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Astros News
The pitching was not exactly on point in yesterday’s 12-9 exhibition win over Pittsburgh (Sports 610 Radio)
And though he was knocked around a little, it capped a strong spring for Whitley (USA Today)
The game also marked the official opening of the Astros’ Hall of Fame (Astros.com)
Here are four thoughts on JV’s monster contract extension (HoustonPress)
Which also extends him into record territory (FanGraphs)
And gets Mrs. Verlander pumped, who’s happy to stick round for the next 3 years (KHOU 11)
Charlie Morton had a little chat with the Athletic about how his time with the Astros came to a close and what the future holds (The Athletic, $$$)
Let’s peep at the payroll now that the dust is settling from extension week (Climbing Tal’s Hill)
George Springer and I have a good feeling about the team’s makeup this season (Houston Chronicle)
The Hooks and the Express will play a home-and-home series this weekend for the inaugural Houston Astros Futures Weekend (The Runner Sports)
The Astros were recognized on the State Senate floor this week for their 2017 WS title (KXAN)
They also got to party with Ludacris, who performed for owner Jim Crane’s wife’s birthday (ABC 13)
Around the League
Are contract extensions becoming the new normal? (Baseball America)
It seems like the Opener might be here to stay, which would mean an adjustment in some stats as well as strategy (The Ringer)
Speaking of changes, it looks as though the LOOGY may not be long for this world with the upcoming 3-batter minimum rule (Sports Illustrated)
Former Astro Dan Straily has been cut by the Marlins in what appears to be an effort to trim payroll (ESPN)
The Hall of Fame will recognize the humble but ubiquitous baseball card with its new Shoebox Treasures display (CUT4)