Its September 1st (well not quite yet), come on down Mr. Loux...

Since the Diamondbacks "found" something wrong with Loux's arm, MLB granted him free agency as of September 1st, which is tomorrow and it would be great if the Astros could sign a local kid to add to a growing farm system.

Adding a 6'5", 215lb. RHP with command of four pitches (fastball and changeup being his best pitches) to the farm system that Wade and Heck have already been adding lots of talent to would be another great move. Obviously the question is whether or not what the Diamondbacks found was legitimate or if there is indeed something wrong with Loux's shoulder/arm. It seems to me that MLB was pretty quick to grant free agency to Loux and it was reported that he passed two independent physical examinations. I'm sure with getting a new GM between the draft and the signing deadline as well as money troubles may have contributed to the D'backs not signing Loux (although they did use some of that saved money to sign other picks before the deadline).

It was reported that Loux was willing to sign an under-slot deal with the D'backs after he failed his physical and it has been reported that he just wants to play ball. I sincerely hope the Astros are at the front of the line to check out Barret and deem him physically able to pitch, sign him and give us yet another player to add to a growing farm system.

Not to jump the gun too much, but if everything checks out with Loux and he does sign with the Astros, it could mean that Lyles, Loux and Keuchel could all move up to the majors by the beginning of the 2012 season. I have to hand it to Ed Wade and Bobby heck, they definitely have added some talent (albeit not blue-chip, can't miss talent, but talent nonetheless) to what was a wasteland of a farm system 2 1/2 years ago.

In case anyone has forgotten, here is a scouting report on Loux and what he could potentially bring to a team.