Houston Astros VS Cleveland Indians : Spring Training Game 1

;)

Bring on REAL games!

Mclemore on the other hand, has already walked 3 and hasn't started his 2nd inning yet.

The positive on Bourne is that he seemed to be patient at the plate.  Took some pitches, trying to get on base. And when he got on base, he stole 2d, which enabled him to score easily on a blooper by Loretta.  I don't recall anything notable on Pence; he tried to throw somebody out at 1st base when he caught a line drive and the Indians had a hit and run on...apparently it was close and Pence showed a decent arm.

Wandy was probably the best positive.  He pitched well. The only hit he allowed was because Loretta couldn't throw out Sizemore on a bouncer to short (and Sizemore is fast).  

It seemed like the Astros had ragged defense, which isn't that unusual early in the season.  I was surprised J.R. House played some 3d base; I think he and Niekro are trying to show they can play both corner infield positions.  But it seemed like House was erratic at 3d base.

I listened to a few innings. In one of them Hunter Pence slid into second, apparently without injuring his knee (or his hand). I'm uncertain, but I believe he was out at second, but his feeling secure enough in his health to slide (and not reinjure himself) brightened my day.

missed most of the game, except for parts of the 3rd and 4th innings (darn work).  Not a good sign that our only three lefty candidates came out of the gate stumbling, but at least they all got work.  there's certainly a long ways to go before opening day.

Like the stat line on Bourn, and the one play I heard him make in the outfield, Milo commented on him taking control and communicating well with Pence.  It's too early to get excited (except just about the fact that there's baseball being played) or nervous, but with so little to talk about in the last couple months, it's hard not to.

Tomorrow will be a home game, so Tejada, Lee, and some of the other regulars should get some action.  Hopefully I'll be able to listen to the whole thing.

A 12-2 blowout has never been such a welcome occurance.  It's good to have baseball back, even if it's just the first day of ST.

I'll take a bunch of pictures if any of you guys want them. Just shoot me an email and I'll send away!