Sorry for the wait, It's been pretty busy around here. This is basically going to be my end of season post, but I will also give you some news about the Astros.
This year was really pretty pitiful. We should have won so many more games then we did. The fact that we couldn't get our base runners home was a big problem. We got the runs on base, we loaded the bases who knows how many times, but we just couldn't get them home. If we got even half of the runners home that we put on base, we wouldn't have defiantly won more games. That, in my mind, it one of the biggest reasons we had a losing season.
Over all, with the exception of our run scoring problem, our hitting was pretty good.
Hunter Pence did all that I expected of him in his first season. He hit well, he had speed, and he could hit for power. His defense was good too! I can't wait to see him play more! I said it before and I'll say it again. If he stays with the Astros, I can see him taking a leadership roll and becoming a player like Craig Biggio.
We bid good by this year to one of the greatest players that Baseball has ever seen, Craig Biggio. The player who hit more doubles in his career than any other right hander got a couple more as he hit his way to the 3,000 hit club. We will miss him sorely.
Lance Berkman was back but didn't really get in his groove until the end of the season. If we had him full blast the whole way, we might have done something more. Not to say that our team rides on his back, but every little thing helps.
This year we added a big bat to the line up and his name was Carlos Lee. Home runs seem to follow this guy everywhere he goes. He helped our team out this season, but he alone wasn't enough to pull us out of this bind.
There were other players, old and new, that contributed, but I don't want to bore you to much.
In other news:
Brad Ausmus signed a one year deal with the Astros. He will be playing the back up roll. Ausmus will most likely be giving his experience to the outstanding J.R. Trowles. I think this will be good for the young catcher, and it could possibly lead to some more wins.
Andrew B. Dow
10/31/2007
9/28/2007
Saturday, September 29, 2007
Once again it's been a lot of the same. Houston wins a couple, loses a lot, loses some more, loses some more, and then they might win a few.
Houston swept the Reds under the rug however. Craig Biggio's last road series was a sweep! Houston just got the upper hand and finished 'em off.
Yesterday, however, was a different story. Minute Maid Park was packed as Craig Biggio started the first game of his last series. He started the game off with a hit in his first at bat, but that's about as good as the night got. Houston scored 2 runs, but that wasn't near enough for the Braves 7 runs. Matt Albers got the loss.
In other news, Cecil Cooper has been named the Astros Manager. He will no longer be known as the interim Manager. He is the good guys skipper now, and he is no doubt looking to next season. And I failed to tell you that Ed Wade was named the new General Manager a couple weeks ago. And... one more thing. Adam Everette rejoined the after a broken leg earlier in the season.
There are only two more game until the season is over. At the end of the season I will (hopefully) post an end of season report, so be on the look out for that.
Houston swept the Reds under the rug however. Craig Biggio's last road series was a sweep! Houston just got the upper hand and finished 'em off.
Yesterday, however, was a different story. Minute Maid Park was packed as Craig Biggio started the first game of his last series. He started the game off with a hit in his first at bat, but that's about as good as the night got. Houston scored 2 runs, but that wasn't near enough for the Braves 7 runs. Matt Albers got the loss.
In other news, Cecil Cooper has been named the Astros Manager. He will no longer be known as the interim Manager. He is the good guys skipper now, and he is no doubt looking to next season. And I failed to tell you that Ed Wade was named the new General Manager a couple weeks ago. And... one more thing. Adam Everette rejoined the after a broken leg earlier in the season.
There are only two more game until the season is over. At the end of the season I will (hopefully) post an end of season report, so be on the look out for that.
9/21/2007
September, Friday 20, 2007
I haven't updated in a while because it's been a lot of the same. The Astros come, the Astros see, The Astros Lose. That's been the story for a while now. But luckily I have some good news. At this point in the season you stop worrying about winning the pennant and start trying to bring as many teams down with you as possible.
After losing to the Brewers two games straight Houston came back with a win in the tenth inning. Brad Lidge gave up a game tying home run in the ninth. Luckily, however, He didn't give up the game winning home run. Hunter Pence made on of the nicest hits I've seen in a while when he scored Brandon Backe from third for the win. Hunter hit the game winner after slamming into the wall hard in the ninth inning. He wasn't injured however and delivered big!
After the Hunter's hit, Houston headed into St. Louis to play the cardinals. Wandy Rodriguze pitched a nice 88 pitch, 8 inning, 1 run game for the win. The big story was with the offense though. Houston managed 18 runs against the cardinals. This was only the sixth game for rookie catcher J.R. Trowles, but he already etched his name in Houston History. He now has the most RBIs in a game for Houston with 8. But he wasn't the only contributer. Every one was hitting and scoring.
Brandon Backe is looking to keep it up as he will pitch tonight.
Andrew Dow
After losing to the Brewers two games straight Houston came back with a win in the tenth inning. Brad Lidge gave up a game tying home run in the ninth. Luckily, however, He didn't give up the game winning home run. Hunter Pence made on of the nicest hits I've seen in a while when he scored Brandon Backe from third for the win. Hunter hit the game winner after slamming into the wall hard in the ninth inning. He wasn't injured however and delivered big!
After the Hunter's hit, Houston headed into St. Louis to play the cardinals. Wandy Rodriguze pitched a nice 88 pitch, 8 inning, 1 run game for the win. The big story was with the offense though. Houston managed 18 runs against the cardinals. This was only the sixth game for rookie catcher J.R. Trowles, but he already etched his name in Houston History. He now has the most RBIs in a game for Houston with 8. But he wasn't the only contributer. Every one was hitting and scoring.
Brandon Backe is looking to keep it up as he will pitch tonight.
Andrew Dow
9/16/2007
September, Sunday 16, 2007
Once again, I was out of town for the series against the Pirates, so here's the series rap.
Game 1: Could have been better. at least it wasn't a landslide like with the cubs. The Pirates beat Houston 4-3. Roy Oswalt would have gotten the win had it not been for a three run 8th by the pirates. that really killed the Astros in this one.
Game 2: This will work. If we only could have done this to every team we faced every game. Josh Anderson came in for his first two hits, J.R. Trowles had his first MLB start and grabbed two hits and scored a run, and the bullpen actually held up! If we can have young guys like this contributing next year we'll be alright.
Game 3: Wow! I looked at the score and thought, "this can't possibly be right." Houston walloped the Pirates 15-3. You get Josh Anderson started and he just doesn't stop! He went five for five with 3 RBIs and 2 runs scored. Ty Wiggington also had a good outing. He had two of Houston's three homers. Ty went was only a triple short of the cycle. To rap all this up, Brandon Backe got his first win of the season after pitching 6 innings.
Andrew Dow
Game 1: Could have been better. at least it wasn't a landslide like with the cubs. The Pirates beat Houston 4-3. Roy Oswalt would have gotten the win had it not been for a three run 8th by the pirates. that really killed the Astros in this one.
Game 2: This will work. If we only could have done this to every team we faced every game. Josh Anderson came in for his first two hits, J.R. Trowles had his first MLB start and grabbed two hits and scored a run, and the bullpen actually held up! If we can have young guys like this contributing next year we'll be alright.
Game 3: Wow! I looked at the score and thought, "this can't possibly be right." Houston walloped the Pirates 15-3. You get Josh Anderson started and he just doesn't stop! He went five for five with 3 RBIs and 2 runs scored. Ty Wiggington also had a good outing. He had two of Houston's three homers. Ty went was only a triple short of the cycle. To rap all this up, Brandon Backe got his first win of the season after pitching 6 innings.
Andrew Dow
9/13/2007
Thursday, September 13, 2007
I haven't updated at all for this series against the cubs, so I'm gunna give you a rap up of the series.
The first game was a good one. Brandon Backe won the game to stop the Astros 5 game losing streak. The Cubs jumped out early, but Houston mounted a come back and took the game into extra innings. During the eleventh inning Luke Scott hit a walk off triple scoring Eric Bruntlett from first base.
The second game was worse. Houston lost after a nice looking win to Cubs. Once again the problem was leaving runners stranded. This is not a good thing. When you get runners on, you have to score them.
The third game, which was played tonight, was not good at all. The only runs that were scored came off home runs. Two were hit in the first inning by the Cubs, a solo shot and a three run blast. That was the first sign of trouble. After Houston got two Home runs but that was it. The Cubs hit two other home runs in the game. Luke Scott almost came through for a solo shot in the ninth inning, but that was robbed.
Andrew Dow
The first game was a good one. Brandon Backe won the game to stop the Astros 5 game losing streak. The Cubs jumped out early, but Houston mounted a come back and took the game into extra innings. During the eleventh inning Luke Scott hit a walk off triple scoring Eric Bruntlett from first base.
The second game was worse. Houston lost after a nice looking win to Cubs. Once again the problem was leaving runners stranded. This is not a good thing. When you get runners on, you have to score them.
The third game, which was played tonight, was not good at all. The only runs that were scored came off home runs. Two were hit in the first inning by the Cubs, a solo shot and a three run blast. That was the first sign of trouble. After Houston got two Home runs but that was it. The Cubs hit two other home runs in the game. Luke Scott almost came through for a solo shot in the ninth inning, but that was robbed.
Andrew Dow
9/11/2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Houston dropped fifth game in a row after Pedro Martinez, who didn't pitch as well as he should have, got the win. The Good Guys haven't gotten a win since the first game against the Brewers last week. They looked good in that game, but everything has been down hill from there.
Roy Oswalt didn't put together the best outing I've seen either. He let four runs by on nine hits in 7.0 innings. A home run was also hit off of him.
Once again, The Astros out hit the opposition, but couldn't cash in. If it wasn't for Luke Scott's Home run in the sixth, the Astros would have been shut out.
The Astros need to come back tonight and get a win behind Backe. Brandon Backe and The Astros will be coming back to Houston to face the Cubs. Brandon had a loss in his last outing, but pitched pretty well.
Andrew Dow
Roy Oswalt didn't put together the best outing I've seen either. He let four runs by on nine hits in 7.0 innings. A home run was also hit off of him.
Once again, The Astros out hit the opposition, but couldn't cash in. If it wasn't for Luke Scott's Home run in the sixth, the Astros would have been shut out.
The Astros need to come back tonight and get a win behind Backe. Brandon Backe and The Astros will be coming back to Houston to face the Cubs. Brandon had a loss in his last outing, but pitched pretty well.
Andrew Dow
9/08/2007
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Wow! A well pitched game by Mr. Tom Glavin. I'm sorry, I know he's not on our side, but I must take my hat off to a great performance at the age of 41. He pitched 7.0 innings in yesterdays outing. He only allowed 3 hits. The first was hit by Cody Ransom, but that was quickly shot down as Eric Munson hit into a double play. Then it was trouble for Glavin in the 8th when he allowed to hits right off the bat. Glavin was then taken out of the game and replaced with another pitcher who let one run by and then struck out three in a row.
Now that I've gotten that off of my chest I can talk about the real reason you came here. Houston obviously lost to the New York Mets 3-1. Woody Williams didn't do a bad job, but he didn't necessarily do a good job. He allowed all 5 hits and all 3 runs that the Mets got.
I can't blame it all on him though. The Houston offense couldn't cash in with runners on base. That's been one of the things that haunted them this year. they've left an unreasonable amount of runner on base. This was clearly shown in the 8th inning. Houston had a chance to make the game a close won, but only managed one run. But it was even more clear in yesterdays game. Houston left 12 runners on base! your not going to win ball game like that.
Roy Oswalt will look to continue his success against Pedro Martinez who is going back to the Mets After an injury. Roy Oswalts last outing was a no-decision. He'd really like to mark up another win.
Andrew Dow
Now that I've gotten that off of my chest I can talk about the real reason you came here. Houston obviously lost to the New York Mets 3-1. Woody Williams didn't do a bad job, but he didn't necessarily do a good job. He allowed all 5 hits and all 3 runs that the Mets got.
I can't blame it all on him though. The Houston offense couldn't cash in with runners on base. That's been one of the things that haunted them this year. they've left an unreasonable amount of runner on base. This was clearly shown in the 8th inning. Houston had a chance to make the game a close won, but only managed one run. But it was even more clear in yesterdays game. Houston left 12 runners on base! your not going to win ball game like that.
Roy Oswalt will look to continue his success against Pedro Martinez who is going back to the Mets After an injury. Roy Oswalts last outing was a no-decision. He'd really like to mark up another win.
Andrew Dow
9/07/2007
Friday, September 7, 2007
Yuck.
Houston Loses 3-11 to the New York Mets.
I'm sorry, but that's just Yuck.
Andrew Dow
Houston Loses 3-11 to the New York Mets.
I'm sorry, but that's just Yuck.
Andrew Dow
9/06/2007
Thursday, September 6, 2007
This is not good. When you have a young pitcher who has thrown good in the past, and then comes out and let's 7 runs by in 3 innings, something is wrong. Matt Albers let up seven runs in 3 innings to put Houston way behind early.
But before I go on a rant about that game, I realized that I didn't tell you about Tuesdays game. That was much better, even though they lost. They put up some sort of a fight. Brandon Backe came back to the team after he injured his elbow. He hadn't pitched in the Major Leagues since August of 2006! He didn't do bad, though. The Astros lost 5-3.
Now I will continue my rant.
Houston didn't play up to par at all. Matt Albers, like I said, let by 7 runs before leaving the game in the 4th. By the fifth inning the Astros were down 11-0. That set up an opportunity for all the young player that Cecil Cooper called up to play. I think it was a great experience for them, but that put the Astros farther down in the whole. By the time the ninth inning rolled around, the Brew Crew was leading 14-0. But finally someone decided to take a stand for the Good Guys. Luke Scott hit a two run home run to put the Astros on the Board.
Houston lost this horrendous game 14-2.
And that's all I got to say about that.
Andrew Dow
But before I go on a rant about that game, I realized that I didn't tell you about Tuesdays game. That was much better, even though they lost. They put up some sort of a fight. Brandon Backe came back to the team after he injured his elbow. He hadn't pitched in the Major Leagues since August of 2006! He didn't do bad, though. The Astros lost 5-3.
Now I will continue my rant.
Houston didn't play up to par at all. Matt Albers, like I said, let by 7 runs before leaving the game in the 4th. By the fifth inning the Astros were down 11-0. That set up an opportunity for all the young player that Cecil Cooper called up to play. I think it was a great experience for them, but that put the Astros farther down in the whole. By the time the ninth inning rolled around, the Brew Crew was leading 14-0. But finally someone decided to take a stand for the Good Guys. Luke Scott hit a two run home run to put the Astros on the Board.
Houston lost this horrendous game 14-2.
And that's all I got to say about that.
Andrew Dow
9/03/2007
Monday, September 3, 2007
Hunter Pence, I love ya! Pence was the star in yesterdays win against The Brewers. He hit 3 for 4 in the number one spot, and scored two for Houston's 9 runs. He really helped Oswalt out after a pretty bad inning in which the Brewers scored 3 runs to take the lead 5-0. But this rookie sensation changed the course of the game when he hit a two RBI triple to tie the game up. Then we scored the go ahead run on a wild pitch.
Pence was the real reason the Astros won, but Houston put together a pretty good offense overall. Besides His Triple, Hunter also had a double in the game along with one hit by Carlos Lee, the former Brewer. Brad Ausmus came away with a triple of his own.
Speaking of former Brewers though, Cecil Cooper showed his former team up as he got the managerial win. Cecil was an all-star with the Brewers. He applied for manger with his former team when the spot was vacant, but he didn't get it. So he got to go to Milwaukee and show His team up.
All around it was a good day. The Astros got on the board first and last. The lead exchanged hands a couple times, but we came out on top. Hunter Pence is the kind of guy who can do that for us in the future. I believe that if this guy stays with Astros, he will become the next Biggio. I think he has the stuff to become a strong leader out in Center field. If what I think will happen, does happen, then it happened just in time.
Andrew Dow
Pence was the real reason the Astros won, but Houston put together a pretty good offense overall. Besides His Triple, Hunter also had a double in the game along with one hit by Carlos Lee, the former Brewer. Brad Ausmus came away with a triple of his own.
Speaking of former Brewers though, Cecil Cooper showed his former team up as he got the managerial win. Cecil was an all-star with the Brewers. He applied for manger with his former team when the spot was vacant, but he didn't get it. So he got to go to Milwaukee and show His team up.
All around it was a good day. The Astros got on the board first and last. The lead exchanged hands a couple times, but we came out on top. Hunter Pence is the kind of guy who can do that for us in the future. I believe that if this guy stays with Astros, he will become the next Biggio. I think he has the stuff to become a strong leader out in Center field. If what I think will happen, does happen, then it happened just in time.
Andrew Dow
9/02/2007
Sunday, September 2, 2007
That hurts bad.
When a starting pitcher come out and does a great job, keeping the Opposition to 1 run in 5 innings, and then the bull pen comes in a absolutely obliterates any chance of winning, it hurts.
That's what the Astros felt today. Woody Williams had a good outing, but it didn't get the Astros anywhere. The Chicago Cubs won the series because of a bad bull pen experience. They hit two homers including a two run shot off of Chad Qualls in the eighth to break a tie.
The Cubs won 6-5.
The Astros next outing is going to be in Milwaukee to face the Brewers. Houston is going to go with Roy Oswalt who has a had an amazing season. He's on a six game winning streak right now and would love to extend it. The second place Brewers are looking to Ben Sheets to earn them a win.
Andrew Dow
When a starting pitcher come out and does a great job, keeping the Opposition to 1 run in 5 innings, and then the bull pen comes in a absolutely obliterates any chance of winning, it hurts.
That's what the Astros felt today. Woody Williams had a good outing, but it didn't get the Astros anywhere. The Chicago Cubs won the series because of a bad bull pen experience. They hit two homers including a two run shot off of Chad Qualls in the eighth to break a tie.
The Cubs won 6-5.
The Astros next outing is going to be in Milwaukee to face the Brewers. Houston is going to go with Roy Oswalt who has a had an amazing season. He's on a six game winning streak right now and would love to extend it. The second place Brewers are looking to Ben Sheets to earn them a win.
Andrew Dow
9/01/2007
Saturday, September 1, 2007
Troy Patton went to the mound in Wriggly today to face the first place Cubs. He lost his second game of his career, but pitched better than his first outing. Once again, however, He was hurt by the long ball. He had a tight game going for him until a tie breaking two run home run was hit in the sixth inning by Ramirez. Houston Managed for two more runs, but every time the good guys got a run, the Cubs put them back down with a point of their own.
Houston lost to Chicago 3-4.
The Astros are now looking for Woody Williams to come in for the final game and claim the series as their own. Rich Hill, on the other hand, will try and prevent that. The Astros would really like two series' in a row to take into Milwaukee.
Andrew Dow
Houston lost to Chicago 3-4.
The Astros are now looking for Woody Williams to come in for the final game and claim the series as their own. Rich Hill, on the other hand, will try and prevent that. The Astros would really like two series' in a row to take into Milwaukee.
Andrew Dow
8/31/2007
Friday, August 31, 2007
Do the Astros have something boiling? Or is it just a spoof? This is the question I want to know. The Astros have managed three games in a row giving Cecil Cooper a 3-1 record. He expects a lot out of these Astros, and I think that they've shown that they can do the expected. On of the most prominent changes that Cooper has made, is he's put Pence in the number one spot, and moved Biggio to the number two position. It seems to be working.
In Thurday's game, the Astros put together enough runs to back a good outing by Matt Albers. That game was the last of three games against the Cardinals. Houston took down the Third place team to dig them selfs out of the dark ages and into some light.
Friday was very good day for Houston. Wandy Rodriguez got a load of run support from the Rookie sensation, Hunter Pence. Wandy won a rare road game against the home town Cubs. The Cubs, who are in first place, fell to Houston, as I said, from the big bat of Pence. Hunter Had his first multiple home run game as he hit two. The first came in the fourth. It was a three run bomb that put the Astros on top 4-0. His second homer came in the sixth. It was a two run blast that put The Good Guys on top 6-0. So Pence had five RBI's that really helped the team out.
Houston is going to go after the first place team again tomorrow. Cooper will turn to the rookie, Troy Patton. This will be his second game in the big leagues. He lost his first. This would be an excellent opportunity for the young south paw.
Andrew Dow
In Thurday's game, the Astros put together enough runs to back a good outing by Matt Albers. That game was the last of three games against the Cardinals. Houston took down the Third place team to dig them selfs out of the dark ages and into some light.
Friday was very good day for Houston. Wandy Rodriguez got a load of run support from the Rookie sensation, Hunter Pence. Wandy won a rare road game against the home town Cubs. The Cubs, who are in first place, fell to Houston, as I said, from the big bat of Pence. Hunter Had his first multiple home run game as he hit two. The first came in the fourth. It was a three run bomb that put the Astros on top 4-0. His second homer came in the sixth. It was a two run blast that put The Good Guys on top 6-0. So Pence had five RBI's that really helped the team out.
Houston is going to go after the first place team again tomorrow. Cooper will turn to the rookie, Troy Patton. This will be his second game in the big leagues. He lost his first. This would be an excellent opportunity for the young south paw.
Andrew Dow
8/30/2007
Thursday, August 30, 2007
Revenge is so sweet! There still in the Down there in last place, and probably won't move much higher, but there still at it! After the Cardinals beat the snot out of them 7-0 Tuesday, The Astros returned the favor. Roy Oswalt came out after missing a game and absolutely shut them down. He pitched 7 scoreless innings.
The bats were working too. They managed 7 runs in the win. This is how baseball need to be played. Every time any team steps on the field the need to have outstanding pitching and good Hitting. It makes for a great game.
The Astros didn't show that in the first game, and the Cardinals didn't show that in the second game. Maybe we'll get a little bit more exciting game this afternoon. Now don't get me wrong. I love it when the Astros come out and completely destroy another team, but I also like to see a well played game form both sides of the field.
It was a good game for the good guys. Lance Berkman got his 250th homer of his career, new manager Cecil Cooper got his first win, Brad Ausmus passed Jeff Bagwell with his 33rd triple, and Roy Oswalt got a win on his 30th birthday.
Andrew Dow
The bats were working too. They managed 7 runs in the win. This is how baseball need to be played. Every time any team steps on the field the need to have outstanding pitching and good Hitting. It makes for a great game.
The Astros didn't show that in the first game, and the Cardinals didn't show that in the second game. Maybe we'll get a little bit more exciting game this afternoon. Now don't get me wrong. I love it when the Astros come out and completely destroy another team, but I also like to see a well played game form both sides of the field.
It was a good game for the good guys. Lance Berkman got his 250th homer of his career, new manager Cecil Cooper got his first win, Brad Ausmus passed Jeff Bagwell with his 33rd triple, and Roy Oswalt got a win on his 30th birthday.
Andrew Dow
8/29/2007
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
The Astros looked pretty bad in Yesterdays game against their Division rivals. The Houston Astros didn't score anything in the game. Cecil Cooper's Managerial Debut wasn't as good as he would of liked it to be.
As I write this, Roy Oswalt Is pitching for the Astros for the first time since his arm gave him trouble a couple of weeks ago. He has pitched 7 scoreless innings while the Astros have given him 4 runs. I'll have the rest of the update tomorrow.
Andrew Dow
As I write this, Roy Oswalt Is pitching for the Astros for the first time since his arm gave him trouble a couple of weeks ago. He has pitched 7 scoreless innings while the Astros have given him 4 runs. I'll have the rest of the update tomorrow.
Andrew Dow
8/27/2007
Monday, August 27, 2007
The Houston Astros didn't necessarily climb out of last place, but they pulled the Pirates back down with them. They are now tied for last place all because of Ty Wiggington's clutch home run. He hit the home run to put the Astros on top for the win.
Wandy Rodriguez started the game. He has pitched great at home. This wasn't his best outing by any means, but he kept the Pirates with in reach. Brad Lidge came out in relief for Houston. He closed it out for the win.
The Houston Astros got a much needed day off today. They will play the Cards tomorrow when they come into town. Woody Williams will look to right this ship against Braden Looper.
The Houston Astros are making a move. They dismissed both Tim Purpura and Phil Garner. Bench Coach Cecil Cooper will take over for Phil Garner Managing the Astros.
Wandy Rodriguez started the game. He has pitched great at home. This wasn't his best outing by any means, but he kept the Pirates with in reach. Brad Lidge came out in relief for Houston. He closed it out for the win.
The Houston Astros got a much needed day off today. They will play the Cards tomorrow when they come into town. Woody Williams will look to right this ship against Braden Looper.
The Houston Astros are making a move. They dismissed both Tim Purpura and Phil Garner. Bench Coach Cecil Cooper will take over for Phil Garner Managing the Astros.
8/26/2007
Sunday, August 26, 2007
Troy Patton lost in his first Major League appearance. The new left hander gave up two home runs. Both given up to Jose Bautista. One in the fourth, and the second in the sixth. Two mistakes left the southpaw with a 'L' on his first game. He took four strike outs with him though. Wade Miller gave up another solo shot in the ninth inning to Josh Phelps.
The Houston Astros couldn't give Patton the run support he needed. They only scored one run in last nights game. Mark Loretta scored in the sixth off of a double play ball hit by Berkman.
I'm usually an optimistic fellow. I'm always looking for the Astros to win a game. Always hoping that they'll get to the playoffs. But at some point in the season, you have to say, "it's over." I will never give up on the Astros. I will always pull for them to win. I'm just saying, it's very unlikely that they can comeback this year.
But they will try. Wandy Rodriguez is looking for another home win today as he goes up agaisnt Tony Armas.
On another note, Jeff Bagwell's number 5 will be retired today.
Andrew Dow
The Houston Astros couldn't give Patton the run support he needed. They only scored one run in last nights game. Mark Loretta scored in the sixth off of a double play ball hit by Berkman.
I'm usually an optimistic fellow. I'm always looking for the Astros to win a game. Always hoping that they'll get to the playoffs. But at some point in the season, you have to say, "it's over." I will never give up on the Astros. I will always pull for them to win. I'm just saying, it's very unlikely that they can comeback this year.
But they will try. Wandy Rodriguez is looking for another home win today as he goes up agaisnt Tony Armas.
On another note, Jeff Bagwell's number 5 will be retired today.
Andrew Dow
8/25/2007
Saturday, August 25, 2007
I'm disappointed. I'm very disappointed.
The Pirates jumped on us with two points, but we had one good inning and took the lead. There was Lidge in the ninth inning. we had the lead 3-2, and there were 2 outs. Home run. The Pirates tied the game and we went into extra innings. In the tenth The Astros got the bases loaded. They couldn't do anything. In the Thirteenth inning they loaded the bases again, but couldn't do a thing. If your planning on competing, you've got to take those situations and use them.
Thursday it was a 5 run first that killed us, yesterday it was a 5 run 15th that killed us. And so, The Pirates Took the series away with them.
The least we could do now is to back up Troy Patton. He's set to make his Major League debut today. He will hopefully make it a good one. The Houston Astros will hopefully get this win against the Pirates and pull them selfs out of last place. Houston is currently tied for Last place with the Pirates.
Andrew Dow
The Pirates jumped on us with two points, but we had one good inning and took the lead. There was Lidge in the ninth inning. we had the lead 3-2, and there were 2 outs. Home run. The Pirates tied the game and we went into extra innings. In the tenth The Astros got the bases loaded. They couldn't do anything. In the Thirteenth inning they loaded the bases again, but couldn't do a thing. If your planning on competing, you've got to take those situations and use them.
Thursday it was a 5 run first that killed us, yesterday it was a 5 run 15th that killed us. And so, The Pirates Took the series away with them.
The least we could do now is to back up Troy Patton. He's set to make his Major League debut today. He will hopefully make it a good one. The Houston Astros will hopefully get this win against the Pirates and pull them selfs out of last place. Houston is currently tied for Last place with the Pirates.
Andrew Dow
8/24/2007
Friday, August 24, 2007
Juan Gutierrez wanted to make his mark in the Majors as he came out for his first career start. Juan was filling in for injured Roy Oswalt, but didn't quite play up to par. He had a ugly first inning where he yielded five runs. He looked good when he retired the first batter, but then it started raining doubles. He couldn't keep his fast ball low enough and the opposition was crushing it. He did, however, have a great change-up last night. It really kept the batters off balance. He pitched four K's.
The Nats grabbed another run in the fourth before Lance Berkman plated Biggio in the fifth. Carlos Lee showed that he brought his bat with him sending a deep two run shot into the Crawford boxes. That maid it a three run game, 6-3. The homer gave Carlos Lee his 99th RBI of the year. He came up in the 7th to hit a broken bat bloop over the infield to become the first NL player of the year to reach 100 RBIs. He showed up yet again in the ninth to put up his second two run home run of the game. That made the game a one run game, but that's all the Astros could manage.
Besides Lee's offensive performance, the Astros really weren't that hot at the plate. They Nationals let 7 walks go by, but the Astros only cashed in on one.
The 'Stros defense was working pretty good though. Berkman made a great diving stop at first, and Burk made an outstanding catch in right field. The worst Defensive play was when Lee dove for a ball and missed, but Pence backed him up and no damage was done.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are coming off a win of there own as they come into Houston. Matt Albers will look to turn things around for the Astros against Ian Snell.
Andrew Dow
The Nats grabbed another run in the fourth before Lance Berkman plated Biggio in the fifth. Carlos Lee showed that he brought his bat with him sending a deep two run shot into the Crawford boxes. That maid it a three run game, 6-3. The homer gave Carlos Lee his 99th RBI of the year. He came up in the 7th to hit a broken bat bloop over the infield to become the first NL player of the year to reach 100 RBIs. He showed up yet again in the ninth to put up his second two run home run of the game. That made the game a one run game, but that's all the Astros could manage.
Besides Lee's offensive performance, the Astros really weren't that hot at the plate. They Nationals let 7 walks go by, but the Astros only cashed in on one.
The 'Stros defense was working pretty good though. Berkman made a great diving stop at first, and Burk made an outstanding catch in right field. The worst Defensive play was when Lee dove for a ball and missed, but Pence backed him up and no damage was done.
The Pittsburgh Pirates are coming off a win of there own as they come into Houston. Matt Albers will look to turn things around for the Astros against Ian Snell.
Andrew Dow
8/23/2007
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Woody Williams extended his August record to 3-0 while he held the Nationals to only two runs 6 innings. This is the kind of pitching everyone looks for late in the season. He took this start and did what he could. He ended up with the win.
But don't forget about the Astros Bats! Houston did a good job with runners in scoring position. Welcome back Hunter Pence! He hit a triple in the first inning. he came around to score off the bat of Lance Berkman after that. New Astros, Ty Wiggington, Hit a solo shot in the fourth inning which put the Astros ahead 3-0. The Nationals managed two points in the 6th, but that was it.
Coming up tonight, Houston Rookie, Juan Gutierrez will make his first career start in the absence of Roy Oswalt. He will face fellow rookie John Lannan of the Nationals. With both Pence and Lee back in the line-up, the Astros will be looking for the series split.
Andrew B. Dow
But don't forget about the Astros Bats! Houston did a good job with runners in scoring position. Welcome back Hunter Pence! He hit a triple in the first inning. he came around to score off the bat of Lance Berkman after that. New Astros, Ty Wiggington, Hit a solo shot in the fourth inning which put the Astros ahead 3-0. The Nationals managed two points in the 6th, but that was it.
Coming up tonight, Houston Rookie, Juan Gutierrez will make his first career start in the absence of Roy Oswalt. He will face fellow rookie John Lannan of the Nationals. With both Pence and Lee back in the line-up, the Astros will be looking for the series split.
Andrew B. Dow
8/22/2007
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Craig Biggio started last nights game off in a most honorable way. He hit his 53rd Lead off Home run in the first inning. It came off of the first pitch that Joel Hanrahan Pitched. Houston lost the lead in the fourth inning when the Nationals scored 2 runs. But the good guys answered back with two more runs in the bottom half of the inning. Then in the fifth it started going down hill. Houston surrendered 3 runs in the fifth, 3 runs in the sixth, and three runs in the seventh. The Astros only got one run during those three innings. The 'Stros tryed to make a comeback in the ninth but that didn't happen as they only got 2 runs. The Houston Astros gave up there second loss in a row to the Nationals. They lost 11-6.
The Pitching at home by Wandy wasn't near what it should have been. He gave up seven earned runs! Until tonight he hadn't lost a game at Minute Maid since May. but that all ended in a very slow going game for the Astros.
Rookie sensation, Hunter Pence played his first game since being on the DL. He had one hit in six at bats. Having him back on the team to produce for the Astros could be a huge help.
Also, Astros Ace, Roy Oswalt will be missing a start after feeling pain in his elbow in Saturdays game. He is, however, confident that he will only miss one game. Juan Gutierrez will replace Oswalt in that start.
Andrew Dow
The Pitching at home by Wandy wasn't near what it should have been. He gave up seven earned runs! Until tonight he hadn't lost a game at Minute Maid since May. but that all ended in a very slow going game for the Astros.
Rookie sensation, Hunter Pence played his first game since being on the DL. He had one hit in six at bats. Having him back on the team to produce for the Astros could be a huge help.
Also, Astros Ace, Roy Oswalt will be missing a start after feeling pain in his elbow in Saturdays game. He is, however, confident that he will only miss one game. Juan Gutierrez will replace Oswalt in that start.
Andrew Dow
8/21/2007
Tuesday, August 21, 2007
Horrible. Absolutely Horrible. Jason Jennings once again had a horrendous outing. He gave up six runs in four innings. This is not going to help them late in the season. He needs to bounce back after a bunch crummy starts and build a come back. However, the opposing pitcher pitched exceptionally well. Tim Redding Pitched seven shut-out innings. Jesus Colome pitched two shut-out innings to close the game.
The pitching might have been horrible, but the bats weren't much better. Lance Berkman went three for three last night, but all in vain. I really didn't like the pitching, but what do you expect if you can't get any points? Even with the power of Lee back in the line-up after being injured in Saturdays game.
The Astros will attempt to shake this loss off as they go back out to face the Nationals in the second of four games. Wandy Rodriguez, who has pitched spectacularly well at home, will go at it against Joel Hanrahan.
Andrew Dow
The pitching might have been horrible, but the bats weren't much better. Lance Berkman went three for three last night, but all in vain. I really didn't like the pitching, but what do you expect if you can't get any points? Even with the power of Lee back in the line-up after being injured in Saturdays game.
The Astros will attempt to shake this loss off as they go back out to face the Nationals in the second of four games. Wandy Rodriguez, who has pitched spectacularly well at home, will go at it against Joel Hanrahan.
Andrew Dow
8/20/2007
Monday, August 20, 2007
The Astros were trying to make it a sweep when they fell short in the series final against the Padres. Matt Albers threw five good innings, but couldn't hold up in the sixth. He just got wild. He walked a few batters before he was taken out and replaced by Mark McLemore. The Astros managed to get an early run off the bat of Lance Berkman when he hit a solo shot in the first. But that wasn't enough The Padres took the lead in the fourth and wouldn't let go.
Greg Madux, a future hall of famer, over powered rookie, Matt Albers. He was tough to hit in that game. The Astros only managed three runs on six hits. They are now 24-41 on the road after playing a good road trip. They split the first series against the Dogers and then won this series. The Astros get to come home now for a 10 game home stretch.
Jason Jennings of the Astros will face of with Tim Redding and the Nationals. Jason Jennings will be looking to start the Astros off good at home for a hopeful sweep of the Nationals.
If anybody is wondering why I keep saying that the Astros need to start sweeping, it's because the Astros need to make a comeback. They need to start beating teams and fast. In my eyes a sweep is the best way to do that.
Andrew Dow
Greg Madux, a future hall of famer, over powered rookie, Matt Albers. He was tough to hit in that game. The Astros only managed three runs on six hits. They are now 24-41 on the road after playing a good road trip. They split the first series against the Dogers and then won this series. The Astros get to come home now for a 10 game home stretch.
Jason Jennings of the Astros will face of with Tim Redding and the Nationals. Jason Jennings will be looking to start the Astros off good at home for a hopeful sweep of the Nationals.
If anybody is wondering why I keep saying that the Astros need to start sweeping, it's because the Astros need to make a comeback. They need to start beating teams and fast. In my eyes a sweep is the best way to do that.
Andrew Dow
8/19/2007
Sunday, August 19, 2007
The Houston Astros came out and were very aggressive as they scored two runs off the bats of Carlos Lee and Mark Loretta in the first inning. The Astros grabbed the lead and wouldn't let go as they won the game 3-2. But the game wasn't as smooth as the Astros wanted.
The only two Houston All-stars were injured in last nights game. Starter Roy Oswalt left the game in the fifth inning when he straining his left oblique muscle. He Gave up two runs before he left. The Astros had some good bullpen work after he left. Dave Borkowski, Trever Miller, Chad Qualls, and Brad Lidge pitched four hitless inning to hold on for the win.
Carlos Lee left the game in third inning after he hit the first RBI of the game in the first inning. He left with a strained right hip when he tried to break up a double play.
These are two crucial injuries for the Astros, especially late in the season. They can only hope that both players can make speedy recoveries. Neither of the players have been put on the DL.
So Houston, Without the aid of Lee's bat, will face the Padres today for the series final. Matt Albers will go up against Greg Maddux. The Astros win the series regardless, but a sweep would be nice.
Andrew Dow
The only two Houston All-stars were injured in last nights game. Starter Roy Oswalt left the game in the fifth inning when he straining his left oblique muscle. He Gave up two runs before he left. The Astros had some good bullpen work after he left. Dave Borkowski, Trever Miller, Chad Qualls, and Brad Lidge pitched four hitless inning to hold on for the win.
Carlos Lee left the game in third inning after he hit the first RBI of the game in the first inning. He left with a strained right hip when he tried to break up a double play.
These are two crucial injuries for the Astros, especially late in the season. They can only hope that both players can make speedy recoveries. Neither of the players have been put on the DL.
So Houston, Without the aid of Lee's bat, will face the Padres today for the series final. Matt Albers will go up against Greg Maddux. The Astros win the series regardless, but a sweep would be nice.
Andrew Dow
8/18/2007
Saturday, August 18, 2007
Lance Berkman hit two homers to lift the Astros past the Padres in the series opener. The first home run was a solo shot in the third inning off of starter Jake Peavy to make the game 1-0. The Padres came back with one run in the fourth to tie the game. Berkman wouldn't stand for that though. He hit a two run blast in the sixth inning to Help Woody William, the former Padre who turns 41 on Sunday, grab the win.
The Houston offense really wasn't working that well. Lucky for them, they had one slugger in the line-up that could power them to the win. Don't count out the pitching though. Houston had some good pitching last night. Williams only let by one run in seven innings of work.
The Houston Astros are going to work once again against the San Diego Padres. It will be the second game of the three game series. We'll see if they can pull off another win behind Ace Roy Oswalt. Oswalt has a five game winning streak going that he'd really like to keep going. I'm looking at it like this. If the Astros can pull out of this series alive, then they have a ten game home stand. The 'Stros have been playing really well at home. The home stand will include a four game series against the Washington Nationals, A three game series against the Pirates, And then a three game series against currently third place Cardinals.
Feel free to give me your thoughts on any of these post!
Andrew Dow
The Houston offense really wasn't working that well. Lucky for them, they had one slugger in the line-up that could power them to the win. Don't count out the pitching though. Houston had some good pitching last night. Williams only let by one run in seven innings of work.
The Houston Astros are going to work once again against the San Diego Padres. It will be the second game of the three game series. We'll see if they can pull off another win behind Ace Roy Oswalt. Oswalt has a five game winning streak going that he'd really like to keep going. I'm looking at it like this. If the Astros can pull out of this series alive, then they have a ten game home stand. The 'Stros have been playing really well at home. The home stand will include a four game series against the Washington Nationals, A three game series against the Pirates, And then a three game series against currently third place Cardinals.
Feel free to give me your thoughts on any of these post!
Andrew Dow
8/17/2007
Friday, August 17, 2007
Houston Wanted a road sweep but couldn't quite grasp it as they split the series with the Dogers. There were way to many errors by the Astros as they fell in the series final six to two. "I didn't feel that the Astros as a whole
could've played much worse," said long time Baseball fan Matt Dow who was an eye Witness to the game.
The Astros didn't do much better on offense as they didn't score anything until the ninth. They tried for a late rally but nothing happened. The Astros offensive slump didn't help Rodriguez as he fell one to nine this season on the road.
If the Astros go into tonights game against the Padres like they did last night it's not going to look good. In the words of Matt, "they're going to have a looong weekend."
I sat down with Matt Dow, who watched the game, for a post game interview. I asked him a couple of questions about the game and the Astros in general. I asked him his thoughts on Rodriguez's outing. He said that he wasn't very impressed, especially after He had, what Matt called, "a hissy fit." If you didn't know, this was Craig Biggio's final game in Doger Stadium. I asked Mr. Dow about the mood in the stadium. He told me that the Doger Fans weren't any more emotional than expected. He told about how he and the few other 'Stro fans there gave him a standing ovation durring his last at bat.
I proceeded to ask him if he got any food in what he called one of the more boring game for Astros fans. He replied that he got, "Super Dodger Dog, a
bag of peanuts, and a Souvenir Cup of Coke." This was only the beginning! He then told me of his second course. He said that he paid eleven dollars for some nachos and another coke. When asked to compare the food with other ballparks, he said, "The Dodger dog was an outstanding dog. Much better
than the dogs at a minor league game. The Nachos however left alot to be desired. The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes offer outstanding nachos. The
peanuts were comparable to a Minor League Stadium, but the Souvenir Cup actually was alot better quality than alot of cups out there today." I then asked him he felt he got a good deal. He replied, "I got hosed."
My many thanks to Matt Dow for that interview.
Andrew Dow
could've played much worse," said long time Baseball fan Matt Dow who was an eye Witness to the game.
The Astros didn't do much better on offense as they didn't score anything until the ninth. They tried for a late rally but nothing happened. The Astros offensive slump didn't help Rodriguez as he fell one to nine this season on the road.
If the Astros go into tonights game against the Padres like they did last night it's not going to look good. In the words of Matt, "they're going to have a looong weekend."
I sat down with Matt Dow, who watched the game, for a post game interview. I asked him a couple of questions about the game and the Astros in general. I asked him his thoughts on Rodriguez's outing. He said that he wasn't very impressed, especially after He had, what Matt called, "a hissy fit." If you didn't know, this was Craig Biggio's final game in Doger Stadium. I asked Mr. Dow about the mood in the stadium. He told me that the Doger Fans weren't any more emotional than expected. He told about how he and the few other 'Stro fans there gave him a standing ovation durring his last at bat.
I proceeded to ask him if he got any food in what he called one of the more boring game for Astros fans. He replied that he got, "Super Dodger Dog, a
bag of peanuts, and a Souvenir Cup of Coke." This was only the beginning! He then told me of his second course. He said that he paid eleven dollars for some nachos and another coke. When asked to compare the food with other ballparks, he said, "The Dodger dog was an outstanding dog. Much better
than the dogs at a minor league game. The Nachos however left alot to be desired. The Rancho Cucamonga Quakes offer outstanding nachos. The
peanuts were comparable to a Minor League Stadium, but the Souvenir Cup actually was alot better quality than alot of cups out there today." I then asked him he felt he got a good deal. He replied, "I got hosed."
My many thanks to Matt Dow for that interview.
Andrew Dow
8/16/2007
Thursday, August 16, 2007
The Astros were looking for the sweep, but couldn't find it as they came up short against the Dogers in last nights game. Jason Jennings threw five strong innings before giving up a three run shot in the sixth to Dogers catcher, Russel Martin. Had that home run not happened, Houston could have easily cruised to there fourth straight win. But Jennings continues to struggle this year as his record is now 2-8.
Wandy Rodriguez will take the mound tonight against Derek Lowe as the Astros try to take three of the series games. Wandy, however has really struggled on the road this year. He has only won one game on the road while he has lost eight games. I'm just hoping he could finally turn his road troubles around and win a game.
If the Astros can get through this game with the Dogers then they will have a three game series in San Diego, and then they will finally get to come home to play the Washington Nationals.
Andrew Dow
Wandy Rodriguez will take the mound tonight against Derek Lowe as the Astros try to take three of the series games. Wandy, however has really struggled on the road this year. He has only won one game on the road while he has lost eight games. I'm just hoping he could finally turn his road troubles around and win a game.
If the Astros can get through this game with the Dogers then they will have a three game series in San Diego, and then they will finally get to come home to play the Washington Nationals.
Andrew Dow
8/15/2007
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
The Astros went into yesterdays game thinking win, and win they did. They now have there third consecutive win, there second straight win on the road. The Astros have been struggling on the road lately. But the Astros are doing exceptionally well in this four game series against the LA Dogers. I've said it before and I'll say it again. If the Astros can get this sweep on the road it would be a huge boost for them.
The Astros went into the sixth inning tied at one. But a load of singles in the sixth put the Astros on top seven to one. That's what the Astos have to keep doing in order to put something together. Put the ball on the ground and move the runners over. If they can do that consistently like they did in this game, they'll be a successful ball club.
The unthinkable happened in the ninth inning to end the game. The Astros were winning seven to four with runners on first and second. the batter, Juan Pierre, hit a high ball straight up behind home plate. Brad Ausmus easily retired the batter and starting walking back toward home plate. He then heard noise coming from the dugout. He looked over and saw Lance berkmen jumping up and down on first base. Mark Sweeney had taken off for second base without tagging up. Ausmus easily threw the ball to first for the double play. He later called it a "freak play."
Jason Jennings and the Astros are ready to face Brad penny and the Dogers in the third game of four. I don't know about you guys but I'm ready to see a sweep!
The Astros went into the sixth inning tied at one. But a load of singles in the sixth put the Astros on top seven to one. That's what the Astos have to keep doing in order to put something together. Put the ball on the ground and move the runners over. If they can do that consistently like they did in this game, they'll be a successful ball club.
The unthinkable happened in the ninth inning to end the game. The Astros were winning seven to four with runners on first and second. the batter, Juan Pierre, hit a high ball straight up behind home plate. Brad Ausmus easily retired the batter and starting walking back toward home plate. He then heard noise coming from the dugout. He looked over and saw Lance berkmen jumping up and down on first base. Mark Sweeney had taken off for second base without tagging up. Ausmus easily threw the ball to first for the double play. He later called it a "freak play."
Jason Jennings and the Astros are ready to face Brad penny and the Dogers in the third game of four. I don't know about you guys but I'm ready to see a sweep!
8/14/2007
Hello!
This is the first blog I've ever had here so we'll see how it goes.
I am a huge Astros fan. I made this blog so I could write some of my thoughts about the games and the seasons.
Hopefully I'll get around to posting on this every day, but that might not turn out like I'd like it too.
So I guess I'll go ahead and make my first Astro Update!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
The Astros, who were 20-38 going into yesterday's road game, came out victorious as Roy Oswalt wins his fifth in a row. The Astros have three games left in this road series against the Dogers. But the Astros are currently the worst national league team on the road. they are the second worst in the major leagues, behind the Devil Rays.
Roy Oswalt earned his 111th win with the help of a two run home run from Jason Lane. The clutch home run came off of Chad Billingsly in the fifth inning to put the Astros on top 4-0. If Jason Lane can, not only hit more clutch hits like this, but also hit less clutch hits, I think we could be hearing a lot more out of him. The Dogers would score only one run in the loss.
In my eyes the Astros just need to take it one game at a time, one team at a time. They need to come in tonight backing Matt Albers with all they've got. A sweep on the road could be a big boost.
Andrew B. Dow
Hopefully I'll get around to posting on this every day, but that might not turn out like I'd like it too.
So I guess I'll go ahead and make my first Astro Update!
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
The Astros, who were 20-38 going into yesterday's road game, came out victorious as Roy Oswalt wins his fifth in a row. The Astros have three games left in this road series against the Dogers. But the Astros are currently the worst national league team on the road. they are the second worst in the major leagues, behind the Devil Rays.
Roy Oswalt earned his 111th win with the help of a two run home run from Jason Lane. The clutch home run came off of Chad Billingsly in the fifth inning to put the Astros on top 4-0. If Jason Lane can, not only hit more clutch hits like this, but also hit less clutch hits, I think we could be hearing a lot more out of him. The Dogers would score only one run in the loss.
In my eyes the Astros just need to take it one game at a time, one team at a time. They need to come in tonight backing Matt Albers with all they've got. A sweep on the road could be a big boost.
Andrew B. Dow
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