Houston Astros News

New, old Astros celebrate 50 years at Houston Baseball Dinner*

Friday night at the Hilton Americas-Houston was all about revisiting old times as the Astros celebrated their 50th anniversary by bringing back several former players and coaches, including Lance Berkman.

Astros' 50th marked at Houston Baseball Dinner*

Astros' 50th marked at Houston Baseball Dinner

Astros' 2012 Houston Baseball Dinner*

Astros’ 2012 Houston Baseball Dinner

Houston Astros: 7 Wacky Predictions for Their First Year in the AL*

We're still a year away until the Houston Astros move into the American League, but that doesn't mean we can't discuss what we believe might happen. The Astros have a long history in the National League, with not much to show for it. But who knows? Just like the Milwaukee Brewers eventually started to experience success once they moved from the American League to the National League, maybe the ...

Astros, Lowrie avoid arbitration with $1.15M deal*

HOUSTON (AP) -- Jed Lowrie and the Houston Astros have avoided an arbitration hearing, agreeing to a one-year, $1.15 million contract.

Astros, Lowrie agree to one-year, $1.15M deal*

Jed Lowrie and the Houston Astros have avoided an arbitration hearing, agreeing to a US$1.15 million, one-year contract.

Brett Wallace, Houston Astros Relive Cardinals' Third Base Fantasy*

I don't know how John Mozeliak and the St. Louis Cardinals did it, but it seems like the moment they traded Brett Wallace in the Matt Holliday deal, the worst-case-scenarios about their erstwhile top prospect became a permanent and terrible reality. Suddenly he was nothing but a first baseman; suddenly he didn't really have the power to play first base, anyway. Now, with Carlos Lee less mobile ...

Astros owner looks to move team forward*

Jim Crane didn't waste much time after becoming the owner of the Houston Astros in November before making headlines.

Houston Astros visit kids at Flour Bluff*

Several members of the Houston Astros baseball club were in Corpus Christi Friday to visit local elementary students.

Livan, Astros agree to minor league deal*

HOUSTON (AP) -- The Houston Astros have agreed to a minor league contract with former World Series MVP Livan Hernandez.

Crane: 'Astros Name Remains The Same'*

The Houston Astros will switch to the American League in 2013 and could have new uniforms in the near future.

MLB's worst position situations: 2012 edition*

After declaring the Houston Astros in position of the game’s worst rotation earlier today, I thought it’d be fun to look at the rest of the worst. So here are MLB’s most gruesome position situations heading into the 2012 season: Catcher: Dodgers – A.J. Ellis, Matt Treanor, Tim Federowicz The Dodgers let the slugging-heavy Rod Barajas…

Houston Astros: 10 Reasons Why Name, Logo Change Is a Fabulous Idea*

The Houston Astros are going through changes. There will be depressingly-low expectations for 2012 as they rebuild and then a transition to the American League in 2013. Amid this upheaval, the MLB squad ought to be renamed. "Don't jump to any conclusions" , first-year team owner Jim Crane told the media on Jan. 23, but this is something that management is seriously considering. Obviously ...

Astros Will Continue to be the Astros*

Houston Astros owner Jim Crane announced Monday night that he will not change the name of the team.

New owner keeps Astros' name*

New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane says he won't change the team's name.

No name change for Astros, owner says*

Last week, new Houston Astros owner Jim Crane hinted that the name of the team could change. Apparently feedback from fans and season ticket holders has convinced him to take that option off the table.

Still the 'Stros after all*

New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane says he won't change the team's name.

Restaurants by Osceola County Stadium in Greater Orlando*

The Osceola County Stadium in Kissimmee, Fla., is the spring training home of the Houston Astros. For game-day hunger, consider hitting up one of these nearby restaurants before or after you cheer on your favorite players underneath the Greater Orlando sun.

2013 is the Houston Astros ' Zihuatanejo*

New front office led by Crane, Postolos and Luhnow has the future in mind

Houston Astros: By Any Other Name*

During their 50-year history, the Astros have had a rather lackluster reign in football-mad Texas

Name change ahead for the Houston Astros?*

Astros owner Jim Crane had a lot to unveil Monday, including a potential uniform change and the possibility of renaming the team. Crane told reporters a name change was under consideration but not a sure thing. "There's a lot of expense to it," said Crane. "We've got signs here. And if we do change it, it's going to be expensive. Like I said, it's under consideration. We haven't said we're going ...

Houston Astros consider name change*

Man, talk about shaking up a franchise. New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane said he will consider a uniform change and a team name change when the franchise moves over to the American League in 2013. "We're going to study the information both from the fans and from all sorts of marketing people," Crane said. "I'm not saying we're going to change. We haven't made the decision yet whether we're ...

Ten possible new names for the Houston Astros*

When the Houston Astros switch to the American League in 2013, they also might undergo a makeover that includes new uniforms (whatever) and a new name (gasp!). The franchise has a history of fiddling with both. New owner Jim Crane, at a Monday event to announce several fan-inspired initiatives, said the team was "highly considering" altering its uniforms — which hopefully means a return to the ...

Sports briefs: Houston Astros consider name change*

Sports briefs: Houston Astros consider name change Published Jan 23, 2012 05:06PM MDT major leage Baseball • New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is considering changing the name of the franchise as well as its uniforms. Crane says the team will conduct a study to decide whether or not to change the name. He says switching uniforms is something the team is “highly considering.” Any changes wouldn ...

New Astros owner Jim Crane considering name, uniform changes*

New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is considering changing the name of the franchise as well as its uniforms

Crane mulling name, uniform changes*

HOUSTON — New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is considering changing the name of the franchise as well as its uniforms.

Owner might change Houston Astros ' name, uniforms*

Baseball notes

New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane ponders name, uniform changes*

New Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is considering changing the name of the franchise as well as its uniforms. Crane said Monday the team...

Pirates lose Snyder to Astros*

Former Pirates catcher Chris Snyder agreed to a one-year deal with the Houston Astros that includes a mutual option for 2013, according to the Astros' public relations department.

Astros agree to 1-year contract with C Snyder*

Free agent catcher Chris Snyder has agreed to a one-year contract with the Houston Astros, a deal that includes a 2013 mutual option.

Houston Astros, Minute Maid help dedicate renovated Wiseman Field TDT News - Temple Daily Telegram*

Gene Pemberton, left, reminisces Wednesday with Drayton McLane Jr. during the dedication of the newly remodeled Wiseman Field in Temple. Pemberton served as chaplain for the Houston Astros when McLane owned the team from 1992 through November 2011. (Josh Quinn/Telegram)

Chris Snyder Signs With Houston Astros*

Former Pirates catcher Chris Snyder has signed a one-year deal with the Astros . Snyder hit fairly well for the Bucs in 2011, but didn't play much due to a back injury. When healthy, he's a decent hitter (with a very low average but with good power for a catcher, and he draws a fair number of walks), and he provides steady defense. The Pirates sensibly declined an expensive option on his ...

Top Five Players in Houston Astros History: A Fan's Opinion*

The 2012 season marks the 50 th anniversary of the Houston Astros franchise. With that said, here are my top five players in team history. 1. Craig Biggio- second baseman, catcher, outfielder Biggio spent 20 years in an Astros uniform.

Astros unveil lineup for CAREavan*

Astros unveil lineup for CAREavan

Astros Name Joe Pettini Bench Coach*

The Houston Astros hired former St. Louis Cardinals bench coach Joe Pettini to become manager Brad Mills' bench coach.

MLB Free Agency 2012: Fernando Martinez Claimed By Houston Astro*

In a continual effort to claim every available top prospect, the Houston Astros used their status at the top of the waiver wire to claim former Mets top prospect Fernando Martinez . A very hyped guy for a long time now, Martinez had been linked to the Astros in the past as part of Roy Oswalt trades and the like. Does it make sense for Houston? Absolutely. Talent always gets a second and third ...

Mets lose former top prospect Fernando Martinez to Houston Astros*

Houston won waiver-wire claim on oft-injured outfielder

Houston Astros Represented In New MLB Network Game Show*

You know the only reason I was disappointed with this stor y? My DVR guide only goes two weeks ahead of time, so I couldn't automatically set it up to record Baseball I.Q. , which sounds like it'll be a very cool new game show on MLB Network. Here's the description: Hosted by MLB Network's Matt Vasgersian, Baseball IQ is a recall-based trivia show featuring two participants, 30 minutes and a ...

Beloved Astros clubhouse manager retires after 32 years*

The Astros issued a statement on the retirement of Dennis Liborio, who was the team’s clubhouse manager for 32 years, taking on an emeritus role in 2010 with his declining health. The statement is below with comments from several former players on the beloved and sharp-tongued New Englander, who never did lose that accent. On a personal level, I’ll appreciate his restaurant advice, pointing out ...

Pressing Questions: The Houston Astros*

The Houston Astros were such a flaming disappointment in 2011 that the team has actually been relegated, bumped to the American League, effective 2013 . We're all anxious to see which low-power, .320-OBP scrapper will emerge as this team's regular DH, but that will have to wait. The Astros must first slog through the 2012 season as lame-duck National Leaguers. This group finished dead-last in ...

Hooks name Keith Bodie as manager*

Bodie will Hooks' fourth manager in as many years

Coudal Partners' Jim Coudal talks design, how his firm changed ... and Houston Astros uniforms*

My friend Steve Delahoyde (and husband of fellow WBEZ blogger Claire Zulkey ) works at the Chicago design firm Coudal Partners . And every time I asked him what the company does , he'd give me a bunch of examples — a short film he'd shot, an online design tournament — but I was still left wondering, "OK, right, but what does the firm really do ?" So, finally, I went to Jim Coudal...

2012 RedHawks Field Staff Announced*

Oklahoma City, Okla. - The Oklahoma City RedHawks, Triple-A affiliate of the Houston Astros, have announced the field staff for the 2012 season, including the return of manager Tony DeFrancesco.

2012 Houston Astros Spring Training Schedule*

The 2012 Houston Astros Spring Training schedule is ready to provide fans with another interesting look at the team. This is the final season that the Astros will play in the National League Central before heading to the American League West for the 2013 season.

Astros Payroll Going Down, Down, Down*

It's no secret that the Houston Astros are shedding payroll like crazy. After the payroll going up every year from 2000 through 2006, it's now dropped over $25 million since 2009 and looks to go even lower in 2012. The Biz of Baseball showed that Houston's total salary commitments dropped almost 10 percent in the past year and is down to about $81 million last season. Now that there will no ...

An Early Christmas For Astros Employees*

Christmas came early for the employees of the Houston Astros, about a month early.  

Wade returns to Philadelphia*

Philadelphia, PA (Sports Network) - Former Phillies general manager Ed Wade, most recently fired as GM of the Houston Astros, will return to Philadelphia's front office.

Houston Astros: Will They Be Competitive When They Make the League Switch?*

Sometimes you get questions that make you chuckle. I got one the other day where I almost spit out my beverage: what holes do the Astros need to fill to be competitive in 2013? Well, where do you want me to start? It probably is easier to answer the question of how many positions the Astros feel comfortable with in 2013. I'm assuming the answer is somewhere between few to none. So, rather than ...

Red Sox obtain reliever Melancon from Astros for Lowrie, Weiland*

The Boston Red Sox acquired reliever Mark Melancon from the Houston Astros on Wednesday for infielder Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland.

Sox deal for a possible closer*

BOSTON (AP) -- The Boston Red Sox acquired reliever Mark Melancon from the Houston Astros yesterday for infielder Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland, giving the Sox a potential replacement for

Red Sox add Melancon, Punto in separate deals*

The Boston Red Sox tweaked their bullpen and bench with a pair of moves Wednesday, acquiring reliever Mark Melancon and utility infielder Nick Punto in separate deals. After losing closer Jonathan Papelbon in free agency last month, the Red Sox obtained Melancon from the Houston Astros in a trade for infielder Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland.

North Salem grad Lowrie traded to Houston Astros*

BOSTON (AP) The Boston Red Sox traded former North Salem baseball player Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland to the Houston Astros for closer Mark Melancon.

Red Sox obtain P Melancon for Lowrie, Weiland*

BOSTON (AP) --The Boston Red Sox have acquired closer Mark Melancon from the Houston Astros for infielder Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland.

Red Sox obtain P Melancon for IF Lowrie, P Weiland*

BOSTON (AP) --The Boston Red Sox have acquired closer Mark Melancon from the Houston Astros for infielder Jed Lowrie and right-hander Kyle Weiland.

Red Sox Lowrie, Weiland to Astros for Melancon*

The Boston Red Sox have traded infielder Jed Lowrie and pitcher Kyle Weiland to the Houston Astros for relief pitcher Mark Melancon, a baseball source confirmed to ESPN.com.

Red Sox deal for Astros closer Melancon*

The Boston Red Sox have traded infielder Jed Lowrie and pitcher Kyle Weiland to the Houston Astros for relief pitcher Mark Melancon, a baseball source confirmed to ESPN.com.

Houston Astros sign C Quintero to 1-year deal; C Castro has foot surgery*

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros have signed catcher Humberto Quintero to a one-year, $1 million contract plus bonuses. The deal allows the Astros to avoid arbitration with the 32-year-old who hit .240 with two home runs and a career-high 25 RBIs in 79 games last season. Also on Monday, Houston announced that catcher Jason Castro had surgery on his left foot. The team expects Castro’s recovery to ...

Astros sign Quintero; say Castro had surgery*

The Houston Astros have signed catcher Humberto Quintero to a one-year, $1 million contract plus bonuses

Houston Astros: The Blueprint to Competing in the AL West*

A philosopher once said that the road to hell was paved with good intentions. If that philosopher had been a baseball fan he would have said the road to hell was paved with free agents. The Texas Rangers and Los Angeles of Anaheim have changed the landscape in the AL West dramatically. The Rangers have won back to back pennants and are so close to a World Series title that they can smell it. The ...

Astros hire Cards' Luhnow as GM*

The Houston Astros have hired Jeff Luhnow as their new general manager, hoping he can help rebuild a team that finished with the worst record in the major leagues.

Astros make righty Cruz top pick in Rule 5 draft*

The Houston Astros have made pitcher Rhiner Cruz the top pick in baseball's Rule 5 draft.

Astros hire former Cardinals VP Luhnow as GM*

The Houston Astros hired Jeff Luhnow as their new general manager Wednesday night, hoping he can help rebuild a team that finished with the worst record in the major leagues.

Astros hire Jeff Luhnow as general manager*

The Houston Astros hired Jeff Luhnow as their new general manager Wednesday night, hoping he can help rebuild a team that finished with the worst record in the major leagues.

Astros introduce Jeff Luhnow as general manager*

Newly-hired Houston Astros general manager Jeff Luhnow answers a question during a baseball news conference on Thursday, Dec. 8, 2011, in Houston. Luhnow was with the St. Louis Cardinals before joining the Astros.

Houston Astros introduce new GM Jeff Luhnow, was VP in Cardinals' organization*

HOUSTON — New Houston general manager Jeff Luhnow is confident he can turn the Astros into a winner. That doesn’t mean he expects the turnaround to be swift for a team that finished with the worst record in baseball last season at 56-106. Luhnow, a vice president with the St. Louis Cardinals last season, takes over for Ed Wade, who was fired late last month in the first major move by new Astros ...

Editorial: It's encouraging to know new owner of Houston Astros has set his sights on Treasure Coast*

Baseball fans on the Treasure Coast likely would embrace another professional team for spring training. It's encouraging to learn Jim Crane, new owner of the Houston Astros , has set his sights on our region. Why? Because Florida's East Coast has seen its share of baseball team departures.

Baseball: Vincent Velasquez returns to hold fundraiser*

Former Pomona Garey pitcher Vincent Velasquez, a member of the Houston Astros organization, is holding a fundraiser on Sunday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Pomona. All proceeds go to the church. He...

Rockies' Geivett Interviews With Astros*

The Houston Astros search for a new general manager continued Friday in Houston where team officials are interviewing William Geivett, senior vice president-scouting & player development/assistant general manager with the Colorado Rockies.  

Houston Astros owner fires GM and team president*

The Houston Astros fired general manager Ed Wade and team president Tal Smith late Sunday night in the first of the changes promised by new owner Jim Crane.

Former Astros GM Ed Wade not surprised by firing*

Former Houston Astros general manager Ed Wade was hardly surprised that he was fired along with team president Tal Smith in the first major changes by new owner Jim Crane.

Former Houston Astros GM Ed Wade disappointed but not surprised he was fired*

HOUSTON — Former Houston Astros general manager Ed Wade was hardly surprised that he was fired along with team president Tal Smith in the first major changes by new owner Jim Crane. Wade was, however, disappointed that he won’t be with the club to see what will come of the many prospects he brought into the organization. Read full article >>

Houston Astros: 9 Free Agents They Can Legitimately Hope to Sign*

The Houston Astros ' 2011 campaign is one that the entire organization is hoping to quickly put behind them. Houston finished with a Major League worst 56-106 and set a franchise record for most losses in a season, while also finishing 40 games behind first-place Milwaukee .  Not only was the regular season a debacle for the Astros, during the offseason they were sold to new owner Jim Crane and ...

Astros Fire GM, Team President*

The Houston Astros fired general manager Ed Wade and team president Tal Smith on Sunday night in the first of the changes promised by new owner Jim Crane.

Astros fire GM, president in search of 'fresh start'*

HOUSTON (AP) -- The Houston Astros fired general manager Ed Wade and team president Tal Smith on Sunday night in the first of the changes promised by new owner Jim Crane.

Changes under new owner Crane begin as Houston Astros fire GM Wade and team president Smith*

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros fired general manager Ed Wade and team president Tal Smith on Sunday night in the first of the changes promised by new owner Jim Crane. The moves come less than a week after the sale of the team from Drayton McLane to Crane was officially completed last Tuesday, a transaction that requires the franchise to move from the NL Central to the AL West in 2013. Read full ...

Astros Dismiss Ed Wade and Tal Smith*

The Houston Astros announced late Sunday that Tal Smith, president of baseball operations, and general manager Ed Wade have been dismissed.

Astros fire team president and GM*

The Houston Astros announced early Monday morning that they have fired team president Tal Smith and general manager Ed Wade, confirming a Sunday night FOXSports.com report.

Astros Fire Wade and Smith: MLB Fan Reaction*

While the rest of the country was recovering from the Thanksgiving meal, on Nov. 27, the Houston Astros were busy making changes to the team. Both president of baseball operations Tal Smith and general manager Ed Wade have been fired .

Houston Astros could move to Mariners division in 2013*

USA Today reports Jim Crane is expected to be approved Thursday as the new owner of the Houston Astros. In return, he’s expected to agree to move the team to the American League, possibly the A.L. West.

Done deal: Crane officially becomes Astros owner*

The sale of the Houston Astros to Jim Crane from Drayton McLane became official Tuesday.

ValleyCats forced to wait-and-see what happens with Houston Astros ' new owner*

TROY — What does the sale of the Houston Astros — and their move to the American League in 2013 — mean to the Tri-City ValleyCats, an Astros farm team?

COMMENTARY: Houston Astros' ownership, league changes will improve the franchise*

The process took quite a while, but in a single day, the Houston Astros had a new owner (Jim Crane) and a new league (the American League, effective 2013).

Wade-Ing into the Houston Astros' Problems: 7 Things the Astros Must Do Now.*

Now that the sale of the Houston Astros to area businessman Jim Crane has been approved, the task at hand for the new owner is to begin the recovery from the Astros' historically bad 2011 season.  While Crane has already spent $610 million and has hinted at things such as uniform changes and “reaching out personally” to season ticket holders, there are seven things Crane can do in the short term ...

Rangers to Gain Some Texas Company in the AL West: Fan's View*

The Texas Rangers will soon have some Texas company in the American League West, now that the Houston Astros are set to join the American League West as early as 2013. Yesterday MLB approved the sale of the Houston Astros to Jim Crane and also approved moving the Astros to the...

Sale of Houston Astros approved; club to move to American League in 2013*

HOUSTON — New Astros owner Jim Crane is promising plenty of changes in addition to the club’s move to the American League.

Houston Astros sale, move to American League approved by MLB*

Houston Astros were sold to businessman Jim Crane by Drayton McLane. In 2013, the Houston Astros will move to the American League West Division.

Houston Astros' sale approved*

Major League Baseball commissioner Bud Selig announced on Thursday that Jim Crane's purchase of the Houston Astros has been unanimously approved by owners, CBS Sports reported.

Houston Astros will move to the American League after being sold*

Owners unanimously approved the sale

Houston Astros to switch leagues*

Major League Baseball's Houston Astros will switch from the National League to the American League as soon as 2013, a stipulation to which the team's incoming owners agreed, MLB said Thursday.

MLB could approve Atros sale next week*

The proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when baseball owners meet next week.

Report: Agreement on how to move to AL may help complete Astros' sale*

NEW YORK — The proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when baseball owners meet next week, The Associated Press has learned. Two people familiar with the negotiations say McLane, Crane and Major League Baseball have reached an understanding on how a possible shift of the franchise to the American League in 2013 would take place. The ...

APNewsBreak: Astros sale from McLane to Crane on agenda for MLB owners' approval next week*

NEW YORK — The proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when baseball owners meet next week, The Associated Press has learned. Two people familiar with the negotiations say McLane, Crane and Major League Baseball have reached an understanding on how a possible shift of the franchise to the American League in 2013 would take place. The ...

Report: Astros sale on owners meeting agenda*

The proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when baseball owners meet next week, The Associated Press has learned.

Berkman calls Astros in the AL a ‘travesty,' suggests Brewers move*

Even though he just won a World Series with another team, Lance Berkman will primarily be known for his success with the Houston Astros . He'll also be remembered for his willingness to share an opinion, which is why it should come as no surprise that the current St. Louis Cardinals outfielder is coming out against a possible move to the American League for the Astros. Rather strongly, I might ...

Former San Jacinto College standout, Stavinoha, signs a minor league deal with the Houston Astros*

Former San Jacinto College outfielder Nick Stavinoha signed a minor league contract with the Houston Astros on Wednesday. Stavinoha, 29, was a seventh round draft pick of the St. Louis Cardinals in 2

Source: Astros sale to Crane set for approval*

Two people familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press that the proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda.

APNewsBreak: Astros sale to Crane set for approval*

The proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane is on the agenda for approval when baseball owners meet next week, The Associated Press has learned.

Astros claim Bixler off waivers*

The Houston Astros have claimed infielder Brian Bixler off waivers from the Washington Nationals.

Houston Astros: 50 Greatest All-Time Players, Part 6 of 10*

The Houston Astros recently completed their 50th Major League season. Originally, the team was known as the Houston Colt .45s, from their inaugural season in 1962 through 1964. In 1965, however, the team adopted the moniker, "Astros." Since then, the  Astros have been to the postseason nine times, winning the National League pennant in 2005. Houston only hit .500 once in its first 10 seasons and ...

Houston Astros: 50 Greatest All-Time Players, Part 7 of 10*

The Houston Astros recently completed their 50th Major League season. Originally, the team was known as the Houston Colt .45s, from their inaugural season in 1962 through 1964. In 1965, however, the team adopted the moniker, "Astros." Since then, the  Astros have been to the postseason nine times, winning the National League pennant in 2005. Houston only hit .500 once in its first 10 seasons and ...

Top Five Catchers in Houston Astros History*

Qualifier: players will be classified under one position even if they played at more than one. Alan Ashby: Alan Ashby was a strong offensive catcher for the Houston Astros throughout the 1980s. During his prime years from 1980 to 1987, Ashby maintained a .262 average, .335 on-base...

Shortstop Clint Barmes Gets Type B Status*

This new probably spells the end of Clint Barmes ' time with the Houston Astros , as the shortstop was named as a Type B free agent.  That means Barmes can net the Astros a compensatory pick between the first and second rounds if he is offered salary arbitration by Houston and declines it. We talked about this on the TCB Top 30 podcast Saturday night and Sean aka native_astro brought up a great ...

Former Houston Astro/Rice Owl, Lance Berkman, wins World Series ring with the Cardinals*

ST. LOUIS -- Most Houston Astros fans will always regard Lance Berkman as one of the franchise's all-time greats.

Houston Astros: 50 Greatest All-Time Players, Part 3 of 10*

The Houston Astros recently completed their 50th Major League season. The team was known as the Houston Colt .45's from their inaugural season in 1962 through 1964. In 1965 the team adopted the moniker "Astros." The Astros have been to the postseason nine times, winning the National League pennant in 2005. Houston only hit .500 once in its first 10 seasons, and did not post a winning record ...

Houston Astros: 50 Greatest All-Time Players, Part 2 of 10*

The Houston Astros recently completed their 50th Major League season. The team was known as the Houston Colt .45's from their inaugural season in 1962 through 1964. In 1965 the team adopted the moniker "Astros." The Astros have been to the postseason nine times, winning the National League pennant in 2005. Houston only hit .500 once in its first ten seasons, and did not post a winning record ...

2012 MLB Offseason: Houston Astros Fielding Breakdown*

The Astros finished with the worst record in franchise history. When you lose more then 100 games there is going to be a lot of facets of the game where you are weak. I know you are going to be shocked to hear that the Astros were not a good fielding team last season. In point of fact, they haven't been a good fielding team in quite some time. One of the hallmarks of a lack of analysis is the ...

MLB Realignment: Jim Crane Wants $50 Million Discount To Move Astros To The American League*

The potential sale of the Houston Astros to Jim Crane has hit a snag, because commissioner Bud Selig wants to move the Astros to the American League. However, Crane in exchange for a move to the American League wants a  $50 million reduction of the $680 million price tag : Sources told The Post that Crane -- who reached a deal in May to buy the Astros from Drayton McLane for $680 million -- is ...

Potential Astros owner Jim Crane wants $50M discount to move team to American League*

Potential Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is looking to cut $50 million from the purchase price of the team in exchange for the Astros switching leagues, The Post has learned. The Houston businessman has been talking to Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig about moving the team to the American...

Houston Astros: Grading the Second Half Position by Position*

It would be difficult to paint the 2011 season as anything other than a disaster. The club finished with a franchise record 106 losses, and most of the season was played under the cloud of a problematic ownership situation. Players, coaches and fans are all thankful it is over. Despite that, there are always bright spots in even the worst of seasons. So, we will take a look at each position and ...

Former Houston Astros/Rice University star, Lance Berkman, headed to second World Series*

MILWAUKEE, Wisc. -- Former Rice University/Houston Astros star Lance Berkman is headed to his second World Series, this time with the St. Louis Cardinals. The 35-year-old outfielder went 1-for-5 with

Gammons: Astros sale to be done mid-November, team will move to A.L.*

The Houston Astros sale is expected to be completed next month and the team will move to the American League, according to Hall of Fame baseball writer Peter Gammons.

Astros Moving to the AL West?*

If MLB writer Peter Gammons is right, the Houston Astros will be headed to the American League. Photo Credit: Getty Images

Peter Gammons: Astros sale to be completed mid-November, team will move to AL*

The Houston Astros sale is expected to be completed next month and the team will move to the American League, according to Hall of Fame baseball writer Peter Gammons.

Houston Astros Likely Headed to AL West*

The AL West may soon be welcoming another team as the  Houston Astros may be joining the division  as soon as 2013, according to Peter Gammons.  The reported sale of the team to Houston businessman Jim Crane should be finalized sometime in Nonvember, but since the 2012 MLB schedule has already been released the team likely can't join the AL West until the 2013 season, giving the team and the ...

Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather SportsAstros re-sign coaches Brocail and Barnett*

HOUSTON (AP) - The entire Houston Astros coaching staff will remain intact for next season after the team agreed to one-year contracts with pitching coach Doug Brocail and hitting coach Mike Barnett on Tuesday.

Astros agree to deals with coaches Brocail, Barnett to keep staff together for 2012 season*

HOUSTON — The entire Houston Astros coaching staff will remain intact for next season after the team agreed to one-year contracts with pitching coach Doug Brocail and hitting coach Mike Barnett on Tuesday. The Astros signed manager Brad Mills, third base coach Dave Clark, first base coach Bobby Meacham, bench coach Al Pedrique and bullpen coach Jamie Quirk to two-year contracts at the end of ...

MLB-worst Astros bring back coaches*

The entire Houston Astros coaching staff will remain intact for next season despite finishing with a league-worst 56-106 record.

Astros keep coaching staff intact with signings of Brocail, Barnett*

The entire Houston Astros coaching staff will remain intact for next season after the team agreed to one-year contracts with pitching coach Doug Brocail and hitting coach Mike Barnett on Tuesday.

Rockies defeat Houston Astros to end nine-game losing streak*

The Rockies' problem is that they feel like they've been routinely behind the eight-ball during their nine-game losing streak.

Former Rice University/Houston Astros standout, Berkman, headed to third National League Championship Series*

It was one of the biggest upsets in recent memory.

Astros' Schafer charged with felony*

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Houston Astros' outfielder Jordan Schafer has been arrested in Florida and charged with felony possession of marijuana.

Astros' Schafer arrested on marijuana charge*

TAMPA, Fla. — Houston Astros' outfielder Jordan Schafer has been arrested in Florida and charged with felony possession of marijuana.

Offseason Outlook: Houston Astros*

Expect a quiet offseason for the Astros, who conducted their fire sale in July. Intrigue may come from possible ownership, GM, and league changes. Guaranteed Contracts Carlos Lee, LF/1B: $18.5MM through 2012, ten-and-five rights Wandy Rodriguez, SP: $25.5MM through 2013, 2014 club option becomes player option upon trade Brett Myers, SP: $14MM through 2012 unless '13 option vests Brandon Lyon, RP ...

Astros' Schafer gets felony pot possession charge*

TAMPA, Fla. (AP) -- Houston Astros' outfielder Jordan Schafer has been arrested in Florida and charged with felony possession of marijuana.

Houston Astros prospect Dustin Kellogg killed in auto accident; Jordan Schafer arrested*

Astros prospect killed in auto accident on same day former Braves Jordan Schafer busted for marijuana possession

Houston prospect Dustin Kellogg killed in auto accident*

Houston Astros prospect Dustin Kellogg was killed in an automobile accident late Monday night.

Houston Astros' pitching prospect Kellogg killed in automobile accident*

HOUSTON — Houston Astros prospect Dustin Kellogg has been killed in an automobile accident. Kellogg died late Monday when the pickup truck he was driving collided with a freight truck in suburban Houston, according to the Texas Department of Public Safety. The 18-year-old pitcher was picked by the Astros in the 34th round of this year’s amateur draft. He appeared in six games for the Astros Gulf ...

Astros prospect Kellogg killed in car accident*

HOUSTON (AP) -- Houston Astros prospect Dustin Kellogg was killed in an automobile accident late Monday night.

Astros bad all over*

share: digg facebook twitter Triple-A — Oklahoma City RedHawks: 68-75, last in Pacific Coast League's Southern Division. Double-A — Corpus Christi Hooks: 50-90 overall in the Texas League (25-45, last, 24 games back in South Division first half; 25-45, last, 20 back in second half). Class A — Lexington Legends: 59-79 overall in South Atlantic League's Southern Division; two teams were worse (35 ...

Astros finish 1st 100-loss season*

The Houston Astros finished the year with the worst record in baseball at 56-106 -- the first 100-loss season in franchise...

Astros end dismal season with loss*

The Houston Astros endured one final humiliation at the end of the worst season in franchise history, watching the St. Louis Cardinals celebrate a victory that earned them a playoff berth.

COMMENTARY: Former Houston Astros head to the postseason. Who are you rooting for?*

The Houston Astros recently announced the upcoming celebration of their 50th anniversary season, which will begin next spring.

Detention Lecture: Your 2011 Houston Astros*

As the regular season winds down, 22 teams are facing an offseason filled with golf rounds and hot-stove strategery. But we're not going to let them get off that easy. No sir. No way. In an attempt to bring some closure between franchise and follower, we're giving a blogger from each team the opportunity to detain their squads for the equivalent of a Saturday morning detention stay. Up next is ...

Cards continue playoff push vs. Astros*

Cardinals have chance to clinch NL wild card, force one-game playoff in final game against MLB-worst Houston Astros.

Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather SportsHouston blows 5-run lead in loss to Cardinals*

HOUSTON (AP) - The Houston Astros had another chance to play spoiler Tuesday night, and quickly built a five-run lead against the St. Louis Cardinals.

BC-BBN--Rockies-Astros,Extra InningsAdvisory, BBN*

EDITORS: The Colorado Rockies and Houston Astros are tied at 2 after nine innings. AP Sports

D-Backs, Astros Banning Energy Drinks*

The Arizona Diamondbacks and Houston Astros are attempting to stop players from using energy drinks, USA Today reported.

Rockies Vs. Astros: Lowly Houston Defeats Colorado, 9-6*

Even a game against the lowly Houston Astros couldn't save the Colorado Rockies from defeat. The Rockies dropped their eighth straight game with a 9-6 loss on Thursday night. Rookie Alex White (2-3, 8.63 ERA) had another troubling start. While he reached his career-high of six strikeouts for the third time this season, White failed to complete five innings, allowing five runs with one out to go ...

Rockies Lose 8th In A Row*

Carlos Lee doubled and drove in four runs, pinch-hitter Matt Downs knocked in three more and the Houston Astros beat Colorado 9-6 Thursday night.

Lee, Downs power Astros to 9-6 win over Rockies*

Houston Astros manager Brad Mills wasn't happy with his team's hitting in a shutout in Cincinnati on Wednesday.

Arroyo, Reds shut out Astros in last home game*

Bronson Arroyo tossed his first shutout in over two years, as the Cincinnati Reds handled the Houston Astros, 2-0, in the rubber match of a three-game series.

MLB: Cincinnati 2, Houston 0*

CINCINNATI, Sept. 21 (UPI) -- Bronson Arroyo pitched his first shutout of the season Wednesday, helping the Cincinnati Reds to a 2-0 victory over the Houston Astros.

Arroyo's 6-hitter lifts Reds past Astros (AP)*

Trying to move closer toward a personal goal, Bronson Arroyo took matters into his own hands. Arroyo pitched a six-hitter and the Cincinnati Reds wrapped up their home schedule Wednesday with a 2-0 win over the Houston Astros. Arroyo takes pride in pitching 200 innings a season, as he has done in each of the past six seasons.

Arroyo pitches 6-hitter, Reds beat Astros 2-0*

The Associated Press The Associated Press CINCINNATI Trying to move closer toward a personal goal, Bronson Arroyo took matters into his own hands. Arroyo pitched a six-hitter and the Cincinnati Reds wrapped up their home schedule Wednesday with a 2-0 win over the Houston Astros. Arroyo takes pride in pitching 200 innings a season, as he has done in each of the past six seasons. With two starts ...

BC-BBN--Astros-Reds,Rain DelayAdvisory, BBN*

EDITORS: The start of the Houston Astros at Cincinnati Reds game is being delayed by rain. AP Sports

Reds send Bailey to hill to face Astros*

(Sports Network) - Native Texan Homer Bailey can establish a personal best for single-season victories tonight when the Cincinnati Reds host the Houston Astros in game two of a three-game series at Great American Ball Park.

Reds hope to have Willis on hill in opener with Astros*

(Sports Network) - Lefty Dontrelle Willis tries for the 13th time to get his first win of the season tonight when the host Cincinnati Reds take on the Houston Astros in the opener of a three-game series at Great American Ball Park.

Travis Wood pitches 5 scoreless inning in Reds' 3-2 loss to Astros*

CINCINNATI — Travis Wood is already working on next season. Wood pitched five scoreless innings Monday night, but the Cincinnati Reds lost 3-2 to the Houston Astros. The left-hander was expected to be one of Cincinnati’s top starters this season but instead is finishing up a shaky year. He began the season in the Reds’ rotation but got off to a rough start before being sent down to Triple-A ...

Downs leads Astros past Reds*

The Houston Astros will do almost anything to get Matt Downs' bat in the lineup.

MLB Capsules - NL: Lopez, Cubs hand Houston its record 100th loss*

CHICAGO (AP) — For its first 49 seasons in the majors, the Houston Astros could claim they had never lost 100 games in a year. No more.

Rodrigo Lopez, Cubs hand Houston its record 100th loss*

CHICAGO - The Houston Astros lost 100 games in a season for the first time in franchise history, squandering a...

Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather SportsByrd's single lifts Cubs past Astros, 4-3 in 12*

CHICAGO (AP) - Chris Johnson said it was foul and he had the best look at it. Replays indicated he may have been right and that's just the way the season has gone for the Houston Astros.

Phillies fall to Houston Astros, 5-2*

Cole Hamels allowed five runs in five innings and Houston's J.A. Happ pitched six solid innings against his former team as the Phillies fell to the Astros, 5-2, at Minute Maid Park in Houston.

Houston Astros: 11 Best Base-Stealers in Astros History*

Stealing bases may be considered a small part of the game of baseball, but it can take an offense to the next level if your team has good base-stealers. When they get on base, opposing pitchers need to pay extra attention to them, and in turn, lose a little focus on the batter in the box. A really good base stealer can get into scoring position fairly quickly, and scoring runs is the name of the ...

Bud Norris outpitched by Roy Halladay, Astros unable to finish sweep of Phillies*

HOUSTON — Bud Norris gave the Houston Astros a chance to become the first team to sweep a three-game series from the Phillies this season. Roy Halladay made sure that didn’t happen. Halladay pitched his 20th career shutout and Philadelphia became the first team to reach the playoffs this season with a 1-0 victory over the Astros on Wednesday. Read full article >>

Barmes' 3-run homer leads Astros over Phillies*

share: digg facebook twitter The Houston Astros' J.A. Happ took another meaningful step in the right direction Tuesday night with a gritty outing that laid the foundation for a 5-2 victory against the Philadelphia Phillies.

Norris outpitched by Halladay, Astros lose*

share: digg facebook twitter HOUSTON (AP) — Bud Norris gave the Houston Astros a chance to become the first team to sweep a three-game series from the Phillies this season. Halladay pitched his 20th career shutout and Philadelphia became the first team to reach the playoffs this season with a 1-0 victory over the Astros on Wednesday. Shane Victorino doubled in the first inning and scored the ...

BC-BBN--Astros-Nationals,Extra InningAdvisory, BBN*

Editors: The Houston Astros and Washington Nationals are tied at 3 after 10 innings. AP Sports

Breaking Down the Astros Possible 2012 Roster and Depth Chart*

2011 has been a year to forget for the Houston Astros . The only good thing that has come out of 2011 is a good look at some new, young players and the No. 1 draft pick in next year's draft. Next year's team is expected to be even younger than it is this year, with few veterans, returning sophomores and some new rookies. Although the team will almost definitely not be in contention next year, it ...

Crane growing impatient at how long it's taking MLB to approve his purchase of Houston Astros*

HOUSTON — Jim Crane is becoming impatient at how long it’s taking Major League Baseball to approve his purchase of the Houston Astros. The Houston businessman told the Houston Chronicle (http://bit.ly/qPvgJI) in his first interview since the news conference to announce the sale that his contract with current Astros owner Drayton McLane has a deadline. He said in the story posted Thursday night ...

Nationals win 4-3 over Astros on wild throw*

The Associated Press The Associated Press WASHINGTON Jimmy Paredes, inserted in the game in the top of the 11th, made a wild throw to second base in the bottom half, allowing Ryan Zimmerman to score the winning run in the Washington Nationals' 4-3 win over the Houston Astros on Friday night. With one out, Lucas Harrell (0-1) walked Zimmerman and Michael Morse. Wilton Lopez replaced Harrell ...

Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather SportsParedes' costly error hands Nationals 4-3 win*

WASHINGTON (AP) - Houston Astros manager Brad Mills pinch ran Jimmy Paredes in the 11th inning hoping he would win the game with his feet. Instead, Paredes made a costly error in the bottom of the inning with his arm.

Pirates take series from Astros*

Jason Jaramillo singled home the winning run in the eighth to help the Pittsburgh Pirates take a 5-4 win over the Houston Astros in the rubber match of a three-game set.

Bud Selig Is Mishandling Deal with Perspective Houston Astros Owner Jim Crane*

Earlier this evening, Mark Berman of Fox 26 in Houston broke the following: Bud Selig is willing to approve Jim Crane and his group as the next owners of the Astros if Crane is willing to approve a move to the American League. According to the report, Mr. Crane has not made up his mind yet. I'll bet he thinks he was an unwitting cast member in an episode of  The Sopranos . Of course, we jest ...

Myers wins 2nd straight, Astros beat Pirates 4-1*

Brett Myers pitched into the eighth inning to earn his first win in 2½ months and the Houston Astros beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-1 on Tuesday night.

Myers helps Astros beat Pirates 4-1*

Brett Myers pitched into the eighth inning to earn his first win in 2½ months and the Houston Astros beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 4-1 on Tuesday night.

Lack of run support foils Lincoln*

The Pirates were undone Tuesday night by a dominant pitching performance by a Houston Astros pitcher with double-digit losses. Sound familiar?

Barmes returning to Astros?*

Houston Astros shortstop Clint Barmes has been in the league since Sept. 5, 2003 when he made his debut for the Colorado Rockies . In all that time, he's never been a free agent. This offseason, he'll finally get his chance. But it doesn't sound like he'll be on the market for too long. "I'd love to come back here, but I haven't put a whole lot of thought into that yet," Barmes said, according ...

Houston Astros: 10 Ways to Fast-Track the Rebuilding Process*

The past couple of years, the Houston Astros have been an organization that would be classified as rebuilding. The Astros represented the National League in the 2005 World Series, and the only player remaining from that team is Wandy Rodriguez. The team has almost completely overhauled their roster within six years.  Some have questioned the direction of the organization and if the Astros are ...

Prince Fielder, Brewers get bats going, crush Astros, 8-2*

Prince Fielder had four hits, including a two-run homer in the ninth, and the Brewers scored all their runs in the last three innings to rally for an 8-2 victory over the Houston Astros.

Brewers rally past Astros*

HOUSTON - Prince Fielder had four hits, including a two-run homer in the ninth inning, and the Milwaukee Brewers scored all their runs in the last three innings to rally for an 8-2 victory over the Houston Astros on Friday night.

Fielder homers, has 4 hits as Milwaukee Brewers rally for 8-2 win over Houston Astros*

HOUSTON - Prince Fielder had four hits, including a two-run homer in the ninth inning, and the Milwaukee Brewers scored all their runs in the last three innings to rally for an 8-2 victory over the Houston Astros on Friday night.

Fielder's 4 hits help Brewers rally (AP)*

Milwaukee manager Ron Roenicke watched his team through the first six innings and wondered if it would score at all on Friday night. Turns out he had nothing to worry about. Prince Fielder had four hits, including a two-run homer in the ninth, and the Brewers scored all their runs in the last three innings to rally for an 8-2 victory over the Houston Astros.

10 Players to Watch on the Houston Astros in 2012*

2011 has been a dismal year for the Astros. The team is going through a rebuilding process, which means that it's time to look towards the future and to what the next several years hold. The Astros are looking forward to giving the minor leaguers that they've acquired through trades and drafts the past couple of years a chance. The team is definitely not going to come anywhere close to ...

Astros' 6-run sixth inning buries Pirates*

HOUSTON -- In the span of seven batters, a close game turned into a blowout. The Houston Astros scored six runs in the sixth inning Tuesday night, propelling them to an 8-2 victory against the Pirates at Minute Maid Park. The Astros used five consecutive singles and a double to turn a tie score into a lead twice as large as any the Pirates have overcome this season.

Happ goes strong 7 innings for Astros*

The Associated Press The Associated Press HOUSTON J.A. Happ allowed three hits and struck out six over seven innings and the Houston Astros beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 2-0 on Wednesday night for a sweep of the three-game series. Despite having the worst record in baseball (47-90), the Astros have won five of their last seven overall and seven of their last eight at home. Houston's other sweep ...

Pirates Shut Down By Astros, 2-0*

The Pirates were shut out by the Houston Astros, 2-0 on Wednesday night. The Bucs drop to 62-74 as they recorded their third loss in as many nights.

Lee hits tiebreaking homer, Rodriguez strikes out 13, Astros beat Pirates 7-4*

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros lineup is filled with youngsters. On Monday night, a pair of veterans led the way. Carlos Lee hit a tiebreaking three-run homer in the seventh inning, Wandy Rodriguez struck out a career-high 13 and the Houston Astros rallied past the Pittsburgh Pirates 7-4. Trailing 3-2 in the seventh, a fielder’s choice grounder by J.D. Martinez tied the score and Lee extended his ...

Morton, 2 others rocked in flurry Morton*

HOUSTON -- In the span of seven batters, a close game turned into a blowout. The Houston Astros scored six runs in the sixth inning Tuesday night, propelling them to an 8-2 victory against the Pirates at Minute Maid Park. The Astros used five consecutive singles and a double to turn a tie score into a lead twice as large as any the Pirates have overcome this season.

Giants Win In Extra Innings Against Astros 2-1*

Jeff Keppinger hit a run-scoring single with two outs in the bottom of the 10th inning to lift the San Francisco Giants to a 2-1 win over the Houston Astros on Saturday night.

Astros welcome Pirates to Minute Maid Park*

The Houston Astros have had their fair share of problems against the Pittsburgh Pirates this season. That especially holds true for starter Wandy Rodriguez.

Astros get 4-game split, beat Giants 4-3 in 11th*

San Francisco Giants starting pitcher Eric Surkamp throws to the Houston Astros during the first inning of a baseball game in San Francisco, Saturday, Aug. 27, 2011.

Giants vs. Astros, MLB Scores: Giants Rallies Aren't Enough As Astros Win in Extras 4-3*

The San Francisco Giants were looking for a rare series win as of late against the Houston Astros as Matt Cain took the mound to lead the charge. Cainer pitched great per usual, but the Giants offense couldn't muster much support, per usual; forcing extra innings for the second straight game. And a after back-and-forth 10th inning the Black and Orange had ran out of rallies, eventually falling ...

Giants vs. Astros, MLB Scores: Matt Cain Takes the Bump Looking For Series Win*

September is just around the corner and the San Francisco Giants are still jockeying for position in the NL West. They are smack dab in the middle of a 12 game home stand, looking for a series win against the Houston Astros Sunday afternoon behind All-Star starter Matt Cain .  Cain (10-9 2.90 ERA) will be out to get the Giants third win in a row, a feat they haven't achieved since the middle of ...

Downs, Astros march past stumbling Giants in 11th*

Matt Downs delivered a go-ahead single with one out in the 11th inning and the Houston Astros beat the stumbling San Francisco Giants 4-3 on Sunday to salvage a four-game split.

Giants Lose In 11th To Astros, 4-3*

Matt Downs delivered a go-ahead single with one out in the 11th inning and the Houston Astros beat the stumbling San Francisco Giants 4-3 on Sunday to salvage a four-game split.

Houston Astros beat San Francisco Giants 4-3 in 11 innings*

It's a rare celestial event when the Giants rally in the late innings.To do it three times? Now that would really be over the moon.

Jeff Keppinger delivers with two-run double to back Madison Bumgarner, Giants beat Astros 2-1*

SAN FRANCISCO — For one night, the defending World Series champion Giants put together a fine pitching performance, played solid defense and scored just enough to get it done. Jeff Keppinger hit a two-run double, Madison Bumgarner won for only the second time in six starts and San Francisco held off the Houston Astros 2-1 on Friday night. Miguel Tejada made several pretty stops playing for Pablo ...

Bumgarner hangs tough as Giants get by Astros 2-1*

JANIE McCAULEY AP Baseball Writer SAN FRANCISCO For one night, the defending World Series champion Giants put together a fine pitching performance, played solid defense and scored just enough to get it done. Jeff Keppinger hit a two-run double, Madison Bumgarner won for only the second time in six starts and San Francisco held off the Houston Astros 2-1 on Friday night. Miguel Tejada made ...

Astros activate OF Schafer from DL*

The Houston Astros have activated outfielder Jordan Schafer from the 15-day disabled list and put him into the lineup

Loss to Astros puts Giants 3 games back in NL West*

Henry Sosa pitched six strong innings against his former club to earn his first career victory and the Houston Astros beat the San Francisco Giants 3-1 on Thursday night to end a four-game losing streak.

MCGUIRE Springer used to waiting, and Astros fans will wait, too*

TROY -- George Springer can appear as confident and polished at a podium as he does at the plate. The Houston Astros ' first-rounder is engaging and thoughtful. His words flow easily. Except when they don't.

Houston Astros: 4 Astros Who Won't Be Back in 2012*

The Astros are rebuilding and have been very aggressive in their pursuit of prospects and getting rid of veterans. Players like Lance Berkman, Roy Oswalt, Hunter Pence and Michael Bourn have all been moved over the past two seasons in hopes of rebuilding a depleted farm system. While all early indications are they have done a good job in stocking up, I don't think the Astros are done yet. They ...

Giants lose again, fall 3 games back in NL West*

The Associated Press The Associated Press SAN FRANCISCO The bats were nearly silent, and so was the San Francisco clubhouse. Things are going so sour for the Giants these days, maybe they feel talk is cheap. The Houston Astros, the team with the worst record in baseball, beat San Francisco 3-1 Thursday night to leave the defending World Series champs three games back of first-place Arizona in ...

MLB Capsules - NL: Lee, Paredes homer but Astros lose to Rockies*

DENVER (AP) — The Houston Astros hitters have found their groove at Coors Field. It hasn't translated into victories. Carlos Lee and Jimmy Paredes each homered as part of a 10-hit outburst, but the Colorado Rockies pulled out an 8-6 win Tuesday night.

Tulo scores on wild pitch as Rockies beat Astros*

Troy Tulowitzki scored from third on a wild pitch in the bottom of the 10th inning and the Colorado Rockies beat the Houston Astros 7-6 on Wednesday to complete a three-game sweep.

Astros Vs. Rockies: Colorado Faces Wandy Rodriguez, Could Acquire Him By Thursday*

Will the Colorado Rockies make it five victories in a row? After Jonathan Herrera hit a two-run home run to break the 6-6 tie on Tuesday night, the Rockies held on to win, 8-6. It had been nearly two months since the Rockies won four straight games. If they sweep the Houston Astros on Wednesday, the Rockies will need to do it with Wandy Rodriguez (9-9, 3.31 ERA) throwing against them. Rodriguez ...

Astros activate Schafer for first time since trade*

The Houston Astros have activated outfielder Jordan Schafer from the 15-day disabled list and put him into the lineup.

Why Wandy Rodriguez Should Be Claimed On Waivers*

Wandy Rodriguez remains unclaimed to this point, but are teams making a mistake if they pass him and his extension by? No one would have been surprised last summer, had Wandy Rodriguez been dealt by the Houston Astros . Instead, Rodriguez stayed in Houston and was signed to a three-year, $34 million deal with an option for 2014. There were two thoughts that came to mind after this deal: one, the ...

Chacin leads Rockies past Astros, 9-5*

The Houston Astros' bats were lively against Jhoulys Chacin — except when it counted.

Houston Astros: 5 Reasons to Still Want To Watch Astros Baseball in 2011*

With an MLB worst record of 42-85, it may seem like there is not much to be excited about when it comes to the 2011 Houston Astros , but with the worst behind us, this young group will be fun to watch the last month-and-a-half as we play spoilers to National League playoff contenders. Just ask the San Francisco Giants . Begin Slideshow

Astros Sunday Roundup: Smack Talking The Defending World Series Champions*

The Astros have a chance with a win today to run their winning streak to five games. Here's one for you: beat Dan Runzler tomorrow and the major league worst Houston Astros will sweep the defending World Series Champions, the San Francisco Giants . Who is Dan Runzler? Who knows? The Astros throw out Henry Sosa, and to win today would be a real kick in the teeth considering we acquired him from ...

Giants Lose 7-5, Swept By Astros In Houston*

Rookie Jose Altuve and J.D. Martinez are giving the Houston Astros a good look at their future.

Giants Shut Down Against Against Astros 6-0*

Wandy Rodriguez pitched eight innings and had a two-run single to lead the Houston Astros to a 6-0 victory over the slumping San Francisco Giants on Friday night.

Altuve hits inside-the-park HR, Astros outgun Giants*

Jose Altuve hit an inside-the-park drive for his first major league home run, a leadoff shot that sent the Houston Astros over the San Francisco Giants 7-5 Saturday night.

SF Giants fall to Houston Astros Saturday evening*

The Houston Astros beat the San Francisco Giants 7-5 Saturady evening.

Bumgarner hit hard, Giants lose to Astros*

Madison Bumgarner's first career start against the Houston Astros was one the San Francisco lefty will want to soon forget.

Altuve's inside-the-park HR helps Astros win*

Rookie Jose Altuve and J.D. Martinez are giving the Houston Astros a good look at their future.

Giants vs. Astros Preview: Ryan Vogelsong, Wandy Rodriguez Take the Bump for Game One*

It's been a magical, almost incomprehensible season for the San Francisco Giants ' Ryan Vogelsong , going from Minor League nobody to Major League All-Star over the course of a few months. And with the schedule starting to wind down, Vogelsong's starts are growing with importance with every passing game, with none more important than Friday's match up with the Houston Astros .  Vogelsong (10-2 2 ...

Houston Astros continue giving to injured draft pick*

HOUSTON – San Jacinto College (SJC) pitcher Buddy Lamothe received a surprise gift of a new wheelchair accessible van from Houston Astros team owner Drayton McLane and the Astros in Action Foundation.

Astros Top Cubs*

HOUSTON (AP) -- Slogging through a terrible season, the Houston Astros will make no apologies for being excited about a two-game winning streak.  

Downs helps Astros beat Cubs 4-3 (AP)*

Slogging through a terrible season, the Houston Astros will make no apologies for being excited about a two-game winning streak. Matt Downs hit a go-ahead two-run single, Mark Melancon wriggled out of a jam in the ninth inning and the Astros beat the Chicago Cubs 4-3 on Wednesday to take the series between the worst teams in NL Central.

Houston Astros sign first-round draft pick, George Springer*

Less than five months ago, the University of Connecticut men’s basketball team celebrated its third NCAA Championship at Reliant Stadium in Houston.

MLB commissioner: No action on Astros sale*

Major League Baseball has concluded two days of meetings with no action on the proposed sale of the Houston Astros.

Astros continue giving to injured draft pick*

HOUSTON – San Jacinto College (SJC) pitcher Buddy Lamothe received a surprise gift of a new wheelchair accessible van from Houston Astros team owner Drayton McLane and the Astros in Action Foundation.

Pinch-hit slam lifts Astros past Cubs*

Chicago Cubs' Aramis Ramirez connects for an RBI single in the first inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros, Tuesday, Aug. 16, 2011, in Houston.

Marmol's blown save gives Astros 6-5 win over Cubs*

The Associated Press The Associated Press HOUSTON Chicago Cubs closer Carlos Marmol entered the bottom of the ninth inning of Tuesday night's game against the Houston Astros with a three-run lead and the confidence nine consecutive saves can provide. It wasn't enough. Marmol allowed the Astros to load the base before surrendering a grand slam to pinch-hitter Brian Bogusevic for a 6-5 loss that ...

Marmol allows Bogusevic's 9th inning grand slam to give Houston 6-5 win over Chicago Cubs*

HOUSTON — Chicago Cubs closer Carlos Marmol entered the bottom of the ninth inning of Tuesday night’s game against the Houston Astros with a three-run lead and the confidence nine consecutive saves can provide. It wasn’t enough. Marmol allowed the Astros to load the base before surrendering a grand slam to pinch-hitter Brian Bogusevic for a 6-5 loss that ended the Cubs’ three-game winning streak ...

Cubs Hold Off Astros 4-3*

Geovany Soto had three hits and two RBIs and Kerry Wood earned his first save in over a year as the Chicago Cubs won for the 12th time in 15 games with a 4-3 win over the Houston Astros Monday night.

Astros swept for 11th time this season with 7-0 loss to Dodgers, Lyles gives up 3 HRs*

LOS ANGELES — Rookie Jordan Lyles is learning on the job during this dreary season for the Houston Astros. Lyles, the organization’s minor league pitcher of the year last season, continued to take his lumps on Sunday in a 7-0 loss to the Los Angeles Dodgers. The right-hander, who at age 20 is the youngest player in the majors, has a 5.31 ERA in 13 starts since beating the Chicago Cubs in his big ...

MLB postpones vote to approve sale of Astros*

Major League Baseball postponed a vote to approve the proposed sale of the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane.

Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather SportsKemp's RBI hit in 10th lifts Dodgers over Astros*

LOS ANGELES (AP) - Matt Kemp hit an RBI single in the 10th inning, giving the Los Angeles Dodgers a 1-0 victory over the Houston Astros on Friday night.

Rodriguez escaped bases-loaded, no-out jam in 9th before Astros lose 1-0 to Dodgers in 10*

LOS ANGELES — The Houston Astros wasted some terrific pitching by Bud Norris and Fernando Rodriguez, and slipped to depths the club hasn’t seen in almost 20 years. Norris allowed two hits over seven innings and Rodriguez escaped his own bases-loaded jam in the ninth. But the Astros couldn’t muster any offense against rookie Nathan Eovaldi, and David Carpenter yielded a game-ending single to Matt ...

Astros lose 1-0 to Dodgers on Kemp's RBI hit*

The Houston Astros wasted some terrific pitching by Bud Norris and Fernando Rodriguez, and slipped to depths the club hasn't seen in almost 20 years.

Collmenter helps Diamondbacks beat Astros*

Josh Collmenter scattered four hits over seven innings and Willie Bloomquist homered to start a three-run first inning and help the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Houston Astros 6-3 on Wednesday night. Paul Goldschmidt added a two-run single, Justin Upton went 3 for 4 with a double and a run scored, and Gerardo Parra had an RBI double for the Diamondbacks.

Diamondbacks seize 1st place from Giants (AP)*

Josh Collmenter scattered four hits over seven innings and Willie Bloomquist homered to start a three-run first inning and help the Arizona Diamondbacks beat the Houston Astros 6-3 on Wednesday night. Paul Goldschmidt added a two-run single, Justin Upton went 3 for 4 with a double and a run scored, and Gerardo Parra had an RBI double for the Diamondbacks.

Justin Upton's 4 RBIs lead Diamondbacks to 11-9 win over Astros*

PHOENIX — With a rookie-laden roster, Houston Astros manager Brad Mills is trying to focus on the positives. “There were a lot of positives because of the hits and runs but they were able to dig back into the game and keep on scoring,” Mills said after the Arizona Diamondbacks rallied from a six-run deficit to beat the Astros 11-9 on Tuesday night. Houston pounded out 14 hits against four ...

Houston Astros Call Up Henry Sosa To Start Wednesday*

I put the odds of this happening at 5-to-1 yesterday, and that might have been a little high. Sosa was on schedule to start Wednesday, but had  little Triple-A experience. Of course, Houston has shown in the past weeks that Triple-A experience means little to them right now. Sosa, for those of you unfamiliar with him, is a 26-year old picked up in the Jeff Keppinger trade with the San Francisco ...

Houston Astros Have Rotational Problems*

What's been a fairly consistent rotation this season has taken a turn for the unpredictable this week with the surprising demotion of J.A. Happ to Triple-A. Well, it wasn't a surprise if you looked at his performance, but it was sort of surprising that Houston chose to do something in August after putting up with Happ all season. The problem now is  they have to decide who takes Happ's place ...

Houston Astros: 5 Changes the New Owner Should Consider*

Sometime this month, the sale of the Houston Astros will be completed and ownership will transfer from Drayton McLane to Jim Crane. As with any new owner of an enterprise, changes are made so the owner can place his mark on the team. Many are speculating what changes are on tap for the Astros and how Crane will make the Astros "his" team. In the following slideshow, I will present some changes ...

Struggling Astros host Brewers in series finale*

(Sports Network) - The Houston Astros have never finished a season 40 games under .500, but incredibly today they can reach the mark with a loss to the NL Central-leading Milwaukee Brewers.

Milwaukee Brewers defeat Houston Astros 7-5*

Prince Fielder finished a triple shy of the cycle and drove in four runs, and the Milwaukee Brewers won for the 10th time in 11 games by beating the Houston Astros 7-5 Saturday night.

MLB: Astros option struggling LHP J.A. Happ to minors*

HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Astros optioned left-hander J.A. Happ to Triple-A Oklahoma City before Saturday night's game against the Milwaukee Brewers.

Astros option 14-game loser Happ (AP)*

The Houston Astros optioned left-hander J.A. Happ to Triple-A Oklahoma City before Saturday night's game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Happ, who came to Houston in the trade that sent Roy Oswalt to Philadelphia in July 2010, is 4-14 this season and has struggled with a 6.26 ERA in 22 starts. He has allowed five or more runs in eight straight starts.

Houston Astros option struggling starter J.A. Happ to minor leagues*

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros optioned left-hander J.A. Happ to Triple-A Oklahoma City before Saturday night’s game against the Milwaukee Brewers. Happ, who came to Houston in the trade that sent Roy Oswalt to Philadelphia in July 2010, is 4-14 this season and has struggled with a 6.26 ERA in 22 starts. He has allowed five or more runs in eight straight starts. “I’m disappointed,” Happ said. “You ...

Astros' bats quiet in loss to Brewers*

Yovani Gallardo allowed four hits over eight innings as Milwaukee beat the Houston Astros 8-1 Friday night for the Brewers’ ninth victory in 10 games.

Giants update: Ex-Houston Astros Jeff Keppinger and Hunter Pence getting fresh starts with winning teams*

Ex-Astros are playing for winners in Phillies, GiantsJeff Keppinger didn't have to see the long home run former Houston teammate Hunter Pence launched Thursday night to know he was going to have a big impact on the Philadelphia Phillies' lineup.

Brewers Practice on Houston Astros*

Yovani Gallardo pitched for eight innings. Craig Counsell broke  his 0-for-45 slump. Houston is good for what ails the Brewers road trips.

Milwaukee Brewers beat Houston Astros 8-1*

HOUSTON Yovani Gallardo allowed four hits over eight innings as Milwaukee beat the Houston Astros 8-1 Friday night for the Brewers ninth victory in 10 games.

Renteria's grand slam propels Cincinnati Reds to 5-1 win over Houston Astros*

HOUSTON — Edgar Renteria hit a grand slam in Cincinnati’s five-run fifth inning and Homer Bailey pitched eight solid innings to lead the Reds to a 5-1 win over the Houston Astros on Tuesday night. Chris Heisey and Ramon Hernandez sparked Cincinnati’s big inning with consecutive doubles, making it 1-0. Wandy Rodriguez (7-8) walked Bailey and Drew Stubbs with one out to set up Renteria’s ninth ...

Lyles gets first win as Astros beat Reds 5-4*

The Associated Press The Associated Press HOUSTON Cincinnati reliever Nick Masset couldn't help Dontrelle Willis get his first win in more than a year. Masset, who hadn't given up a run in his past four appearances, didn't record an out and was chased after five batters and allowing two runs and three hits and two walks to give the Houston Astros a 5-4 win over the Reds on Wednesday night ...

Closing Time: The Houston Astros, streamer's delight*

The most important man in Minute Maid Park these days is the scorecard vendor. The Astros have become the ultimate "who are these guys?" team since their yard sale last week. Consider the lineup Tuesday: sure, you know Jose Altuve , Carlos Lee and Clint Barmes but try to complete these other names: Durango (we remember, Steve Moyer), Bogusevic, Martinez, Paredes, Corporan. Here's a look at the ...

Philadelphia Phillies acquire All-Star OF Hunter Pence from Houston Astros*

PHILADELPHIA — Hunter Pence is adding his big bat to a pennant race. Philadelphia is counting on its latest All-Star acquisition from Houston to do what Brad Lidge and Roy Oswalt did before him — help take the team with the best record in baseball deep into the postseason. The Phillies made another deadline splash Friday night, acquiring Pence from the Astros for a package of highly rated ...

Altuve lifts Astros to 4-3 win over Reds in 10*

A couple of weeks ago Jose Altuve, Jimmy Paredes and J.D. Martinez were playing for Double-A Corpus Christi and wishing they were in the majors. On Monday night the trio of rookies got more than they hoped for, playing critical roles in the Houston Astros' 4-3 win over the Cincinnati Reds. Altuve drove in a run on a fielder's choice in the 10th inning to lift the new-look Astros to the...

Waiver trading period brings new intrigue*

DENVER - Ed Wade's days as general manager of the Houston Astros may be numbered with the pending approval of James Crane as the team's new owner. Wade, however, isn't waiting to find out.

Houston Astros Win In 10 Innings Against Cincinnati*

Rookie Jose Altuve drove in a run on a fielder's choice in the 10th inning to lift the new-look Houston Astros to a 4-3 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Monday night.

Hope In Houston: The Astros Aren't Historically Bad*

The Houston Astros are horrible, but they're far from the worst ever. Plus, there is a chance that they could be good in the future. Stranger things have happened.

Homers by Pujols, Freese back Westbrook, Cards*

St. Louis Cardinals starting pitcher Jake Westbrook throws during the first inning of a baseball game against the Houston Astros on Tuesday, July 26, 2011, in St. Louis.

Tipsheet: Astros sinking to new lows*

Say, just how bad are the Houston Astros ?

MLB Trade Rumors: Astros Reject Hunter Pence Trade Offer From Phillies*

A few days ago, it seemed like the Houston Astros weren't particularly interested in trading Hunter Pence . Now though, with a Carlos Beltran trade between the Mets and the Giants all but official, teams that were interested in Beltran are turning their attention to other players, Pence included. Ken Rosenthal says the Braves are in the mix, and Jon Heyman says that the Astros have turned down a ...

Cardinals fall short against Astros*

The Houston Astros have beaten the Cardinals only three times in 11 meetings this season. Not surprisingly, all those games have been started for Houston by the redoubtable Bud Norris.

MLB Trade Rumors: Is Fire Sale Best Option for Houston Astros?*

The 2011 baseball season has been a long one for the Houston Astros . After finishing fourth in the NL Central with a 76-86 record last season, this year has not been so kind. Currently, the team is in dead last with a record of 33-68. To add insult to injury, that is the worst record in all of baseball. Given that record, it's no surprise that incoming owner Jim Crane wants to trim payroll and ...

Phillies Trade Rumors: Houston Astros Asking Too Much for Hunter Pence*

The New York Mets veteran outfielder Carlos Beltran is high on the Philadelphia Phillies trade radar, but not as high as the Houston Astros Hunter Pence. Pence doesn ’t get the credit he deserves for being one of the best all-around players in the game because of how bad the Houston Astros are. While his awkward style takes away from his amazing play, Pence has remained as one of the brightest ...

Houston Astros Trade Rumors: 5 Most Valuable Commodities Astros Could Sell*

To the surprise of no one, the Astros have been one of the most oft-mentioned teams in trade rumors recently. They have been more or less out of the NL Central race since Memorial Day, they won't be contenders for several more seasons and to top if off, prospective new owner Jim Crane has asked the front office to try to get the payroll down to about $60 million. Add that all up and you have the ...

Molina's bat paces Cardinals' 10-5 win over Astros*

Houston Astros' Carlos Lee, right, rounds the bases after hitting a grand slam off St. Louis Cardinals relief pitcher P.J. Walters, left, during the eighth inning of a baseball game Monday, July 25, 2011, in St. Louis.

With Lyles Still Looking For First Win, Astros Try To Avoid Sweep In Chicago*

(Sports Network) - Aiming for their very first three-game win streak of the season, the Chicago Cubs try to make it a clean sweep against the disappointing Houston Astros in a National League Central showdown at Wrigley Field this afternoon. The Cubs last celebrated three consecutive victories near the end of the 2010 campaign when they closed out a four-game set against the San Diego Padres on ...

Houston Astros: 8 Vets Who Need to Be Axed at Trade Deadline*

The Astros have finally put together a win streak of two games, their longest since the middle of June, but that doesn't mean they won't be having a fire sale over the next two weeks. There are only a handful of players who most likely have been deemed untouchable like Bud Norris and Jordan Lyles and some who just are untradeable because no one would want them like J.R. Towles and Jason Micheals ...

Houston Astros Trade Rumors: Cincinnati Reds discuss Hunter Pence*

The Cincinnati Reds have discussed internally the possibility of trading for either Hunter Pence or Carlos Beltran ,  according to John Fay : A Reds insider told me earlier that club was not close to any deals. "That can change quickly," he said. It seems odd that the Reds would want to trade for Pence, seeing as they already have Jay Bruce and Drew Stubbs in their outfield, and if Jonny Gomes ...

Astros waste early chances, set up Cubs' comeback*

The Houston Astros had their chances, but just couldn't capitalize.

Giants acquire 2B Keppinger from Astros*

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros traded second baseman Jeff Keppinger to the San Francisco Giants for two Double-A pitchers on Tuesday.

MLB Trade Rumors: How Many More Trades Will Houston Astros Make?*

The Houston Astros are big time sellers at the trade deadline this year. They just dealt Jeff Keppinger  to the San Francisco Giants, which isn't the player everyone thought they would trade.  With multiple players on the trade block, how many more trades will the Astros make? Hunter Pence is the one player multiple teams would love to have, but the price may be too high.  Once Jim Crane is ...

Zimmermann knocked around in worst start of season as Nats lose 7-6 to Astros*

HOUSTON — The scene was an unfamiliar one: Jordan Zimmermann, the Washington Nationals' 25-year-old ace-in-the-making, craning his neck as he watched the ball crack off the Houston Astros' bats. It wasn't supposed to happen this way for Zimmermann. He wasn't supposed to be the guy throwing what manager Davey Johnson called ...

Astros trade 2B Keppinger to Giants*

The Houston Astros traded second baseman Jeff Keppinger to the San Francisco Giants for two Double-A pitchers.

Giants acquire 2B Jeff Keppinger from Astros*

Houston Astros' Jeff Keppinger (8) scores from second base on a Hunter Pence single as Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Eric Fryer stands nearby during the first inning of a baseball game Sunday, July 17, 2011, in Houston.

Melancon's tough inning dooms Astros in loss*

The Associated Press The Associated Press HOUSTON Astros closer Mark Melancon couldn't make it through a third inning unscathed. Melancon, who cruised through his first two innings Sunday, was unable to handle a grounder toward first with one out in the 11th, and things got worse from there for Houston. Pinch-runner Josh Harrison scored on a passed ball for the first of Pittsburgh's three runs ...

Astros Sunday Roundup: Is This A Sellers' Market?*

It may not be so easy for Ed Wade to get the bumper haul of prospects he needs over the next two weeks. At one point this season it looked as if Ed Wade could stir up a bidding war on the Houston Astros ' top assets, and as the trade rumors bounce around, it still might be the case over the next two weeks leading up to the July 31st non-waiver trade deadline.  But the indications are not great ...

Wandy, Astros Try To Win Rubber Game Against Pittsburgh This Afternoon*

(Sports Network) – All-Star Kevin Correia has sparkled on the road and today the Pirates turn to the right-hander to hopefully take the finale of a three- game road series against the Houston Astros . Correia has gone 9-2 with a 2.71 ERA in his 11 road starts, leading the majors in road wins. He has won three of his last four starts and is one win shy of his career-high of 12 set in 2009 ...

Pirates-Astros Preview*

Two teams headed in opposite directions face off when the Houston Astros and Pittsburgh Pirates return from the All-Star break with a weekend series. The surprising Pirates have abandoned their usual spot in the basement of the NL Central for a much better view near the top of the division, finishing the first half with a winning record for the first time since 1992.

Houston Astros Stock Watch: Week of July 14*

We're deviating from our normal formula and looking at a wide cast of characters affected or affecting the Astros this summer. The All-Star break couldn't have come at a better time for Houston, who have officially become the laughingstock of the entire league. They're taking potshots on Bill Simmons' podcast, they've got the worst record in baseball and just can't win a game, much less a series ...

McLane Denies Astros May be Moved to AL*

Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane emphatically denies a report by foxsportsarizona.com that the Astros would be moved to the American League West as part of a realignment plan baseball is considering.    

Houston Astros fans can take pride in Hunter Pence's play*

The Houston Astros' Hunter Pence threw out a runner at the plate in the All-Star Game, giving a lift to his team's fans.

Does Hunter Pence's All-Star Status Alter His Trade Value?*

Will his all-star appearance make it easier or harder for the front office to trade him? Hunter Pence is the lone representative for the Houston Astros at Chase Field this week for the all-star festivities (apart from Jose Altuve, who participated in Sunday's Futures Game). Two years ago in his first all-star appearance, he went alongside Astros shortstop Miguel Tejada , but this year it is just ...

Holland's Andy Van Hekken chasing MLB dreams in Houston Astros farm system*

Andy Van Hekken of Holland is ready to take the mound if the Houston Astros need him. The 31-year-old pitcher is biding his time with their top minor-league affiliate, the Triple-A Oklahoma City RedHawks. He is in their starting rotation after being moved from the bullpen for a May 30 start. “It's been a pretty good year so far,” said Van Hekken, a Holland High School graduate. “I'm looking for ...

Astros Fall To Marlins, 5-4*

Once again the Florida Marlins used home turf advantage to take the Houston Astros at Sun Life Stadium in Miami Gardens.

Is this year's team the Astros' worst ever?*

share: digg facebook twitter Express-News staff writer Richard Oliver ranks the three worst squads — to this point — in Houston Astros franchise history.

Pirates lose 1st in 4 games, 8-2 to Astros*

After working on a shutout through five innings, Charlie Morton was sent to the showers in the midst of a rocky sixth. Just like the rest of the Pirates, it was a game he'd like to wash off. One of Hunter Pence's three hits was an RBI single during a five-run sixth, Bud Norris pitched seven strong innings, and the Houston Astros snapped Pittsburgh's three-game winning streak with an 8-2...

Hurdle has pesky Pirates in NL Central contention*

Pittsburgh Pirates' Brandon Wood (2) rounds third to greetings from coach Nick Leyva (16) after hitting a two-run homer off Houston Astros pitcher Wandy Rodriguez during the second inning of a baseball game in Pittsburgh, Tuesday, July 5, 2011.

Astros' Happ loses 7th straight in 5-0 loss*

The Associated Press The Associated Press MIAMI J.A. Happ is mired in the longest drought of his career. Following a 5-0 loss to the Florida Marlins on Thursday night, the Houston Astros left-hander dropped to 3-11 on the season, losing his career-worst seventh straight decision. His last win came on May 14, against the New York Mets. "I'm just frustrated right now," he said. Happ issued a ...

Weekly Houston Astros Stock Watch*

Taking a look at the Astros roster to see who's stock is high and who is sending brokers scurry. Once again, we get to the point in the week when we need to check in on the Astros roster. Who's up, who's down and who might need a trip to Oklahoma City? Hunter Pence , blue chip - Though he hasn't been hitting home runs, Pence is picking up hits at a pace he hasn't seen since his rookie season ...

MLB Trade Speculation: 5 Reasons the Houston Astros Should Move Hunter Pence*

The Astros are going to be sellers at the trade deadline but it depends on new owner Jim Crane on how much they are selling. One of the players who has generated a lot of interest but also a lot of debate has been right fielder Hunter Pence . Pence has been by far the best player on the Houston Astros this season and is one of the more recognizable players on the team. Many people will argue ...

Pirates Beat Astros, 5-3*

The Pirates’ offense roared to life, picking up 14 hits in a 5-3 win over the Houston Astros in front of a sellout home crowd Monday.

Houston Astros Sell Mode: 7 Vets Who Could Be on the Block*

Attention all Major League Baseball teams, are you looking for a starting pitcher with World Series experience who also has bullpen experience? The Astros have one available. How about a left fielder who would be a great DH for an American League team? We've got one of those too. Are you looking for an all-star right fielder in the prime of his career? We even have one of those, but it will cost ...

Red Sox sweep Houston Astros behind another Josh Beckett gem*

HOUSTON – Josh Beckett pitched a gem and the Boston Red Sox scored the go-ahead run on a walk in the ninth inning for a 2-1 win over the Houston Astros and the series sweep Sunday.

Pittsburgh's hits just keep on falling*

share: digg facebook twitter The Pirates turned a tapestry of singles, doubles and even a triple — but no home runs — off Houston Astros pitcher Brett Myers into a 5-3 comeback victory on Monday.

Michaels drives in 3 to lead Astros over Rangers*

Wandy Rodriguez pitched so well Thursday night, the struggling Houston Astros were able to relax and have some fun.

Red Sox win third straight game*

Boston gets home runs from Darnell McDonald and Yamaico Navarro in a 10-4 victory over the Houston Astros.

Houston Astros Stock Watch: Mid-Season Edition, The Hitters*

Looking at the stock of the hitters on the Astros roster to see who's up and who's down at the midpoint in this season. Since I've taken over as managing editor, I thought I'd move in and settle a bit. With that, I thought I'd move this piece over from The Crawfish Boxes. Each week, I'll look at different players' stock, who's going up and who's coming down. Since Wednesday marks the Astros ...

Red Sox batters light up Astros*

McDonald hits three-run homer in Boston victory The Boston Red Sox spent the first six games of this road trip struggling on offense. Darnell McDonald hit a three-run homer, pinch-hitter Yamaico Navarro went deep for the first time and the Red Sox beat the Houston Astros 10-4 on Saturday night. Adrian Gonzalez had an RBI single and David Ortiz, playing first base in the NL park, walked with the ...

Houston Astros Trade Rumors: No Pence, Wandy to Detroit?*

What is the latest news surrounding the Astros as the trading deadline approaches? Two recent reports are starting to give us a better picture of what the Astros will do at the trading deadline. For starters, Hunter Pence does not want to be traded. At least, that's what he tells Richard Justice in this article . It's refreshing to hear that from a player one year after Roy Oswalt and Lance ...

Houston Astros sale pending approval*

HOUSTON — Businessman Jim Crane has stayed out of the spotlight since the announcement that his investment group had reached a deal to buy the Houston Astros for $680 million.

Lyles hit hard in 7-3 loss to Rangers*

HOUSTON — Pitcher C.J. Wilson got his first major league hit, and Josh Hamilton homered in Texas’ three-run third inning as the Rangers beat the Houston Astros 7-3 on Tuesday night.

Astros drop 7th straight at home to Rangers*

The Associated Press The Associated Press HOUSTON Astros rookie Jordan Lyles made another start against the Texas Rangers and came up short again. This time he was foiled by a series of things. The Rangers picked on the young right-hander for five runs, but he was also hurt by Houston's offense, which failed to build on an early lead in a 7-3 loss Tuesday night in the opener of a three-game ...

Field announced for 2012 Houston College Classic*

 The six-team field for the 2012 Houston College Classic, held at the Houston Astros' Minute Maid Park in Houston has been announced.

Losing Streak Hits Four Games As C.J. Wilson Downs Astros*

Houston, TX (Sports Network) – Ian Kinsler went 2-for-3 with a solo home run and a triple to lead the Texas Rangers to a 7-3 win over their intrastate rival Houston Astros in the opener of a three-game series at Minute Maid Park. Josh Hamilton and Mitch Moreland both blasted solo home runs while Yorvit Torrealba added an RBI double for the Rangers, who have won six of their past 10 contests. C.J ...

MLB All-Star Voting Update: Astros Players Sadly Missing*

Unsurprisingly the 28-51 Houston Astros are not doing so well in the All-Star balloting for 2011. Every time it is the same story when Astros fans peruse the balloting numbers for the 2011 All-Star Game, which will be held at Arizona's Chase Field on 12th July. No Astros players appear on the list, and it is a shame Major League Baseball does not reveal the full tallies, so we could see how ...

Buna's DeLome returns to Astros Triple-A team*

share: digg facebook twitter An outfielder for the Houston Astros' Triple-A team in Oklahoma City, the Buna-raised DeLome, 25, struggled last year when he returned from a broken collarbone that caused him to miss six weeks. DeLome missed another five weeks this year because of a partially torn labrum suffered while he slid to break up a double play. To keep the same thing from happening again ...

Astros Hang Tough But Can't Overcome Abhorrent Bullpen In Loss To Rays*

Final Score: Tampa Bay 14, Houston 10 Houston, TX (Sports Network) - Evan Longoria hit a pair of homers and drove in five runs, as the Tampa Bay Rays outlasted the Houston Astros, 14-10, to sweep a three-game series. Longoria went 4-for-6 with three runs scored in a game that featured 18 extra-base hits, 84 official at-bats and 11 pitchers. B.J. Upton hit a three-run homer and drove in four runs ...

"Rays" Beat "Astros" 14-10 in Apparent Slowpitch Softball Game*

Unbeknownst to the 23,965 fans at Minute Maid Park and to everyone watching on TV, the Tampa Bay Rays and the Houston Astros did not actually play the finale of their three-game series on Sunday. No, what you really saw were two of Houston’s finest city-league slowpitch softball teams wearing the two teams’ uniforms, who somehow played an entire game without being detected as impostors by the ...

Wade Davis, Rays Look For Third Consecutive Win*

The Tampa Bay Rays look for a third consecutive series win against the Houston Astros in tonight's Game 2. Coming off three straight wins and James Shield's third consecutive complete game, the Rays will have momentum on their side.  Game Time:  8:05 p.m. ET @ Minute Maid Park Matchup:  Wade Davis  vs.  Bud Norris Television:  Sun Sports HD  Radio:  WDAE 620 The Rays will have their work cut out ...

Davis, Upton lead Rays past Astros*

B.J. Upton homered and drove in two runs to back up Wade Davis and help the Tampa Bay Rays beat the Houston Astros 7-2 Saturday night. Evan Longoria and Casey Kotchman added two RBIs apiece for the Rays, who won their third straight.

Astros Get Their Heads Kicked In At Home By Rays 7-2*

Final Score: Tampa Bay 7, Houston 2 Houston, TX (Sports Network) - B.J. Upton, Casey Kotchman and Evan Longoria each drove in two runs, as the Tampa Bay Rays defeated the Houston Astros, 7-2, in the middle portion of a three-game interleague series. Wade Davis (7-5), making the 50th start of his career, gave up one run on five hits over seven innings for the Rays, who have won three in a row and ...

Upton homers again, Rays beat Astros 7-2*

KRISTIE RIEKEN AP Sports Writer HOUSTON Wade Davis is finally getting into a groove for Tampa Bay. Now the Rays are counting on him to keep it up. B.J. Upton homered and drove in two runs to back up Davis and help the Rays beat the Houston Astros 7-2 Saturday night. "He played a good game," Maddon said. Davis "was a good baseball player tonight. He pitched well. he did a lot of good things ...

Astros Go To Work On Neftali Feliz, Mount Comeback Win*

Arlington, TX (Sports Network) – Pinch-hitter Matt Downs capped a four-run ninth inning with a tie-breaking two-run home run to lead the Houston Astros past the Texas Rangers , 5-3, in the finale of a three-game interleague set. Carlos Lee and Chris Johnson had doubles while Jason Michaels added a pair of hits for the Astros, who snapped a three-game losing streak. Mark Melancon (5-1) worked two ...

Up next: Tampa Bay Rays at Houston Astros*

By Marc Topkin, Times Staff Writer Thursday, June 23, 2011

Astros legend makes an impact off the field*

Larry Dierker enjoyed success as a Houston Astros pitcher, broadcaster and manager.

Rangers Make Astros Look Good*

Final - 6.22.2011 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 R Houston Astros 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 5 Texas Rangers 1 0 0 0 1 0 0 1 0 3 Complete Coverage > You can't expect to sweep a team in baseball, but hosting the Astros at home is about the closest you'll ever get. The Rangers were just two measly outs from getting that sweep tonight before they coughed it up in crushing fashion. They still won the series, but while a ...

Reactions: Feliz blows strong start*

Closer Neftali Feliz tied his career-high with four runs allowed in the top of the ninth to hand the Houston Astros a 5-3 win Wednesday night. The blown save spoiled a seven-inning, scoreless game for starter Colby Lewis.

Astros closer Lyon headed for shoulder surgery*

Houston Astros reliever Brandon Lyon is planning to have surgery on his pitching shoulder next week and likely is out for the season.

Myers Looks To Right Ship Against Colby Lewis, Rangers*

(Sports Network) – The American League West-leading Texas Rangers have dominated the intrastate rival Houston Astros lately and will shoot for a three-game series sweep tonight from the Ballpark in Arlington. The Rangers have won 12 of the last 14 meetings with Houston, including the first two portions of this series, and last swept a three-game set at home against the Astros from May 20-22 ...

Texas closer Feliz blows save night after 2 IP*

JAIME ARON AP Sports Writer ARLINGTON, Texas Rangers closer Neftali Feliz wanted the ball. Even though he had thrown a season-high two innings the day before, Feliz insisted he was fine to pitch again Wednesday night and manager Ron Washington was willing to let him. Feliz's velocity was there but his location wasn't, and the Houston Astros took advantage, scoring four runs in the ninth inning ...

Astros' Pence still sore; return delayed to Friday*

Houston Astros outfielder Hunter Pence likely won't return from a sprained left elbow until Friday.

Pence expected back in Astros lineup Tuesday*

ARLINGTON, Texas (AP) -- The Houston Astros think right fielder Hunter Pence will return to the lineup on Tuesday night.

Astros OF Pence still having trouble with elbow*

Houston Astros outfielder Hunter Pence likely won't return from a sprained left elbow until Friday. Pence took some swings Monday and was expected to rejoin the lineup Tuesday night against the Texas Rangers, in his hometown. He arrived at the ballpark still sore and the club decided to play it safe.

Astros continue series with Rangers*

(Sports Network) - The Houston Astros haven't had much to cheer about these days and are hoping the possible return of outfielder Hunter Pence will make a difference tonight in the second contest of a three-game series versus the intrastate rival Texas Rangers in Arlington.

Astros' Pence expected back in lineup Tuesday*

The Houston Astros think right fielder Hunter Pence will return to the lineup on Tuesday night.

Lyles Takes Mound Against Wilson, Rangers*

(Sports Network) – The Houston Astros haven’t had much to cheer about these days and are hoping the possible return of outfielder Hunter Pence will make a difference tonight in the second contest of a three-game series versus the intrastate rival Texas Rangers in Arlington. Pence injured his left elbow on a slide into first base during a 7-3 win at Los Angeles on Friday and was examined by Dr ...

Houston Astros: Bud Norris Transitioning to Ace*

As the Houston Astros struggle through a terrible 2011 season, Bud Norris ' excellence continues to be one of the lone bright spots for the 27-46 club. Norris allowed one hit, five strikeouts and one walk in six innings pitched against the Dodgers yesterday, while lowering his ERA to 3.26 for the season.  Norris finished with a 4.92 ERA last season, but the 26-year-old right-hander was a victim ...

Dodgers Place Rod Barajas On Disabled List, Recall A.J. Ellis From Triple A Albuqerque*

Before Sunday's series finale with the Houston Astros , the Dodgers placed catcher Rod Barajas on the 15-day disabled list with a sprained right ankle. Barajas injured the ankle in Saturday's game with Houston, and left in the fifth inning. Barajas had his foot in a boot on Sunday morning. A.J. Ellis was recalled from Triple A Albuquerque to take his place. Barajas is second on the Dodgers with ...

Norris allows 1 hit over 6 innings in Astros' loss*

The Associated Press The Associated Press LOS ANGELES It's difficult to imagine Bud Norris pitching any better than he did in his last two starts. He could have used some run support from his Houston Astros teammates, though. After a scoreless duel between Norris and Los Angeles Dodgers counterpart Hiroki Kuroda, Dioner Navarro homered off reliever Wilton Lopez in the eighth inning Sunday and ...

Hiroki Kuroda gets Dodgers on the way to 1-0 win over Astros*

Right-hander doesn't get the decision but pitches seven solid innings. Dioner Navarro's home run in the eighth inning is the difference. Hiroki Kuroda was pitching a gem through seven innings Sunday, holding the Houston Astros scoreless and to only three hits.

Dioner Navarro Home Run Gives Dodgers 1-0 Win Over Astros*

Los Angeles, CA (Sports Network) - Dioner Navarro collected two of the Dodgers ' three hits, including a solo home run in the eighth inning that lifted Los Angeles to a 1-0 win over the Houston Astros . James Loney had the only other hit for the Dodgers, who snapped a five-game losing streak. Matt Guerrier (3-3) worked a scoreless eighth to earn the win for Los Angeles. Chris Johnson smoked two ...

Pence out with hyperextended elbow*

Houston Astros right fielder Hunter Pence was scratched from manager Brad Mills' original lineup against the Los Angeles Dodgers on Saturday night because of a hyperextended left elbow. The injury occurred in Friday night's 7-3 win, when Pence hit a grounder to first base and dove into the bag trying to avoid James Loney's tag.

Dodgers seek victory in matchup with Astros*

The Los Angeles Dodgers will try not to overlook major league baseball's worst team, the Houston Astros, when they resume a three- game series tonight at Chavez Ravine.

Astros Can Win Series In Los Angeles With Win Saturday*

(Sports Network) - The Los Angeles Dodgers will try not to overlook major league baseball's worst team, the Houston Astros , when they resume a three- game series tonight at Chavez Ravine. The Dodgers are in the midst of a season-long 12-game, 14-day homestand and fell to 0-4 on the residency following Friday's 7-3 loss to the Astros in the series opener of the only National League game on tap ...

Myers shuts down Dodgers*

Brett Myers went the distance, leading the Houston Astros to a 7-3 drubbing of the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Dodgers drop 9 under .500 with loss to Astros*

The Associated Press The Associated Press LOS ANGELES One after another, Brett Myers set down the Los Angeles Dodgers' hitters until his string of 17 in a row was stopped by James Loney's second single of the game. By the time Andre Ethier ended his 18-game home run drought with a two-run shot in the ninth inning, the Houston Astros had built a big enough lead to allow their right-hander to ...

Dodgers take on Astros in clash of sputtering clubs*

(Sports Network) - Two recently struggling foes get together for the first of three games tonight when the Houston Astros visit Dodger Stadium to meet the host Los Angeles Dodgers in an interleague weekend's lone National League series.

Family influence helps reach goal*

Sitting inside a Tampa Beef 'O' Brady's, a new Houston Astros baseball cap firmly affixed to his head, pitcher Chris Lee grinned, shaking his head.

Hunter Pence: What Should Houston Astros Do with Right Fielder?*

Now that the ownership issue has been taken care of and Jim Crane will be taking control of the Houston Astros , it is time to start evaluating the roster and what should be done moving forward. One of the first players they will be addressing is right fielder Hunter Pence , who is having a career year. The problem is the Astros have the worst record in MLB and don't look like they will be ...

MLB: Pittsburgh 5, Houston 4*

HOUSTON, June 16 (UPI) -- Garrett Jones hit a 3-run home run and started a play that led to a tiebreaking run Thursday in a 5-4 Pittsburgh Pirates victory over the Houston Astros.

Astros reliever Lyon headed back to 15-day DL*

Houston Astros reliever Brandon Lyon was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Wednesday with tendinitis in his right biceps less than a week after returning from his first trip to the DL.

Arkansas player signs contract with Houston Astros*

A junior outfielder for the Arkansas Razorbacks has signed a professional contract to play baseball for the Houston Astros.

Astros-Dodgers Preview*

The Los Angeles Dodgers haven't been this far below .500 in nearly five years. The Houston Astros are at their lowest point in four seasons. The Dodgers and major league-worst Astros each try to avoid a fourth straight loss Friday night when they open a series in Southern California. Los Angeles (31-39) continues its season-high 12-game homestand after getting swept at Chavez Ravine in a...

Houston Astros Issue Emergency Bulletin*

Following a Houston Astros game at Minute Maid Park on June 25, former Creed front-man Scott Stapp will perform live in concert . Federal agencies will provide relief to those unable to leave the area, but they will certainly be overtaxed. Experts in suck are predicting the fallout will spread as follows:   A. Greatest potential of suck This area must be evacuated. Failure to evacuate may lead ...

MLB Realignment: Houston Astros Might Exit St. Louis Cardinals Rivalry Via American League*

For fans of the St. Louis Cardinals circa the MV3 years, when Albert Pujols , Jim Edmonds , and Scott Rolen comprised the MLB equivalent of the Boston Celtics, if not the Miami Heat, the Houston Astros will hold a position of distinct, rabid unpopularity that 1980s fans associated with the "pondscum" New York Mets . The Mets and Cardinals parted ways when realignment sent the Cardinals to the ...

Whataburger kicks off Houston Astros Ultimate What-a-Fan contest in Missouri City*

The Houston Astros Ultimate What-a-Fan contest will kick off on June 15 with Houston Astros’ first baseman Brett Wallace making a special appearance at Whataburger’s Missouri City location at 8820 Hig

Struggling Astros fire pitching coach Brad Arnsberg*

HOUSTON - The Houston Astros fired pitching coach Brad Arnsberg on Tuesday and replaced him on an interim basis...

Astros axe former Jays' pitching coach Arnsberg*

The Houston Astros have fired pitching coach Brad Arnsberg and replaced him on an interim basis with Doug Brocail, a former Astros pitcher.

Struggling Astros fire pitching coach Arnsberg*

The Houston Astros fired pitching coach Brad Arnsberg on Tuesday and replaced him on an interim basis with Doug Brocail, a former Astros pitcher.

Houston OF Pence sits against Braves with tight back*

Houston Astros right fielder Hunter Pence was out of the lineup Sunday against the Atlanta Braves with tightness in his lower back.

Houser signs with Astros*

Locust Grove pitcher, Adrian Houser (right), was introduced at press conference in Houston after signing a contract with the Astros on Friday. Photo courtesy of Houston Astros Media Relations

Brett Myers Will Try His Hand Against Surging Braves Sunday*

(Sports Network) - Right-hander Tommy Hanson aims to keep the Atlanta Braves in red-hot mode today when they invade Minute Maid Park again for the third game of a four-game series with the Houston Astros . The Braves won their fifth consecutive game on Saturday night in Houston, when Brian McCann belted a three-run homer during a four-run 10th inning en route to a 6-3 triumph. Locked in a 2-1 ...

Houston Astros: Sore Back Puts Hit Streak on Hold for Hunter Pence*

Hunter Pence, currently riding a 22-game hitting streak, was held out of the lineup for the Astros on Sunday against the Atlanta Braves. Pence, along with Astros head trainer Nate Lucero, approached manager Brad Mills and expressed concern that Pence had been experiencing pain in his back while running. With a day game following a night game, the Astros felt it was best to give Pence the day off ...

Hometownstations.com-WLIO- Lima, OH News Weather SportsBraves jump on Rodriguez, Astros lose 11-4*

HOUSTON (AP) - This one hurt on several levels for the Houston Astros. Hunter Pence extended his career-long hitting streak to 21 games before leaving with back problems, and Houston lost 11-4 to the Atlanta Braves on Friday night.

Freeman, Gonzalez power Braves past Astros*

HOUSTON — Freddie Freeman and Alex Gonzalez homered on back-to-back pitches during Atlanta’s four-run third inning and the Braves pounded the Houston Astros 11-4 on Friday night for their fourth consecutive victory.

Cards score 5 runs in 6th, rout Astros*

The Houston Astros failed to convert their scoring chances early in the game. The St. Louis Cardinals took full advantage of their opportunities.

Braves Vs. Astros: Back In Familiar Worst Record In Baseball Territory, Houston Meets Atlanta*

SB Nation Houston's coverage of the Braves-Astros series from June 10th-13th, 2011 (Sports Network) - Atlanta Braves starter Tim Hudson hasn't tasted victory in more than a month and is hoping a showdown with the Houston Astros tonight in the opener of a four-game series will change that. Hudson is 0-3 with a 6.66 earned run average in his last five assignments, but sports a solid career mark ...

Astros Activate Brandon Lyon From DL, Will 'Ease' Him Into Closer Role*

The Houston Astros announced after yesterday’s game that they will activate reliever Brandon Lyon from the DL, optioning Jose Valdez back to AAA Oklahoma City. Lyon pitched two scoreless innings of rehab in two appearances for the RedHawks, and all of the sudden, with Lyon back, the Astros have a closer competition . Wait…what? Mills said he discounts the 7.15 earned run average, four blown ...

Astros, Happ, Try To Take Series From Cardinals*

(Sports Network) – After finally finding a way to cool off Albert Pujols and the majority of the Cardinals ’ lineup, the Houston Astros hope J.A. Happ can pitch them to a series victory this evening in the finale of a three-game set with St. Louis at Minute Maid Park. Behind Albert Pujols’ fifth homer in four games, the Cardinals took Tuesday’s opener by a 7-4 margin to run their winning streak ...

Klein Oak alum enjoys dream job with the Astros*

Few people get the opportunity to work their ideal job in their hometown, but Houston Astros media relations manager Steve Grande – a 2002 Klein Oak High graduate – is living the dream.

Cardinals score 5 runs in 6th, rout Astros 9-2*

The Houston Astros failed to convert their scoring chances early in the game. The St. Louis Cardinals took full advantage of their opportunities.

Berkman, Cardinals whallop Astros*

HOUSTON — Jake Westbrook shook off early trouble on the mound and helped his cause with a three-run, tie-breaking double to help the St. Louis Cardinals to a 7-4 win over the Houston Astros on Tuesday night.

Kyle Hallock selected in 10th round by Houston Astros*

Kyle Hallock, a 2007 Perkins graduate and Kent State University senior left-handed pitcher, has been selected with the 310th overall pick in the 10th round of the 2011 MLB Draft by the Ho read more By date (default)

2011 MLB Draft Tracker: Astros Select George Springer*

Houston Astros : George Springer (OF, University of Connecticut) Looking for a big impact at 11th overall, the Houston Astros picked the best athlete in the college crop, University of Connecticut outfielder George Springer. Springer has the tools to be a 20/20 player, and he was very impressive performance-wise this year, hitting .351/.451/.632 with 30 walks and 37 strikeotus in 228 at-bats ...

Houston selects George Springer; Cats hope he ends up in Troy*

The Houston Astros used their top selection in baseball’s amateur draft Monday night to select University of Connecticut outfielder George Springer, hoping he’s eventually added to names such as John Mayberry, James Rodney Richard , Floyd Bannister, Craig Biggio, Todd Jones, Billy Wagner, Lance Berkman, Brad Lidge.

Astros' Wandy Rodriguez returning June 13?*

The Houston Astros sit firmly in last place in the National League Central and can use all the help they can get. It may be on the way in the form of Wandy Rodriguez . MLB.com reports that the lefty Rodriguez and his troubled left elbow may be back in the rotation on June 13 against the Atlanta Braves . Rodriguez has a rehab start scheduled in Double-A on Wednesday. "I'm ready to go," said ...

Lyles struggles as Astros lose 7-2 to Padres*

Houston Astros' Jordan Lyles pitches against the San Diego Padres in the first inning of a baseball game, Sunday, June 5, 2011, in San Diego. Photo: Lenny Ignelzi / AP

Klein Oak alum enjoys his dream job with the Astros*

Few people get the opportunity to work their ideal job in their hometown, but Houston Astros media relations manager Steve Grande – a 2002 Klein Oak High graduate – is living the dream.

Lyles Looks To Win Final Game Of Set In San Diego*

(Sports Network) - Mat Latos shoots for his third straight win this evening when the San Diego Padres wrap up a four-game set with the Houston Astros at Petco Park. After losing his first five decisions, Latos won for the third time in his last four starts on Tuesday in Atlanta, as he allowed two runs and five hits in six innings, lowering his earned run average in the process to 3.97. "He was ...

Astros lose again in San Diego*

share: digg facebook twitter The Houston Astros were on their hottest streak of the season when they came to Petco Park.

Harang, Hawpe lift Padres to 6-3 win over Astros*

San Diego Padres starting pitcher Aaron Harang throws against the Houston Astros in the first inning during their baseball game on Saturday, June 4, 2011, in San Diego.

Chris Johnson homers, Astros beat sloppy Padres*

The Houston Astros suddenly seem to be a different team.

Astros blow early chances, lose 3-1 to Padres*

BERNIE WILSON AP Sports Writer SAN DIEGO The Houston Astros had a runner reach third base in each of the first four innings against San Diego on Friday night. The Astros were able to get only one of them home, losing 3-1 to see their season-high, four-game winning streak end. "We had some runs in scoring position early in the game and we weren't able to get those hits to drive 'em in," manager ...

Chris Johnson homers, Astros beat sloppy Padres 7-4*

SAN DIEGO - Chris Johnson homered and the Houston Astros used a five-run third inning to beat the sloppy San Diego...

Houston Astros: Jordan Lyles Shines in Major League Debut*

The Astros called up top pitching prospect, 20 year-old Jordan Lyles, to take Wandy Rodriguez's place in the rotation after he was placed on the DL with a left elbow injury. Lyles has been on the fast track to the majors since he signed with the Astros after being selected as the 38th pick in the 2008 draft.He certainly impressed with 7 quality innings (pitched into the eighth), in which he ...

Houston Astros: 7 Reasons New Owner Will Help the Astros*

About two weeks ago, local businessman Jim Crane agreed to purchase the Houston Astros from Drayton McLane for a huge price tag of $680 million. This was Crane's fourth attempt to buy a major league team and the second time he tried to purchase the Astros. His persistence paid off as it looks like he will be the new owner of the Astros, once it is approved by the other team owners. This is great ...

Myers pitches Astros past Cubs, 3-1*

The Associated Press The Associated Press CHICAGO It was a warm day at Wrigley Field with a stiff wind blowing out to right field and starting pitchers with a combined ERA of nearly 12. A day for the hitters, right? It didn't turn out that way. Brett Myers outdueled Doug Davis and the Houston Astros beat the Chicago Cubs 3-1 on Wednesday to finish off a three-game sweep. "I used my head a little ...

Astros rally for six runs in ninth to beat Cubs*

The Houston Astros rally for six runs in ninth to beat Cubs 7-3 on Tuesday night.

Astros rudely greet Cubs' new pitcher*

Rodrigo Lopez made his Cubs debut on the wrong day. Jeff Keppinger and J.R. Towles homered and the Houston Astros rallied to beat the Chicago Cubs 12-7 on Monday afternoon.

Marmol blows save in Cubs' loss to Houston*

Marmol blows save as Chicago Cubs lose 7-3 to Houston Astros

Astros aim to build a winning streak against Cubs*

(Sports Network) - The Houston Astros have posted multiple victories on only three occasions this season and look to make it a fourth when they resume a three-game series against the Chicago Cubs tonight at Wrigley Field.

Astros beat Cubs, rallying for six in ninth*

Chicago Cubs' Carlos Zambrano breaks his bat over his thigh after striking out against Houston Astros starting pitcher Jordan Lyles, to end the fifth inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 31, 2011 in Chicago.

Miranda hits 2 homers, Arizona beats Astros 7-6*

Houston Astros catcher Humberto Quintero, center, reacts after a collision at home plate with Arizona Diamondbacks third baseman Ryan Roberts (14) in the seventh inning injuring Quintero during their baseball game at Minute Maid Park, Friday, May 27, 2011, in Houston.

Zach Duke leads Diamondbacks to rout of Astros*

Zach Duke allowed three hits over seven innings and hit a three-run homer in his first game of the season, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to an 11-3 victory over the Houston Astros.

Astros sputter early against Duke, Diamondbacks*

Arizona Diamondbacks' Zach Duke follows through on a pitch against the Houston Astros during the second inning of a baseball game on Saturday, May 28, 2011, in Houston.

Duke solid on mound, hits homer in Arizona win*

share: digg facebook twitter HOUSTON (AP) — As a pitcher, Zach Duke isn't a fan of the short, 315-foot left-field fence known as the Crawford Boxes at Minute Maid Park. Duke allowed three hits over seven innings and hit an opposite-field, three-run homer in his first game of the season, leading the Arizona Diamondbacks to an 11-3 victory over the Houston Astros on Saturday night. Duke's first ...

Diamondbacks-Astros Preview*

The Arizona Diamondbacks averaged nearly 95 losses while finishing at the bottom of the NL West each of the last two years. Their recent play, though, may have them thinking about first place this season. The streaking Diamondbacks go for their 10th win in 11 games Friday night in the opener of a three-game series with the last-place Houston Astros, who are in the midst of a brief surge.

MLB: Houston 2, Los Angeles Dodgers 1*

HOUSTON, May 25 (UPI) -- J.R. Towles smacked a game-winning single in the bottom of the ninth Wednesday, lifting the Houston Astros to a 2-1 win over the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Kemp Hits 12th Homer In Loss To Astros*

HOUSTON (AP)—J.R. Towles broke out of an 0 for 32 slump with three hits, including an RBI single with two outs in the ninth that gave the Houston Astros a 2-1 win over the Los [...]

Towles' hit in 9th gives Astros 2-1 win over LA*

Los Angeles Dodgers' Jerry Sands (47) hits a grand slam as Houston Astros catcher Humberto Quintero, left, reaches for the pitch during the third inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 24, 2011, in Houston.

Pence hits two-run homer as Astros edge Blue Jays 3-2*

Kyle Drabek's outing against the Houston Astros on Sunday will be listed as a quality start on the game notes the next time he pitches.

Defensive lapses costly as Astros lose to Jays*

Two defensive blunders by the Houston Astros gave Toronto an opening, and the Blue Jays' offense barged right through.

Hunter Pence homers as Astros beat Blue Jays 3-2*

The Associated Press The Associated Press TORONTO After a weekend of heckling from Blue Jays fans, Hunter Pence came up with the perfect retort. Pence hit a two-run homer, Wandy Rodriguez pitched six solid innings and the Houston Astros held off Toronto 3-2 on Sunday to win a series for the first time in three weeks. Even though the Astros had never played in Toronto before, Pence found himself ...

Pence, Rodriguez lead Astros over Blue Jays*

TORONTO -- After a weekend of heckling from Blue Jays fans, Hunter Pence came up with the perfect retort. Pence hit a two-run homer, Wandy Rodriguez pitched six solid innings and the Houston Astros held off Toronto 3-2 on Sunday to win a series for ...

Astros head to Toronto for first time*

(Sports Network) - The Houston Astros pay their first-ever visit to Toronto this evening when they play the first of three interleague games against the Blue Jays at Rogers Centre.

Astros' offense quiet in 4-2 loss to Cardinals*

Right now, the Houston Astros' offense can't seem to get anything going.

Toronto bullpen gets rocked in 5-2 interleague loss to Houston Astros*

Chris Johnson hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to help the Houston Astros kick off a three-game interleague series with a 5-2 victory over the Toronto Blue Jays on Friday night.

Johnson hits 2-run homer as Astros beat Blue Jays*

More than just a win, the Houston Astros got something more important on Friday night: belief. Chris Johnson hit a tiebreaking two-run homer in the ninth inning and the Astros rallied to beat the Toronto Blue Jays 5-2. "It was a fastball," Johnson said of his go-ahead blast. "It's one of those ones where you hit it and just immediately know 'I got it.' It's a pretty...

Texas group to buy Houston Astros*

Owner Drayton McLane is ready to sell to a Jim Crane's group for $680 million. Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane announced Monday that he has agreed to sell the team to a group led by Houston businessman Jim Crane for $680 million — the second-highest price in major league history if it is approved.

Cards down Astros despite losing Holliday, Berkman*

Kyle Lohse threw eight dominant innings to beat the Houston Astros for the second time in less than a month, leading the St. Louis Cardinals to a 5-1 victory Wednesday night.

Astros lose fourth in row*

R.B. FALLSTROM AP Sports Writer ST. LOUIS One bad inning was Bud Norris' lament. The St. Louis Cardinals went down in order the first two innings against the Houston Astros' right-hander, who helped himself with a pickoff. But Norris struggled with his control in a four-run third, facing 10 batters in a 5-1 loss on Wednesday night. "It was a tough one," Norris said. "I made some good pitches, I ...

Astros Lose Fourth In A Row As Cards Finally Get To Norris*

St. Louis, MO (Sports Network) – Kyle Lohse went eight strong innings to lead the St. Louis Cardinals past the Houston Astros , 5-1, in the opener of a two- game set from Busch Stadium. Lohse (5-2) allowed one run while scattering six hits and striking out three. Jon Jay went 2-for-4 and knocked in two during a decisive four-run third inning, as the Cardinals won their third straight. Bud Norris ...

St. Louis Cardinals, Houston Astros Meet In Two-Game Set*

The St. Louis Cardinals and the Houston Astros will play a two-game series, which is just enough time for Bud Norris to make yet another start against the only team he terrorizes. Coming off their abbreviated sweep of the Philadelphia Phillies the St. Louis Cardinals will get just enough of the Houston Astros to precipitate another visit from Bud Norris Wednesday night. The Astros' Cardinals ...

Crane reaches deal to buy Houston Astros*

A group led by Houston businessman Jim Crane has reached a deal to purchase Major League Baseball's Houston Astros, the team announced on Monday, in a deal reportedly worth $680 million.

Houston Astros will be sold to group led by Houston businessman Jim Crane*

HOUSTON - Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane announced Monday that he has agreed to sell the team he has owned for 19 years to a group led by local businessman Jim Crane, the man who tried to buy the team three years ago.

It's official: Group led by Jim Crane to buy Houston Astros*

Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane announced Monday that he has agreed to sell the team he has owned for 19 years to a group led by local businessman Jim Crane, the man who tried to buy the team three years ago.

Group led by Jim Crane to buy Houston Astros*

Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane announced Monday that he has agreed to sell the team he has owned for 19 years to a group led by local businessman Jim Crane, the man who tried to buy the team three years ago.

Houston lets big lead slip away in loss to Mets*

Houston Astros gain early lead, but New York Mets rally in eighth for 6-4 win

McLane might get asking price for Astros*

Once Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane signs off on the sales-purchase agreement next week that begins the transfer of ownership of the franchise to local businessman Jim Crane, McLane will have come very close to his original asking price of $800 million, myFOXhouston.com reported Saturday.

BREAKING NEWS: Astros Sale To Be Announced At Monday Press Conference*

The Houston Chronicle's  Zachary Levine is reporting that the sale of the Houston Astros to business owner Jim Crane is complete , pending MLB approval. The official proceedings could run through the end of summer, but there have been no indications in the media about hang-ups or potential issues that could disrupt the process.  The final price is said to be $680 million. Soon to be former owner ...

Turner has 5 RBIs, Mets beat Astros 7-4*

Houston Astros' J.R. Towles reacts after striking out with two runners on base to end the sixth inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets Sunday, May 15, 2011, in Houston.

Houston Astros: 5 Possible Midseason Call-Ups*

To say the Astros have struggled so far this season would be an understatement. As of Sunday, they have the second-worst record in the majors at 15-25 and dropped two of three this past weekend to the Mets at home. When a team struggles this much, there are generally a number of call-ups from the minors to give players experience and allow them to be evaluated by management. The Astros are in a ...

Pence doubles in ninth, Astros beat Reds 4-3*

share: digg facebook twitter HOUSTON (AP) — Hunter Pence hit a tiebreaking double in the ninth inning and the Houston Astros avoided a series sweep with a 4-3 win over the Cincinnati Reds on Wednesday. Michael Bourn gave the Astros an early lead with a two-run single in the second inning. Pence doubled with two outs in the seventh inning to extend his hitting streak to 15 games. Sam LeCure ...

Carlos Lee & the Worst Contracts in Houston Astros History*

Carlos Lee of the Houston Astros is currently in year four of a six-year deal worth $100 million that was signed in 2007. At the time, some believed that the trade would be fair value for Lee, who was coming off four straight years of 30 plus home runs and 99 plus RBI. Pairing him with Berkman would give him even more RBI opportunities and playing the short left field in Minute Maid Park would ...

Sale of Astros to Houston businessman nearly complete*

A group led by Houston businessman Jim Crane is close to an agreement to buy the Houston Astros.

Reds jump on Myers early in 7-3 Houston loss*

Houston Astros' Brett Myers pitches against the Cincinnati Reds in the first inning of a baseball game Tuesday, May 10, 2011, in Houston. Photo: Pat Sullivan / AP

Agreement near on sale of Houston Astros*

A group led by Houston businessman Jim Crane is close to an agreement to buy the Houston Astros.

Houston Astros close to being sold*

A group led by businessman Jim Crane is close to an agreement to buy the Houston Astros.

Agreement on sale of Astros nears*

Agreement nearing on sale of Houston Astros to Jim Crane, but deal not yet complete

Doumit's homer bails out bullpen*

Ryan Doumit's three-run homer in the eighth inning rescued the Pirates' bullpen after another shaky outing, and the Bucs defeated the Houston Astros , 5-4, on Sunday.

Reds-Astros Preview*

The Cincinnati Reds finally seem to be putting things together which could be bad news for the NL-worst Houston Astros. The Reds will try to continue their success against the Astros in the opener of a three-game series in Houston on Monday night. Cincinnati (18-16) has won four of its last five after dropping 10 of the previous 15.

Astros place Bourgeois on 15-day DL*

PITTSBURGH (AP) The Houston Astros placed outfielder Jason Bourgeois on the 15-day disabled list before their game against the Pirates on Sunday and purchased the contract of infielder Joe Inglett to take his place on the roster.

Hot-hitting Bourgeois on DL, Astros add infielder Inglett*

The Houston Astros placed outfielder Jason Bourgeois on the 15-day disabled list before their game against the Pirates on Sunday and purchased the contract of infielder Joe Inglett to take his place on the roster.

Baseball: Pirates beat Norris, end his scoreless streak*

PITTSBURGH — The Houston Astros lost one of Bud Norris' starts for the first time in almost a month. They also might have lost one of their hottest hitters.

Morton, Pirates beat Astros 6-1*

Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Charlie Morton throws in the first inning against the Houston Astros during a baseball game, Saturday, May 7, 2011, in Pittsburgh.

Astros fall to Pirates 6-1*

The Houston Astros lost one of Bud Norris' starts for the first time in almost a month. They also might have lost one of their hottest hitters.

Astros sale focused on one bidder*

Drayton McLane is trying to sell the Houston Astros and he is now zeroed in on one bidder , according to the Houston Chronicle. The man who may be the next team owner is Jim Crane, a Houston businessman, according to the Chronicle. "Jim Crane is the only person we're negotiating with now," McLane said Monday, according to the paper. In January, there were 20-25 groups seeking ownership and that ...

Roles Reversed: Last Place Astros Square Off Against Pirates*

SB Nation Houston's coverage of the Pirates-Astros series from May 6th-8th, 2011 (Sports Network) - Back in the Steel City after a trip out west, the Pittsburgh Pirates kick off a seven-game stay at PNC Park, starting with Friday's opener of a three-game series versus the Houston Astros . Pittsburgh won four of six meetings with Colorado and San Diego, and has won seven of 12 games overall. In ...

Bailey solid in debut, Reds beat Astros*

Homer Bailey returned from the disabled list with six strong innings Thursday, and Ryan Hanigan drove in three runs with a three-hit game, leading the Cincinnati Reds to a 10-4 victory over the Houston Astros.

Astros closer Lyon to go on DL*

Houston, TX (Sports Network) - Houston Astros closer Brandon Lyon has been placed on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday with biceps tendinitis and a partial rotator cuff tear.

2012 Contract Issues: Houston Astros*

The Astros are next in our 2012 Contract Issues series. Here's what the team faces after the 2011 season: Eligible For Free Agency (2) Clint Barmes' Astros career has just begun. He'd like to stay beyond 2011, but the team's willingness to extend him will depend on his performance. Jason Michaels is also eligible for free agency. Contract Options (1) Bill Hall: $4MM mutual option with a $250K ...

Bailey solid in return from DL as Reds level Astros*

Homer Bailey returned from the disabled list with six strong innings Thursday, and Ryan Hanigan drove in three runs with a three-hit game, leading the Cincinnati Reds to a 10-4 victory over the Houston Astros.

Astros put closer Brandon Lyon on disabled list*

Tampa Bay Manager Joe Maddon might be in favor of expanded replays. The Houston Astros put closer Brandon Lyon on the 15-day disabled list after an exam Thursday found a problem with his pitching arm and shoulder.

Mets beat Astros 9-1*

The New York Mets welcomed Jason Bay back to their lineup with a 9-1 romp over the Houston Astros on Thursday night.

Homers hurt Happ and Astros in loss to Mets*

HOWIE RUMBERG AP Sports Writer NEW YORK J.A. Happ had no problem with the gusting wind at Citi Field. It was failing to get outs with runners on base that had him peeved. Happ gave up homers to Mike Nickeas and David Wright, and the Houston Astros lost 9-1 to the New York Mets on Thursday night, failing to complete their first three-game sweep this season. "In general the one condition you don't ...

Astros-Brewers Preview*

Now in his fifth season, Yovani Gallardo has never lost to the Houston Astros in Milwaukee. He will, however, likely need to recapture the command he's lacked in his last two starts if he hopes to continue that success. Gallardo takes the mound looking to regroup from an ugly stretch as the Brewers return to Miller Park to open a three-game set with Houston on Friday night.

Astros Kick Off Weekend Series Against Brewers With Figueroa*

SB Nation Houston's coverage of the Astros-Brewers series from April 22nd-24th. (Sports Network) - Ryan Braun's spending habits may change with his new contract extension, but the Milwaukee Brewers hope the big bucks won't alter the way he plays on the field. Braun and the Brewers will begin a six-game homestand Friday with the first of three straight games versus the Houston Astros at Miller ...

Rodriguez finds form in time to pitch Astros past Mets*

Please read the full story on TSN.ca for the latest details

Astros beat Mets 6-1*

New York Mets lost 6-1 to the Houston Astros Tuesday night.

Wandy Rodriguez pitches Astros past Mets 6-1*

Houston Astros' Wandy Rodriguez delivers a pitch during the first inning of a baseball game against the New York Mets on Tuesday, April 19, 2011, in New York.

MLB Standings Update: NL Central Edition*

The Houston Astros are off to a bad start for a second straight year. After dropping a four game set with the Padres last weekend, they enter a three game series at Citi Field tied for the worst record in the major leagues.  All that's bad, but it's nothing compared to the fact that they're just  four games out of first placed in a very even National League Central . The Cincinnati Reds are your ...

Mets try to put winning streak together in opener with Astros*

(Sports Network) - Lefty Jonathon Niese can make it two straight for the struggling New York Mets tonight when they open a three-game series with the visiting Houston Astros at Citi Field.

Venable has go-ahead hit to rally Padres*

The Associated Press The Associated Press HOUSTON Will Venable gave the Padres the lead with his bat and almost gave it back with his glove. Venable hit a two-run single in a four-run eighth inning and the San Diego Padres rallied for an 8-6 victory over the Houston Astros on Sunday. Then, he made closer Heath Bell's job tougher in the ninth when he misplayed a flyball for an error, helping the ...

Myers, Astros crush Cubs*

Brett Myers kept up his dominance against the Chicago Cubs and Angel Sanchez tied a career high with four hits and the Houston Astros got a 11-2 win on Tuesday night.

Padres find offense in 4-2 win over Houston*

KRISTIE RIEKEN AP Sports Writer HOUSTON Chris Denorfia doubled and homered and Ryan Ludwick drove in a pair of runs in San Diego's three-run seventh inning as the Padres beat the Houston Astros 4-2 on Friday night. San Diego starter Aaron Harang (3-0) allowed three hits and one run with eight strikeouts in six innings for the win. Closer Heath Bell gave up two hits and a run in the ninth for his ...

Pinch-hitter Inglett lifts Astros over Padres 5-3*

Houston Astros' Nelson Figueroa delivers a pitch in the first inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres, Saturday, April 16, 2011, in Houston.

Pinch-hitter Inglet has tiebreaking hit for Astros*

Houston Astros' Nelson Figueroa delivers a pitch in the first inning of a baseball game against the San Diego Padres, Saturday, April 16, 2011, in Houston.

Nerve irritation lands Houston Astros reliever Wilton Lopez on disabled list*

The Astros have placed reliever Wilton Lopez on the 15-day disabled list with nerve irritation in his right elbow.

Houston Astros' Aneury Rodriguez, Brad Mills draw MLB suspensions*

Houston Astros manager Brad Mills has been suspended for one game and reliever Aneury Rodriguez for three games following their weekend ejections against the Florida Marlins.

National League Game Summary - San Diego at Houston*

Houston, TX (Sports Network) - Michael Bourn knocked in the lone run of the game and Bud Norris tossed six scoreless innings, as the Houston Astros snuck past the San Diego Padres, 1-0, in the opener of a four-game series at Minute Maid Park.

Norris, bullpen team on 3-hitter, Astros beat SD*

Bud Norris and the Houston bullpen combined on a three-hitter, Michael Bourn singled home the only run and the Houston Astros beat the San Diego Padres 1-0 Thursday night.

Astros, Padres resume set in Space City*

(Sports Network) - The Houston Astros take another shot at winning consecutive games for the first time this season as they continue a four-game series with the San Diego Padres tonight at Minute Maid Park.

Dobbs leads Marlins to 7-5 win over Astros*

Greg Dobbs drives in 3 runs as Florida Marlins rally for 7-5 win over Houston Astros

Dobbs powers Fish past Astros*

HOUSTON - Former Phil Greg Dobbs homered and drove in three runs and the Florida Marlins beat the Houston Astros, 7-5, on Saturday night.

Cubs open up set with Astros*

(Sports Network) - Two veterans still seeking their first wins of 2011 take to the mound tonight when the Chicago Cubs visit Minute Maid Park for the first of three games with the host Houston Astros.

Happ drives in 2, gets win in Astros' victory*

J.A. Happ pitched four-hit ball into the eighth inning and drove in two runs with a double in the Houston Astros' 7-1 victory over the Florida Marlins on Sunday.

Offseason In Review: Houston Astros*

The Astros are next in our Offseason In Review series. Major League Signings Bill Hall, 2B: one year, $3.25MM. Includes $4MM mutual option for 2012 with a $250K buyout. Jason Michaels, OF: one year, $900K. Club option exercised. Total spend: $4.15MM. Notable Minor League Signings Ryan Rowland-Smith (re-signed to minor league deal), Fernando Nieve, Oswaldo Navarro, Anderson Hernandez, Casey Fien ...

Unbeaten Reds crush error-prone Astros 12-4*

The Cincinnati Reds stretched their unbeaten start to the season to five games with a 12-4 blowout over the Houston Astros Wednesday.

Astros score in the ninth to beat Reds*

Al Behrman Houston Astros' Matt Downs is congratulated by manager Brad Mills (2) after they defeated the Cincinnati Reds 3-2 on Thursday in Cincinnati. Downs drove in the go-ahead run in the ninth inning.

Reds rally past Astros 12-4 to stay perfect*

As much as they hate the label of slow starters, the Houston Astros are earning it every time out.

Astros score in 9th for 1st win, beat Reds 3-2*

For the first time all season, there was a joyful sound in the Houston Astros' clubhouse — music, sweet music, bouncing off those cinderblock walls.

Andy Pettitte: Three Years in Houston That Changed New York Yankees History*

The best pitcher in New York Yankees history was Whitey Ford. The Yankees' little gamecock won 236 games during his illustrious career. Andy Pettitte finished his career with 240 wins. Pettitte will always be identified as a Yankee, but the three seasons he spent with the Houston Astros cost him the chance to pass Ford as the Yankees' all-time leader in wins. We will never know if Pettitte would ...

NL Roundup: A look at Tuesday's games*

After a terrible start to last season, the Houston Astros finished strong and planned to build on their late success this year.

Astros-Reds Preview*

The Cincinnati Reds had their best regular-season home record in 18 years in 2010. The defending NL Central champions are well on their way toward another successful season in front of their home fans. Cincinnati looks to open 5-0 at home for the first time in 31 years Wednesday night when it continues a three-game series with the winless Houston Astros.

Reds beat winless Astros 8-2*

Houston Astros starting pitcher J.A. Happ, right, squats on the mound after walking Cincinnati Reds' Chris Heisey with the bases loaded in the first inning of a baseball game, Tuesday, April 5, 2011 in Cincinnati. Jonny Gomes jogs to second at left.

Lee sharp in Philadelphia's win over Astros*

The Philadelphia Phillies provided plenty of offense in support of Cliff Lee, the team's prized free-agent acquisition, as they thumped the Houston Astros 9-4 on Saturday.

Lee has impressive debut, Phillies beat Astros*

ROB MAADDI AP Sports Writer PHILADELPHIA In his first game back with the Phillies in front of fans who adore him, Cliff Lee even heard cheers after striking out. Lee can do no wrong in Philadelphia. The lefty struck out 11 in seven impressive innings, five players had multiple hits and the Phillies beat the Houston Astros 9-4 Saturday night. "I can hear the noise, hear the volume," Lee said. "It ...

Phillies rally in bottom of ninth to stun Houston*

Pinch-hitter John Mayberry Jr. lined an RBI single off closer Brandon Lyon that capped a three-run rally in the bottom of the ninth inning Friday and the Philadelphia Phillies beat the Houston Astros 5-4.

Houston Astros Opening Day: Myers Returns To Old Surroundings As Astros Take On Phillies*

SB Nation Houston's coverage of Astros Opening Day -- Astros/Phillies -- On April 1st, 2011 The Houston Astros will kick off their 49th season of Major League Baseball this afternoon as they take on the reigning NL East champion Philadelphia Phillies at Citizen's Bank Park. The game will start at 12:05 CDT and be broadcast on ESPN by Sean McDonough, Aaron Boone , and (sigh) Rick Sutcliffe ...

Astros Vs. Phillies: Brandon Lyon Implodes As Philadelphia Walks Off*

When you're the Philadelphia Phillies , and you have Roy Halladay scheduled to go up against the Houston Astros in your home and season opener, you're probably feeling pretty good about your chances. But while the Phillies ended up getting their win, the course they took to get there was anything but predictable. After falling behind and trailing 4-0 in the seventh inning, the Phillies clawed ...

Houston Astros Spring Training Recap and Season Preview*

The Houston Astros have had a rocky start in the past few MLB seasons, something they hope can be turned around in 2011. After losing long-time ace Roy Oswalt to the Phillies last season, the Astros bolstered their rotation by promoting J.A. Happ to the third spot in the rotation, behind opening day starter Brett Myers and upstart Wandy Rodriguez. "Spring Training is necessary," said Myers after ...

Towles, Abad Make Houston's Opening Day Roster*

HOUSTON, TX - Two former Greeneville Astros, C J.R. Towles and LHP Fernando Abad, have made their way onto the Houston Astros 2011 Opening Day 25-man roster.

Houston Astros season outlook, lineups, stats*

Houston Astros season outlook, lineups, stats

2011 Houston Astros Roster: Some Solid, Some Promise, Some Questions, Some Battles*

As of the time I write this article, at about 6 A.M. on Wednesday morning, the Houston Astros still haven't decided some of their roster spots. Mostly this is due to a rash of injuries that have hit the team recently, from Clint Barmes ' broken hand, J.A. Happ 's sprained oblique, to even seemingly minor problems like J.R. Towles ' back. The Astros Opening Day Roster looks a little something ...

Tom Halliburton: Houston Astros fans, face this reality ...*

HOUSTON — There’s a way to keep from being enormously disappointed with these 2011 Houston Astros. It’s a hard sell in early April. It’s called no expectations.

Astros SS Barmes out up to 6 weeks (broken hand)*

Houston Astros shortstop Clint Barmes has a broken left hand, the result of getting hit by a pitch, and is expected to miss four to six weeks.

2011 spring training: Houston Astros lose Clint Barmes 4-6 weeks with broken hand*

Astros shortstop Clint Barmes has a broken left hand and is expected to miss four to six weeks.

Houston Astros: Ranking Which Prospects Will Make Biggest Impact in 2011*

One of the big questions every year is what prospects are going to get called up to the Major Leagues and make a difference for their team. Last year, the Astros saw a number of prospects come up and have a difference on this team. Bud Norris was a key starter in the rotation for the Astros the whole season and was joined later in the year by players like Chris Johnson, Jason Castro and Brett ...

Houston Astros' rotation an underrated group*

Houston's staff fueled by pitching coach Brad Arnsberg's positive, hands-on approach

Houston businessman Crane in the running to buy Astros*

Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane Jr. told 11 Sports today that Houston business man Jim Crane leads one of several groups interested in buying the team, but that "nothing is imminent."

Nova pitches 6 strong innings, Yankees beat Astros*

Houston Astros relief pitcher Nelson Figueroa winds up in the second inning against the New York Yankees in a spring training baseball game at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa, Fla., Friday, March 25, 2011.

Pence homers, has three hits in Astros' win*

Houston Astros' Hunter Pence, left, scores ahead of the tag by Pittsburgh Pirates catcher Ryan Doumit during the fifth inning of a spring training baseball game in Bradenton, Fla., Wednesday, March 23, 2011. Pence scored from second on a single by Astros' Jason Michaels.

Astros Cut Five From Big League Camp*

The Houston Astros optioned left-handed reliever Wesley Wright, shortstop Tommy Manzella and outfielder Brian Bogusevic to Triple-A Oklahoma City and reassigned catchers Brian Esposito and Robinson Cancel to minor league camp on Thursday. With the move, non-roster invitee J.B. Shuck , a speedy outfielder who reached Triple-A last season, is the only left-handed outfielder left in big league camp ...

Astros SS Manzella among players optioned*

The Houston Astros have optioned shortstop Tommy Manzella, pitcher Wesley Wright and outfielder Brian Bogusevic to their Triple-A Oklahoma City roster

Brett Wallace's seven-RBI day strengthens claim on ‘Stros job*

Brett Wallace apparently likes the spotlight. If there was any doubt as to whether he would be the Houston Astros ' opening day first baseman, Wallace put in an assertive bid for the job on Tuesday with a 4-for-5, seven-RBI performance. With the Astros' Grapefruit League game versus the Baltimore Orioles televised nationally on MLB Network, Wallace picked an excellent time for his first home run ...

Houston Astros: 2011 MLB Season Preview*

HOUSTON ASTROS Last Year: 76-86, fourth in NL Central  Manager: Brad Mills  PROJECTED LINEUP C- Humberto Quintero (R) 1B- Brett Wallace (L) 2B- Bill Hall (R)  3B- Chris Johnson (R) SS- Clint Barmes (R) LF- Carlos Lee (R) CF- Michael Bourn (L) RF- Hunter Pence (R) The Astros' lineup was the worst in the NL last season, but the club should be improved with the acquisitions made in the middle ...

Myers Will Start Houston Astros' Season Opener *

JUPITER, Fla. (AP) - Englewood High School graduate Brett Myers will start the Houston Astros' season opener in Philadelphia against his former team.

Norris pitches five shutout innings for Astros *

Houston Astros manager Brad Mills had no idea Bud Norris' spring stats were ugly. He was busy admiring his starter's mechanics. Norris threw five scoreless innings in a 3-2 win over a St. Louis Cardinals split-squad on Saturday to stretch the Astros winning streak to four games. Entering the game with a 10.29 ERA, Norris allowed six hits and struck out five.

Brett Wallace's seven-RBI day strengthens claim on ‘Stros job *

Brett Wallace apparently likes the spotlight. If there was any doubt as to whether he would be the Houston Astros ' opening day first baseman, Wallace put in an assertive bid for the job on Tuesday with a 4-for-5, seven-RBI performance. With the Astros' Grapefruit League game versus the Baltimore Orioles televised nationally on MLB Network, Wallace picked an excellent time for his first home run ...

Fiery Astro Hall feels at home *

share: digg facebook twitter With two weeks remaining until opening day, Bill Hall doesn't think it's too early to light a spark under his new Houston Astros teammates.

New INF Bill Hall brings energy to Astros *

The Associated Press The Associated Press KISSIMMEE, Fla. With two weeks remaining until opening day, Bill Hall doesn't think it's too early to light a spark under his new Houston Astros teammates. When Cole Hamels pitched him tight in an exhibition game this week, Hall exchanged words with the Philadelphia pitcher. "I definitely think it gave us a little more fire. It amped things up for us ...

Houston Astros: Ranking Which Prospects Will Make Biggest Impact in 2011 *

One of the big questions every year is what prospects are going to get called up to the Major Leagues and make a difference for their team. Last year, the Astros saw a number of prospects come up and have a difference on this team. Bud Norris was a key starter in the rotation for the Astros the whole season and was joined later in the year by players like Chris Johnson, Jason Castro and Brett ...

Astros Exhibition Tickets on Sale Starting Tomorrow Morning *

Oklahoma City, Okla. - The Oklahoma City RedHawks have announced that tickets for the March 29 exhibition game against the Houston Astros will go on sale to the general public beginning at 9:00 a.m. tomorrow, March 15.

Spring training 2011: Wandy Rodriguez of Houston Astros scratched from start for mild shoulder tendinitis *

Houston Astros left-hander Wandy Rodriguez was scratched from his scheduled start Monday against the Baltimore Orioles after being diagnosed with mild tendinitis in his right shoulder.

Astros Vs. Braves, Spring Training: Regulars Getting Action Against A Split-Squad Astros Team *

The Braves host the Astros at 1:05, with the Braves throwing most of the regulars out there. The game is on 680 AM/93.7 FM, MLB.tv audio. The Atlanta Braves host a split-squad version of the Houston Astros today at 1:05. Most of the regulars are getting some action today. Braves Lineup: 1. Martin Prado , LF 2. Nate McLouth , CF 3. Chipper Jones , 3B 4. Brian McCann , C 5. Dan Uggla , 2B 6 ...

2011 MLB Power Rankings: The Best Pitchers on the Houston Astros *

The Astros have a lot of questions entering spring training in 2011. Who is going to hit for power, will signings and trades for Bill Hall and Clint Barmes pay off, will the lineup even be able to score runs? Another big question the Astros must confront is: Who is pitching for the Astros this year, and how will they perform? There are mixed feelings about the reliability and ability of the ...

Chipper homers as Braves beat Astros 7-1 *

Chipper Jones and Brian McCann homered to lead the Atlanta Braves to a 7-1 win over a split-squad of Houston Astros on Sunday.

2011 MLB Preview: Houston Astros *

The 9 Innings Blog will be bringing you previews of every Major League Baseball team for the next 30 days. This is in accordance with our 30 teams in 30 days series. Today, we are bringing you the 2011 preview of the Houston Astros. The Astros are looking to bounce back from a less than stellar 2010. The Astros finished up the 2010 season finishing 76-86 which was good for fourth place in the ...

Britton looks sharp as Orioles beat Astros *

The Associated Press The Associated Press KISSIMMEE, Fla. Zach Britton is doing his best to stand out in Baltimore's crowded competition for the last spot in its rotation. Britton threw four scoreless innings to help the Orioles beat the Houston Astros 6-4 on Saturday. The 6-foot-3 left-hander hasn't allowed a run in nine innings over three appearances this spring. "I wasn't nervous again," he ...

MLB Game Summary - Washington at Houston, Game Two *

Kissimmee, FL (Sports Network) - Chris Johnson drove in two runs as the Houston Astros took a 6-5 win over the Washington Nationals in Grapefuit League play.

2011 Houston Astros Schedule *

The Associated Press All Times EDT April 1 at Philadelphia, 1:05 p.m. April 2 at Philadelphia, 7:05 p.m. April 3 at Philadelphia, 1:35 p.m. April 5 at Cincinnati, 7:10 p.m. April 6 at Cincinnati, 7:10 p.m. April 7 at Cincinnati, 12:35 p.m. April 8 Florida, 7:05 p.m. April 9 Florida, 7:05 p.m. April 10 Florida, 2:05 p.m. April 11 Chicago Cubs, 8:05 p.m. April 12 Chicago Cubs, 8:05 p.m. April 13 ...

Texas Southern beats Prairie View at Houston Astros' MLB Academy *

HOUSTON – A four-run third inning by Texas Southern was too much to overcome as the Prairie View A&M baseball team dropped a 6-3 decision on Sunday at the Houston Astros’ MLB Academy.

Houston Astros Are Spending Big...Internationally *

While the Astros payroll continues to shrink at the major league level, and Drayton McLane holds the team for sale at an outrageous price, there is one sign of hope for the Astros: international spending. Ariel Ovando was given one of the biggest signing bonuses of the year for an international player, and according to Baseball America's estimated numbers , the Astros spent the third-most ...

Spring training 2011: Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro has torn meniscus, will be out indefinitely after surgery *

Astros catcher Jason Castro will have knee surgery Friday and will be out indefinitely.

Astros catcher Jason Castro's season in doubt *

KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- While not the magnitude of the blow sustained by the Cardinals earlier this spring, the Houston Astros learned they too would go into the 2011 season without a key part of their battery.

Astros' Castro has torn right meniscus *

Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro has a torn meniscus in his right knee and will return to Houston.

Rasmus gets 3 hits as Cardinals defeat Astros *

St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Kyle Lohse throws during the first inning of a spring training baseball game against the Houston Astros, Friday, March 4, 2011, in Kissimmee, Fla.

Astros' Castro could miss season after knee surgery *

Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro will miss most or all of the Major League Baseball season after having surgery on his right knee, the team said on Friday.

Astros C Castro has meniscus tear, surgery likely *

Kissimmee, FL (Sports Network) - Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro was diagnosed with a medial meniscus tear in his right knee on Thursday, just one day after leaving an exhibition game while trying to beat out a ground ball.

Jason Castro, Astros Starting Catcher, Has Major Knee Injury And Will Need Surgery *

2011 is set to be something of a developmental year for the Houston Astros . Nobody has any delusions that the team's going to contend for a playoff spot, so the season's going to be more about getting young players to gain experience and reach the next level. So the last thing the team wanted in Spring Training was to see one of its young regulars get injured. Yet, that's exactly what's ...

Burnett on target in first outing for Yankees *

HOWIE RUMBERG AP Sports Writer TAMPA, Fla. A.J. Burnett was on target — with his pitches and his psyche. Making his first start of the spring after a distressing 2010 season, Burnett pitched two scoreless innings Wednesday in the New York Yankees' 6-5 win over a Houston Astros split squad. "It was fun out there to face some hitters, just throw strikes, just go out there and go pitch by pitch ...

Spring training 2011: Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro has torn meniscus *

Houston Astros catcher Jason Castro has a torn meniscus in his right knee and will return to Houston.

2011 Houston Astros Season Preview & Predictions *

The Houston Astros finished fourth in their division last season with a record of 76-86, it marked the first time Houston finished two straight years with a losing record since the 1990 and 1991 seasons (74-88, 2009). While Houston traded away Roy Oswalt to the Phillies last year, they still expect a strong season from this year's starting rotation.  With the additions of shortstop Clint Barmes ...

Bourn recalls Little League days with Crawford *

The Associated Press The Associated Press KISSIMMEE, Fla. Michael Bourn laughs at the suggestion that he is the reason Carl Crawford, his former Little League teammate, plays left field instead of center. Bourn did win the first of his two Gold Gloves for the Houston Astros in 2009, one year before Crawford earned his first. In fact, Bourn said if he had any influence on Crawford, his friend ...

Astros outfielder Hunter Pence model of stability *

Hustling between drills in his high socks and tight cap, Hunter Pence gives the young Houston Astros an old-school look.

Houston Astros: Predicting the 2011 Opening Day 25-Man Roster *

Even though it has been less than a week that the full squad has been at spring training, it is never too early to start looking at what the Houston Astros may look like on Opening Day. Entering 2011, the Astros are a young team, as they are in the middle of a rebuilding process, but the lineup is pretty much set for this season. Looking at the roster, there are really only two spots that are ...

2011 spring training: Houston Astros, Hunter Pence go to salary arbitration *

Outfielder Hunter Pence and the Astros have gone to salary arbitration in the third and final case of the offseason.

Astros optimistic after strong finish to 2010 *

KISSIMMEE, Fla. -- If the 2010 season had started on June 1, the Houston Astros might have been a wild-card factor throughout the summer. It didn't and they weren't. But the Astros, who reassembled Sunday for their first full-squad workout of spring ...

Astros looking to build on 2010 youth movement *

The Associated Press The Associated Press KISSIMMEE, Fla. If the 2010 season had started on June 1, the Houston Astros might have been a wild-card factor throughout the summer. It didn't and they weren't. But the Astros, who reassembled Sunday for their first full-squad workout of spring training, finished well enough to feel good all winter. While using 11 rookies, often with three or more in ...

Astros to build on 2010 youth movement *

f the 2010 season had started on June 1, the Houston Astros might have been a wild-card factor throughout the summer.

Fien looking forward to Astros spring training *

KISSIMMEE, Fla. (AP) — Casey Fien will have to show a lot, and quickly, to earn a spot in the Houston Astros bullpen this spring. At least the 27-year-old right-hander is going to get a look, which is more than he got last spring during a wild odyssey that took him from the Detroit Tigers to the Boston Red Sox to the Toronto Blue Jays and back to the Tigers again, all within three weeks.

Astros RHP Lyon careful not to overdo it *

Associated Press - February 16, 2011 2:15 PM ET KISSIMMEE, Fla. (AP) - Houston Astros reliever Brandon Lyon says he's ready for the start of an eight-month grind.

Reds Killers: Houston Astros *

Leading up to the start of the season, we’re taking every team the Reds will face in 2011 and examining which players on that team’s current 40-man roster have owned the Reds (Reds Killers) during their careers and which players don’t historically seem to do so hot against the Reds (anti-Reds Killers). We started with [...]

Harper driving community dream with Astros *

Harper driving community dream with Astros

Astros agree to contracts with three pitchers *

The Houston Astros have agreed to one-year deals with three pitchers.

Astros agree to deals with 3 pitchers *

The Houston Astros have agreed to one-year deals with three pitchers.

Houston Astros Announce Updated List of Caravan Participants *

Oklahoma City, Okla.-The Houston Astros winter caravan will visit Oklahoma City on January 18th and 19th. The Astros, the new Major League affiliate of the Oklahoma City RedHawks, announced an updated list of caravan participants today.

Astros Rumors: Astros On Michael Young's List *

Ronald Martinez - Getty Images 3 months ago: ARLINGTON TX - NOVEMBER 01: Michael Young #10 of the Texas Rangers singles in the fourth inning against the San Francisco Giants in Game Five of the 2010 MLB World Series at Rangers Ballpark in Arlington on November 1 2010 in Arlington Texas. (Photo by Ronald Martinez/Getty Images) View full size photo » Keeping up-to-date with the latest Astros ...

MLB Trade Rumors: 10 Carlos Lee Trades To Cut Payroll for the Houston Astros *

The Houston Astros about halfway through last season decided to enter rebuilding mode by trading both Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt. However, there is one more expensive piece currently on the team that could offer some quality pieces in return to help the rebuilding process, and that is Carlos Lee. El Caballo does have some things working against him that may make a trade tougher for the Astros ...

Houston Astros , Lefty Wandy Rodriguez reach $34M, 3-year deal with vesting option *

HOUSTON — The Houston Astros see Wandy Rodriguez as one of the best left-handers in baseball, and they didn’t want him to get away.

Source: Houston Astros, starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez agree to 3-year, $34 million deal *

Starting pitcher Wandy Rodriguez agreed to a three-year contract for $34 million with the Houston Astros to avoid salary arbitration, a source close to the negotiations told ESPNdeportes.com.

Houston Astros: 10 Reasons They Can Be NL Central Surprises in 2011 *

If a team in a rebuilding process is smart and gets the right pieces, it's not out of the realm of possibility that a team could be playoff bound after one to two years of rebuilding. Last year, the Houston Astros felt it was time to start over and traded away Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt and replaced them with young players like Brett Wallace and J.A. Happ. After these trades happened, the ...

MLB Trade Rumors: Which Houston Astros Are Untouchable (Or Should Be)? *

With pitchers and catchers reporting to Spring Training next week, teams around the league are looking to shore up their rosters and prepare for the season ahead. In Houston, Astros GM Ed Wade has some big decisions not only in the next few months, but also important choices for the future of the franchise. Wade made a lot of big deals this offseason, notably bringing in Bill Hall and Clint ...

Former Hudson standout Wes Musick traded to Astros *

The Houston Astros have acquired left-handed pitcher Wes Musick and right-handed pitcher Jonnathan Aristil from the Colorado Rockies.

Astros Announce ValleyCats 2011 Field Staff *

TROY, NY- The Houston Astros have announced the 2011 Tri-City ValleyCats field staff and there's only one familiar name on the list. Gary Ruby will return as pitching coach, joining hitting coach Mark Bailey, manager Stubby Clapp and athletic trainer Kevin Ortega.

Astros sign Bill Hall *

The Houston Astros announced the acquisition of free agent infielder Bill Hall on Monday to a one-year contract worth $3 million.

Astros trade Lindstrom for minor league pitchers *

The Astros will receive righthander Jonnathan Aristil and former University of Houston lefthander Wes Musick.

Astros trade closer Lindstrom to Rockies *

The Colorado Rockies have bolstered their bullpen by acquiring right-handed reliever Matt Lindstrom from the Houston Astros

Bill Hall Finalizes $3.25 Million Deal With Houston Astros *

Free agent infielder Bill Hall has finalized a $3.25 million, one-year contract with the Houston that includes a mutual option for 2012.

Astros' system starting to pay big dividends *

Astros' system starting to pay big dividends

Bill Hall finalizes one-year, $3.25 million contract with Houston Astros *

Free agent infielder Bill Hall has finalized a $3.25 million, one-year contract with the Astros that includes a mutual option for 2012.

Red Sox Journal: Hall reportedly signs with Astros *

According to Fox Sports, former Red Sox utility man Bill Hall has signed a one-year contract to play second base for the Houston Astros . The move wasn't too much of a surprise: Terry Francona always spoke highly of Hall last season, and Houston manager Brad Mills is one of Francona's closest friends.

Former Hook Gervacio Invited to Astros Spring Training *

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros announced today that the club has signed infielder Brian Dopirak and right-handed pitcher Sammy Gervacio to minor league contracts with an invitation to Major League Spring Training. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Ed Wade. Gervacio, 25, made six appearances for Houston in 2010, going 0-1 with a 12.27 ERA (5ER/3.2IP). He made seven outings at ...

Kasten interested in buying Astros *

Houston Astros owner Drayton McLane confirms that Stan Kasten, the former president of the Washington Nationals, has expressed interest in purchasing the Astros. But McLane downplayed the potential.

AP Source: Astros agree to $3.25M deal with Hall *

A person familiar with the deal tells The Associated Press that the Houston Astros have agreed to a one-year contract with free agent Bill Hall that guarantees $3.25 million. The person spoke Friday on condition of anonymity because the deal has not been announced. Hall's agreement contains a mutual option for 2012 with a buyout.

Astros agree to $3.25M deal with new 2B Hall *

HOUSTON — A person familiar with the deal tells The Associated Press that the Houston Astros have agreed to a one-year contract with free agent Bill Hall that guarantees $3.25 million.

Washington Nationals Rally For 7-Run 8th, 8-4 Win Over Houston Astros. NO 100-Losses!!! *

Washington Nationals Rally For 7-Run 8th, 8-4 Win Over Houston Astros. NO 100-Losses!!!

Washington Nationals fall to Houston Astros, 8-2, before mostly empty stadium *

The Nationals fall a season-worst 26 games below .500, but very few people are there to see it an 8-2 loss to the visiting Astros. Washington Nationals - Houston Astros - Baseball - Sports - Major League

Astros claim Carrillo off waivers from Padres *

The Houston Astros have claimed right-hander Cesar Carrillo off waivers from the San Diego Padres. The Astros designated infielder Edwin Maysonet for assignment on Wednesday to make room for Carrillo on the 40-man roster. The 26-year-old Carrillo won't join the Astros' major league club in 2010.

Houston Astros RF Hunter Pence leaves game with hip discomfort *

Houston Astros right fielder Hunter Pence has left the game against Washington in the middle of the first inning with discomfort in his right hip flexor.

Astros add AAA team in Oklahoma City *

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) - The Houston Astros are moving their AAA farm club to Oklahoma City, finishing what's essentially a swap with the Texas Rangers of homes for their top minor-league teams.

Astros, Triple-A RedHawks partner up *

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla. -- The Houston Astros and the Oklahoma City RedHawks today announced that the Astros will be returning as the parent club of the Triple-A RedHawks.

Astros Announce Triple A PDC with Oklahoma City *

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros and the Oklahoma City RedHawks today announced that the Astros will be returning their Triple A affiliation to Oklahoma City. The Astros were the original Major League Baseball affiliate of the Oklahoma City Triple A franchise from 1962 through 1972 and with over 150 games available in 2010 for broadcast; it gives the franchise a strong presence and fan base in ...

Astros add Triple-A team in Oklahoma City *

The Houston Astros are moving their Triple-A farm club to Oklahoma City, finishing what's essentially a swap with the Texas Rangers of homes for their top minor-league teams. The Rangers announced last week that they were ending their relationship with the Oklahoma City RedHawks after 28 years. The Rangers chose Triple-A Round Rock (Texas) as its new affiliate.

Texas MLB Capsules: Myers, Quintero help Astros beat Reds 4-3 *

HOUSTON (AP) — After dropping the second of three games to the Houston Astros, the Cincinnati Reds immediately shifted their focus to getting back on track.

Astros 4, Reds 3 *

Times wires Sunday, September 19, 2010 Astros 4, Reds 3 HOUSTON — Brett Myers pitched seven scoreless innings, Humberto Quintero drove in two runs and the Astros held off a rally. Rookie Chris Johnson had a solo homer in the seventh to help the Astros take two of three from the Reds, whose magic number for winning the NL Central remained eight.

Astros slow Reds' march to crown *

After dropping the second of three games to the Houston Astros, the Cincinnati Reds shifted their focus to getting back on track.

MLB: Houston 4, Cincinnati 3 *

HOUSTON, Sept. 19 (UPI) -- Humberto Quintero's two-run single in the fifth inning broke a scoreless tie Sunday and the Houston Astros went on to post a 4-3 victory over Cincinnati. Houston Astros - Humberto Quintero - Major League Baseball - Sport - Cincinnati Reds

Astros-Nationals Preview *

Bud Norris made a strong debut in the Houston Astros' rotation last season by winning his first three major league starts. If he can get past the pain of a bruised shin, the right-hander has a chance to match that streak - still his career best - in Monday night's opener of a four-game series at the Washington Nationals.

Astros tag Chapman for two to top Reds *

Below is an advertisement. HOUSTON -- Had the casual baseball observers not managed to glance at the standings prior to Friday night's game, they would have probably pegged the sharp-as-a-tack Astros as the first-place team providing most of the highlights at Minute Maid Park.

Sanchez leads Astros past Reds *

HOUSTON -- Angel Sanchez hit a tiebreaking two-run single off Aroldis Chapman in the seventh inning and the Houston Astros beat the sputtering Cincinnati Reds 5-3 on Friday night.

Reds send RH Enerio Del Rosario to Astros *

The Cincinnati Reds have traded right-hander reliever Enerio Del Rosario to the Houston Astros for cash. The 24-year-old pitcher appeared in nine games with Cincinnati during the first half of the season, posting a 2.08 ERA without a decision. He spent the rest of the season at Triple-A Louisville, going 4-4 with four saves and a 3.09 ERA in 50 appearances.

Astros' youngsters have future looking bright *

HOUSTON -- In some ways, the Astros' dramatic turnaround in the second half of the season is nothing more than a product of ignorance.

Astros outright Sampson to Triple A *

The Houston Astros announced today that right-handed pitcher Chris Sampson has cleared waivers and outrighted to Triple A Round Rock. The announcement was made by General Manager Ed Wade.

Houston Astros shoot to success after superstars Berkman and Oswalt fall to other teams *

HOUSTON (AP) — When Houston lost its first eight games of the season and dropped to 17-34, some thought the Astros were in for a miserable season. And when they got rid of stars Lance Berkman and Roy Oswalt, it seemed that nothing good would come out of this year.

Astros' Triple-A club to become Rangers' *

HOUSTON -- The Round Rock Express, the Astros' Triple-A club since 2005, has called a news conference for Thursday, when it will announce that it will switch affiliations and become a Minor League affiliate for the Texas Rangers, a person close to the situation has told MLB.com.

MLB: Houston 3, Milwaukee 2 *

HOUSTON, Sept. 14 (UPI) -- Bud Norris tamed the Brewers on three hits over seven-plus innings Tuesday and the Houston Astros topped Milwaukee 3-2. Houston Astros - Bud Norris - Major League Baseball - Sports - Baseball

Bud Norris, Houston Astros stifle Milwaukee Brewers *

HOUSTON When Houston starter Bud Norris took a line drive off the shin on the first pitch of the game, he thought his night was over.

Astros Hope Myers Wins Major Award *

Houston Astros pitcher Brett Myers earned a piece of baseball history Monday night and in the process it may have helped players from around the game focus on what Myers has accomplished this season and the award he has put himself in position to win.  

Houston Astros P Brett Myers strong start sinks Milwaukee Brewers *

HOUSTON Brett Myers became the eighth pitcher in 90 years to throw six or more innings in 30 consecutive starts, Carlos Lee drove in the go-ahead run in the seventh inning and the Houston Astros beat the Milwaukee Brewers 4-2 on Monday night.

Dodgers 6, Astros 3 *

Times wires Saturday, September 11, 2010 Dodgers 6, Astros 3 HOUSTON — Astros reliever Brandon Lyon threw away a bunt for a tiebreaking two-run error in a three-run ninth inning, propelling the Dodgers. With runners on first and second, A.J. Ellis bunted, and Lyon fielded, hesitated then threw wildly to first.

Pence, Lee both homer to lead Astros to a 7-4 win over L.A. Dodgers *

HOUSTON - Hunter Pence had three hits, including his team-high 24th homer, to lead the Houston Astros past the Los Angeles Dodgers 7-4 on Sunday.

MLB: Houston 7, Los Angeles Dodgers 4 *

HOUSTON, Sept. 12 (UPI) -- Jason Castro and Geoff Blum drove in fifth-inning runs with consecutive doubles and the Houston Astros went on to defeat the Los Angeles Dodgers 7-4. Houston Astros - Los Angeles Dodgers - Geoff Blum - Jason Castro - Sports

Astros hold rememberance for Sept. 11 *

Astros hold rememberance for Sept. 11

Astros digging deep for wins in September *

Below is an advertisement. HOUSTON -- The Astros haven't been a powerful club in 2010, ranking 28th in the Majors in home runs entering Friday.

Free Dog Heart Checks at Houston Astros Dog Day Expo *

HOUSTON, Sept. 11 /PRNewswire/ -- The Mobile Dog Heart Health Tour is heading south to Houston for the Astros' Dog Day Expo at Minute Maid Park on September 19, 2010. During the special promotion that encourages fans to bring their dogs to the game, veterinary cardiologists on the Mobile Dog Heart Health Tour will perform free dog heart examinations inside a mobile medical unit at Minute Maid ...

Wise Men to Help Break World Record at Houston Astros Game Tonight *

Ever wanted to break a world record? If you plan to go to the Houston Astros game tonight, you will have your chance both to break a world record and be part of an upcoming documentary film.

Astros rally to beat Dodgers *

Astros rally to beat Dodgers

Astros rally past Dodgers, win 3rd straight *

Rookie Chris Johnson hit a three-run homer in the sixth inning and the Houston Astros rallied to beat the slumping Los Angeles Dodgers 3-2 on Thursday night. Los Angeles Dodgers - Houston Astros - Chris Johnson - Los Angeles - sport

Myers helps Astros top Cubs *

Brett Myers struck out eight in seven crisp innings, Hunter Pence homered and the Houston Astros beat the Chicago Cubs 4-0 on Wednesday night. Myers (11-7) allowed three hits and walked one, improving to 10-3 with a 2.21 ERA in 17 career games against the Cubs.

Astros Realign Baseball Operations Responsibilities *

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros today announced a realignment of Baseball Operations responsibilities, with Ricky Bennett moving from Assistant General Manager and Director of Player Development to the role of Director of Professional Scouting, and Fred Nelson moving from Director of Professional Scouting to Director of Player Development; Nelson will assume his new duties on an extended ...

Astros report: Inside pitch *

Astros' expanded September roster had a good sense of what their roles would be the rest of the season, manager Brad Mills first paused]]

Cubs lose 4-0 to Astros *

The Chicago Cubs lost 4-0 to the Houston Astros on Wednesday. Check back for more details. ...

Myers, Astros shut out Cubs *

Brett Myers struck out eight in seven crisp innings, Hunter Pence homered and the Houston Astros beat the Chicago Cubs 4-0 on Wednesday night. Myers (11-7) allowed three hits and walked one, improving to 10-3 with a 2.21 ERA in 17 career games against the Cubs. The right-hander is 3-0 with a 1.76 ERA in his last six starts overall.

Astros, Cubs wrap set at Wrigley Field *

The Houston Astros have to be thinking about returning home for an extended period of time. But first they have to take care of business in the Windy City, as the Astros shoot for a series win over the Chicago Cubs tonight in the finale of a three-game set from Wrigley Field.

Astros' Pence takes home NL weekly award *

Houston Astros outfielder Hunter Pence was named the National League Player of the Week for the period ending September 5.

Geovany Soto Homers in the Eighth as Cubs Beat Astros 5-4 *

Cubs catcher Geovany Soto’s home run in the bottom of the eighth inning was the game winning run.  The Chicago Cubs took game one of the three-game set by beating their NL Central archrivals Houston Astros 5-4 in front of an attendance of 31,647.

Astros beat Diamondbacks *

Astros beat Diamondbacks

Astros likely to change Triple-A clubs *

PHOENIX -- The Astros may very well be in the market for a new Triple-A affiliate for next season. And with the dates aligned, that move must be triggered by Oct. 7, according to Major League Baseball rules.

Arizona Diamondbacks vs. Houston Astros game chat *

It's the series finale as Arizona hosts the Astros.

MLB: Houston 3, Arizona 2 *

PHOENIX, Sept. 5 (UPI) -- Hunter Pence pounded three-run, first-inning homer Sunday and the Houston Astros rode it to a 3-2 win over Arizona. Houston Astros - Hunter Pence - Major League Baseball - Sports - Baseball

Astros rally to beat Diamondbacks 6-5 *

Carlos Lee has been an RBI machine for the Houston Astros since the end of July. He tacked on four more Saturday night. Lee hit a three-run homer in Houston's four-run eighth inning and also singled in a run in the first, leading the Astros to a 6-5 victory over the Arizona Diamondbacks. Angel Sanchez tripled and scored on Aaron Heilman's wild pitch to get the Astros within two in the eighth...

Arizona Diamondbacks' Augie Ojeda brings winning run home against Houston Astros *

Augie Ojeda made the most of his chance in Arizona's 4-3 win over the Astros.

Roy Oswalt Trade Helped Astros Transition Into Younger Club *

The Astros traded Roy Oswalt and Lance Berkman this season and have installed a group of younger players who have helped revitalize the club.

Quintero doing nothing for Astros *

Houston C Humberto Quintero went 0 for 3 on Friday in a loss to the Diamondbacks. Quintero is batting .225 on the season for the Astros. Houston Astros - Humberto Quintero - Sport - Baseball - Teams

Astros-Diamondbacks Preview *

The Houston Astros just hurt one of their division rivals' playoff chances. So did the last-place Arizona Diamondbacks. The Astros and Diamondbacks look to extend their respective winning streaks to four Friday night at Chase Field in the opener of a three-game series. A 36-53 first half essentially knocked Houston (62-71) out of playoff contention, but the Astros are eight games above .500...

Pence helps Astros hand Cards fifth straight loss *

Hunter Pence hit a three-run homer and the Houston Astros completed a sweep of St. Louis with a 5-2 victory Wednesday, handing the slumping Cardinals their fifth straight defeat. Hunter Pence - Houston Astros - United States - Metro Areas - Missouri

MLB: Houston 5, St. Louis 2 *

HOUSTON, Sept. 1 (UPI) -- Hunter Pence cracked a three-run homer Wednesday and the Houston Astros dealt the St. Louis Cardinals their fifth straight loss, 5-2. St. Louis Cardinals - Houston Astros - Hunter Pence - Major League Baseball - Baseball

Rodriguez helps Astros blank Cards again, 3-0 *

Houston Astros' Brett Wallace, right, collides with St. Louis Cardinals shortstop Brendan Ryan, left, while sliding into second base during the fourth inning of Tuesday's game in Houston. Wallace was out on the play.

Astros' Moehler has surgery *

Houston Astros right-hander Brian Moehler had successful lower abdominal and groin surgery Wednesday.

Astros 3, Cardinals 0 *

Times wires Monday, August 30, 2010 Astros 3, Cardinals 0 HOUSTON — J.A. Happ pitched a two-hitter and rookie Brett Wallace had a career-high three hits and an RBI as the Astros handed the Cardinals their sixth loss in seven games and kept them fading in the NL Central race. Happ earned the fourth complete game and third shutout of his career. Houston acquired the left-hander in the deal that ...

Happ throws 2-hitter as Astros shut out Cards 3-0 *

The Houston Astros defeated the St. Louis Cardinals Monday night.

Surging Astros get better of Santana, Mets *

Carlos Lee homered off Johan Santana, Brett Myers set a team record and the Houston Astros won for the first time at Citi Field by beating the New York Mets 4-1 Saturday night. Houston Astros - New York Mets - Johan Santana - Citi Field - sport

Dickey leads Mets past Astros on mound and at plate *

R.A. Dickey flustered the Houston Astros with knuckleballs and foiled them with his bat, leading the Mets to a 5-1 victory Sunday. Josh Thole homered and Dickey keyed a second-inning rally with a two-run single that helped the Mets end Bud Norris' four-game winning streak. New York took two...

Dickey leads Mets past Astros 5-1 with arm, bat *

R.A. Dickey flustered the Houston Astros with knuckleballs and foiled them with his bat, leading the New York Mets to a 5-1 victory Sunday.

Houston Astros' Matt Lindstrom delays rehab with stiff back *

Houston Astros closer Matt Lindstrom still has a stiff back and his scheduled bullpen session has been delayed.

Astros pull off Philly sweep behind Rodriguez & Co. *

Wandy Rodriguez pitched seven sharp innings, Carlos Lee homered and the Houston Astros beat the Phillies 5-1 Thursday to complete their first four-game sweep in Philadelphia in 11 years. Houston Astros - Philadelphia Phillies - Carlos Lee - Sport - Baseball

Astros complete 4-game sweep of Phillies *

PHILADELPHIA (AP) — The Houston Astros completed their first four-game sweep at Philadelphia in 11 years by winning 5-1 in the National League on Thursday, putting another dent in the Phillies' playoff ambitions.

Houston Astros complete four-game sweep of Philadelphia Phillies *

The Phillies' Raul Ibanez goes 3-for-3 in a losing cause.

Astros-Mets Preview *

The Houston Astros produced a surprising sweep on their road trip as two of their starting pitchers got the better of a former team. The Astros hope Nelson Figueroa can continue that trend Friday night and help his team to a sixth consecutive victory in the opener of a three-game series at the New York Mets.

Astros Claim Infielder Downs off Waivers *

HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros announced today that the club has claimed infielder Matt Downs off of waivers from San Francisco. Downs has been assigned to Triple A Round Rock and will report to the Express tomorrow. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Ed Wade.

Astros notes: Blum returns to Houston with neck pain *

Astros infielder Geoff Blum left the team Wednesday to fly back to Houston when his ailing neck turned for the worse. Blum was injured last week against the Mets while making a diving play and has only pinch hit since.

Astros beat Phillies, deny Halladay 7th straight win *

The Houston Astros denied Roy Halladay a seventh consecutive win on Wednesday, smacking two home runs off the Philadelphia ace in a 3-2 victory over the Phillies.

MLB Roundup: Astros beat Phillies in 16th *

PHILADELPHIA -- The Houston Astros wild 4-2 win over Philadelphia lasted 16 innings, over 5 hours, and saw Phillies pitcher Roy Oswalt play left field and ground into the final out Tuesday night.Oswalt became the first Phillies pitcher to play a posi ...

Oswalt plays OF in Phils' loss to Astros *

The Houston Astros wild 4-2 win over Philadelphia lasted 16 innings, over 5 hours, and saw Phillies pitcher Roy Oswalt play left field and ground into the final out Tuesday night. Houston Astros - Philadelphia Phillies - Roy Oswalt - Sport - Baseball

Phillies fall to Astros in wild, 16-inning contest *

The Houston Astros wild 4-2 win over Philadelphia lasted 16 innings, over 5 hours, and saw Phillies pitcher Roy Oswalt play left field and ground into the final out Tuesday night. Houston Astros - Philadelphia Phillies - Roy Oswalt - Baseball - Sports

Astros outlast Phillies in 16 innings *

The Houston Astros' wild 4-2 win over Philadelphia lasted 16 innings, over 5 hours, and saw Phillies pitcher Roy Oswalt play left field and ground into the final out Tuesday night.

Astros hit town bearing arms of Phillies past *

PHILADELPHIA -- Maybe the Astros feel their ex-Phillies pitchers will enjoy the same success as Robin Roberts once did in Houston.

Years Later, Philadelphia Phillies Finally Benefit From Ed Wade *

The Houston Astros will limp into Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia tonight, 54-69 and with virtually no chance to make the playoffs.  Since the team's World Series appearance in 2005, there's been a lot of limping finishes in Houston. While the Philadelphia Phillies were in the process of reaching their first post-season in 14 years in 2007, the Astros were in the final stages of a search for ...

Pence leads Astros past Marlins 2-1 *

Hunter Pence hit a tiebreaking homer in the eighth inning and the Houston Astros averted a series sweep by beating Florida 2-1 Sunday, ending the Marlins' season-high five-game winning streak.

Astros don't expect to have many callups *

Astros don't expect to have many callups

Astros extend partnership with Double-A Corpus Christi *

The Houston Astros announced a four-year extension of the player development contract with the Corpus Christi Hooks, the team's Double-A affiliate.

Lee leads Astros past Mets 3-2 *

Houston Astros' Carlos Lee (45) hits a three-run home run as New York Mets catcher Rod Barajas, left, reaches for the pitch during the seventh inning of a baseball game Thursday, Aug. 19, 2010, in Houston.

Astros place Keppinger on DL *

The Houston Astros placed infielder Jeff Keppinger on the 15-day disabled list with an injured big left toe.

Astros' Keppinger on disabled list *

HOUSTON, Aug. 20 (UPI) -- Houston Astros infielder Jeff Keppinger's has landed on the 15-day disabled list with an injured big left toe. Houston Astros - Jeff Keppinger - Disabled list - United States - Metro Areas

Pence propels Astros past Mets 4-3 *

The Houston Astros couldn't string much together against Johan Santana. Hunter Pence made sure they didn't really need to. Pence had a three-run homer in the first inning and his go-ahead solo shot in the eighth inning propelled the Houston Astros to a 4-3 win over the New York Mets on Tuesday night.

Mets scrape by Houston Astros for 3-2 victory in 14 innings *

HOUSTON – Finally, the breakthrough came. It was small. It was basic. But it was necessary. A sacrifice fly from rookie Ike Davis broke a 14th-inning deadlock here at Minute Maid Park, pushing Jose Reyes home and pushing the Mets (60-60) ahead in a 3-2 victory over the Astros.

Hunter Pence knocks in four runs; Houston Astros edge Mets, 4-3 *

HOUSTON (AP) — The Houston Astros couldn't string much together against Johan Santana.

Astros place P Lindstrom on disabled list *

The Houston Astros have placed closer Matt Lindstrom on the 15-day disabled list with lingering back issues.

MLB: Houston 8, Pittsburgh 2 *

HOUSTON, Aug. 15 (UPI) -- Pedro Feliz's two-run double capped a four-run, sixth-inning surge Sunday that lifted the Houston Astros to an 8-2 victory over Pittsburgh. Houston Astros - Pedro Feliz - Major League Baseball - Pittsburgh - United States

Mets beat Astros 3-1 behind Beltran, new closer *

New York Mets' Jonathon Niese delivers a pitch against the Houston Astros during the first inning of a baseball game Monday, Aug. 16, 2010, in Houston.

Chacon's grievance denied *

Shawn Chacon's grievance against the Houston Astros has been denied. The players' association filed the grievance after his contract was terminated two years ago, saying the decision was without just cause. Arbitrator Shyam Das found that the Astros were within their rights to terminate Chacon's contract without further compensation after he assaulted general manager Ed Wade on June 25,...

Feliz helps Astros beat Pirates 8-2 *

J.A. Happ gave the Houston Astros a chance, and eventually they took advantage of it. Happ threw six solid innings and pinch-hitter Pedro Feliz hit a two-run double in Houston's four-run sixth inning, leading the Astros to an 8-2 victory over the woeful Pittsburgh Pirates on Sunday. "It's fun to watch these guys play late in the game," Happ said.

Houston Astros: New York Mets on Tap Beginning Tonight at MMP *

The Houston Astros embark upon another home-stand when they begin a four-game series with the New York Mets tonight at 7:05 p.m. CST at Minute Maid Park. Houston, entering the contest after a three-game sweep over the Pittsburgh Pirates, will be facing a Mets team that has lost two in a row. Lefty Wandy Rodriguez will be taking the mound for the Astros in tonight's game, while New York's ...

Astros 4, Pirates 1 *

Times wires Friday, August 13, 2010 Astros 4, Pirates 1 HOUSTON — Carlos Lee hit a three-run homer in the eighth to rally the Astros. Houston was down before Lee connected against All-Star reliever Evan Meek, belting a drive to left. Angel Sanchez hit a one-out single and Hunter Pence walked before Lee's 15th homer. The Pirates, who have the worst record in the majors at 39-76, have dropped five ...

Lee's homer gives Astros 4-1 win over Pirates *

Carlos Lee hit a three-run homer in the eighth inning to power the Houston Astros to a 4-1 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Friday night.

Astros set sights on handing Bucs ninth straight road loss *

Bud Norris will try for a third straight winning decision and lead his Houston Astros to a second consecutive victory over the Pittsburgh Pirates when the two National League Central members continue a three-game series from Minute Maid Park this evening.

Houston Astros Tie Game in Ninth, Lose It in 10th at Minute Maid Park *

The rivalry between the National League’s Houston Astros and Atlanta Braves goes back far historically, but Wednesday afternoon’s matchup was one to forget—at least for those cheering for the home team—in the midweek matinee at Minute Maid Park. I’ll never forget, sadly, the postseason game between Houston and Atlanta in the late 90s when the Astros had the bases loaded—with nobody out—and ...

MLB: Atlanta 8, Houston 2 (10 innings) *

HOUSTON, Aug. 11 (UPI) -- Omar Infante delivered a tie-breaking RBI double to ignite a six-run, 10th-inning rally Wednesday, giving the Atlanta Braves an 8-2 win over Houston. Atlanta Braves - Major League Baseball - Sports - Houston Astros - Omar Infante

Heyward out against Houston *

Right fielder Jason Heyward has been scratched from Atlanta's lineup for Tuesday night's game against the Houston Astros because of a sore right knee. He was replaced in right field by Melky Cabrera. Heyward, who turned 21 on Monday, homered in Atlanta's 10-4 loss to Houston on Monday night.

Houston beats Atlanta 10-4 *

Chris Johnson stood in the clubhouse, streaks of dirt covering the length of his Houston Astros' uniform, and was asked for a clever way to describe his single that ended up scoring four because of Atlanta's third error of the game. "I don't know," he said. "I'm too tired to think about that.

Astros recall reliever Melancon, option lefty Wright *

The Houston Astros have optioned left-hander Wesley Wright to Triple-A Round Rock to make room for newly acquired reliever Mark Melancon. Houston Astros - Round Rock Express - Left-handedness - Mark Melancon - United States

Houston Astros roll past Atlanta Braves *

Houston Astros roll past Atlanta Braves

Astros sign first-round draft choice *

HOUSTON, Aug. 5 (UPI) -- Delino DeShields Jr., the first-round choice of the Houston Astros in this year's draft, has agreed to terms, the team said Thursday. Houston Astros - Delino DeShields - Sports - Draft - Baseball

Astros sign first-round pick DeShields *

The Houston Astros agreed to terms with infielder/outfielder Delino DeShields Jr., the club's 2010 first-round draft pick, on Thursday.

Astros sign 1st-round pick Delino DeShields Jr *

The Houston Astros have signed first-round draft pick Delino DeShields Jr. The 17-year-old DeShields is the son of former major league second baseman Delino DeShields. The Astros announced the move Thursday and gave him a signing bonus of $2.15 million. He was the eighth player picked overall and plays the outfield and infield.

Break up the Astros: Norris, Sanchez star as Houston rips Cards, pushes streak to seven *

Astros pitcher Bud Norris delivers during Houston’s 18-4 win over the St. Louis Cardinals on Tuesday night. Angel Sanchez drove in six runs as the Astros pushed their win streak to seven.

Houston Astros Update: Club Signs Delino DeShields, Activate Geoff Blum *

  The Houston Astros have been beyond busy lately. Less than a week after trading two of the biggest franchise players to ever don an Astros uniform, Houston had won seven games in a row—culminating with an 18-4 beat-down of St. Louis—before the Cardinals finally ended that streak with an 8-4 win over the Astros last night at Busch Stadium. But wait, there’s more! In addition to the seven-game ...

Minor leaguers Mariano Chevalier of Chicago White Sox, Richard Rodriguez of Houston Astros suspended 50 games *

Pitchers Mariano Chevalier of the Chicago White Sox and Richard Rodriguez of the Houston Astros have been suspended for 50 games each under baseball's minor league drug program.

Astros ruin Westbrook's Cardinals debut *

ST. LOUIS (AP) -The Houston Astros who still remain after a housecleaning are playing as if they're contenders.

Astros erupt late in 9-4 win over Cardinals *

The Houston Astros who still remain after a housecleaning are playing as if they're contenders. Jeff Keppinger had two hits and matched his season-best with four RBIs, including a key hit during a go-ahead three-run eighth inning, and the Astros won their sixth straight to spoil Jake Westbrook's St.

Michaels' pinch-hit slam gives Houston Astros' 5-2 win over Milwaukee Brewers *

HOUSTON - Talk about a fun youth movement. The Houston Astros are piling up the wins while they shed some of their most experienced players.

Astros sign pitcher Myers to two-year extension *

The Houston Astros signed starting pitcher Brett Myers to a two-year contract extension with a club option for a third year on Sunday. Brett Myer - Houston Astros - Starting pitcher - United States - Metro Areas

Houston Astros beat Milwaukee Brewers 5-2, complete sweep *

Pinch-hitter Jason Michaels connected for a grand slam in the seventh inning and the Astros beat the Brewers 5-2 today to complete the three-game sweep.

Houston Astros sign RHP Brett Myers to multi-year contract extension *

HOUSTON - The Houston Astros signed starting pitcher Brett Myers to a two-year contract extension with a club option for a third year on Sunday.

Yankees Acquire Lance Berkman From Houston Astros for Two Minor Leaguers *

The New York Yankees acquired first baseman Lance Berkman from the Houston Astros for two minor- league players, the Major League Baseball team said in a statement.

Lance Berkman, Houston Astros Part Ways: Deal Sends Slugger to Yankees *

It’s a sad day for the city of Houston, Texas, and the Astros franchise. On Saturday, July 31—the final day of the trade deadline—the Houston Astros ended the Lance Berkman era when they sent the All-Star slugger to the New York Yankees. Houston will be receiving two minor league prospects in exchange for Berkman. “I never thought I would be in this position—never had to go through it,” Berkman ...

New York Yankees acquire Lance Berkman from Houston Astros to be their designated hitter *

Houston Astros first baseman Lance Berkman, left, talks with hitting coach Jeff Bagwell, right, during batting practice before a baseball game against the Milwaukee Brewers, Friday, July 30, 2010, in Houston.

Houston Astros, Brett Myers close to multiyear contract extension *

The Houston Astros are close to a multiyear contract extension with starting pitcher Brett Myers.

MLB: Houston 5, Milwaukee 0 *

HOUSTON, July 30 (UPI) -- Newly acquired J.A. Happ and three relievers combined on a four-hitter Friday and the Houston Astros got all their runs on homers in downing Milwaukee 5-0. Houston Astros - Major League Baseball - Sport - Roy Oswalt - Philadelphia Phillies

Happ wins in Houston debut *

So far, the Houston Astros transition to a rebuilding status is looking pretty good. J.A. Happ made sure of it Friday night. One day after arriving in a trade from Philadelphia, Happ allowed two hits over six innings in his Houston debut and the Astros beat the Milwaukee Brewers 5-0. Happ and two minor leaguers came to the Astros on Thursday in a trade that sent Roy Oswalt to Philadelphia.

Astros Make Second Deal, Acquire 1B Wallace from Toronto *

HOUSTON, TX--In what was the second trade of the day for the ballclub, the Houston Astros acquired first baseman Brett Wallace from the Toronto Blue Jays in exchange for outfielder Anthony Gose, General Manager Ed Wade announced today.

Report: Astros have deal in place to send Oswalt to Phillies *

The Houston Astros reportedly have a deal in place to send starting pitcher Roy Oswalt to the Philadelphia Phillies.

Oswalt approves deal, Astros trade ace to Phillies *

Houston Astros pitcher Roy Oswalt watches from the dugout during the seventh inning of a baseball game against the Chicago Cubs Monday, July 26, 2010 in Houston.

Brewers-Astros Preview *

The Houston Astros were scheduled to have their ace take the mound for perhaps the final time at Minute Maid Park. Instead, J.A. Happ will make his debut. The former Phillies left-hander looks to continue putting an arm injury behind him as the Astros open a three-game series against the Milwaukee Brewers on Friday night.

Lee launches two home runs as Houston routs Chicago *

HOUSTON -- Carlos Lee hit two home runs, including the go-ahead homer in the sixth inning, and the Houston Astros went on to an 8-1 win over the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday. United States - Houston - Texas - Metro Areas - Houston-Galveston

Lee has two homers as Astros down Cubs 8-1 *

Carlos Lee hit two home runs, including the go-ahead homer in the sixth inning, and the Houston Astros went on to an 8-1 win over the Chicago Cubs on Wednesday. The game was tied at 1 before Lee connected for his 13th homer of the year, a two-run shot to left field. His second one, also to left field, scored Lance Berkman and pushed the lead to 5-1 in the seventh inning.

Lance Berkman crushes grand slam as Houston Astros beat Cubs *

Lance Berkman crushes grand slam as Houston Astros beat Cubs

Houston Astros Beat Cubs 6-1 *

Brett Myers pitched a complete game, Lance Berkman hit his first grand slam since 2008 and the Houston Astros beat the Cubs 6-1 on Tuesday night.

MLB: Houston 4, Cincinnati 0 *

HOUSTON, July 25 (UPI) -- Wandy Rodriguez and two relievers combined for a three-hit shutout Sunday to carry the Houston Astros to a 4-0 victory over Cincinnati. Houston Astros - Sports - Major League Baseball - Baseball - Wandy Rodríguez

Astros' Rodriguez back in form, shuts out Reds 4-0 *

The Houston Astros were concerned when Wandy Rodriguez lost six of seven starts earlier this season. After Sunday's performance, in which he allowed one hit over seven innings for his fifth win in six outings, the team isn't worried about the left-hander anymore.

Houston Astros' Wandy Rodriguez shuts down Cincinnati Reds *

HOUSTON -- The Houston Astros were concerned when Wandy Rodriguez lost six of seven starts earlier this season.

Astros finish off series win over Cubs *

CHICAGO (AP) — Both bullpens were spent, runs were scarce and the Houston Astros had trouble making a quick getaway Wednesday. That’s OK. They’ll take it. Their 12-inning victory over the Chicago Cubs made it all worth it.

Astros add Figueroa among host of moves *

The Houston Astros have claimed pitcher Nelson Figueroa off waivers from the Philadelphia Phillies.

Astros claim A. Hernandez, Figueroa off waivers *

The Houston Astros have claimed infielder Anderson Hernandez and right-hander Nelson Figueroa off waivers. Houston Astros - Nelson Figueroa - United States - Anderson Hernandez - Oceania

Ramirez's 3 homers powers Cubs past Astros *

Houston Astros' Jeff Keppinger walks by as Chicago Cubs' Derrek Lee pumps his fist after an RBI double during the seventh inning of a baseball game Tuesday, July 20, 2010, in Chicago.

Houston Astros call up LHP Wesley Wright to start against Chicago Cubs *

CHICAGO - The Houston Astros have called up Wesley Wright from triple-A Round Rock and the left-hander was scheduled to make his first major league start against the Chicago Cubs.

Monday's Houston Astros – Chicago Cubs box score *

Astros 11, Cubs 5

Houston Astros Route Chicago Cubs in Carlos Silva's Shortest Outing *

The Houston Astros visited Wrigley Field tonight to kick off a three-game series with the Chicago Cubs.   It ended up as a hitting festival for the visitors as they scored five runs in the first inning and added another six more in the rest of the game to beat the home team by a final score of 11-5. The Cubs had starting pitcher Carlos Silva (9-4) on the mound tonight, but he failed to deliver a ...

Pittsburgh Pirates' Andrew McCutchen injures shoulder against Houston Astros *

Andrew McCutchen left the Pittsburgh Pirates' game Sunday against the Houston Astros in the eighth inning with a sprained shoulder.

Astros designate Daigle, bring up Majewski *

The Houston Astros have designated pitcher Casey Daigle for assignment and purchased the contract of pitcher Gary Majewski from Triple-A Round Rock.

Roy Oswalt of Houston Astros leaves start vs. Pittsburgh Pirates with ankle injury *

Astros ace Roy Oswalt left Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates after four innings due to a left ankle contusion.

Astros' Oswalt leaves start with ankle injury *

Houston Astros ace Roy Oswalt left Sunday's game against the Pittsburgh Pirates after four innings due to a left ankle contusion. Oswalt, who was attempting to tie the franchise record for career victories in the outing, was struck in the foot by a sharply-hit ground ball by Pedro Alvarez in the second inning.

Astros vie to continue mastery of Buccos *

The Houston Astros can continue a season's worth of success against the Pittsburgh Pirates tonight, when the teams get together for the middle game of a three-game series at PNC Park.

Astros' Paulino has setback, Moehler placed on DL *

Houston Astros starting pitcher Felipe Paulino has had a setback in a side throwing session and will not come off the disabled list next week, as scheduled. Paulino, out since June 20 with right shoulder tendinitis, will fly back to Houston for an MRI exam. He was supposed to come off the disabled list Tuesday to start in Chicago.

Houston Astros: Naming Jeff Bagwell New Hitting Coach Step One of Many *

The Houston Astros, despite their pitiful overall record this season, are beginning to take the needed steps in the right direction. Step one, of many, was the Astros naming Jeff Bagwell as the team’s new hitting coach. Is Bagwell the depleted franchise’s savior? No, not by any means. But Bagwell’s hiring does mean one thing that fans should be happy about: The Astros are about to become ...

Astros-Pirates Preview *

The Houston Astros were the worst team in the NL at the end of May, but since then, the Pittsburgh Pirates have had that title all to themselves. The Pirates' dreadful past two months have them on pace for their most losses since 1952, but they'll hope to start the second half with some momentum when they open a 10-game homestand Friday night against the Astros.

Astros' Lee not in lineup after missing workout *

Carlos Lee is being held out of the Houston Astros' lineup because he missed the team's workout Thursday at PNC Park. Astros manager Brad Mills on Friday says the team felt it was necessary for Lee to go through the baseball exercises he missed Thursday before he plays Saturday against the Pittsburgh Pirates, Lee, the Astros' cleanup hitter who leads the team with 45 RBIs and is tied...

Astros Paulino done with rehab, expected to start soon *

Felipe Paulino's first rehab start for Class AA Corpus Christi Tuesday was likely also his last. "Our anticipation is that he'll make his next start at the big league level," general manager Ed Wade said. The righthander, on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder tendinitis, threw four scoreless innings for the Hooks, giving up two hits and a walk and striking out three.

Astros Look for Better Second Half *

HOUSTON - The Houston Astros are coming out of major league baseball's all-star break with a lot to prove in the second half of the season.  The Astros are 17 games under .500 and chasing just about everyone in the NL Central.  Before the break, Channel Five's Joel Villanueva visited Minute Maid Park and took stock of the situation.

Astros owner McLane: Steinbrenner was "a leader to be admired" *

The following is a statement from Astros Chairman and CEO Drayton McLane on today’s passing of longtime Yankees owner George Steinbrenner.

Interviews with Dead Heroes: Houston Astros' Dave Smith *

Dave Smith was the ace of the Houston Astros bullpen in 1986. He had a fine regular season, saving 33 games, but in the playoffs against New York's most beloved team, the New York Mets, Smith came up short, which turned the playoff series around. I spoke to Dave at an autograph show a few years ago when the New York Yankees were playing the Mets in the World Series. He spoke about many things ...

Astros pick Bagwell as new hitting coach *

HOUSTON — Former Astros All-Star Jeff Bagwell is taking over as Houston’s hitting coach after the team fired Sean Berry on Sunday. Berry became “a victim of circumstances” as the offense sputtered this season, general manager Ed Wade said.

Bagwell taking over as Astros hitting coach *

Former Astros All-Star Jeff Bagwell is taking over as Houston's hitting coach after the team fired Sean Berry on Sunday. Berry became "a victim of circumstances" as the offense sputtered this season, general manager Ed Wade said. He believes the offense can do more and hopes Bagwell helps that happen.

Former Houston All-Star Bagwell replacing Berry as hitting coach for struggling Astros *

HOUSTON (AP) — Former Astros All-Star Jeff Bagwell is taking over as Houston's hitting coach after the team fired Sean Berry on Sunday.

Astros pick Bagwell to take over as hitting coach *

HOUSTON (AP) -- Former Astros star Jeff Bagwell has taken over as Houston's hitting coach after the team fired Sean Berry.

Jeff Bagwell Named Houston Astros' Hitting Coach *

Former Houston Astros first baseman Jeff Bagwell has been named the new hitting coach for the team. It was announced late Sunday morning that Bagwell would replace Sean Berry, who was fired earlier in the day. Berry was a member of the original "Killer B's" along with Bagwell, Craig Biggio, and Derek Bell. Berry played for the Kansas City Royals (1990-1991), Montreal Expos (1992-1995), Houston ...

Wainwright, Holliday lift Cards over Astros 8-0 *

Houston Astros starter Bud Norris (20) delivers a pitch against the St. Louis Cardinals in the first inning of a baseball game Friday, July 9, 2010 in Houston.

MLB: ASTROS 6, PIRATES 3 -- Bucs pitchers give up four homers in loss *

HOUSTON - The Houston Astros turned to the long ball after their starting pitcher went down with an injury. Carlos Lee and Lance Berkman homered for the second straight game and the Astros hit a season-high four home runs in a 6-3 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday night.

MLB: ASTROS 2, PIRATES 0 -- Pirates net only one hit, lose to Astros *

HOUSTON - If these are Roy Oswalt's last weeks with the Houston Astros, he's certainly going out in style.

Cardinals-Astros Preview *

It took almost three months, but Wandy Rodriguez is finally pitching the way the Houston Astros expected this season. The left-hander looks to win his fourth straight start as the Astros try to conclude an already successful homestand by adding to the St. Louis Cardinals' road struggles Sunday afternoon.

Astros win 10th straight Wednesday game *

HOUSTON – Carlos Lee and Lance Berkman homered for the second straight game and the Houston Astros won their 10th straight Wednesday game and hit a season-high four home runs in a 6-3 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates.

Houston INF Blum has surgery *

Houston Astros infielder Geoff Blum underwent arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow Wednesday morning and will miss the next 2-to-4 weeks.

Astros hit four homers in 6-3 win over Pirates *

The Houston Astros turned to the long ball after their starting pitcher went down with an injury. Carlos Lee and Lance Berkman homered for the second straight game and the Astros hit a season-high four home runs in a 6-3 win over the Pittsburgh Pirates on Wednesday night. Jeff Keppinger and Hunter Pence added solo shots for the Astros, who came in with a major-league low 50 homers this season.

Saturday's Houston Astros – San Diego Padres box score *

Padres 1, Astros 0

Astros' Bourn Makes NL All-Star Team *

Houston Astros centerfielder Michael Bourn was named Sunday to his first National League All-Star team.

MLB: Houston 6, San Diego 3 (10 innings) *

SAN DIEGO, July 2 (UPI) -- Michael Bourn drove in two runs with a 10th-inning triple Thursday and the Houston Astros held on to beat San Diego 6-3. SAN DIEGO - Houston Astros - Michael Bourn - California - United States

Jason Varitek Broken Foot: Boston Red Sox Cash in from Houston Astros *

The Red Sox have traded minor league infielder Angel Sanchez to the Houston Astros in exchange for catcher Kevin Cash. Cash, 32, hit .204 with two homers and four RBI for the Astros this season before being designated for assignment on June 23rd. The acquisition was prompted by an injury to team captain Jason Varitek, reportedly a broken bone in his foot that will cause him to miss four to six ...

Rodriguez pitches 7 strong in Astros' 5-1 win *

Houston Astros win 5-1 over the Milwaukee Brewers on Wednesday.

Houston Astros rally to beat Milwaukee Brewers, 9-5 *

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Pedro Feliz's RBI double gave Houston the lead in the seventh inning, capping a comeback from an early deficit and helping the Astros to a 9-5 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday night.

Astros-Padres Preview *

A successful end to June has the Houston Astros feeling confident heading into their second series in the span of a week against a first-place team. The Astros continue their 10-game trip Thursday night against the NL West-leading San Diego Padres. Houston (31-48) won a combined 17 games in April and May, but after taking two of three at Milwaukee, finished 14-14 in June.

Monday's Houston Astros – Milwaukee Brewers box score *

Astros 9, Brewers 5

Houston Astros rally past Milwaukee Brewers *

MILWAUKEE - Pedro Felizs RBI double gave Houston the lead in the seventh inning, capping a comeback from an early deficit and helping the Astros to a 9-5 victory over the Milwaukee Brewers on Monday night.

Astros' pitching among best in NL *

The Houston Astros' pitching staff has had its share of ups and downs this season.

Astros bring up Banks to start vs. Rangers *

The Houston Astros purchased the contract of right-hander Josh Banks from Triple-A Round Rock to start Saturday's game against the Texas Rangers. Banks makes his Astros debut after going 8-5 with a 2.97 ERA for Round Rock. He is 3-1 with a 1.50 ERA in his last four starts. Banks takes the rotation spot of right-hander Felipe Paulino, who was placed on the 15-day disabled list on Thursday because ...

Astros to activate Norris from DL to start Monday *

The Houston Astros plan to activate right-hander Bud Norris from the disabled list in time to start Monday's game at Milwaukee. Norris (2-5, 6.80 ERA) has been on the DL since he received a cortisone shot after being diagnosed with biceps tendinitis following his last start for the Astros on May 23.

MLB: Houston 7, San Francisco 5 *

HOUSTON, June 24 (UPI) -- Hunter Pence hit a three-run home run Thursday sending the Houston Astros off to a 7-5 win over the San Francisco Giants. Houston Astros - San Francisco Giants - Hunter Pence - Major League Baseball - Baseball

Astros Place Paulino On Disabled List *

The Houston Astros put pitcher Felipe Paulino on the 15-day disabled list with right shoulder tendenitis.

Astros place Paulino on DL with shoulder tendinitis *

The Houston Astros have placed right-handed pitcher Felipe Paulino on the 15-day Disabled List due to tendinitis in his right shoulder.