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Astros News
Jake Marisnick got things underway with the first long ball in the first at-bat of Spring Training (MLB Video)
Unfortunately, the game would end on a less-than-ideal note as the Nats walked it off (Federal Baseball)
But at the very least, Brady Rodgers was pleased with his first Spring Training start in two years (Houston Chronicle)
The next one went a little better, with Houston taking one from the Braves (Talking Chop)
A game that featured Corbin Martin taking the mound to face big league hitters for the first time (Houston Chronicle)
The third game was also much more enjoyable, as the Astros womped on the Mets (Amazin’ Avenue)
And this one featured the first big-time catch of the season, with Myles Straw doing the honors (CUT4)
But even with the Sunday sweep, Hinch is definitely not feeling the early split-squad games (Fox Sports)
And with the first weekend in the books, the battle for a spot on the roster has really begun (Climbing Tal’s Hill)
Though there’s no doubt about the roster spots for the three MVP candidates on the roster (House of Houston)
Kyle Tucker is in the mix however, and he can hopefully take a step forward in his development this year (HoustonPress)
Cionel Perez is also looking for a spot on the big league roster, though he’s hoping to fill a starter role (Houston Chronicle)
And he’ll get a chance to show his stuff as Hinch intends to challenge his pitchers this Spring (Astros.com)
Let’s take a look at the possibility of Keuchel and the Astros reuniting (Sports 610 Radio)
Around the League
Things are not looking great for the Dodgers as Kershaw is now battling a shoulder issue (MLB Trade Rumors)
Here are five teams that could surprise you this season, though #3 seems a little suspect (MLB.com)
And here are 100 of the top players in MLB for 2019 (Sports Illustrated)
In today’s edition of MLB hyperbole, JD Martinez has declared the current state of free agency an embarrassment (CBS Sports)
But if all this free agency talk has got you feeling jaded, maybe a jaunt through Japanese baseball might help (LA Times)
Or perhaps a review of the winners of the 2019 “Baseball Movie” Awards (Twinkie Town)
Delay of game by fish is certainly one of the more interesting things I’ve seen (USA Today)