idea.

You wouldn't see this as even a topic of conversation in Chicago, Boston, New York or LA...so why here?

You will get no argument from me that talent has everything to do with how fast a players moves up through the minor leagues. But; with that said, the Astros former regime had a bad habit of moving too slowly. Case in point; Hunter Pence was at AA when they moved him to the majors. So, does that mean he wasn't good enough to be in AAA??? That is beyond explanation.

Now that there is some talent coming into the minors; I would hope the the new leadership in the Astros front office implements the "Peter Principle". You rise to the level of your incompetence. It's time to move players up when they're ready; not a year or so later. One quick example and I'm sure there are several others that would be better; but, Tanner Bushue (quite possibly a very poor choice). If there is any future hope for this 20 year old; he needs to be in Corpus Christie no later than mid season 2012. There is little way to improve in baseball while competing with lesser or equal talent to yourself.

Without the organization challenging these young players (dare I say pushing players to improve or cease to be players); saying the Astros should be a legitimate playoff contender in 2015 may be a pipe dream.

As unpopular as this will be; there is merit to this suggestion. Trading Bud Norris makes sense. Here's why. The Astros will be building toward legitimacy until approximately 2015. That seems like a long time and in baseball years and...it is. But this is exactly why it would make sense to move Bud Norris now. In 2015 Norris will be 30 years old. He will more than likely be the workhorse of this staff. In 2015 when the Astros should be finally making a run at the playoffs, we need an ace and yes; Bud Norris should be that guy. But, who's to say it couldn't be Lyles or Cosart. trading Norris, Sosa, Harrel or Weiland (all 30 in 2015) or Happ (33 in 2015) makes sense if you can add another youngster to the fold. 30 is not old but 25 would be better. So would the Astros be wrong to offer Norris in a deal for a top prospect...not at all.

2015 Potential Starting rotation:

Jordan Lyles

Jacob Turner (??) (just a dream)

Jarred Cosart

Mike Folynewicz

Paul Clemens

It could happen.

Yes; Texans fans, my "Rookie experiment" post was a huge overreaction and.... OK...stupid.

If I could delete it like it never happened I would.

Kubiak has done a great job this year if for no other reason than keeping this team together during; to my knowledge, one of the worst injury rampages in Houston sports history and leading them into the playoffs. It is killing me that this team; if healthy, had a chance to do something no other Houston football team in all the years football has been in Houston has done....go to a Super Bowl. I understand that there are some "grayer beards" than me in here and some remember the two AFL championships (1960 & 61). Those are great....I get that....but it's not the Super Bowl.

I also understand that Bob McNair is doing everything he can to bring players in here that will help us win. No he's not "pinching pennies" he's actually throwing dollars around unlike any other sports franchise owner in Houston.

If we do end up a "one and done" team this IS still a very successful season. But the frustration still remains. The two Rocket championships were great and the trip to the World Series was nice.....but a trip to the Super Bowl is what we deserve after all the years of frustration.

Please forgive me for the crazy post. My frustration over flowed and I should have pushed the keyboard away and thought it out before posting stupidity.

This offense is horrible with Yates at QB. You have two veteran QB's on the bench. If we want to do ANYTHING in the playoffs DelHomme or Garcia MUST take over against Tennessee. The other problem for the Texans is the absence of their "D" coordinator. Saying "everything is fine without Wade" is as foolish a comment as "Yates can make all the throws". Both comments have been made by Kubiak.

We have 10 wins and are in the playoffs PURELY based on Wade Phillips presence. Whoever this "coach" is that is taking his place obviously never paid attention to how Wade calls a game and has no clue. We are also seeing Kubiak change his play calling on the offensive side of the ball. Kubiaks lack of confidence in the "D" is what cost us last year.

If things don't change we will not get out of the first round of the playoffs

If this happens Kubiak should be fired. He's responsible for insisting on playing this rookie....he should pay and pay dearly for torpedoing the best season in Texans history.

There is no excuse for this when there are other options not being use.

We’ll start with the financial situation for the Astros.

http://www.forbes.com/lists/2011/33/baseball-valuations-11_Houston-Astros_335701.html

Now that we have painted a pretty picture; lets remember that Mr. Crane and his investors have over 600 million "reasons" to cut expenses (meaning payroll) in the coming season(s).

A cut in current payroll expense in 2012 (moving Wandy, Myers and Lee) should mean that the Astros will be able to and should be willing to do whatever it takes to sign as many draft picks in the 2012 draft as possible; specifically the #1 overall. In the recent past few years; the Astros have done well in signing their top draft picks. In the past….well lets just hope that the past doesn't repeat itself. It hasn't always been very good. They also must find a way to get players to the majors sooner than their 27th birthday. A bit facetious but you get the point.

Did you know during the McLane era; the Astros drafted Johnny Estrada (1994), Aaron Miles (1995), Eric Byrnes (1997), Michael Bourn (2000), Scott Feldman (2002), Drew Stubbs (2003), Ben Zobrist & Drew Sutton (2004) and only Bourn and Lofton ever played a game for the Astros. Most were never signed. It wasn’t the first time it had happened to the Astros: Scott Erickson (1987) Kenny Lofton (1988), Jason Varitek (1990). Some were signed and moved in trades which didn’t exactly work out; while others went to other teams in later drafts.

Point being; if the Astros (Crane & Associates) are serious about building a winner they must not only draft well and sign their picks; they must develop players, move players up quickly and get them to the majors quicker than Drayton and his group did.

In 1984; David Stern took over a "semi-struggling" league that under his direction became very popular. But, did he really do anything at all? This was the dawning of the "Air" and "Dream" era with Patrick Ewing bringing the Knicks back to life; and stars like Magic and Bird were still around and would be for a few more years. You could argue that Stern created a new buzz with the promotion of these "stars". But; Stern didn't change anything other than that and never gave any inclination that bringing stars together on one team was a good idea.

If you would like to argue that having a dominate team was healthy for the league because of the "King of the Hill" scenario; you would get no argument from me. But what the league has never had until now was a "grouping" of stars. Each great player desired to take their team to the top by making the fringe stars and role players around them better (See Hakeem Olajuwon). In the early 80's you would never see Magic and Bird wanting to team up. They wanted to lead their teams to the top. Jordan needed "Robin to his Batman" in Scottie Pippen, but at no time did you ever hear about Isaiah Thomas and Jordan "plotting" to join forces. There has been some parity in basketball that is healthy. Yes, the Lakers, Celtics and Bulls have been dominate forces; but there was always some upstart team with a young star on the rise giving them some problems (i.e. Rockets, Knicks, Pacers and Pistons). That was possible because stars didn't join forces.

With the situation that we have today and the "cowards way" of obtaining success in the NBA; Stern has lost the perspective of competitive equality. James/Wade/Bosh is just one of the examples of this in place and David Stern has started one more in L.A. by manipulating the trade of Chris Paul to play with Blake Griffin. Stern is forming a league of a few dominate teams/cities (NY, LA, Miami and Chicago) where the "stars go" and the TV money flows. The rest of the league will be filler teams for the "studs" to beat up. Certainly there will be the occasional uprising and mistakes that will lead to "the others" going deep into the playoffs. But that will be the exception more than the rule.

David Stern is doing whatever he can do to ensure that whichever network wins the multi-billion dollar bid for "The Finals" does not have to endure a championship series between television markets the size of Indiana and Portland ever again.

There is a lot of Houston baseball knowledge in here and we should tip our caps to all of the senior fans who have been around since the minor league days of Buff Stadium to the expansion days of Colt Stadium. Just a guess; but many of you probably have nightmares from the mosquitoes and shudder when you think about the heat and humidity which was not helped by the uncovered grandstands. I'm sure some of our elder statesmen of Astros "fandom" remember the ground breaking for the "Eighth Wonder of the World" being done by firing Colt 45's into the ground. Most fans have tremendous memories of the Astros in some way or another. My two greatest memories are; first, seeing my first game with my dad in 1973 and second, seeing Mike Scott's no-no in the dome. I can remember in '73 dad taking me down to the rail and getting my baseball signed by my two favorite players; Doug Rader and Roger Metzger. I still have that ball.

I am very thankful that my dad was able to see the Astros one World Series appearance. But now, with this team so far down and the forced move to the AL slowing the improvement process; will our older fans get to see this team prosper again? The tragedy is probably not. 

Thank you to the senior fans of the Astros for laying the groundwork for us and for future fans. If you hadn't supported the Astros for all of those lean years we may not even have a team today.

First of all; can we all agree that money should not be an issue for the new ownership group? We should also be able to agree that trying to be the Yankees or Red Sox is not practical; but, we should want this organization to do whatever it takes to be a contender and stay a contender. Lastly, we should all be able to agree that It is a proven fact that without having a solid minor league system you cannot consistently contend. With that said, Jim Crane just received a $70 million dollar bonus. What should he do with it? Where should Jim Crane invest that new found "windfall"?

Many comments have been made concerning the Astros not having a rival in baseball and that it will be nice to be able to start one with Texas once the move to the AL is complete. Concerning the lack of a rival; long time Astros fans would more than likely respectfully disagree. In the 70's and 80's when the Astros were in the NL West; the rivalry between the Astros and Dodgers was as heated a rivalry as most in baseball at the time. Obviously there were some that were stronger; but that was purely based on the length of time the two teams had been around. It would be unfair to compare any rivalry to the Red Sox and Yankees (or the Yankees and Red Sox...whichever you prefer). Those two teams have been around as long as any team in baseball and one Mr. George Herman Ruth had a little bit to do with that rivalry. But you can make a comparison to many others. When Tommy Lasorda would bring his fat "butt" into the Astrodome; there was a genuine hatred for him and for anything that had to do with Dodger blue. There were also very few Dodgers fans in attendance (of course you could also say until 1980 there were very few "people" in attendance). It was very unfortunate when the Astros moved to the Central division because of the many heated games we were treated to during that 24 year time frame.

The move to the Central division was not a healthy move concerning rivalries; but fans thought it would be. The ties to the Cardinals ran deep; too deep. There were many Cardinal fans here because of the number of years the Houston Buffs were their minor league team. There were many (and still are) Cubs fans at those games. WGN hurt the Astros. I myself remember coming home after school and turning on Harry Carey to hear him mess up names. But all the time I was doing that, I was getting closer to the Cubs, gaining knowledge of the team. You must remember that those were the years (Early 80’s) that preceded the creation of Home Sports Entertainment (1983 - Later to be Prime Sports and finally Fox Sports) where we could watch Astros home games. From this exposure; the Cubs gained a huge foothold in Houston. When the Astros joined the NL Central; their soon to be "rivals" had huge fan bases already here. That makes it difficult to cultivate a rivalry when half the fans at the games are for the other team. You would be hard pressed to find many Yankees fans at Fenway and harder pressed to find a Red Sox fan (breathing) at "The House that Ruth laid the foundation to build".  The Chance the Astros had to cultivate a rivalry with the Cardinals went away after the 2005 season when Drayton; instead of building on that teams success, began tearing the team apart in preparation to sell it. (Yes, I do believe it’s been that long in making.)

The new "rivalry" which could spawn from the move to the AL is expected to be with the Rangers. The question is; will it become anything more than just another series? There are so many Rangers fans here in Houston because of their recent success and the "Fair weathered" nature of fans in this city….I question if it will become anything at all. There is a chance but it is in the hands of Jim Crane. If he quickly does whatever it takes to make us the second best team in the AL West; and it will only happen if we are a close second. If we can start pushing the Rangers early; then and only then can a rivalry begin to emerge. If we stay the current course and we are only pushing the Royals for "basement supremacy" for the next two or three years and the Rangers continue to improve; the Rangers fan base in Houston will only rival the current Cubs fan base and it will take many years for a rivalry to happen…if it ever does.

If you cannot beat another team……you cannot call it a rivalry. 

Jim Crane will accept the reigns of the organization and become the worst owner in Astros history all in a matter of minutes. He had an opportunity to stand up to Selig and say no to a proposed move to the AL and he lost his backbone (if he had one). It takes 75% of the owners to approve the sale to Crane not 100%. Selig doesn't get a vote. It has always made more sense for Arizona (already being in the Pacific time zone and being much further West geographically) to move to the AL West being that they are the team with the least amount of history in the NL. Moving the Astros to the West was inevitable and would not have bothered nearly as many fans as a move to the AL will. We have a long, rich history with the Dodgers and Giants and personally I would welcome a return to the NL West to renew those rivalries. 

For most fans; it is not about time zones and games starting at 9:00pm during the West coast swings. It's the difference between AL and NL style play. Crane is not listening to the fans and he's already trying to see how much money he can line his pockets with. He has caved in to Selig and sold out the fans. 

We are not even remotely ready to play AL style ball and we won't be ready by 2013. If Crane is not willing to spend huge money; and by cutting payroll and begging the league for money it doesn't appear that he is, we will be in a similar situation to the KC Royals very soon.

It was a great run during the 90's and into the 2000's....the "2000-teens" do not look to be much fun. If it is true that history repeats itself; we are heading back into the 60's-70's Astros eras. 

Nice job Jim.

I know we are all a little bummed right now about Schaub.....even you who have been bashing him all year. But let's try to see the positive side to all of this.

- We have the luxury of having a QB with actual NFL experience so the speed of the game should not shock him as it would Yates or any other first time starter in the league.

- He has had a couple of years under Kubiak and knows the system well. 

- We have the best running game in the NFL. Something the he didn't have in Arizona. (Note: thrived at USC getting the ball to Reggie Bush (The good college one not the impostor in the NFL) ala getting the ball to Foster.

- We have a very good O-Line. Something else Lineart didn't have in Arizona.

- We have a healthy Andre Johnson. Say what you want; but Fitzgerald is NOT Johnson.

- We have the #1 Defense (by the numbers) in the AFC (Just being conservative).

- He gets to get his feet wet against the lowly Jags

Just trying to look at this positively!

The Astros will have more serious concerns than 30+ 9:00pm CST start times if indeed the potential move to the AL West becomes a reality. This team is currently being built; not only for Minute Maid, but for the NL style game. There are many more close, low scoring, well pitched games in the NL than there are in the AL. Mostly (purely an opinion) due to deeper pitching in the NL and fewer power hitters. Pitching could be a potential advantage for the Astros if the young prospects and current starters continue there development. If Norris, Lyles and Cosart are who we hope they are then we could be in a better position in a few years than most AL teams. The elephant in the room could be lack of power. In the AL your top teams all have multiple power hitters. The Astros currently have one (JD Martinez....and there's no reason to pull one of your best outfielders off the field) who each time they come to the plate could send one deep. The Astros as a team hit 95 home runs in 2011. That should not come as a surprise realizing that they hit 106 home runs in 2010 (Pence, Lee and Berkman combined for 62 of those). Only San Diego hit fewer home run in 2011 and the lowest total in the AL was Minnesota at 103. The lowest number by an AL playoff team was 169 (Detroit). Oddly enough, the Astros 2000 team is the current record holder in the NL for team home runs in a single season (249). So we know it can be done by a Houston team. But where will it come from on this team. I know we have a lot of young players who's potential is far from known at this point. But it's hard to see a "light" at the end of this tunnel. The AL is a hitters league and the Astros are a team built on pitching. If you are a "good pitching beats good hitting any day" person; good luck with that. Those are the fans who keep forgetting your 3rd, 4th and 5th rated bullpen guy will be in a lot of games....thus out the window goes the "good pitching part". If Crane wants to build a winner; and if (whoever our GM will be) understands the AL game as they should, the first pick in the draft probably should be the best raw power guy in the draft.

If the move to the AL happens in 2013; here is a list of the potential DH's on an Astros roster today:

Thank you

We'll start with a definition.

Micromanagement - to manage or control with excessive attention to minor details.

Now we should not say that an audible is a "minor details" but we should realize that we have a problem with the apparent fact that Matt Schaub either does not have the authority or possibly the ability to audible at the line of scrimmage. If the problem is the former rather than the later; someone needs to set Kubiak straight. He is not on the field looking at the defense right before the snap; therefore, he should not expect Matt Schaub to run a play that Matt knows in his heart of hearts will not work. But; as it has become apparent that he will, and he will force a throw into double even triple coverage because that is the play. Far too often the interceptions thrown by Schaub are obvious forced plays and situations where a run or possibly a check down would have worked better. But Matt blindly goes up to the line with signals being called leading this team off a cliff like lemmings.

We all know the Schaub is as mobile as the Tin Man in the wizard of Oz (Maybe a bit more than that so I’ll accept the argument for the Scarecrow). So suggesting that Matt try to become Aaron Rodgers or Michael Vick and start calling his own number is ludicrous. But suggesting that Matt has a play signaled in by Kubiak (offensive coordinator...RIGHT!) and that is the play he WILL RUN come "heck or high water" does have it's merits and there should be more freedom for Matt to audible. Kubiak can say all he wants on sports talk shows that Schaub has two or three plays that he can use in each situation. We should see right through that being that it’s coming from one of the best "spin doctors" in the NFL. Yes, Gary…he has three plays…throw it to Andre, throw it to Andre and.......throw it to Andre. Now Andre’s out injured…what now Gary??

I do not believe we have a quarterback problem. I do not believe we have a running back problem. The small issues with the secondary can be solved by cutting Kareem Jackson or at least making him a nickel-corner. The biggest problem with the Texans right now is having a micromanaging head coach. 

Gary…..would you have done this in Denver under Shanahan??? I think not. Why do it now?  

As I'm sure we all know; the Astros coaching situation isn't exactly settled for 2012...or is it? If Jim Crane isn't approved and Drayton can't find a pawn shop willing to pony up nearly 700 mil; maybe the current coaching staff will return. In my humble opinion; this will stagnate the development of the young players we will see on the field in 2012. Here are just a few things I have observed.

Pitching

Mills has not shown the ability to handle a pitching staff and I doubt Brocail is going to have any desire to return. I grow weary of Mills refusal to let a young starter pitch out of trouble in the late innings. If he thinks that wins and loses still matter at this point he's lost his perspective totally. This is about seeing what these kids can do in game situations. He's not allowing these situations to develop. He has far to quick of a "hook" and over uses his bullpen.

Hitters

Teaching was supposed to be Brad Mills forte'. At least that's what Terry Francona said (although there was a slight chuckle that followed the statement????). I see no improvement in the patience of our young hitters, in their strike zone judgement no do I see development in their situational hitting. I understand that a lot of this is on the player to put in the work but you must have a manager who motivates the players to improve. 

Fielding

Defense is a skill that can be taught (see Matt Galante trains Craig Biggio to become second baseman). So; with that said, when do we get to see improvement???

Coaching

How many more "missed signs" do we have to endure at third base? Most recent "case in point". Paredes missed the sign coming around second (yesterday's game against the Pirates). First of all with a wet field, wet baseball and the fielder moving away from the plate, I don't understand why he was holding the runner up at third. But, he did and Parades missed the signed and was hung out to dry. If that was an isolated event..no big deal. But it happens far too often. Clark says Altuve ran through a stop sign on his inside the park home run. Ok, why were you holding him up?? Where is the aggression that you should be showing with a young fast team?? My point.......Dave Clark is indecisive and not cognizant of the situation.

That's just what I see.....do you agree? Or am I being overly critical? THAT will take a lot to convince me of.

I had actually thought about starting this with a bit of a rant over Mills trying the squeeze last night but; I think we all have well chronicled his foolishness so we should move past that now.

Yet again the Astros snatch defeat from the jaws of victory with the bullpen's latest implosion. It is understandable though. These are the best pitchers the Astros have who are currently "MLB ready". And that my friends....is frightening. We should not expect a much different result next year than what we are seeing today. but we should expect some improvement. We have seen short "spurts" of solid pitching from our bullpen but unfortunately we have seen longer periods of absolute ineptness. As we cast a gaze over the young bullpen pitchers do we see any hope on the horizon? It very hard to tell.

Currently; mainly to draw interest from younger fans,  I would suggest when there's a call to the bullpen that the relief squad all get into a small car, drive to mound, get out, run around the mound until the pitcher called runs up the hill, get back into the car and drive back to the bullpen. At least we would have some form of entertainment prior to the inevitable heartbreak to come.

...but.....if Ed Wade keep his job; how long before Lyles, Norris and Cosart become Phillies?? Did he come here to build the Astros or the Phillies?? It's a bit confusing. I'm not trying to make him look bad; he does that without any help. But he has sent a lot of talent to his old team and has brought in very little talent here. The Bourn to Atlanta trade was embarrassing. He had an opportunity to "plunder" the Braves farm system and he failed. Albeit the players brought in go to the "head of the class" in the Astros system (which wasn't hard to do); he didn't get any of their top prospects. I wonder if he thought that by making a deal for "better than we had" he could hide the fact that he failed us AGAIN. As happy as I am that our farm clubs are improving it's time to follow in Philly footsteps (yet again) and send Mr. Wade down the road.  

Mr. Crane! Have you forgotten that this is Houston? This is the capitol of "Fair weather fan USA". If you win; the fans will come. If you don't....there won't be enough fans in Minute Maid to chase down a foul ball...or any that care to do so. Jim Crane must understand his fan base. Most fans will show no patients as this "new guy" attempts to build a team that will allegedly win for a long time. If improvements are seen; then the fans will come out. Not in large numbers but also not in "Florida" number either. The idea that the Astros can wait for the "children" to mature and the fans will come to see this process is laughable. There will be a significant need to bring in some veteran players to help this team along to keep them watchable. Prior to the recent road trip and trades; while attending a game, I sat in the upper part of the field boxes. Let me see…. in that section there was me, my glove in its seat, my cold beverage in its seat, my personal peanut and cotton candy vendor and my 50 best friends masquerading as seats. If Jim Crane thinks this will change if he "educates" us about his "plan" he’s goofy (my apologies to Goofy and the Disney Corp.). Many of us went through the lean years in the dome. Games during the week when after the 5th inning they would ask everyone to move as far down as possible so that the seats didn’t look so empty on TV (what little coverage there was). Games with so few in attendance you could hear someone belch in the next section over. This is what is coming the Astros way and to some extent is here now. Attendance is based in Houston sports on two things: 1) Winning; 2) Being the football team. Texans fans are far more forgiving and patient that Astros fans.  2011 by all accounts should yield approximately 53 wins. Meaning this is soon to officially be the worst team in team history. Unless Mr. Crane can convince fans that the 2012 Astros will be significantly better he won’t be able to sell season tickets to the players’ families. It would; in my humble opinion, behoove ownership to; at the very least, bring in a decent free agent at a position of need (3rd base comes to mind) so that there is some hope that a non-embarrassing season could be achieved. Otherwise; if the youngsters start off as that did this year, Minute Maid will be one beautiful, EMPTY stadium. At least I’ll always have a good seat. It’s your choice Jim….make it wisely.

Finally, the Texans organization has done something in free agency that gives fans hope for the upcoming season. I must admit that I was concerned when the reports started coming out that the Texans were the leading candidate to get Asomugha. If he had become a Texan; no question about it, improvement was made in the defense. But would one player be enough? It had to be in the back of all Texans fans minds that if "Bottom line Bob".....excuse me; today he's Mr. McNair....shelled out 15-20mil a year for Nnamdi, they would be done in free agency. Maybe for next year also. The idea that the Texans were one player on defense away (not counting the unknown contribution from rookies) from being credible is ludicrous. There were glaring needs at safety, corner and depth at every position of the defensive side of the ball. The Texans have finally handled free agency like a football team who wants to win instead of an investment firm where some loses are acceptable. In investing; some loses are good; in football.....need I say more. In some ways we can look at these two signings and truly believe this organization is turning the corner. We can be much more confident that the days of over paying an "Ahman Green" or any other over the hill, "used up" player is hopefully over.

Proud to be a Texans fan!!

Does the current "sports status" of Houston bother anyone else. We're are a major city with the "Big 3" in sports. Does it bother anyone else that we're rarely consider a "great" sports town? It is understandable looking in from the outside. Drayton McLane bought an 81-81 (1992) team in 1993 and turned it into a team that will; more than likely, lose 100 games and they have not mattered since 2005. I don't know what Bob McNair is doing; Gary Kubiak turned a 6-10 Texans team into a 6-10 team that has never even sniffed the playoffs. Les Alexander hasn't been able to get the Rockets into serious contention since 1997 when Stockton tore our hearts out. And if your on the same page with me; no one has even made a legitimate attempt to bring the NHL here.

What in the world has happened to Houston as a sports town?? We're quickly turning into Cleveland. 

Very few of us really give Ed Wade much credit for being even and average GM. His past history as AstrosGM doesn't give us much hope that he can really work a deal in the Astros favor. As you read this, it is quite possible that Ed is making his "last stand". He's trying to show us all that we are wrong and that he can bring in the "mother load" for a player. Now as many of you know I am not in favor of trading Hunter Pence; but it's not like I'll tradein my retro Cedeno jersey for a Pujols jersey if Pence is dealt. So here's what we should hope for. Ed Wade could be trying to work Philly over for more by calling off the deal and encouraging a bidding ward between Atlanta and Philly. Anyone against Philly throwing in an addition prospect or maybe even a guy a year away? Neither team can afford for the other to get significantly better right now and Ed has to know that.If it works; Ed is a hero and may even keep his job once The "Crane lands". If he's wrong and Atlanta and Philly take their prospects elsewhere......well we didn't like you anyway Ed...so long.

Let's go back to 1994. The Astros are getting significantly better each year. They see what they think is an opportunity; they pounce....oops! At the end of the '94 season the Astros traded Steve Finleyand Ken Caminiti to the San Diego Padres for; essentially Derek Bell and Doug Brocail. Finley went on to win 5 Gold Gloves ('95, '96, '99, '00 and '04) while the Astros struggled to find an every day center fielder until Bourn came on the scene. Ken Caminiti won 3 Gold Gloves ('94, '96 and '97) and was named the 1996 NL MVP. The Astros are still looking for a 3rd basemen. Oh and let's not forget those same Padres took us out of the playoffs in 4 in the first round in 1998. My point is, the Astros traded two players who had shown their value early and they were never really able to replace them. The Astros have made these foolish decisions throughout their history. Joe Morgan for Tommy Helms.......Kenny Lofton to the Indiansfor Ed Taubensee........Rusty Staub to the Expos.......Curt Schilling to the Phillies..........Mike Cuellar to the Orioles......and John Mayberry to the Royals. Go to the internet and read what these guys did after the trades. Also look at who the Astros got in these trades.

I can almost understand moving Wandy and I completely agree with moving anyone else (Except Lyles and Norris). It's time to build around Pence and Bourn; not send them off to become perrenial All-Starsfor other teams. We are a couple of years away, maybe less if the new owner is willing to put some money into free agency. But moving Pence and/or Bourn will cripple this team for 3-5 years.

I have read the rumor about the 60million dollar payroll from Jim Crane and if that true then go ahead and trade everyone because we have seen our last winning season. We're not Tampa Bay Jimmy-Boy! And you and Ed Wade combined are not Gerry Hunsicker.

(Note: I didn't include the trade for (rental of) Randy Johnson. That one hurt but it's understandable considering Johnson was considered one of if not the best in the majors at the time. But in the aforementioned trades we didn't get close to a Randy Johnson, we didn't get close to anything worth what we gave up.)

Here's a few things I would like to see Mr. Crane do when he takes control not necessarily in this order:

1. Move Carlos Lee out or to a pinch hitting role with spot starts at 1st to spell Wallace. I fully understand that a trade would require the Astros picking up the majority of the remaining money on the contract but I think it is something that should be explored.
2. Trade Wandy. Two fold reason here. Age and current value. Please don't misunderstand me; I like Wandy a lot. But; let's be realistic, he'll be in his 30's when the Astros are getting good and they're closer to 2 years away from being a contender than 1 year. You can get value for him now and the Astros should try to get as many "prospects" as they can while they can.
3. Trade Brett Meyers. Ed Wade and Drayton have once again hurt the organizations ability to move a good player by over paying. The 11+ million owed to Meyers next year (based on one good year) will make a trade difficult but; as with Lee, it can be done.
4. Trade Barmes. Not a lot of money but he's still a viable SS for some team in need. We can use Sanchez at SS until one of the youngsters are closer to being ready; possibly next year.
5. Bring up Andy Van Hekken (SP), Sergio Perez (SP), Wladimir Sutil (SS) and Brandon Barnes(LF) and see what you've got. Even if they are terribly over matched it will give the Astrosa chance to see these players at the MLB level. It will also force the Astros to move guys up to AAA like JD Martinez and Jose Altuve to get them through the system and to the majors quicker.

Those are my 5; not necessarily in order of importance.

I believe the everyday core players such as Bourn, Pence, Bourgeois (who should be the everyday LF), Wallace, Norris and Lyles give us hope of a very bright future. But this year should be about what the future holds and seeing that on the field...win/lose record does not matter. Imagine with me how fun even 2012 could be if Mr. Crane finds a big thumper of a 3rd baseman or LF to put with the parts in place and they figure out the bullpen problems. Winning is not as far off as we might think. It's never wrong to dream big. but lets focus on 2012 and beyond.