Sorry to see you go Big Toe

It's been a helluva ride the last 5 + years and we wish you, kind of, well on your next endeavor.  Nothing but love for you and the instant stability, credibility and mentorship you brought to the Astros pitching staff.  You were the Big Toe we needed.  You showed what it took to be at the top and I can't help but think it carried over to the others on the staff.  You were a throwback to another time.  You achieved much more as an Astro than our legend Nolan Ryan, but you do remind me of him at times when you got into a little trouble.  Couple of runners on, maybe even the bases loaded, and then you battle and battle until you get out of the inning with not even a scratch sometimes.  Your regular season utter dominance helped paved the way to postseason glory.  

If it's about the bag, then so be it.  You're entitled, but we know others have left and not found the MLB postseason their own personal playground like the organization you just left.  Things may look up in NYC, but the Astros are the only team that provides you with the best chance year after year to fulfill all your postseason hopes and dreams.  

And like I said, the seeds of your example over the years have now provided a plentiful bounty of Big Toe pitchers in Framber, McCullers and Javier.  Combine them with our other salty starters in Urquidy, Garcia and Brown and the best bullpen in baseball, and I like our chances.  With the Mets, nothing is guaranteed. 

Big Monday In Houston Sports

 

There's still plenty to talk about in November around Houston even when your NFL team is in rebuilding mode.   The University of Houston Cougars basketball team has ascended back to #1 in the nation and the Astros made a big time addition to their lineup with the Jose Abreu free agent signing.

Let's start with Coogs.  Not since 1983 have they been #1 in the nation.  The basketball defensive genius, Kelvin Sampson, has been steadily building the program since 2014 with trips to the Sweet Sixteen in 2019, Final Four in 2021 and Elite 8 in 2022 (two key players out with injuries).  We've been waiting for almost 40 years for this return to dominance.  Tell your momma and your poppa about the Phi Slamma Jamma.   

As for the Astros, they are set to go 7 deep in the lineup again with the acquisition of Abreu.  Dude hit .304 with an OPS of .824 last season.  He had 15 dingers and 40 doubles.  I'd prefer Yuli to stay as our Utility guy over Aledmys Diaz, and if you re-sign Brantley too, this lineup will be one of the most feared again.  Combine that with the most feared pitching staff and the Astros are set to go chase down another World Series title.  

Good day sir.

Let it be said and not questioned: The Astros are the best in baseball again

 

Congratulations to our 2022 Astros for the many fantastic memories that come with their World Series championship.  They played like the best team in baseball every time the stakes were raised all throughout the year.  As much as us locals want 2022 to be a vindication for the 2017 asterisk, this was really about unfinished business from last year for this team.  It was finishing the job, and they did so in convincing fashion.  Of course there were new faces that did plenty of damage, and the future looks bright with a good blend of youth and veterans in the lineup and a dominant pitching staff.   

And What A Sunday It Was

For goodness sake some Sunday's are better than you could even wish for. The Texans punch the Steelers in the mouth the same weekend Dallas and their boy wonder Romo take it on the chin in the worst collapse in team history. And that's a storied history with 5 Super Bowl rings and blah, blah blah. Oh Tony by the way, stop calling Jessica in the middle of the night. She has had enough of it, and you should be getting your rest or studying the playbook or getting ready for a 7am tee time. Not that the win over the Steelers deemed the Texans playoff bound, but it was one of hopefully more games where this team needs to start sending messages to the league that they are for real. Now they need to win one of the next two against the Raiders and Ravens. They really need a quality win on the road to send louder statements as to their plans this playoff season, but we'll get there in time. As much as I was crackin' on Jason Allen and hoping somebody else would get a chance, I have to give the man credit for delivering the hit of the game on Hines Ward on the the 3rd down in the 4th Quarter. We have been on the receiving end of bone shattering hits during the history of this franchise. It was nice to be the team dishing it out. This was an offensive line, Arian Foster and Defensive win more than anything. Thanks Gary for trying to keep the Steelers off the field in the 2nd half by grinding it out with Foster. The penalties seemed to take away the Defensive intensity for a little bit in the game when the Steelers sustained a few nice drives, but just like in the Texans other wins, they stepped up when they needed to late in the game to seal the deal. If last season taught us anything, it's too early to get too excited, but let's have some fun while we can.

Promotion Time

For pete's sake, if Sunday's game to did not merit a demotion for Kareem Jackson, it may never happen. It just did not matter who he was covering. Drew Brees made sure he attacked him, especially on the one drive in the 4th where every single throw went to the receiver Jackson was covering. It's not like the guy is a 10 mil/year player. It seems hard to fathom that anyone could play worse. Brandon Harris deserves a shot. If he doesn't work out, you can always go back to Kareem. Did I just say that?

Texans had it in their hands

Despite a poor showing in the red zone in the first half against the Saints. The Texans still had a shot to win this game going into the 4th quarter. This was partly a result of an offense that controlled the clock in the 1st half and kept the Saints off the field. One thing you cannot hide: Kareem Jackson and the lack of consistent pressure on the quarterback. When the Saints had the ball in the 2nd half, they moved the ball at will other than a couple of possessions. Make no mistake, they must play better defense. 23 points in the 4th quarter is unacceptable against anyone. However, there is old football logic that must be so old that it has been forgotten, but it says this: When you are on the road against a quality opponent, just keep it close and hope you can find a way to win in the end. To this end, the Texans should have tried to continue to own the clock by using more of Tate and a short passing game. The Saints can't score 23 in the 4th if they only get two possessions. Instead, I saw the Texans trying to air it out, with the lead mind you. There was one possession they threw all three times. 3 & out, clock stopped on every throw. Saints come back out with no time off the clock. Not smart. I'm not saying you have to run it exclusively, but there should be more runs than passes when trying to eat the clock and your passes should be very safe plays like screens to AJ or quick slants. Kubes went 5 out of 6 passes to open the 4th. Too cute for me. We missed you Arian. If management had taken your hamstring seriously in training camp, maybe you could have been the difference. 1st close game of the season, and we are reminded that there was no turnover at the head coaching position this past offseason.

I'm Baaaaaaaaaaaack

About a week ago, T-Mac wrote:

You guys ready for these playoffs to start? Man, I can't wait. It's tough to watch your team out there playing when you want to be a part of it so badly, but I've turned into the team's number 1 cheerleader. I get so into the games that my hands get all sweaty just watching because I get nervous. When you are out there and you control your own fate it's one thing, but watching from home brings a whole new kind of nervous energy. I watch every game and couldn't be more proud of these guys. Everyone has brought their game to a new level, and they are playing great team basketball. The west is looking tough as usual, but I think we match up well against most of the playoff contenders. I'm going to try to join the team for as many games as possible in the playoffs. I'm hoping to be at all of them, but I'm going to listen to my doctors and see what they suggest in terms of travel and activity.


Me: ??

Wicked Wiffle Ball Pitcher

Check this out. Came across this nice video over on Lance Zierlein's blog. This guy has some incredibly nasty pitches that are worth a look.

Sun is setting on Summer

Astros: Well, if I could trade a winning season for a 3,000 hitter every once in awhile, then I would probably do it. It really gives me a sense of baseball tradition to actually have a player reach a milestone like this. We have always seemed so new compared to the majority of teams in the league, but now we have one of these guys too. And for anyone thinking Biggio is not a lock then you need to lay off the sauce. I heard some numbers the other night and it went something like this: Of the 18 2nd baseman in the hall of fame, he ranks 1st in runs, 2nd or 3rd in homeruns, 2nd or 3rd in doubles, 4th in this, 5th in that, etc. He did not rank any lower than 8th in any offensive category that matters. Not to mention, he played the game all-out all the time and was a class act off the field.

Rockets: Daryl Morey sure has been busy. (Much busier than Purpura who has his hands planted firmly on his behind.) Are these winning moves? Who knows? I know we have picked up three guys whose charcter has come into question before. Do they suck up their pride and play like this is their last chance to be on a good team? Or do they tear apart a team with a closing window of opportunity? It should be interesting to say the least. I just hope Francis has learned what to do with the ball when he gets up in the air. I was one of his biggest fans, and adopted the Stevie Franchise moniker earlier than most of my friends because of his sheer athletic ability. The problem was he didn't seem to let the game ever slow down from a maturity level which is where he got into trouble. Here's hoping it works out. I sure would like another 4 just in case cola scola isn't all that and a bag of chips.

Texans: Whooo hooo, training camp opened for the team that knows how to lose better than anybody in the business. Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson and bunch of pretenders trying to look like #2 receivers and frontline running backs. Until they prove me wrong thats all this offense is right now. I am looking forward to a pass rush for the first time since the team began. I mean a real pass rush. Okoye should help Ryans and Williams equally which means bad things for the rest of the league. Hopefully our secondary won't have to cover guys for like 7 and 10 seconds. Deion freakin Sanders couldn't hold guys as long as the Texan secondary has been asked to. Koobs: This is make it or break it for you. Let me see some offensive genius. If you blow it with your second hand picked guy, then we will be calling for your job. We are tired of losing, and we don't need any more smoke blowed up our butt.

So long to one of the class acts of Houston

Marvin Zindler passed away this weekend leaving a real void in Houston. He is being remembered on this sports blog because he meant so much to Houston. Picture this foursome which surely could have played a round of golf in the late 70's, early 80's: Zindler, Wiesenthal, Campbell and Bum. Marvin was the closest thing to a living angel. Helping the underpriveleged and handicapped at every turn he took, locally and internationally. His list of accomplishments are too numerous to list here. I will never forget the signature sign-off, "Marvin Zindler Eyewitness News" nor his Friday send off, "good golf, good fishing or whatever makes you happy." This Houston icon will truly be missed.

Houston, We Have A Problem

How's your summer starting? Great? Could be better that's for sure. Nothing going on in H-Town sports. Here is what I am getting subjected to on a daily basis:

-The game show called 'Can You Guess Phil Garner's Lineup?' I like the $250,000 jackpot, but they might as well make it a billion since they'll never pay out.

-Hey D, do you think we can find space on the roster for Kobe to go along KG, Rashard and McGrady? Ha, Ha Ha you guys are soooooo funny

-Oh and the Chronicle (err, I mean 'Texans Unofficial Publicist') trying hard to make us believe that a 7th rounder out of the 2003 draft is just the guy we need at the No. 2 receiver spot

-My new Rockets coach talking about changing our offense to up tempo with a bunch of guys who can't finish their layups

- Congress allocating $500 trillion in pork to conduct an investigation into the missing offense with the Houston professional sports teams

ZZZZZZ zzzzzzz Pence ZZZZZzzzzzzzz Pence ZZZZZzzzzzzzzz (keep one eye on the kid)

Women Who Hate The Cowboys

Anna does not like the Cowboys because their fans are "obnoxious". Growing up in Brazil she was subjected to Cowboys this and that. Evidently, international NFL fans get a steady diet of the Cowboys. All throughout the 90's she was subjected to people running around saying, "los vaqueros son el números uno." She believes,like most knowledgeable fans, that Barry Sanders could have done more with that offensive line. She also believes the rumors about Troy.

Why Not Dream Big? Les Does.

No offense to Yao. Really good player, great guy, but opportunities like this are few and far between. KG for Yao and Juwan gets us started. KG has 4 of his prime years left to go along with maybe 4 more good years for McGrady. Now once you have him in place, everyone in Houston starts to hard sell Rashard on taking the mid-class exception hometown discount to win rings. He has to be tired of losing, and his dream must include winning championships for H-Town. This is Houston's version of up-tempo to take on the Phoenix, Dallas and Golden States of the NBA, and this team could play some good defense.

Before all of you guys say that big deals like this rarely happen. Consider this, Les Alexander has probably brought in more quote unquote superstars to the Rockets than any other owner during his tenure. Clyde, Charles, Scottie, Steve Francis (made the trade to get him), T-Mac. He loves the big splash. The only problems with this proposal are 1.) Les wants the Chinese market and 2.) Rashard wants Max dollars.

Inquiring Minds, Here's Your Answer

'Nuff said.

The Jazz sensitive side exposed

I heard the resident commie on the Jazz showed his sensitive side after taking a defeat at the hands of the Rockets Saturday. Kirelinko evidently was bawling after losing game 1. The Kremlin would not be happy with his outward display of his inner feelings. Andre, Oprah on line 2. Sloan may want to book an appointment with Dr. Phil for the communist because he may be downright suicidal after this series.

Still O-fer against the Warriors

My disdain for all things Dallas has me quite pleased with the task at hand for the Mavs. The Warriors athleticism matches up well with the Dallas 'playmakers'. Baron Davis must be consistent with the monster games in the playoffs to truly make it to the next level of superstar status as well as advancing the Warriors into the next round. Dirk is the one that should be taking advantage of the Warriors every which way. He showed again tonight (14 pts, 12 reb.) why he is not quite the superstar everyone makes him out to be. Superstars take their game up a notch in the playoffs. They do not lay an egg every 4 or 5 games like Dirk.

The look on Cuban's face when Davis dropped one more 3 in for good measure with about a minute to go = Priceless

1-0 Good Guys

You could see the look in T-Mac's eyes after hitting a couple of shots in the 3rd quarter. He assumed control when Utah failed to take advantage of his slow start. Yao was steady money and Chucky made the hustle plays. Hayes will need to continue to exert his will over the Utah frontcourt in order for the Rockets to be victorious.

The flopping by the likes of Okur and company should be no surprise. Referees should be embarrased to participate in such a charade. To let a guy appear to have a concussion one moment in drawing the foul, then seconds later he's high-fiving a teammate for drawing the foul. Probably the lowest form of sportsmanship, but it's the Utah way. We have beat it before, and we will beat it again.

Grand Salami!

Biggio's 2,945th hit is a Grand Slam in the ninth of a tie ball game. Yea, this guy can still play a little. I don't know how many times recently I have heard people say Loretta or "lets get this 3,000 thing over with and sit him more." I don't care what you say, but Biggio in the first half of the year is as good as any 2nd baseman in baseball for the most part. Especially Loretta. Just let him do his thing until the All-Star game with a few more days off peppered into the schedule like Gar is doing. Re-evaluate if their is significant tail off after the break. Maybe, just maybe he catches a groove somewhere early, and can parlay it into one last mid-summer classic appearance.

Rockets Red Glare

The Rockets come roaring into the playoffs playing on a level with some of their best, if not their best basketball of the season. The two clydesdales are at a level together that we haven't seen all season, that's for sure. You keep hearing about "Haven't advanced past the 1st Round since '97", but more importantly, we haven't had a contender since 1997. Seems like yesterday. And the more things change, the more things stay the same way. It's the playoffs, and we are facing the Jazz and the dirtiest coach in the business, Jerry Sloan. 20+ years in the league, most respected, blah, blah, blah. John Stockton, Karl Malone and Jerry Sloan started the disease we call flopping amongst other things. They were practised at the art of deception. Pretty boy John Stockton was probably one of the dirtiest players of all-time. I'll put him in the Maurice Lucas class. Anyway, looking forward to this years playoffs I think they need to go out and find someone who can guard T-Mac because by the look of their roster, they have nobody who can handle that assignment. Okur, stay out at the three point line while Yao dominates the inside. Thanks.

Who's Your Daddy? El Caballo

.340, 5 HR, 16 RBI is the reason we are back to .500. Los Caballitos fan club? Sure, sign me up. As long as Berkman comes around and the pitching stabilizes itself, we should be fine. Let's see what Albers does.

And yes that is the one and only JR Richard throwing out the first ball for Tuesday night's game.