MLB The Show: Steelerfan's Houston Astros Franchise [Archive] - Page 3

steelerfan

06-17-2015, 05:56 PM

Ian Kennedy started on the mound in the Astros second game this Spring and Manager Andres Pace allowed him to pitch 5 innings to give him the opportunity to earn a win with his new ball club.

Kennedy did not let his skipper down. In 5 innings he scattered 4 hits, struck out 3, walked 2 and did not allow a run in earning that W. In fact, the only run Houston pitchers allowed in the 4-1 win was unearned. Jesse Crain came in in the 9th and notched his first save of the Spring.

George Springer was 2 for 4 at the plate and even Kennedy chipped in with an RBI single. Charlie Barbour hit the Astros first home run of the Spring in the 4th inning.

HOU 4-7-1
STL 1-6-0

steelerfan

06-17-2015, 07:13 PM

The Astros improved to 3-0 this Spring with a 3-0 win over the New York Yankees on Monday behind another strong pitching performance and a 3-run homer off the bat of shortstop Carlos Correa.

Newly-acquired pitcher Scott Kazmir got his first start with Houston and pitched 5 scoreless innings for the win. Kazmir surrendered just 3 hits, struck out 6 and walked one. Darin Downs pitched a perfect 9th for the save.

Through 3 games, Houston pitchers have allowed just 2 earned runs. Those came back in the opener against Philadelphia when reliever Jason Motte gave up a 2-run home run.

NYY 0-6-0
HOU 3-6-0

steelerfan

06-18-2015, 05:15 AM

Houston's bullpen let down good starting pitching on Tuesday and the suffered their first setback of the Grapefruit League campaign this Spring.

Jon Singleton hit a 2-run shot in the 1st inning to get the Astros off to a quick start and Houston held a 3-2 lead going to the bottom of the ninth but closet Jesse Crain allowed a pair of runs and Detroit walked off 4-3 winners.

All of this after starting pitcher Asher Wojciechowski limited the Tigers to just 2 hits in 5 scoreless innings that included 4 strikeouts and a walk.

HOU 3-6-0
DET 4-10-2

steelerfan

06-18-2015, 10:54 PM

steelerfan

06-19-2015, 01:11 AM

Houston got back into the win column on Thursday night with a 6-3 victory over St. Louis. The Astros pounded out 3 doubles and 5 different hitters drove in runs as they built a 6-0 lead after 3 innings.

Starter Jarred Cosart, working on a pitch count, went 4.2 scoreless innings and allowed just 3 hits.

STL 3-7-0
HOU 6-8-1

jaymo76

06-20-2015, 04:18 PM

The Astros fell again on Wednesday, losing 7-2 to Toronto.

Brett Oberholtzer took the loss, becoming the first Houston starter to surrender a run this Spring. Obi allowed 4 of them, in fact, on 4 hits in just 3.2 innings of work.

HOU 2-7-0
TOR 7-7-0

Nothing personal Steeler but fictional or reality I need to cheer on my Jays! Go T.O.!!!

By the way, I am stunned how quickly you finished your season. At this rate you can easily get another full season in before FIFA releases. "Get 'er done!"

steelerfan

06-21-2015, 09:10 AM

Nothing personal Steeler but fictional or reality I need to cheer on my Jays! Go T.O.!!!

By the way, I am stunned how quickly you finished your season. At this rate you can easily get another full season in before FIFA releases. "Get 'er done!"
Yeah, I'm thinking that I can get another season in without any real problem. However I think the determining factor will be how screwy the scheduling is in the next season. If I can deal with it, I will.

steelerfan

06-21-2015, 09:18 AM

After taking Friday off, the Astros lost 6-4 to Detroit on Saturday.

Rookie Juan Valencia, who is battling for the DH spot on the roster, hit his first home run of the Spring on a day that saw him go 3 for 4 and raise his average to .318.

Ian Kennedy lasted just 4 innings in a no-decision. Kennedy allowed 2 runs on 4 hits. The loss went to reliever Bruce Rondon.

DET 6-6-1
HOU 4-9-1

On Sunday the Astros lost again, this time it was a 7-5 defeat to the Nationals.

Scott Kazmir went 4 innings and allowed 3 runs (2 earned) on 4 hits. Luis Cruz took the loss.

HOU 5-7-1
WAS 7-11-0

steelerfan

06-22-2015, 11:29 AM

On Monday Delino DeShields, Jr. went 3 for 3 with a 2-run home run but the Astros lost to Atlanta, 8-3.

Asher Wojciechowski was the losing pitcher. Wojo lasted just 3 innings and allowed 5 runs on 7 hits.

HOU 3-6-0
ATL 8-12-0

Also on Monday, the Astros claimed RP Matt Albers off waivers from the Oakland Athletics and placed RP Bruce Rondon on outright assignment waivers.

Albers was traded to the A's just over a week ago as part of a six-player deal that brought Scott Kazmir and Luke Gregerson to Houston.

The Astros lost their fourth in a row on Tuesday, falling 2-1 to Washington.

Brett Oberholtzer allowed a run on 5 hits in 5 innings but did not factor in the decision as Gregerson took the L out of the bullpen.

WAS 2-10-0
HOU 1-7-1

steelerfan

06-23-2015, 11:44 AM

Mike Foltynewicz took the mound on Wednesday against Atlanta and allowed just 2 runs on 2 hits in 5 innings. However, he left the game with the Astros trailing 2-0 and would wind up the loser in a 7-2 decision.

ATL 7-7-2
HOU 2-6-1

The losing continued on Thursday as Houston lost their 6th in a row. This time it was a 6-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Chris Carter and Domonic Brown each homered for Houston but it was not enough to stop the losing streak which is, no doubt, heavily attributed to the Astros use of their full roster this Spring.

Brad Peacock got the start for Houston and pitched 4 innings, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits. Jason Motte took the loss as he allowed 3 runs on 3 hits, including a home run, in an inning of work.

Former Astro Scott Feldman started for the Pirates. Feldman surrendered 2 runs on 5 hits, including Carter's 2nd inning bomb.

HOU 3-13-0
PIT 6-11-0

steelerfan

07-06-2015, 08:38 AM

Following the waiver claim of Matt Albers from Oakland and having Bruce Rondon clear waivers, the Astros were forced to make room on their 90-man roster and have released 25-year-old 1B Chris Serritella (52, D). Serritella was acquired as part of a 6-man deal with the Philadelphia Phillies last July.

steelerfan

07-06-2015, 06:53 PM

The more they play, the more they lose.

The Astros Spring Training losing streak has reached 8 games and they have lost 10 of 11, after winning their first 3 Grapefruit League contests.

However, first-year skipper Andres Pace does not seem too concerned. "It's about evaluating players, finding the right 25, getting guys work. Not so much about winning, but we certainly don't want this losing to be comfortable, habitual. I don't believe it's either. The guys are working hard and we're not managing these games situationally."

On Saturday Houston lost to the Mets, 6-4. Matt Dominguez continued his hot Spring as he went 3 for 4 with a run and an RBI.

Mark Appel got his first start of the Spring and pitched well. Appel allowed 2 runs on 3 hits with 6 strikeouts and 2 walks in 5 innings. However, closer Jesse Crain allowed 3 runs in the bottom of the 9th and took his second loss. Crain's ERA has ballooned to 19.28.

Eric Gutierrez hit his first professional home run in a 6-4 loss to Washington on Sunday. Gutierrez went 2 for 2 with a run and 2 RBI.

Luis Cruz took the mound for Houston and allowed 2 runs on 4 hits with a strikeout and 3 walks in 5 innings on the hill. Jason Stoffel have up 4 runs in the 8th to suffer his first defeat of the Spring.

HOU 4-12-1
NYM 6-7-0

WAS 6-9-0
HOU 4-10-1

steelerfan

07-07-2015, 09:29 PM

The Astros snapped their 8-game losing streak with a 7-4 win over the Yankees on Monday.

Matt Dominguez continued his hot Spring, going 2 for 3 with a run and an RBI.

Paul Clemens pitched 5 scoreless innings, allowing just 4 hits, for his first win and Jesse Crain hurled a perfect 9th inning for his second save.

HOU 7-8-0
NYY 4-8-1

On Tuesday manager Andres Pace took the pitch count collar off of Jarred Cosart - something he plans to do for each starter for one start this Spring - and Houston won their second in a row.

Cosart responded with a complete game and allowed just one run on 5 hits while striking out 10 and not issuing a walk.

Dominguez was 1 for 3 with a double and a run scored as the third sacker saw his Spring average dip below .400 to .393.

PIT 1-5-0
HOU 2-6-0

steelerfan

07-08-2015, 11:50 PM

Houston continued their winning ways with two more wins on Wednesday and Thursday, improving their record to 8-10 and lengthening their winning streak to 4 games.

Dexter Fowler went 2 for 4 with a double and 3 RBI in a 5-2 win over Atlanta on Wednesday.

On the mound, Ian Kennedy allowed one run on 7 hits with 5 strikeouts and a walk in 6 innings and Jesse Crain earned his 3rd save with a perfect ninth inning.

ATL 2-11-1
HOU 5-8-1

On Thursday the Astros got a triple from Chris Carter, who went 2 for 3, and a solo home run from Matt Dominguez in a 3-1 win over the Mets.

Scott Kazmir pitched 7 innings and surrendered 1 run on 7 hits with 6 Ks and he did not issue a base on balls. Crain allowed a hit and a walk in the ninth inning but held on for his 4th save.

HOU 3-8-0
NYM 1-9-1

steelerfan

07-12-2015, 02:19 PM

The Astros 4-game winning streak ended with a 1-0 ten inning loss to the Phillies on Thursday.

Asher Wojciechowski went 7 scoreless innings, struck out 5, walked 4 and allowed 5 hits in a no-decision. Luis Cruz (0-2, 7.71) was tagged for the loss.

HOU 0-4-0
PHI 1-8-0

Houston took Saturday off before getting back into the win column with a 2-1 victory over the Marlins.

Jon Singleton went 2 for 4 with a solo home run to lead the attack while Brett Oberholtzer pitched 8 innings and allowed a run on 6 hits with 4 Ks and a walk to improve to 1-1. Jesse Crain notched his 5th save.

MIA 1-6-0
HOU 2-6-2

steelerfan

07-15-2015, 06:53 PM

The Astros dropped 2 more games on Monday and Tuesday, losing to the Marlins and the Yankees.

Mike Foltynewicz took the loss against Miami as he allowed 2 runs (1 earned) on 6 hits with 5 strikeouts and no walks in 6.2 innings.

With a lineup of fringe, bubble and minor league players - something manager Andres Pace plans to deploy for much, if not all, of the remainder of Spring Training - the only punch came from a Jon Singleton 7th inning solo homer.

HOU 1-3-1
MIA 2-8-0

On Tuesday George Springer's 9th inning pinch-hit double was the line offensive bright spot in a 6-0 loss.

Mark Appel was the loading pitcher for Houston. He pitched 5 innings and surrendered a pair of runs on 5 hits but walked a whopping 8 while punching out 3.

NYY 6-11-2
HOU 0-4-1

jaymo76

07-15-2015, 07:27 PM

Going for one more full season before FIFA?

steelerfan

07-15-2015, 08:53 PM

Going for one more full season before FIFA?
I don't think so, buddy. I think I'm going to finish the Spring and quit until next year. I'm thinking about being Madden simply because I don't have a current gen American Football game. I'm probably regret getting Madden but, oh well, it's only $60.

jaymo76

07-16-2015, 12:31 AM

I don't think so, buddy. I think I'm going to finish the Spring and quit until next year. I'm thinking about being Madden simply because I don't have a current gen American Football game. I'm probably regret getting Madden but, oh well, it's only $60.

Yup gotta get your football fix. Last time you were thinking about starting a new Stros franchise with this year's players. This the last time we will see the 2014 esque Houston Astros dynasty?

steelerfan

07-16-2015, 12:46 AM

Yup gotta get your football fix. Last time you were thinking about starting a new Stros franchise with this year's players. This the last time we will see the 2014 esque Houston Astros dynasty?
No. I have no plans to discontinue this franchise in the foreseeable future. I will continue with this same file in MLB 16 and beyond.

steelerfan

02-03-2016, 11:46 AM

The Astros losing streak reached 3 games with a loss to the Tigers.

DET 4-10-1
HOU 1-2-0

Houston continues to struggle offensively this Spring as Jose Altuve and Juan Valencia managed to reach on a pair of singles for the Astros only hits.

Matt Albers took the loss, allowing 3 runs on 2 hits with 2 walks and a strikeout in a very rough ninth inning.

Houston will take Saturday off before wrapping up the Spring schedule with games against Kansas City on Sunday and Monday.

steelerfan

02-05-2016, 01:36 AM

The Astros' losing streak and offensive woes vanished with an 8-3 win on Sunday.

KC 3-14-2
HOU 8-9-0

Backup catcher Carlos Perez led the charge with 3 hits while Alex Presley had a pair of doubles and 3 RBI. Ronald Torreyes was 1 for 2 with 2 walks, a double and 3 runs scored.

Houston and Kansas City play again at 1:05 tomorrow to end the Spring schedule.

steelerfan

02-05-2016, 04:12 AM

Alex Grossman and Charlie Barbour each had a pair of hits but Paul Clemens was tagged for 6 runs in 3.1 innings and the Astros ended the Spring with a 6-4 loss to the Royals at Minute Maid Park.

KC 6-13-1
HOU 4-6-0

Houston finished 11-16 in the Grapefruit League which was only better than Baltimore (10-19).

The Astros struggled to produce at the plate throughout Spring Training. Houston hit just .215 and had a Slugging % of .308 while their On-Base % was just .270.

The Astros had only 52 extra base hits and just 11 of those were home runs.

The Astros pitching staff had a cumulative ERA of 3.66. The Astros hit .255 with a 3.98 ERA in 2015.

steelerfan

03-03-2016, 04:07 AM

Went through this thread tonight and read alot of it, to give myself a little refresher on how I got from 2014 to 2016. I am so ready to get back to this franchise and my 3rd season with the Astros!

I'm really excited at the prospect of eventually seeing my 2014 1st overall pick, Omar Espinoza, reach the Majors. I'm not too sure that will happen in 2016 but it almost certainly will in 2017.

That is the beauty of year-to-year saves. I drafted that kid 2 years ago (2 real years) and I'm still anticipating his arrival. Whenever, even in the offseason, I sit around and think about this Franchise and where it will go and how it will unfold I think about Omar Espinoza. It's crazy that a fictitious player in a baseball video game is so important to me but it's because I'm so vested in this Franchise. I want to play his entire career eventually even if that means I'm using this same save file on MLB The Show 35, lol.

JBHuskers

03-03-2016, 11:56 AM

steelerfan

05-16-2016, 06:12 AM

Just a little update on this Franchise.

Patch 1.05 dropped this morning and I've had a chance to look at my roster and, specifically, at Morale. It appears as though this latest update has fixed the prior issues with Morale (every player expected to be an Ace, Closer or Star).

Unless something else breaks with this patch, I'm ready to get back into this Franchise.

Go Astros!

steelerfan

05-16-2016, 08:39 PM

2016 Houston Astros Opening Day Roster

Lineup
2B Jose Altuve 85
CF Dexter Fowler 86
RF George Springer 85
1B Chris Carter 85
LF Domonic Brown 87
DH Juan Valencia* 75
C Jason Castro 81
SS Carlos Correa 80
3B Matt Dominguez 76

Bench
MIF Ronald Torreyes* 74
C/CIF Charlie Barbour 71
IF Eric Gutierrez* 73
OF Alex Presley 72

Rotation
R Jarred Cosart 90
R Ian Kennedy 85
L Scott Kazmir 84
R Asher Wojciechowski 76
L Brett Oberholtzer 80

Bullpen
R Mike Foltynewicz 76

R Jason Motte 81
L Darin Downs 68
R Josh Fields 75

L JP Howell 78
R Luke Gregerson 79

R Jesse Crain 83

*denotes MLB rookie

Rest of 40-man Roster
SP Luis Cruz 75
SP Brad Peacock 74
SP Mark Appel 73
RP Matt Albers 71
LF Randy Grossman 71
SP Paul Clemens 70
SS Adeiny Hechavarria 70
C Carlos Perez 70
2B Emil Arnez 69
1B Jon Singleton 68
RP Jason Stoffel 68
RP Anthony Bass 67
SS Marwin Gonzalez 67
C Tyler Heineman 67
CF Delino DeShields 67

Other Notable AAA Players
3B Stanley Knott 68 D
RP Bruce Rondon 68 B
RF Andrew Aplin 66 B
LF Austin Dean 66 B
1B Clint Robinson 63 C
CP Will Looney 61 B

Notable AA Players
SP Omar Espinoza 72 A
SP Brady Rodgers 72 C
SP Nick Tropeano 71 B
SP Lance McCullers 69 B
3B Rio Ruiz 68 B
LF Marco Pena 63 B
CF Teoscar Hernandez 62 B
LF Vaughn Sambol 62 B

Notable A Players
SP Vincent Velasquez 68 B

steelerfan

05-16-2016, 10:47 PM

2016 Houston Astros Staff

General Manager: Jeff Luhnow
Contract Status: Year 2 of 3
Job Security: Average
GM Rating: A
Yearly Goal: Finish over .500
Contract Goal: Reach Postseason (Achieved)

Manager: Andres Pace
Coach Attributes: A
Reaction: +3
Arm Accuracy: +2
Plate Vision: -1
Velocity +1

Hitting Coach: Joel Shelton
Coach Attributes: A
Plate Discipline: -2
Power: +2
Contact: +3
Batting Clutch: +2

Pitching Coach: Stephen Vasquez
Coach Attributes: A
Pitching Clutch: +2
BB/9: +2
Stamina: +3
H/9: -2

1st Base Coach: Rickie Edmonson
Coach Attributes: A
Arm Accuracy: +1
Blocking: +1
Speed: +1
Stealing: +2

3rd Base Coach: Bryan Paquette
Coach Attributes: B
Durability: +1
Stealing: +1
Blocking: -1
Arm Accuracy: -2

Farm Director: Kirby McFarland
Coach Attributes: A
Plate Vision: +3
Batting Clutch: +1
BB/9: +1
Stealing: +1

Scouting Staff:
Central Region
Erik Sexton

West Region
Brian Roche

International
Derek Moore
JP Price

steelerfan

05-16-2016, 10:56 PM

2016 Houston Astros Budget

Total Budget: 88.57M
Team Revenue: 74.3M
Postseason Bonus: 885K
Revenue Sharing: 13.3M
Sponsorships: TBD*

Total Payroll: 87.56M
Player Salaries: 67.3M
Coach Salaries: 9.0M
Scout Salaries: 11.2M

2016 Competitive Balance Tax Threshold: 169M

*Sponsorships
News Ticker: Louisville Slugger Gold - 30K per win
Active Replay: Wilson Gold - 55K per save
Batter Walk-up: Rawlings - 20K per game

steelerfan

05-16-2016, 11:02 PM

Houston Astros vs New York Yankees
April 3, 5-6, 2016
Yankee Stadium - Bronx, NY

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 1:05 PM
Jarred Cosart vs Masahiro Tanaka

Game Two - Wednesday 7:05 PM
Ian Kennedy vs Ivan Nova

Game Three - Thursday 1:05 PM
Scott Kazmir vs Michael Pineda

steelerfan

05-16-2016, 11:11 PM

2016 mlb.com Predictions:

AL East
Toronto
Tampa Bay
Baltimore
NY Yankees
Boston

AL Central
Cleveland
Kansas City
Detroit
ChiSox
Minnesota

AL West
Oakland
Houston
Texas
Seattle
LA Angels

AL Wildcards: Royals, Rays

AL Champions: Indians

NL East
Washington
Atlanta
Miami
NY Mets
Philadelphia

NL Central
St. Louis
Pittsburgh
Cincinnati
Milwaukee
ChiCubs

NL West
LA Dodgers
Arizona
San Diego
San Francisco
Colorado

NL Wildcards: Braves, Pirates

NL Champions: LA Dodgers

2016 World Series Champions: Los Angeles Dodgers

Recent World Champions:
2014: Los Angeles Dodgers
2015: Atlanta Braves

Astros Recent History:
2014: 83-79 (missed Postseason)
2015: 85-78 (lost ALWC)

steelerfan

05-17-2016, 05:54 AM

The Astros opened the 2016 season with a 3-game sweep of the New York Yankees in the Bronx behind good pitching and some very hot bats.

Houston hit .347 in the series and tracked up 15 extra base hits, including 4 long balls. The Astros were led by Domonic Brown who picked up where he left off in 2015 with 3 home runs and 6 RBI in the series. Brown won a Silver Slugger Award for AL outfielders last season, hitting .286 with 26 homers and 63 runs batted in.

Jose Altuve went 5 for 6 in the series finale to run his average to .533 early in the season to go with a triple and 3 runs driven in. Rookie Juan Valencia hit .417 with a pair of RBI and 2 doubles.

Jarred Cosart earned the win on Opening Day, lasting 5.2 innings and allowing 1 run on 3 hits with 7 Ks and 2 walks. Jesse Crain pitched the 9th and notched his first save of the season.

Ian Kennedy was the winner in game 2, going 6 innings and allowing 3 runs on 3 hits with 5 punch outs and 2 walks. Long man Mike Foltynewicz earned a save after allowing just 2 hits with 5 strikeouts over the final 3 innings.

Scott Kazmir allowed 3 runs on 6 hits with 4 Ks and 3 walks in 6 innings of work in the series finale to earn the W.

The Astros will travel to Milwaukee for 3 games with the Brewers beginning on Friday.

HOU 4-9-1
NYY 2-6-0

HOU 8-15-0
NYY 3-5-0

HOU 8-17-0
NYY 3-9-1

steelerfan

05-17-2016, 05:59 AM

Houston Astros (3-0) at Milwaukee Brewers (2-1)
April 7-9, 2016
Miller Park - Milwaukee, WI

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:10 PM
Asher Wojciechowski (NR) vs Wily Peralta (NR)

Game Two - Saturday 7:10 PM
Brett Oberholtzer (NR) vs Mike Fiers (NR)

Game Three - Sunday 1:10 PM
Jarred Cosart (1-0, 1.59) vs Matt Garza (1-0, 1.50)

steelerfan

05-18-2016, 03:17 AM

The Astros used strong pitching and some timely hitting to come away with a second consecutive series sweep to open the 2016 season as they took 3 of 3 in Milwaukee.

In the opener, Houston trailed 2-0 with runners on the corners and one out in the top of the 9th when rookie Eric Gutierrez came on to pinch hit for Matt Dominguez.

Gutierrez delivered with a 416-foot blast to left-center, the first homer of his career, that lifted the Astros to a 3-2 win.

Asher Wojciechowski lasted 6 innings, allowing 2 runs on 6 hits with 7 strikeouts and a walk but did not factor in the decision. The W went to Luke Gregerson who pitched a perfect 8th inning and was followed by closer Jesse Crain who earned his second save.

The Astros used a 4-run 2nd inning in game 2 to propel them to a 7-3 victory. George Springer was a home run short of a cycle as he went 3 for 5 with 2 RBI and 3 runs scored.

Lefty Brett Oberholtzer earned the victory by scattering 5 hits over 6 innings while allowing 2 runs with just 1 K and no walks. Jason Motte earned a save by recording the game's final out, after coming in with the bases loaded and 2 out in the 9th.

Matt Dominguez hit a 3-run home run to right field in the top of the 5th of game 3 and it was enough to provide the difference in a 4-1 Houston win.

Ace Jarred Cosart improved to 2-0, pitching 7 innings and allowing just 1 run on 4 hits with 7 punch outs. Jesse Crain earned save number 3 of the season.

Houston is 6-0 for just the second time in franchise history (1987) and will play their home opener on Monday afternoon when they host the Kansas City Royals at Minute Maid Park in the first of 4 between the clubs.

Houston has never started a season with 7 consecutive wins.

HOU 3-10-0
MIL 2-7-1

HOU 7-9-1
MIL 3-6-1

HOU 4-8-0
MIL 1-4-0

steelerfan

05-18-2016, 03:24 AM

Kansas City Royals (2-3) vs Houston Astros (6-0)
April 10-13, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 1:10 PM
James Shields (0-0, 7.20) vs Ian Kennedy (1-0, 4.50)

Game Two - Tuesday 7:10 PM
Archie Bradley (0-1, 4.50) vs Scott Kazmir (1-0, 4.50)

Game Three - Wednesday 7:10 PM
Jason Vargas (1-0, 1.00) vs Asher Wojciechowski (0-0, 3.00)

Game Four - Thursday 1:10 PM
Tyler Thornburg (0-0, 1.13) vs Brett Oberholtzer (1-0, 3.00)

steelerfan

05-19-2016, 06:40 AM

The Astros franchise-record-tying 6-0 start was a distant memory by Thursday morning after the Royals took the first 3 games of a 4-game series at Minute Maid Park.

In the opener, Houston fell in 10 innings as reliever JP Howell took the loss. Starter Ian Kennedy allowed 3 runs on 5 hits with 2 Ks and 3 walks in 6 innings in his second start of the season.

Houston fell behind 7-0 in the 4th inning of game two before getting home runs from Domonic Brown, Carlos Correa and Charlie Barbour helped cut the deficit to 7-5 after 7.

The Astros could pull no closer and starter Scott Kazmir took his first loss of 2016. Kazmir was chased from the game after just 3.2 innings. Kazmir surrendered 7 runs on 10 hits while walking 2 and punching out just 1.

Game 3 was a marathon that would test the endurance of both clubs.

Chris Carter and Eric Gutierrez each hit their 2nd home run of the season but the Astros eventually lost again, 6-5 in 17 innings.

Starting pitcher Asher Wojciechowski went 6 innings. He allowed 3 runs (2 earned) on 4 hits with 4 strikeouts and 3 walks in the no-decision.

Houston used 9 pitchers in the game and the loss eventually went to Kazmir who had started and lost game 2. The Astros were even forced to have Brett Oberholtzer, the scheduled starter for game 4, get loose in the bullpen in case the game went to an 18th inning.

Due to an extremely fatigued bullpen, Houston made a roster move after game 3, recalling pitcher Brad Peacock from AAA Fresno and optioning infielder Ronald Torreyes to Fresno.

A Jose Altuve inside-the-park home run helped Houston earn their first home win of the year in game 4, 3-1.

Brett Oberholtzer gave the bullpen some much-needed rest in the finale. Oberholtzer reserved his second win of the season, lasting 8 innings and allowing just 1 run on 4 hits with 2 walks and 4 strikeouts.

Jesse Crain shut the door in the 9th for his 4th save of 2016 and the 100th of his career.

The Astros will close the 7-game opening home stand with a 3-game weekend series with the Detroit Tigers, before taking Monday off.

KC 5-11-0 F/10
HOU 3-4-0

KC 7-11-1
HOU 5-9-0

KC 6-13-1 F/17
HOU 5-17-2

KC 1-5-3
HOU 3-9-1

AL West Standings through Thursday, April 13, 2016:

Mariners 7-2
Astros 7-3
Angels 5-4
Athletics 4-6
Rangers 4-7

steelerfan

05-19-2016, 06:45 AM

Detroit Tigers (4-5) vs Houston Astros (7-3)
April 14-16, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:10 PM
Luke Jackson (0-1, 7.20) vs Jarred Cosart (2-0, 1.42)

Game Two - Saturday 7:10 PM
Justin Verlander (0-0, 0.57) vs Ian Kennedy (1-0, 4.50)

Game Three - Sunday 1:10 PM
Max Scherzer (1-1, 2.57) vs Scott Kazmir (1-2, 8.49)

steelerfan

05-19-2016, 07:03 AM

Some notes through the first 10 games of 2016:

George Springer is off to a hot start at the plate, hitting .400 in his first 45 at-bats. However, Springer has not hit a home run yet.

Domonic Brown has hit .294 with 4 homers and 9 RBI.

Rookie Juan Valencia is off to a good start. The 21-year-old has hit .292 in his first 24 ABs, being used mostly as a DH.

Rookie Eric Gutierrez is hitting .313 in 16 at-bats with 2 home runs and 5 RBI. However, he has committed 3 errors and had a dismal .864 fielding percentage.

Astros Team Statistics (MLB Rank in parenthesis)

Average: .280 (4)
Runs: 50 (T-4)
Doubles: 22 (2)
Triples: 4 (T-1)
Home Runs: 13 (T-8)
RBI: 48 (5)
Stolen Bases: 6 (T-9)
Stolen Base %: .545 (24)
Walks: 29 (T-13)
Strikeouts: 88 (29)
Slugging: .461 (4)
On-Base %: .333 (6)
Total Bases: 176 (1)
GIDP: 8 (T-23)

Assists: 108 (1)
Put Outs: 297 (1)
Errors: 5 (T-18)
Fielding %: .988 (T-12)
ERA: 2.82 (3)
Saves: 6 (1)
Blown Saves: 2 (T-25)
Hits: 77 (T-10)
Runs: 33 (9)
Earned Runs: 31 (T-9)
Home Runs: 6 (T-1)
Walks: 31 (T-20)
Strikeouts: 78 (T-10)

steelerfan

05-20-2016, 03:34 PM

The Astros woes continued through the weekend as they dropped 2 of 3 to the Detroit Tigers and fell to 8-5 on the season. Houston finished the home stand at 2-5.

Dexter Fowler homered in the series-opener but that was the extent of the Houston offense as the Tigers were 2-1 winners.

Jarred Cosart was very strong in the outing and he gave the weary bullpen some much-needed rest but he took his first loss of the season. Cosart lasted 8 innings and allowed 2 runs on just 5 hits with 8 strikeouts and a walk.

Jason Castro and rookie Eric Gutierrez both hit home runs in game 2 and Ian Kennedy was dominant in earning a complete game shutout.

In the 4-0 win, Kennedy scattered 4 runs over the 9 innings as he punched out 6 and walked just 1.

With Scott Kazmir needing more rest after starting and then relieving in consecutive games against the Royals, manager Andres Pace gave the game 3 nod to Brad Peacock. Peacock was recalled from Fresno on Thursday night to give Pace an extra arm to offset an exhausted bullpen.

Peacock did not deliver and lasted just 3 innings, allowing 4 runs on 7 hits which included 3 long balls. The Astros, who came in among baseball's best with just 6 home runs allowed, surrendered a total of 5 homers on Sunday in a 9-4 loss.

Houston rookie Juan Valencia did manage his first home run of his career, in a line bright spot for the home nine.

Following Sunday's loss, the club announced that Peacock would be optioned back to Fresno and that infielder Ronald Torreyes would be recalled from the Triple-A affiliate. Torreyes was sent down on Thursday to make room for Peacock on the big club's roster.

The Astros will get a much-needed day off on Monday, before playing a 3-game series in Arlington against the Texas Rangers between Tuesday and Thursday.

DET 2-5-1
HOU 1-5-0

DET 0-4-0
HOU 4-7-0

DET 9-14-0
HOU 4-8-0

steelerfan

05-20-2016, 03:38 PM

Roster note: In 15 innings out of the bullpen as the Astros long-reliever, Mike Foltynewicz has posted a 1.20 ERA while striking out an astonishing 24 batters and walking just 3. If this pace continues, it will be difficult to keep him out of the starting rotation. It's certainly something the club is monitoring.

steelerfan

05-20-2016, 03:46 PM

Houston Astros (8-5) vs Texas Rangers (5-9)
April 18-20, 2016
Globe Life Park - Arlington, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Tuesday 7:05 PM
Asher Wojciechowski (0-0, 3.00) vs Derek Holland (0-1, 1.93)

Game Two - Wednesday 7:05 PM
Brett Oberholtzer (2-0, 1.93) vs Yu Darvish (2-0, 2.49)

Game Three - Thursday 2:05 PM
Jarred Cosart (2-1, 1.74) vs Clay Buchholz (0-2, 8.04)

AL West Standings through Monday, April 17, 2016

Mariners 10-2
Astros 8-5
Angels 5-8
Athletics 5-8
Rangers 5-9

steelerfan

05-20-2016, 11:32 PM

4/14/16

The Chicago Cubs acquired RF Gerardo Parra from the Arizona Diamondbacks for SP Rob Zastryzny and CP Andy Machado.

Gerardo Parra (assigned to MLB)
Age 28
OVR 75
POT B

Rob Zastryzny (AAA Reno)
Age 24
OVR 70
POT B

Andy Machado (AAA Reno)
Age 23
OVR 58
POT B

JBHuskers

05-21-2016, 12:34 AM

Weird considering all the depth they have their in real life unless a couple are hurt.

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steelerfan

05-21-2016, 05:36 AM

Weird considering all the depth they have their in real life unless a couple are hurt.

Sent from my SM-G930V using Tapatalk
This Franchise has gone on since 2014, you have to throw out alot of what you know about their current roster (ex. I still have Dexter Fowler).

Edit: Cubs outfielders on MLB roster:

Active
Gerardo Parra 75
Mike Trout 95
Junior Lake 77
Kole Calhoun 69
Jorge Soler 69

15-day DL
Justin Ruggiano 69 (Hamstring, 1-6 days)

steelerfan

05-21-2016, 07:49 AM

The Astros took 2 of 3 in Arlington to run their road record to 8-1 on the season.

Matt Dominguez homered in the opener and Jason Motte earned the win out of the bullpen while Jesse Crain notched save number 5 as the Astros were 5-4 winners in 13 innings.

Starter Asher Wojciechowski lasted 6.1 innings but allowed 4 runs on 7 hits with 4 Ks and 2 walks.

Domonic Brown hit his 5th homer of the season in game 2 but Brett Oberholtzer took his first loss after giving up 4 runs on 4 hits with 3 strikeouts and 5 walks in 6 innings as Texas won it, 5-3.

Dominguez hit a long ball in the 3rd and George Springer's 412-foot grand slam - his first home run of the season - capped a 6-run 9th inning as Houston rallied for an 8-3 win in the rubber match.

Jarred Cosart went 7 innings for the Astros, allowing 3 runs on 8 hits with 6 Ks and a walk in a no-decision. Luke Gregerson earned his second win in relief.

Up next the Astros return home, where they are 2-5, for a 3-game weekend series with the Boston Red Sox.

HOU 5-17-0 F/13
TEX 4-12-0

HOU 3-6-0
TEX 5-7-0

HOU 8-11-1
TEX 3-9-1

AL WEST STANDINGS through Thursday, April 20, 2016

Mariners 13-2
Astros 10-6
Athletics 8-8
Angels 7-9
Rangers 6-11

steelerfan

05-21-2016, 07:54 AM

Boston Red Sox (4-12) vs Houston Astros (10-6)
April 21-23, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:10 PM
Henry Owens (0-2, 4.05) vs Ian Kennedy (2-0, 2.57)

Game Two - Saturday 1:10 PM
Robbie Erlin (1-2, 4.58) vs Scott Kazmir (1-2, 8.49)

Game Three - Sunday 1:10 PM
Anthony Ranaudo (0-3, 7.02) vs Asher Wojciechowski (0-0, 3.93)

JBHuskers

05-21-2016, 11:18 AM

This Franchise has gone on since 2014, you have to throw out alot of what you know about their current roster (ex. I still have Dexter Fowler).

Edit: Cubs outfielders on MLB roster:

Active
Gerardo Parra 75
Mike Trout 95
Junior Lake 77
Kole Calhoun 69
Jorge Soler 69

15-day DL
Justin Ruggiano 69 (Hamstring, 1-6 days)
Trout and Calhoun! Nice!

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steelerfan

05-21-2016, 12:11 PM

Trout and Calhoun! Nice!

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Yeah, but if you look back a few pages they traded Bryant as part of a package to get Trout. Bryant is only like a 76 A though.

jaymo76

05-21-2016, 02:49 PM

Good to see you playing again buddy. Life is just so busy right now. I will need to catch up more thoroughly with your career when I get a chance.

steelerfan

05-21-2016, 08:24 PM

Good to see you playing again buddy. Life is just so busy right now. I will need to catch up more thoroughly with your career when I get a chance.
Thanks, bud. Probably my favorite time of the gaming year is playing my Astros Franchise on The Show. I'm really excited to be back at it.

steelerfan

05-22-2016, 07:32 AM

Domonic Brown hit a home run and Ian Kennedy pitched 8 solid innings but Mike Foltynewicz surrendered the game-winning run in the 11th inning as Boston took game one on Friday, 3-2.

Kennedy allowed 2 runs on 5 hits with 3 strikeouts and 2 walks.

Powered by Charlie Barbour's 3-run homer in the 2nd inning, Houston bounced back for a 4-2 win in game 2.

Scott Kazmir notched his second win of the year, pitching 6 innings and allowing 2 runs on 6 hits with 6 Ks and 2 walks. Jesse Crain recorded his 6th save of 2016, closing the for in the ninth.

Carlos Correa homered in the finale but shaky pitching donned the Astros as the Red Sox took the rubber match of the series, 9-6.

Asher Wojciechowski fell to 0-1, after giving up 6 runs on 7 hits with 6 strikeouts and 4 bases on balls.

The Astros troubling start at Minute Maid Park has their record at home now sitting at 3-7.

Houston will hit the road for 6 games with 3 in Seattle, 3 in Oakland and a day off in between.

BOS 3-8-0 F/11
HOU 2-6-0

BOS 2-8-0
HOU 4-7-0

BOS 9-11-0
HOU 6-14-2

AL WEST STANDINGS through Sunday, April 23, 2016

Mariners 14-4
Astros 11-8
Athletics 11-8
Angels 9-10
Rangers 8-12

steelerfan

05-22-2016, 07:37 AM

Houston Astros (11-8) vs Seattle Mariners (14-4)
April 24-26, 2016
Safeco Field - Seattle, Washington

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 7:10 PM
Brett Oberholtzer (2-1, 3.15) vs Jaime Garcia (1-0, 3.00)

Game Two - Tuesday 7:10 PM
Jarred Cosart (2-1, 2.28) vs Erasmo Ramirez (3-0. 1.19)

Game Three - Wednesday 1:10 PM
Ian Kennedy (2-0, 2.48) vs Felix Hernandez (2-1, 1.95)

steelerfan

05-22-2016, 07:55 AM

Astros Diamond Notes:

- Manager Andres Pace announced that Mike Foltynewicz will take over the 4th spot in the rotation, moving Asher Wojciechowski into the long-relief role.

In 4 starts Wojciechowski has gone 0-1 with a 5.48 ERA and has just 2 quality outings with a WHIP of 1.48.

Meanwhile, Foltynewicz has made 7 relief appearances and has amassed 20.1 innings. Mike is 0-1 with a 1.33 ERA and has struck out 27 while walking just 3 and earning a WHIP of just 0.69.

- Reliever Jason Motte, who signed a 4-year deal worth $14.4M with Houston before the 2015 season seems to have finally found his stride with the Astros.

After posting a 7.36 ERA in 2015, often looking like he was throwing batting practice, and spending much of the season in AAA Fresno, Motte had another rough Spring this year.

But Motte has been solid to start the new campaign. In 9 appearances, Jason has pitched 9.2 innings, is 1-0 with a save, and has a 0.93 ERA and a WHIP of 1.14.

- George Springer is 7th in the AL with a .333 batting average, 3rd with 7 doubles.

- Domonic Brown is 3rd in the AL with 6 home runs and 1st with 15 runs.

steelerfan

05-23-2016, 06:04 AM

The Astros dropped 2 of 3 in Seattle to the division-leading Mariners.

Domonic Brown and Matt Dominguez each homered in the opener to lead the charge for Houston as the Astros jumped to a 5-0 lead in the 2nd inning.

However, their pitching would let them down and the M's talked for a 6-5 win.

Brett Oberholtzer allowed 4 runs on 6 hits with 6 Ks in 6 innings of work for the no-decision. Josh Fields took the loss in relief, allowing a run on one hit in one inning on the hill.

Houston took a 5-2 loss in game 2 as Jarred Cosart fell to 2-2 as he surrendered 4 runs on 4 hits with 11 strikeouts and 5 walks in just 5.1 innings. At one point, Cosart struck out 7 batters in a row.

In the finale, Houston struck for 6 home runs to earn a 9-6 victory in 10 innings.

Chris Carter, Eric Gutierrez, Charlie Barbour, Dominguez and Jose Altuve each went deep for the Astros, with Altuve getting 2 home runs - including one of the inside-the-park variety.

Starter Ian Kennedy allowed 5 runs on 8 hits with 3 punch outs in 6 innings but did not factor in the decision. The win went to reliever Luke Gregerson, who improved to 3-0.

The Astros will take Thursday off before beginning a 3-game weekend series in Oakland to close out the month of April.

HOU 5-10-1
SEA 6-10-0

HOU 2-7-0
SEA 5-8-1

HOU 9-14-0 F/10
SEA 6-11-0

steelerfan

05-23-2016, 06:11 AM

MLB STANDINGS through April 27, 2016

American League

East
Rays 15-7
Orioles 13-10
Blue Jays 11-12
Red Sox 8-15
Yankees 6-15

Central
Royals 13-8
Tigers 11-11
Twins 10-12
Indians 9-12
White Sox 10-14

West
Mariners 16-5
Astros 12-10
Athletics 12-11
Rangers 10-13
Angels 9-13

National League

East
Nationals 16-6
Braves 12-10
Phillies 10-12
Mets 9-11
Marlins 9-13

Central
Cardinals 14-8
Pirates 14-9
Brewers 13-9
Cubs 7-15
Reds 7-15

West
Diamondbacks 13-11
Padres 12-10
Dodgers 11-12
Giants 11-12
Rockies 10-12

steelerfan

05-23-2016, 06:18 AM

Houston Astros (12-10) vs Oakland Athletics (12-11)
April 28-30, 2016
o.co Coliseum - Oakland, California

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:05 PM
Scott Kazmir (2-2, 6.62) vs Phil Hughes (3-1, 3.33)

Game Two - Saturday 12:35 PM
Mike Foltynewicz (0-1, 1.33) vs Jesse Chavez (1-2, 4.84)

Game Three - Sunday 12:35 PM
Brett Oberholtzer (2-1, 3.81) vs Sonny Gray (1-3, 6.14)

steelerfan

05-23-2016, 06:20 AM

11/22/15

The Houston Astros have traded SP Alex White (77, C) and LF Leo Heras (61, C) to the Minnesota Twins for SP Phil Hughes (80, B).

Hughes, 29, has a career record of 73-82 with an ERA of 4.53. Last season he was 8-18 with a 3.83 ERA.

White, 27, has a career mark of 20-28 with an ERA of 4.46. In 2015 he was 8-9 with a 4.49 ERA.

Heras, 26, is a career minor leaguer.

3/6/15

The Houston Astros have acquired SP Scott Kazmir (82, B), RP Luke Gregerson (77, C) and SP Chris Jensen (65, C) from the Oakland Athletics for SP Phil Hughes (80, B), SP Jeff Locke (77, C) and RP Matt Albers (71, C).
These two tidbits from last offseason should make the opener in Oakland particularly interesting.

steelerfan

05-24-2016, 12:18 PM

The Astros took 2 of 3 over the weekend in Oakland, beginning with an 8-3 win in the opener that saw Dexter Fowler and Domonic Brown hit long balls as Fowler finished with 4 RBI.

Scott Kazmir beat Phil Hughes - the two were traded for each other last offseason - to improve to 3-2. Kazmir lasted just 5.1 innings and allowed 3 runs on 7 hits with 6 strikeouts but it was enough for the win after a 5-run Houston 6th.

Fowler hit another home run in game 2 but Brown left the game with a strained calf after making a diving catch in the middle innings.

Mike Foltynewicz made his first start of the season and was rocked. He allowed 7 runs on 8 hits, including 3 homers, with 4 punch outs and a walk in just 4 innings on the hill. Foltynewicz is now 0-2 on the year.

Chris Carter drove in a pair of runs in the finale on Sunday as the Astros were 3-2 victors.

Brett Oberholtzer earned his 3rd win, allowing 2 runs on 4 hits with 7 strikeouts and 5 walks in 7.2 innings and Jesse Crain notched save number 7.

Brown will remain on the active roster for the time being as his calf injury is not expected to keep him out more than a few days.

The Astros will start their longest home stand of the season (10 games) on Monday when they play the first of 3 against Minnesota. Houston is just 3-7 at Minute Maid Park this year.

HOU 8-11-0
OAK 3-10-1

HOU 6-14-0
OAK 8-12-0

HOU 3-8-1
OAK 2-4-2

AL WEST STANDINGS through April 30, 2016

Mariners 17-7
Astros 14-11
Athletics 13-13
Angels 11-14
Rangers 11-15

steelerfan

05-24-2016, 12:29 PM

Astros Team Statistics (MLB Rank in parenthesis)

Average. 278 (2)
Runs 120 (5)
Doubles 49 (5)
Triples 4 (T-11)
Home Runs 35 (T-3)
RBI 115 (5)
Stolen Bases 12 (18)
Stolen Base % .480 (28)
Walks 79 (T-14)
Strikeouts 207 (24)
Slugging .456 (2)
On-Base % .337 (3)
GIDP 27 (30)

Assists 257 (1)
Put Outs 712 (4)
Errors 10 (T-5)
Fielding %. 990 (4)

ERA 3.71 (20)
Saves 9 (T-6)
Blown Saves 4 (T-20)
Runs 100 (22)
Earned Runs 98 (23)
HR Allowed 26 (T-14)
BB Allowed 65 (6)
Strikeouts 193 (19)

steelerfan

05-24-2016, 12:33 PM

Minnesota Twins (10-15) vs Houston Astros (14-11)
May 1-3, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 7:10 PM
Alex Meyer (2-2, 5.53) vs Jarred Cosart (2-2, 3.00)

Game Two - Tuesday 7:10 PM
Alex Morgan (0-2, 4.94) vs Ian Kennedy (2-0, 3.34)

Game Three - Wednesday 1:10 PM
Blake Treinen (1-4, 2.67) vs Scott Kazmir (3-2, 6.26)

steelerfan

05-24-2016, 02:01 PM

Houston took the opener against the Twins on Monday night at Minute Maid Park, 4-2 (more on that game in the series recap) but it was not without cost.

Shortstop Carlos Correa was removed from the game in the 4th inning with shoulder pain, after throwing a runner out at first base.

Correa's injury is being deemed a "shoulder inflammation" and manager Andres Pace said Correa will be placed on the 15-day DL immediately. Pace said that his best guess is that Correa will be sidelined for "3 to 4 weeks".

In 91 at-bats this season, Correa is hitting .275 with 2 home runs and 6 RBI.

Pace also said that the club will recall Adeiny Hechavarria from Fresno to take Correa's spot on the active roster. Hechavarria, 26, is hitting .234 with a home run and 4 RBI in 47 at-bats with the Grizzlies.

Hechavarria hit .308 with 3 long balls and 16 RBI in 169 AB with Houston last season and has 1248 Major League at-bats in his career (.234, 13 HR, 108 RBI).

Pace added that Ronald Torreyes, 23, will immediately receive the majority of the playing time at short, in Correa's absence. Torreyes is hitting .300 in 20 at-bats this season and is .258 with a homer and 5 RBI in 62 career at-bats.

steelerfan

05-24-2016, 02:08 PM

Some old trade news to catch up on:

4/29/16

The Texas Rangers have acquired 3B Deibinson Romero from the Boston Red Sox for RP Lisalverto Bonilla.

Romero (MLB)
Age 29
OVR 68
POT C

Bonilla (AAA)
Age 25
OVR 70
POT C

steelerfan

05-25-2016, 12:33 PM

The Astros opened the month of May with a 4-2 win over the Twins. An injury to shortstop Carlos Correa cast a pall on the victory and the bad news kept coming as Houston would wind up dropping 2 of 3 to Minnesota.

George Springer and Charlie Barbour homered in the 8th and 9th innings, respectively, to lift the home 9 to the win in the opener.

Jarred Cosart pitched well but came away with a no-decision. Cosart went 6.2 innings and allowed 2 runs on 8 hits with 10 strikeouts and 3 bases on balls.

The win went to Jason Motte, his second, and Jesse Crain earned his 8th save.

On Tuesday night the Astros found themselves down 3-0 before they ever came to bat and really never recovered, losing 9-2.

Ian Kennedy allowed 3 runs on 8 hits with 4 punch outs and a walk, recovering nicely from the rough start to his outing. Both Josh Fields and Asher Wojciechowski came on in relief and each surrendered 3 additional runs to the Twins.

On Wednesday afternoon it was more of the same. Scott Kazmir was rocked for 6 runs (5 earned) on 8 hits while striking out 4 and walking 2 in just 4+ innings of work as his record dropped to 3-3 in an eventual 9-1 loss.

Among the other noteworthy events of the series was the defensive play of Correa's replacement Ronald Torreyes.

Correa has not committed an error in 114 defensive chances this year but Torreyes has not been able to live up to those lofty standards. The 23-year-old has committed 3 errors in just 17 chances, including one in each of the last two games of this series, for a team-worst .850 fielding percentage.

Manager Andres Pace commented after the series that Torreyes' play in the field would need to improve in order to justify his place in the lineup going forward.

The Astros will host the division-leading Seattle Mariners next, in a 4-game weekend series.

MIN 2-8-0
HOU 4-10-0

MIN 9-14-1
HOU 2-6-2

MIN 9-16-1
HOU 1-7-1

AL WEST STANDINGS through May 3, 2016

Mariners 19-8
Astros 15-13
Athletics 14-15
Angels 12-16
Rangers 12-17

steelerfan

05-25-2016, 12:52 PM

Astros Batting Statistics through May 3, 2016

Springer 112 AB, 11 2B, 1 3B, 2 HR, 13 RBI, .313, .818 OPS

Altuve 112 AB, 2 2B, 2 3B, 3 HR, 10 RBI, .313, .835 OPS

Fowler 108 AB, 4 2B, 1 3B, 3 HR, 15 RBI, .269, .727 OPS

Carter 100 AB, 3 2B, 3 HR, 11 RBI, .220, .662

Brown 93 AB, 6 2B, 8 HR, 18 RBI, .301, .993 OPS

Correa 91 AB, 9 2B, 2 HR, 6 RBI, .275, .766 OPS

Castro 82 AB, 7 2B, 2 HR, 8 RBI, .256, .710 OPS

Dominguez 78 AB, 2 2B, 5 HR, 13 RBI, .218, .739 OPS

Valencia 76 AB, 3 2B, 1 HR, 7 RBI, .276, .685 OPS

Gutierrez 42 AB, 2 2B, 4 HR, 9 RBI, .333, 1.058 OPS

Barbour 38 AB, 1 2B, 4 HR, 7 RBI, .263, .905 OPS

Presley 37 AB, 4 2B, 0 HR, 4 RBI, .270, .660 OPS

Torreyes 26 AB, 1 3B, 0 HR, 1 RBI, .269, .642 OPS

Hechavarria 2 AB, .000

steelerfan

05-25-2016, 01:38 PM

Seattle Mariners (19-8) vs Houston Astros (15-13)
May 4-7, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Thursday 7:10 PM
Hisashi Iwakuma (3-1, 1.63) vs Mike Foltynewicz (0-2, 3.70)

Game Two - Friday 7:10 PM
Jaime Garcia (1-0, 3.90) vs Brett Oberholtzer (3-1, 3.48)

Game Three - Saturday 7:10 PM
Erasmo Ramirez (5-0, 0.96) vs Jarred Cosart (2-2, 2.95)

Game Four - Sunday 1:10 PM
Felix Hernandez (3-1, 2.57) vs Ian Kennedy (2-1, 3.51)

steelerfan

05-28-2016, 02:20 AM

Houston finally got their feet under them at home as they took 3 of 4 from the division-leading Mariners beginning with a 4-0 won on Thursday night.

Chris Carter hit a home run and Mike Foltynewicz was the pitcher they hoped he'd be when he was promoted to a starting role. Foltynewicz pitched 7 scoreless innings, allowing just 4 hits and 4 walks while striking out 8 to earn his first win of the season.

Brett Oberholtzer was roughed up in game 2 as he allowed 8 runs (6 earned) on 8 hits with just 3 punch outs and 4 walks in 6 innings. On the bright side, May Dominguez homered in the 8-3 loss.

Houston again silenced the Seattle bats in game 3, winning 3-0. Jarred Cosart was brilliant. He didn't allow a hit until there were 2 out in the 8th inning at which time he gave up 2 infield hits and was taken out of the game.

Cosart ended the night with 7.2 scoreless innings pitched, the 2 hits allowed, 3 walks and 12 strikeouts to improve to 3-2. Jesse Crain closed the door in the 9th for save number 9.

Carter and Eric Gutierrez each hit a long ball in the finale as Houston used a 5-run 5th inning to open a 7-2 lead going to the 9th.

Jason Motte allowed 4 runs (3 earned) on 3 hits while recording just 1 out as the M's cut the lead to 7-6. Darin Downs and Jesse Crain then recorded an out each to finish the game as Crain got his 10th save.

The Astros will close the 10-game home stand with 3 against the Cleveland Indians, beginning Monday.

SEA 0-7-0
HOU 4-10-0

SEA 8-9-1
HOU 3-10-1

SEA 0-2-0
HOU 3-10-0

SEA 6-9-0
HOU 7-14-2

AL WEST STANDINGS through May 7, 2016

Mariners 20-11
Astros 18-14
Athletics 15-17
Rangers 13-20
Angels 12-19

JBHuskers

05-28-2016, 02:31 AM

18-14 O's respectable early though!

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JBHuskers

05-28-2016, 02:31 AM

Is not O's lol

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steelerfan

05-28-2016, 02:40 AM

Astros Pitching Statistics through May 7, 2016

Jarred Cosart 3-2, 2.47, 47.1 IP, 61 K, 15 BB, 7 GS, 5 QS

Ian Kennedy 3-1, 3.38, 48 IP, 31 K, 10 BB, 7 GS, 6 QS

Brett Oberholtzer 3-2, 4.31, 39.2 IP, 24 K, 16 BB, 6 GS, 3 QS

Scott Kazmir 3-3, 7.00, 27 IP, 23 K, 10 BB,6 G, 5 GS, 2 QS

Asher Wojciechowski 0-1, 6.00, 30 IP, 24 K, 11 BB, 8 G, 4 GS, 2 QS

Mike Foltynewicz 1-2, 2.87, 31.1 IP, 39 K, 8 BB, 9 G, 2 GS, 1 QS, 1 SV

Brad Peacock* 0-1, 12.00, 3 IP, 3 K, 0 BB, 1 GS, 0 QS

Jason Motte 2-0, 2.57, 14 IP, 8 K, 2 BB, 14 G, 1 SV, 4 HLD

Josh Fields 0-1, 5.93, 13.2 IP, 9 K, 6 BB, 14 G, 3 HLD

Luke Gregerson 3-0, 2.70, 13.1 IP, 13 K, 4 BB, 14 G, 2 BSV, 3 HLD

Jesse Crain 0-0, 0.00, 13 IP, 13 K, 2 BB, 12 G, 10 SV

Darin Downs 0-0, 1.59, 11.1 IP, 5 K, 2 BB, 12 G, 2 BSV, 2 HLD

JP Howell 0-1, 3.00, 9 IP, 3 K, 1 BB, 13 G, 5 HLD

*currently at AAA Fresno

steelerfan

05-28-2016, 02:45 AM

Cleveland Indians (13-17) vs Houston Astros (18-14)
May 8-10, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 7:10 PM
Jason Masterson (3-3, 2.32) vs Scott Kazmir (3-3, 7.00)

Game Two - Tuesday 7:10 PM
Francisco Liriano (0-1, 2.57) vs Mike Foltynewicz (1-2, 2.87)

Game Three - Wednesday 1:10 PM
Zach McAllister (1-4, 2.81) vs Brett Oberholtzer (3-2, 4.31)

steelerfan

05-28-2016, 02:29 PM

The Astros dropped 2 of 3 to the Indians to finish the 10-game home stand at an uninspiring 5-5.

In the series opener the Astros smacked 4 home runs (Carter 2, Brown, Torreyes), building a 7-0 lead before holding for an 8-4 victory.

Scott Kazmir was credited with his 4th win, allowing 1 run on 6 hits with 7 strikeouts and a walk in 7 innings. Jesse Crain got the the game's final out with 2 runners on base to get his 11th save.

George Springer homered in game 2 but the Astros bullpen allowed 3 runs over the last 2 innings and the Tribe took the game, 6-4.

JP Howell took his 2nd loss of the year and starter Mike Foltynewicz lasted just 5 innings after surrendering 3 runs on 6 hits with 7 strikeouts and a walk.

The rubber match was all-Cleveland as the Astros were 9-0 losers. Brett Oberholtzer fell to 3-3 after going just 4 innings and giving up 7 runs (6 earned) on 4 hits with a walk and 2 strikeouts.

The Astros hit the road for the next 7 games starting with a 4-game weekend series in Boston.

AL WEST STANDINGS through May 10, 2016

Mariners 21-13
Astros 19-16
Athletics 17-18
Rangers 14-22
Angels 12-21

steelerfan

05-28-2016, 02:38 PM

Astros Team Statistics (MLB Rank in parenthesis)

Average .282 (1)
Runs 156 (5)
Doubles 69 (1)
Triples 5 (T-15)
Home Runs 46 (2)
RBI 151 (5)
Stolen Bases 20 (14)
Stolen Base % .526 (26)
Walks 103 (19)
Strikeouts 277 (18)
Slugging % .457 (1)
On-Base % .338 (3)
GIDP 34 (30)

Assists 343 (2)
Put Outs 982 (3)
Errors 19 (T-19)
Fielding % .986 (17)
ERA 3.96 (26)
Saves 13 (T-5)
Blown Saves 5 (T-20)
Runs 153 (26)
Earned Runs 144 (26)
Home Runs 42 (29)
Walks 95 (T-6)
Strikeouts 286 (T-8)

steelerfan

05-28-2016, 02:44 PM

Houston Astros (19-16) vs Boston Red Sox (13-22)
May 11-14, 2016
Fenway Park - Boston, Massachusetts

Probable Starters:

Game One - Thursday 7:10 PM
Jarred Cosart (3-2, 2.47) vs Jake Peavy (3-3, 3.86)

Game Two - Friday 7:10 PM
Ian Kennedy (3-1, 3.38) vs Henry Owens (0-3, 5.27)

Game Three - Saturday 1:35 PM
Scott Kazmir (4-3, 5.82) vs Anthony Ranaudo (2-5, 4.57)

Game Four - Sunday 1:35 PM
Mike Foltynewicz (1-2, 3.22) vs Robbie Erlin (2-3, 3.53)

steelerfan

05-29-2016, 09:13 AM

The Astros took full advantage of the team with worst batting average and ERA in the Major Leagues over the weekend, sweeping 4 games from the Red Sox in Boston.

George Springer homered to right in the opener and Jarred Cosart notched his 4th win. Cosart pitched 7 innings, allowing 2 runs on 5 hits with 5 Ks and a walk. Darin Downs closed things out for the first save of his career.

Chris Carter went deep in game 2 and Ian Kennedy improved to 4-1. Kennedy lasted 7 innings, surrendering 1 run on 5 hits while striking out 9. Jesse Crain recorded save number 12.

Springer and Dexter Fowler each hit home runs on Saturday as the Astros overcame a 4-3 deficit with the 8th inning solo shots.

Scott Kazmir earned his 5th win, pitching 7 innings and allowing 4 runs on 7 hits. Kazmir struck out 8 and walked 1. Jesse Crain allowed a hit and a walk in the 9th but held on for his 13th save.

Houston scored 11 runs in the first 3 innings on Sunday, en route to a 12-3 win.

Jose Altuve hit a pair of long balls and Charlie Barbour added a 3-run shot of his own to fuel the offense.

Mike Foltynewicz allowed 2 runs on 5 hits with 5 strikeouts and a walk in 6 innings on the mound for his 2nd win.

After taking Monday off, the Astros will play 3 in Chicago against the White Sox, before returning home for 6 games.

HOU 6-10-1
BOS 3-7-0

HOU 4-11-0
BOS 1-5-0

HOU 5-10-0
BOS 4-9-0

HOU 12-17-0
BOS 3-8-2

steelerfan

05-29-2016, 09:20 AM

MLB STANDINGS through May 15, 2016

American League
East
Orioles 25-14
Rays 24-13
Blue Jays 19-21
Red Sox 14-26
Yankees 13-25

Central
Royals 23-15
Tigers 22-17
White Sox 19-20
Twins 17-21
Indians 16-21

West
Astros 23-16
Mariners 21-16
Athletics 20-19
Rangers 17-23
Angels 15-23

National League
East
Nationals 25-13
Braves 23-15
Marlins 16-22
Mets 13-24
Phillies 12-27

Central
Cardinals 23-15
Brewers 23-16
Pirates 21-18
Cubs 16-22
Reds 16-23

West
Dodgers 24-15
Diamondbacks 22-19
Padres 21-18
Giants 20-20
Rockies 16-22

steelerfan

05-29-2016, 09:25 AM

Houston Astros (23-16) vs Chicago White Sox (19-20)
May 16-18, 2016
U.S. Cellular Field - Chicago, Illinois

Probable Starters:

Game One - Tuesday 7:10 PM
Brett Oberholtzer (3-3, 5.15) vs Brandon Norman (2-3, 3.57)

Game Two - Wednesday 7:10 PM
Jarred Cosart (4-2, 2.48) vs Chris Sale (3-3, 2.95)

Game Three - Thursday 1:10 PM
Ian Kennedy (4-1, 3.11) vs John Danks (4-3, 2.06)

steelerfan

05-29-2016, 06:30 PM

The Astros improved to 11-6 in the month of May by taking 2 of 3 in Chicago against the White Sox.

Houston's red-hot bats led the way on Tuesday night as George Springer, Eric Gutierrez and Domonic Brown (twice) all hit home runs in a 13-5 win.

Brett Oberholtzer earned his 4th win of the season, going 6 innings and allowing 4 runs on 5 hits with 5 strikeouts and 4 walks.

Brown homered again on Wednesday night but Luke Gregerson took the 6-5 loss out of the bullpen. Starter Jarred Cosart allowed 2 runs on 7 hits with 4 punch outs in 6 innings of work and left the game with a 4-2 lead that his relief could not preserve.

Ian Kennedy earned his second complete game shutout of the season on Thursday afternoon as the Astros took the rubber match, 6-0. Kennedy scattered 6 hits and struck out 11 while walking just 1.

At the plate, both Chris Carter and Matt Dominguez went deep for Houston.

The Astros will host the Texas Rangers in a 3-game weekend series at Minute Maid Park beginning Friday night.

HOU 13-23-0
CWS 5-7-0

HOU 5-11-0
CWS 6-12-1

HOU 6-8-0
CWS 0-6-1

AL WEST STANDINGS through May 18, 2016

Astros 25-17
Mariners 23-17
Athletics 22-20
Angels 18-23
Rangers 18-24

steelerfan

05-29-2016, 06:35 PM

Texas Rangers (18-24) vs Houston Astros (25-17)
May 19-21, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:10 PM
Tanner Scheppers (3-4, 4.62) vs Scott Kazmir (5-3, 5.71)

Game Two - Saturday 7:10 PM
Gavin Floyd (0-2, 6.58) vs Mike Foltynewicz (2-2, 3.19)

Game Three - Sunday 1:10 PM
Alex Gonzalez (1-1, 6.35) vs Brett Oberholtzer (4-3, 5.26)

jaymo76

06-26-2016, 05:37 PM

Hey buddy, almost a month of no MLB. What's going on? Finally baseball overload?

steelerfan

06-26-2016, 08:12 PM

Hey buddy, almost a month of no MLB. What's going on? Finally baseball overload?
I wasn't happy with my stats so I decided to take a break while I try to figure out the appropriate fix. It's much more complicated when you're dealing with a Carry-Over Franchise. I don't want to screw things up because I've invested 2 years in this Franchise already.

That break has turned into me abandoning the game which was not my intention. I need to find the motivation to put the work in that is necessary to get going again.

steelerfan

07-12-2016, 07:05 AM

Houston dropped 2 of 3 to Texas as the Astros bats went silent in the first 2 games of the series.

Houston was shutout in games one and two and did not tally an extra base hit in either contest.

In the opener on Friday night Scott Kazmir allowed 2 runs on 8 hits in 7 innings with 4 Ks and a walk to suffer his 4th loss of the season.

On Saturday Mike Foltynewicz was the Rangers' victim. He went 6 innings but gave up 4 runs on 9 hits, despite striking out 5 and allowing no walks.

Brett Oberholtzer got the W on the hill for Houston in the finale. Oberholtzer pitched 6 innings and allowed 2 runs on 6 hits with 5 strikeouts and 3 walks. Jesse Crain notched save number 14 by striking out 2 in a perfect 9th inning on the mound.

At the plate, the Astros drew 6 walks and recorded 4 extra base hits including a solo home run from Matt Dominguez.

The Astros will take Monday off before the Baltimore visits for 3 games to end the 6-game home stand.

TEX 3-11-1
HOU 0-6-2

TEX 4-11-2
HOU 0-5-1

TEX 2-6-1
HOU 5-9-0

AL WEST STANDINGS through May 22, 2016

Mariners 26-18
Astros 26-19
Athletics 24-22
Rangers 21-25
Angels 19-26

steelerfan

07-12-2016, 07:10 AM

Baltimore Orioles (28-17) vs Houston Astros (26-19)
May 23-25, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Tuesday 7:10 PM
Kevin Gausman (4-2, 2.96) vs Jarred Cosart (4-2, 2.54)

Game Two - Wednesday 7:10 PM
Manuel Garlobo (4-2, 3.71) vs Ian Kennedy (5-1, 2.67)

Game Three - Thursday 1:10 PM
Chris Tillman (5-3, 1.67) vs Scott Kazmir (5-4, 5.25)

steelerfan

07-13-2016, 08:30 AM

Houston ran into more hot pitching as the O's came to H-town and took 2 of 3 from the Astros.

Houston ace Jarred Cosart allowed 3 runs on 11 hits with 6 strikeouts and 3 walks in 6.2 innings, taking the game one loss.

Ian Kennedy went 8 innings in game two but got a no-decision despite surrendering just one run on 5 hits with 4 punch outs and 2 walks. Jason Motte earned his 3rd win out of the bullpen as the Astros evened the series on Wednesday night.

The only highlight of Thursday afternoon's finale was a solo home run by Jason Castro in the 2nd inning.

Houston could muster just 3 runs despite having a glut of base runners due to 9 walks and a pair of Baltimore errors. However they were largely unable to produce due in part to scratching out just 2 hits and striking out a season-high 18 times.

The pitching was no better. Starter Scott Kazmir lasted just 2.2 innings and allowed 7 runs on 8 hits with 2 Ks and 5 walks.

The Astros will travel to LA this weekend to face the Angels before playing 2 in Arizona to start next week.

BAL 4-13-0
HOU 2-7-1

BAL 1-6-0
HOU 2-8-0

BAL 9-13-2
HOU 3-2-0

AL West Standings through May 25, 2016.

Mariners 27-19
Astros 27-21
Athletics 25-23
Angels 21-26
Rangers 21-27

steelerfan

07-13-2016, 08:39 AM

Astros Diamond Notes:

Carlos Correa returned to the lineup in game 2 of the Baltimore series after missing 20 games with an inflamed shoulder. Correa immediately delivered, with a walk off sacrifice fly in a 2-1 Houston win.

To make room for Correa, Adeiny Hechavarria was optioned to AAA Fresno. Hechavarria was recalled on May 1st when Correa was put on the 15-day DL.

I wanted to include a picture of Ian Kennedy getting a Gatorade Shower after the game 2 win. I had no idea this was added to the game because I've never seen it and hadn't heard about it either.

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160713/f091b185032ae1565298d6e48f698855.jpg

steelerfan

07-13-2016, 08:44 AM

Houston Astros (27-21) vs Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (21-26)
May 26-28, 2016
Angel Stadium of Anaheim

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:05 PM
Mike Foltynewicz (2-3, 3.54) vs CJ Wilson (3-2, 3.13)

Game Two - Saturday 12:35 PM
Brett Oberholtzer (5-3, 5.01) vs Tyler Skaggs (2-3, 3.27)

Game Three - Sunday 12:35 PM
Jarred Cosart (4-3, 2.69) vs Trevor Cahill (2-6, 4.89)

steelerfan

07-17-2016, 07:30 AM

The Astros, in a high-scoring series in Anaheim, dropped 2 of 3 for the third consecutive series.

Like Gregerson surrendered a walk-off home run to take the game 1 loss after starter Mike Foltynewicz allowed 8 runs on 10 hits with 8 strikeouts and 5 walks in just 5 innings of work.

At the plate Houston was led by Eric Gutierrez and Domonic Brown who each smacked a 3-run home run.

Charlie Barbour hit a solo home run in game 2 but starting pitcher Brett Oberholtzer was hit hard - allowing 7 runs on 10 hits while striking out 4 and walking 4 in 5.2 innings.

In the finale, Houston rallied from an early 4-0 deficit to avoid a sweep. Jarred Cosart notched his 5th win, going 6 innings and allowing 5 runs (2 earned) on 5 hits with 5 Ks and 3 BBs.

The Astros will play 2 in Arizona beginning Monday, before playing 2 in Houston against those same Diamondbacks.

HOU 10-15-0
LAA 11-14-1

HOU 6-9-1
LAA 9-12-0

HOU 6-8-3
LAA 5-6-1

AL West Standings through May 28, 2016

Mariners 29-20
Astros 28-23
Athletics 25-26
Angels 23-27
Rangers 22-29

steelerfan

07-17-2016, 10:03 AM

Houston Astros (28-23) at Arizona Diamondbacks (28-25)
May 29-30, 2016
Chase Field - Phoenix, AZ

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 7:10 PM
Ian Kennedy (5-1, 2.50) vs Brandon McCarthy (3-5, 4.06)

Game Two - Tuesday 1:10 PM
Scott Kazmir (5-5, 6.22) vs Wade Miley (1-1, 3.40)

steelerfan

07-17-2016, 11:26 AM

The Astros split the 2 games in the desert with Arizona. The good news is that the split snaps a streak of 3 consecutive series lost. The bad news is that Houston has gone 4 series in a row without a series win.

Houston pounded out 14 hits and got a solid effort from starting pitcher Ian Kennedy for the win in the opener.

Kennedy improved to 6-1 on the season, lasting 6 innings and allowing just 2 runs on 9 hits with 10 strikeouts and a single walk.

Chris Carter hit a solo home run in game 2, his 10th of the year, but the Astros fell, 7-3.

Starter Scott Kazmir feel to 5-6 on the year as he surrendered 6 runs on 9 hits while striking out 4 and walking 1 in 5 innings of work.

Houston has completed 8 days of their 20-in-a-row without a day off. The Astros are 3-5 so far and the bullpen has shown fatigue as the starting pitching has faltered. If the Astros are to survive the next 12 days, the starters have got to pick up the slack.

Houston will host Arizona on Wednesday and Thursday before Oakland comes to town over the weekend.

HOU 8-14-0
ARI 3-14-1

HOU 3-6-1
ARI 7-13-0

AL West Standings through May 30, 2016

Mariners 30-21
Astros 29-24
Athletics 26-27
Angels 24-28
Rangers 23-30

steelerfan

07-17-2016, 11:30 AM

Arizona Diamondbacks (29-25) vs Houston Astros (29-24)
May 31 - June 1, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, TX

Probable Starters:

Game One - Wednesday 7:10 PM
Randall Delgado (4-2, 1.81) vs Mike Foltynewicz (2-3, 4.56)

Game Two - Thursday 1:10 PM
Patrick Corbin (7-3, 2.99) vs Brett Oberholtzer (5-4, 5.58)

steelerfan

07-23-2016, 08:49 PM

Within 24 hours of the 2016 MLB Draft the Astros had come to terms with 6 of their 7 picks.

Pick 1.19
Emil Hernandez (3B)
Place of Birth: Washington
Age 22
B/T R/R
63 OVR
65 POT
1 year, $60k

Pick 2.19
Eduardo Lopez (SS)
Texas
Age 20
B/T R/R
70 OVR
76 POT
1 year, $60k

Pick 3.20
Dana Covington (RP)
West Virginia
Age 22
B/T R/R
54 OVR
81 POT
1 year, $70k

Pick 4.20
Alonso Bean (RP)
North Carolina
Age 19
B/T L/R
55 OVR
72 POT
1 year, $70k

Pick 5.20
Rafael Baez (SP)
North Carolina
Age 18
B/T L/L
66 OVR
75 POT
1 year, 90k

Pick 6.20
Lane Kruse (RP)
Illinois
Age 21
B/T L/R
55 OVR
68 POT
1 year, $50k

Pick 7.20
Felipe Aparicio (CF)
Dominican Republic
Age 24
B/T L/L
43 OVR
40 POT
No Offer Tendered

Editor's Note: Aparicio was the LAST player available to be drafted which is why I took him. He will not be signed.

steelerfan

07-23-2016, 09:04 PM

Jason Castro homered for the Astros but Houston fell to Arizona on Wednesday, 6-4.

Mike Foltynewicz pitched 6 innings but did not factor in the decision, allowing 2 runs on 3 hits with a walk and 5 Ks. The loss went to Luke Gregerson who have up 4 runs on 2 hits with 3 strikeouts and 3 walks in 1.2 innings of work.

Houston's only runs on Thursday afternoon came on a 3-run home run in the bottom of the 9th by Eric Gutierrez as the D-Backs won, 8-3.

Brett Oberholtzer took his 5th loss of the season, allowing 7 runs on 9 hits with 3 punch outs and 2 walks in 5 innings.

Oakland will visit the Astros over the weekend before Houston hits the road for 9 games with stops in Arlington, Tampa and St. Louis.

ARI 6-5-1
HOU 4-9-0

ARI 8-13-0
HOU 3-4-1

MLB Standings through June 1, 2016

American League
East
Rays 34-19
Orioles 34-21
Blue Jays 28-27
Red Sox 20-35
Yankees 17-36

Central
Tigers 30-23
Royals 29-25
Indians 26-27
Twins 26-28
White Sox 24-31

West
Mariners 31-22
Astros 29-26
Athletics 27-27
Angels 25-28
Rangers 24-30

National League
East
Nationals 35-19
Braves 32-22
Marlins 24-30
Mets 19-33
Phillies 15-39

Central
Cardinals 32-22
Brewers 31-24
Pirates 29-26
Cubs 26-28
Reds 21-34

West
Dodgers 34-21
Diamondbacks 31-25
Padres 28-27
Giants 27-29
Rockies 25-29

steelerfan

07-23-2016, 09:09 PM

Oakland Athletics (27-27) vs Houston Astros (29-26)
June 2-4, 2016
Minute Maid Park - Houston, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Friday 7:10 PM
Michael Ynoa (1-3, 8.66) vs Jarred Cosart (5-3, 2.71)

Game Two - Saturday 1:10 PM
Sonny Gray (3-6, 5.19) vs Ian Kennedy (6-1, 2.54)

Game Three - Sunday 1:10 PM
Kyle Naylor (3-2, 2.39) vs Scott Kazmir (5-6, 6.63)

steelerfan

07-23-2016, 09:17 PM

Here are all of the draftees with 'A' Potential. All of them were first rounders.

Phillies
1B Diego Vazquez
Pennsylvania
Age 19
R/R
52, 91

Cubs
CP Enrique Medina
Missouri
Age 21
R/R
54, 98

Brewers
2B Alex Castro
Massachusetts
Age 19
R/R
68, 90

Yankees
SP Elroy Roberson
Netherlands
Age 22
L/L
51, 98

Twins
3B Alex Hara
Virginia
Age 18
S/R
42, 93

steelerfan

07-23-2016, 09:23 PM

Here are the steals of the draft. Players with 85+ Potential who were drafted in the 4th Round or later.

Reds
RP Rod Burdette (Rd 4)
Illinois
Age 20
S/R
57, 85

Brewers
RP Todd Borrero (Rd 4)
Pennsylvania
Age 23
R/R
47, 85

Rangers
SS Boris Green (Rd 5)
Canada
Age 20
R/R
52, 87

steelerfan

07-24-2016, 03:22 PM

The Astros have optioned starting pitcher Brett Oberholtzer to Triple-A Fresno. Oberholtzer was 5-5 with a 6.11 ERA in 11 starts with Houston this season. He pitched 66.1 innings with the big club in 2016 and just 4 of his 11 starts were Quality Starts. Brett struck out 43, walked 30, posted a 1.43 WHIP and allowed a Major League-worst 15 HR.

Oberholtzer was 6-9 with a save and a 5.05 ERA in 153.1 innings in 2015 and has a career record of 24-30 with a 4.74 ERA.

To replace Oberholtzer, the Astros have recalled 25-year-old lefty Luis Cruz. Cruz had a 4-1 record and a 1.80 ERA with Fresno this season.

Cruz was 2-5 with 2 saves and a 5.40 ERA in 46.2 innings last season with Houston. In his Major League career, Cruz is 3-5 with a 5.43 ERA in 53 innings.

steelerfan

07-27-2016, 04:09 PM

The Astros got back on the winning track with a sweep of the A's over the weekend.

Matt Dominguez homered in the opener and Jarred Cosart was dominant on the mound, leading Houston to a 6-0 win.

Cosart allowed just 2 hits in 7 innings to go with 9 strikeouts and 4 walks as he improved to 6-3.

Houston got long balls from Jason Castro and George Springer on Saturday in a 6-5 win.

Ian Kennedy improved to 7-1, allowing 3 runs on 3 hits. Kennedy struck out 9 and walked 3. Jesse Crain closed the game for save number 16.

It took 12 innings to complete the sweep on Sunday as the Astros were 4-2 winners with Jason Castro driving in the winning runs with 2 outs.

Scott Kazmir was brilliant despite the no-decision. Kaz lasted 8 innings allowing 1 run on 4 hits with 13 punch outs and 2 walks.

Asher Wojciechowski improved to 1-1 as he allowed 1 run on 1 hit with a strikeout in 2 innings.

Houston will hit the road for 10 games with the first of 4 in Arlington with the Texas Rangers beginning Monday.

OAK 0-3-1
HOU 6-12-1

OAK 5-6-1
HOU 6-9-1

OAK 2-6-1. F/12
HOU 4-10-0

AL West Standings through June 4, 2016

Mariners 33-23
Astros 32-26
Angels 27-29
Athletics 27-30
Rangers 25-32

steelerfan

07-27-2016, 04:15 PM

Houston Astros (32-26) vs Texas Rangers (25-32)
June 5-8, 2016
Globe Life Park - Arlington, Texas

Probable Starters:

Game One - Monday 7:05 PM
Mike Foltynewicz (2-3, 4.40) vs Tanner Scheppers (4-4, 3.88)

Game Two - Tuesday 7:05 PM
Luis Cruz (NR, -) vs Alex Gonzalez (2-3, 4.75)

Game Three - Wednesday 7:05 PM
Jarred Cosart (6-3, 2.48) vs Gavin Floyd (2-3, 4.69)

Game Four - Thursday 2:05 PM
Ian Kennedy (7-1, 2.65) vs Yu Darvish (8-2, 2.76)

steelerfan

04-03-2017, 12:41 PM

Sadly, I only got through 62 games on MLB 16 with my 2016 season. I made the decision to sum the rest of the season to start 2017 with MLB 17.

The Astros finished 81-81 and missed the playoffs.

AA affiliate Corpus Christi were Texas League champions after going 84-56 and sweeping NW Arkansas in 3 games. AAA Fresno missed the playoffs, posting a 71-73 record.

2016 MLB Final Standings

American League

East
Blue Jays 92-70
Rays 90-72
Orioles 86-76
Red Sox 74-88
Yankees 71-91

Central
Indians 88-75
Royals 87-76
Tigers 81-81
Twins 70-92
White Sox 70-92

West
Mariners 86-76
Athletics 82-80
Astros 81-81
Rangers 80-82
Angels 76-86

National League

East
Nationals 102-60
Braves 91-71
Marlins 77-85
Mets 66-96
Phillies 52-110

Central
Cardinals 103-59
Brewers 87-75
Pirates 82-80
Reds 78-84
Cubs 71-91

West
Dodgers 92-70
Diamondbacks 91-71
Padres 82-80
Rockies 75-87
Giants 68-94

Sent from my SAMSUNG-SM-G935A using Tapatalk

steelerfan

04-03-2017, 12:45 PM

AL Wildcard
Royals 11, Rays 1

NL Wildcard
Diamondbacks 4, Braves 1

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steelerfan

04-03-2017, 12:53 PM

ALDS
Indians 3-1 over Mariners
Blue Jays 3-2 over Royals

NLDS
Dodgers 3-2 over Nationals
Cardinals 3-2 over Diamondbacks

ALCS
Blue Jays 4-1 over Indians

NLCS
Cardinals 4-0 over Dodgers

2016 World Series
Blue Jays 3, Cardinals 2
Blue Jays 0, Cardinals 4

Cardinals 2, Blue Jays 1
Cardinals 8, Blue Jays 6
Cardinals 0, Blue Jays 7

Blue Jays 7, Cardinals 4
Blue Jays 1, Cardinals 2

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steelerfan

04-03-2017, 01:09 PM

World Series MVP
Oscar Taveras, STL .292, 3, 7

American League
MVP
Edwin Encarnacion, TOR .284, 45, 120

Cy Young
Yu Darvish, TEX 16-9, 2.81

Batting Title
Miguel Cabrera, DET .334, 41, 107

Mariano Rivera
Glen Perkins, BAL 45 SV, 2.20

ROY
Phil Ervin, NYY .238, 11, 55

Hank Aaron
Miguel Cabrera, DET

Postseason MVP
Colby Rasmus, TOR .328, 2, 9

Astros
Silver Slugger
LF Dominic Brown. 285, 38, 106

National League
MVP
Stephen Strasburg, WAS 15-9, 2.14

Cy Young
Stephen Strasburg, WAS

Batting Title
Troy Tulowitzki, COL .326, 31, 105

Trevor Hoffman
Trevor Rosenthal, STL 58 SV, 1.85

ROY
Archie Bradley, CHC 7-12, 4.52

Hank Aaron
Freddie Freeman, ATL .320, 27, 72

Postseason MVP
Oscar Taveras, STL .327, 3, 16

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steelerfan

04-03-2017, 02:44 PM

2016 Astros Statistics

Position Playershttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/601cc01e928c403792ced9e5901c1909.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/81454f37dacff6e80d6b9eb48e1e9b46.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/78dca897b912a216158fa20ed3d6bfd1.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/17f56bc00d31a31869cde2d346a3244f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/f7e295ff0927340f7eb72922e3e40a4f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/25313786d5edc7f6b0a912c26abe7fd8.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/71223e6437fbbc8e694f7d72ffd72ea5.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/a4b2271977da44ff8272181ba632e334.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/1ebf96aec7adabba28fee96c774f916f.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/ddb28014ad4191cede2f55c3f0a64994.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/a05e9dd8092422e5454ed0af6693828a.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/4f2d0114619b14fe323af775341bc9c3.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/e5d85120cb3bb3ab22639d1383c99399.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/876933b6abae81ab05bd19344728352e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/9494cb2882897994362b5cf7fe4394df.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/aa16f239a4c4f3bd3abebe4b30bad5cb.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/90014a4663b7dc4d876618b132306bce.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/e135cafc4825ec6fbdca4c34a870527e.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/80e4faafccee0b07ab9dfc8f1127a116.jpghttps://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20170403/6ae51e6a900c5b1236a9d0232b28fadb.jpg

steelerfan

04-03-2017, 02:55 PM

2016 Astros Statistics

Pitchers

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steelerfan

04-03-2017, 03:09 PM

Astros 2016 Notes

Two players suffered season-ending injuries in 2016.

Catcher Jason Castro, who has a history of knee problems, suffered a torn ACL and was limited to 81 games. His status for Spring Training and for Opening Day remain unclear.

Outfielder Dexter Fowler, who has been injury-prone for the last 3 seasons, suffered a fractured wrist after 123 games. Dexter should be 100% cone Spring.

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steelerfan

04-03-2017, 03:24 PM

After winning a championship in AA, Corpus Christi Hooks 40-year-old closer Kyle Farnsworth has retired. Farnsworth finished his Major League career with a 51-74 record with 99 saves and a 4.25 ERA. Farnsworth was the only player in the Astros organization to retire this off-season.

Other notable MLB retirements

NYY Carlos Beltran
NYY Mark Teixeira
LAA Jared Weaver
LAA CJ Wilson
OAK Coco Crisp
ATL Matt Holliday
PHI Ryan Howard
SF CC Sabathia

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