The Crawfish Boxes: All Posts by Eric HuysmanAstros baseball: we've got uniforms and everything.https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/11437/crawfishboxes-fv.gif2021-08-27T17:11:25-05:00https://www.crawfishboxes.com/authors/eric-huysman/rss2021-08-27T17:11:25-05:002021-08-27T17:11:25-05:00Astros Bring Back Marwin Gonzalez On MiLB Deal
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<img alt="MLB: Boston Red Sox at Houston Astros" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/PwVdrY2z_2HK8aV7jeGWs2ZTfdU=/0x40:3000x2040/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69786001/usa_today_16185749.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Thomas Shea-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Marwin Back In Houston As A Depth Option For Astros</p> <p id="m8syy1"><strong>Astros</strong><strong> Add Veteran Infielder Who You Might Remember</strong></p>
<p id="ct0r3s">The Astros have been without Alex Bregman for about half of the 2021 season, only playing 60 of 127 games. Normally that is okay because they have Aledmys Diaz, but he’s only played in 59 games this year. The Astros had to rely on Abraham Toro (before he was traded), Robel Garcia, and recently Jacob Wilson. Toro held his own, which allowed the Astros to maximize his trade value to get Kendall Graveman. While Bregman and Diaz are currently both healthy and playing, there are concerns about whether either one hits the IL again down the stretch. </p>
<p id="Vx3WN4">Marwin Gonzalez had one heck of a season during his second to last season with the Astros in 2017. He signed a 2-year deal with the Twins starting in 2019 but could never approach the production he put up in 2017. </p>
<p id="EVJtN8">Looking at <a href="http://signstealingscandal.com/players/">Tony Adam’s bang analysis</a>, Gonzalez was one of the biggest beneficiaries of the trash can scheme. Bringing him back could send a wrong message to opposing teams who continue to boo the Astros.</p>
<p id="K4RTr4">This past offseason, he signed a one-year deal with the <a href="https://www.overthemonster.com/">Red Sox</a> for $3 million. The Red Sox are one of the best teams in the AL, but Gonzalez struggled to hit all season with a slash line of .202/ .281/ .285/ .567 with 2 homers and 20 RBI. He was DFA’ed by the Red Sox and cleared waivers, officially was released on August 16th. He was a free agent looking for a job at the age of 32. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Houston Astros have signed veteran free agent infielder Marwin González to a minor league deal. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager James Click.</p>— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1431325285912350721?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">August 27, 2021</a>
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<p id="46k7UV"><a href="https://twitter.com/markbermanfox26/status/1431325285912350721?s=21">According to James Click</a> via Mark Berman, the Astros have signed Gonzalez to a minor league deal. He will report to their spring training complex in West Palm Beach to start ramping up to return to action. To make sure he qualified to be on a potential playoff roster, he had to be in the Astros organization before September 1st. <a href="https://www.sportsbettingdime.com/">According to the Sports Betting Dime</a>, the Astros are +525 favorites to take home a win at this year’s <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a>. Adding a veteran like Gonzalez could be a small piece to making that a reality. </p>
<p id="xAUB3s">Despite his struggles this year, the Astros could value Gonzalez over Garcia and Wilson because he can play multiple positions similar to Diaz, including the outfield. Only five Astros players left from the 2017 roster, Carlos Correa, Bregman, Yuli Gurriel, Jose Altuve, and Lance McCullers Jr. Gonzalez, would make it six players. Maybe being back among where he felt comfortable will help get his bat going again. But it’s a low-risk signing for the Astros. </p>
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<p id="uucbLt">We will discuss this Sunday on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9fXhBb2-ZTiPwk7WNwYjzQ">Locked On Astros podcast on YouTube</a>. Make sure you subscribe. </p>
<p id="k2jfsd">With rosters expanding on September 1st from 26 to 28, one of those players is likely to be Jose Urquidy, who will likely join a six-man rotation at that point. There is a chance that the second player could be Gonzalez, who was a clubhouse and fan favorite in his time here. Should we expect the 2017 Marwin to return? No, he is a depth option and hopefully won’t be needed too much more. </p>
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https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/8/27/22645082/astros-bring-back-marwin-gonzalez-on-milb-dealEric Huysman2021-07-29T07:00:00-05:002021-07-29T07:00:00-05:00A Deeper Look Into Yimi Garcia
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<img alt="MLB: Baltimore Orioles at Miami Marlins" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/U1MxxM_KDJoR0pqJa5zjzasE_RQ=/72x0:2928x1904/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69649432/usa_today_15941386.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>What do we know about the Astros’ most recent acquisition, reliever Yimi Garcia?</p> <p id="MivaXy">The Astros knew as the trade deadline approached that they needed to address the bullpen. </p>
<p id="G0zSfS">While <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Astros</a> fans have been dreaming of acquiring the best closer on the market in Craig Kimbrel, James Click started his shopping elsewhere. Instead, he raided the bullpen of division rival Mariners and got Kendall Graveman and Rafael Montero. While Montero may be a question mark, the addition of Graveman should greatly strengthen the Astros bullpen, as we discussed on the Locked On Astros podcast. But Click was not done.</p>
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<p id="3jkMLy">Before first pitch again on Wednesday, <a href="https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1420464882353332227?s=20">Ken Rosenthal tweeted</a> that the Marlins were <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/7/28/22598651/breaking-news-astros-acquire-yimi-garcia-from-the-marlins">trading RHP Yimi Garcia to the Astros</a>. In return, the Astros sent back Triple-A OF Bryan De La Cruz and RHP Austin Pruitt, <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1420512373585100803?s=20">per Mark Berman</a>. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Houston Astros announced they have acquired RHP Yimi Garcia from the Miami Marlins in exchange for RHP Austin Pruitt and minor league OF Bryan De La Cruz. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager James Click.</p>— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1420512373585100803?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a>
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<p id="W1L71d">But what type of pitcher did the Astros get?</p>
<p id="xqJFbU">Garcia is in on a one-year deal, making him essentially a rental for the rest of the 2021 season. He has a 3-7 record with a 3.47 ERA with 15 saves and an 8.7 SO/9 rate in 35 innings in 2021. The seven losses may jump out to you, and yes, he’s been used as primarily as a ninth-inning guy this year, with a few 8th and 10th inning appearances here and there. He’s another high leverage reliever option for Dusty Baker to fall on. </p>
<p id="2vVMOi">Garcia throws a 4-seam fastball (96 MPH), slider (90.5 MPH), curveball (83.7 MPH), and changeup (88.3 MPH). He relies mostly on the fastball and slider, throwing them 43.6% and 34.3%, respectively. He has moved away from his curveball usage in the past couple of years, dropping from 30.8% in 2019 to 10.8% and 14.7% in 2020-21. The slash line off his curveball in 2021 is .500/.483/.833, which is less than desirable. He really only throws his curveball to lefthanded hitters. (<a href="https://baseballsavant.mlb.com/savant-player/yimi-garcia-554340?stats=splits-r-pitching-mlb&season=2021">Stats from Baseball Savant</a>)</p>
<p id="JJUNaz">His spin rates have all decreased in the past two years, namely in the curveball going from 2801 RPMs in 2019 to 2672 RPMs in 2021. However, Garcia’s fastball spin rate is one of the best in baseball at 2523 RPMs. His curveball spin is still in the top 75th percentile in baseball, while his fastball is 94th percentile. The power slider will help balance the fastball. </p>
<p id="wCBYwp">His WHIP of 1.21 lies north of his career mark of 1.02, but let’s take a deeper dive into the sabermetrics. In 2021, Garcia’s FIP is 4.17, which is a little below the average MLB pitcher mark of 4.20, according to Fangraphs. Looking at Garcia’s xERA, which looks at the expected ERA based on exit velocity, it would be 4.63. But in the past, he’s had some xERA’s of 2.75 (2015), 2.68 (2020), and 2.97 (2019). </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Welcome to Houston, RHP Yimi Garcia! <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForTheH?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForTheH</a> <a href="https://t.co/HqLK2OvuC0">pic.twitter.com/HqLK2OvuC0</a></p>— Houston Astros (@astros) <a href="https://twitter.com/astros/status/1420512153061130243?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 28, 2021</a>
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<p id="w6dU3q">Brent Strom could work with him to fit more into what the Astros like to do. Garcia also is great versus right-handed hitters, limiting them up to a slash line of .227/.272/.373/.645 compared to lefties at .241/.333/.500/.833. </p>
<p id="kijyI6"><a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1420535283901243397?s=20">Via Mark Berman</a>, Click says that “Yimi was a guy we identified early in the process. It’s power stuff. The ability to overpower hitters.” Click also added that they have 44 hours to add additional pieces.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">James Click on Yimi García: “Yimi was a guy we identified early in the process. It’s power stuff. That ability to overpower hitters.”</p>— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1420535283901243397?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 29, 2021</a>
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<p id="99dcn8">TCB’s <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/authors/brian-cohn">Hebrew Hammer</a> weighed in with <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/7/29/22599673/yimi-garcia-and-3-other-relief-pitching-value-trade-targets">his own assessment of Garcia</a>:</p>
<blockquote><p id="S3Pb7W">This year, while Garcia sports a 3.47 ERA, none of the advanced stats seem to back that number with most pointing to a low to mid 4’s ERA reliever. Although it should be noted that Garcia has outperformed the metrics across his career by nearly a full point. (3.41 vs 4.22). Garcia epitomizes the roller coaster of performance by a reliever and small sample sizes. He possesses a fastball with a spin rate to dream on, but only carries 77% active spin. He’s a low risk, high potential reliever if he can be harnessed and be a bit more consistent. I’d see him developing as a solid mid-reliever with potential upside. </p></blockquote>
<p id="jZyIc2">Hammer’s overall assessment doesn’t paint a picture of a shutdown closer, but the Astros will not be relying on Garcia to be the closer. They have Ryan Pressly and now Graveman as the setup man. Now Garcia, Montero, Ryne Stanek, and others can battle for the seventh inning role in the Astros bullpen. </p>
<p id="HmaQbk">This extends the Astros bullpen, which hopefully puts other pitchers who have been pressed into high leverage situations out of necessity back where they should be, in lower leverage roles. This upgrade only costs a good minor league depth piece, not a big part of the Astros future. </p>
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https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/7/29/22599039/a-deeper-look-into-yimi-garciaEric Huysman2021-07-09T09:00:00-05:002021-07-09T09:00:00-05:00Astros GM James Click Has Permission To Exceed Tax Threshold At Trade Deadline
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<img alt="MLB: ALCS-Astros Workouts" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/P-81Lv-LS-kQpk8Uevrk1iRnvN4=/0x0:4752x3168/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69560975/usa_today_15050385.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Jim Crane Gives James Click Freedom at Trade Deadline</p> <p id="PTWQje">The <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/mlb-trade-deadline">MLB trade deadline</a> is one day earlier this year because you can’t expect GMs to work on a weekend, right? July 30th is the day this year that teams will have to decide if they want to be buyers or sellers or just do nothing. The <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com">Astros</a> have one of the best records in the American League at 54-34. Despite no Justin Verlander or George Springer this year, the Astros are doing just fine. <a href="https://www.sportsbettingdime.com/mlb/division-odds/">According to Sports Betting Dime</a>, the Astros are favorites to win the AL West this year. But adding more players wouldn’t hurt. </p>
<p id="dfMdRE">They have the best offense in baseball. When healthy, the Astros starting pitching staff is six-deep with others waiting in the wings. If you had to pick one weakness, it would have to be the bullpen, outside of Ryan Pressly, and recently Ryan Stanek and Blake Taylor. The rest have been hit and miss. Bryan Abreu and Joe Smith have returned from the IL. GM James Click hinted that even with all the players set to return from the IL, it would not alter their plans for the trade deadline <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1411735197557665793?s=20">per Mark Berman</a>. They are in contact with all 29 teams. They are trying to win the <a href="https://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a> in 2021 and add the necessary pieces. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">GM James Click on <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsTalk790?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SportsTalk790</a> says while the <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Astros?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Astros</a> have the potential of having a number of pitchers returning from the IL, that’s not affecting how they approach the trade deadline: “We’re actively on the phone with the 29 other teams trying to see what we can do to put…” <a href="https://t.co/drgmOobbsH">pic.twitter.com/drgmOobbsH</a></p>— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1411735197557665793?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 4, 2021</a>
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<p id="KxzXHo">This isn’t the same punch you in the face bullpen without a closer ala with Ken Giles before the Roberto Osuna trade (sorry I mentioned that). Click doesn’t have to go out and get a closer, to close. But that closer could be a setup guy to Pressly! Wow, have the tables turned on all you who thought Pressly could not be a closer. Pressly is the only Astro pitcher on this year’s All-Star squad, and it’s his second time on the squad. One exciting name I will be focusing on this month is Taylor Rogers from the Twins. He only has one more year of team control past 2021 but is one of the best lefties in the game. </p>
<h3 id="N3xS9O">What about the Luxury Tax Threshold? </h3>
<p id="QDjYK7">Jim Crane has been saying all season that they don’t want to go past that line. After all, that’s why the Astros didn’t go out and get a center fielder this offseason, but Myles Straw has learned on the job. But, with the trade deadline approaching, <a href="https://www.fangraphs.com/roster-resource/payroll/astros">according to RosterResource</a>, the Astros current projected payroll is $213 million. The luxury tax threshold is $210 million, meaning the Astros don’t have much wiggle room for making trades at the deadline. </p>
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<p id="ASso9e">As discussed in today’s <a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1516590&xs=1&url=https%3A%2F%2Flinktr.ee%2FLockedOnAstros&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.crawfishboxes.com%2F2021%2F7%2F9%2F22569159%2Fastros-gm-james-click-has-permission-to-exceed-tax-threshold-at-trade-deadline" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Locked On Astros podcast</a>, Click <a href="https://twitter.com/SportsTalk790/status/1412783851051446274?s=20">discussed on SportsTalk 790</a> what Crane told him when trying to make trades. Crane told him not to worry about staying under the luxury tax threshold to improve the team for a World Series run. Meaning, Click doesn’t have to limit himself to add a reliever or two, making only $7 million combined. </p>
<div class="c-float-right"><aside id="NmHm3h"><q>“He has never said to me, you have to stay under that line. If we have an opportunity to bring in somebody that we feel dramatically improves our chances to win a World Series and it takes us over the line…he’s willing.” - Click via Michael Schwab via SportTalk 790. </q></aside></div>
<h3 id="03dpL8">So how much are Click and Crane willing to pay?</h3>
<p id="Li5cQE"><a href="https://twitter.com/michaelschwab13/status/1412813183924977665?s=20">One thing that Click also said</a>, “if we’re going to go over, we’re going to go way over!” This has Astros Twitter abuzz, and we discussed the ramifications of going over the threshold on Locked On Astros. They would have to be willing to take on the 30% tax as a second-time payor. If the Astros went over $230 million, though, there would be an extra surcharge. </p>
<p id="CLOtcH">As a second-time offender, the Astros would only get a 4th round pick (Comp Round B pick) on a player who declines a qualifying offer this off-season. If they sign a player who had declined a qualifying offer, they would have to forfeit their 2nd and 5th highest draft picks (only 2nd highest) as well as $1 million ($500k) in the international salary pool (if they don’t go over the threshold).</p>
<p id="DfFo8x">Does that mean the Astros will go out and get Craig Kimbrel and Rogers? No, the Astros still have to find a team that wants their prospects for the players they want. Rumor is that the Cubs want a top prospect for Kimbrel and the Astros seem willing to trade the future for the right players. That’s the balance Jeff Luhnow tried to find. Now it’s Click’s first real opportunity. </p>
<p id="vHbvJ3">At the beginning of the season, I didn’t think Astros fans would have an exciting trade deadline. It still could be a flop, but it would appear that the Astros are motivated to do what it takes to get better for 2021. They will not be making any moves for average Joes, they want impact players to help this team win. </p>
https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/7/9/22569159/astros-gm-james-click-has-permission-to-exceed-tax-threshold-at-trade-deadlineEric Huysman2021-06-03T13:43:43-05:002021-06-03T13:43:43-05:00Astros Kent Emanuel Out For the Rest of 2021 With Elbow Surgery
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<img alt="MLB: Houston Astros at Oakland Athletics" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/bSvVAaM-VQhptkIhufxtwECORvM=/0x0:6322x4215/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/69400919/usa_today_16113611.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Stan Szeto-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Another Bump in the Road for Emanuel</p> <p id="evOd91"><strong>After trying to avoid surgery by rehabbing and taking injections, Kent Emanuel couldn’t deal with the pain any longer. </strong></p>
<p id="xs9v1V">Kent Emanuel was drafted by the <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Houston Astros</a> in the 2013 Draft in the 3rd round with a lot of promise. However, he did not make his major league debut until the 2021 season as he watched many younger pitchers leapfrog him to the big leagues. Before the COVID-19 shortened 60 game season, Emanuel was suspended for testing positive for dehydrochlormethyltestosterone, which is a performance-enhancing substance that he denies using to this day. </p>
<p id="dADSHg">He was suspended for 80 games, so as soon as that suspension was over, he was called up by the Astros, and he asked to wear number 0. The number of games he felt that he should have been suspended. </p>
<p id="7dpnUF">He went on to pitch 8 ⅔ innings in his big league debut on April 24, 2021, in relief of Jake Odorizzi. He instantly became a fan favorite because of his struggles to reach the big leagues dealing with injuries and the suspension. He finally got his chance to shine in the big leagues. After that appearance, he joined the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bn_FAHO8U8w&t=18s">Locked On Astros podcast</a> on YouTube. </p>
<p id="AD98Bf">At the time, there were some who wanted to see Emanuel enter the rotation with the number of starters who were injured, but Dusty Baker saw him more as a reliever. But then it seemed like Baker did not see him as a high-leverage reliever, so Emanuel was used very sparingly, only appearing in nine games since his debut. Overall, his stats looked good, with a 2.55 ERA in 17 ⅔ innings with a 0.91 WHIP. His BABIP (.174) was way below his minor league career numbers, and his lowest season was .250. Granted, 10 games is a small sample size.</p>
<p id="KCZ0iC"><strong>The Tenth Appearance!</strong></p>
<p id="lAJDZD">Let’s talk about that tenth game, when he came in on May 25th, versus the Dodgers. We all remember that game when Emanuel came in and threw four straight balls. Catcher Martin Maldonado motioned to the dugout immediately after the at-bat, and Emanuel was removed from the game with elbow discomfort. Maldonado mentioned that he was concerned because Emanuel didn’t throw any strikes when he was warming up either, which raised some concerns for him. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Certainly not how I hoped my 2021 season would end <br> <a href="https://t.co/J6HUiaxh2q">https://t.co/J6HUiaxh2q</a></p>— Kent Emanuel (@KentEmanuel) <a href="https://twitter.com/KentEmanuel/status/1400500113341042689?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2021</a>
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<p id="2zoivb">Today via <a href="https://twitter.com/KentEmanuel/status/1400500113341042689?s=20">Emanuel’s Instagram</a>, we may have got some insight into Emanuel wasn’t used as often. “Over the last couple of weeks, I have seen my performance start to wane. We have realized it’s not just a matter of dealing with arm pain anymore. I will be getting surgery to fix my UCL” - <a href="https://twitter.com/KentEmanuel/status/1400500113341042689?s=20">Kent Emanuel</a>. He also mentioned that he tore his UCL at the beginning of 2020 and decided to avoid surgery. Instead he tried “rehab with PRP and BMAC injections.”</p>
<p id="VQ97Hi">Emanuel used the word ‘repair’ and not ‘reconstruction’ when talking about his surgery, meaning he is not having the dreaded Tommy John surgery. He is hoping that won’t be needed, but they will find out once they go in for surgery. This information is via <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1400510112695992327?s=20">Mark Berman’s tweet</a>. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">.<a href="https://twitter.com/KentEmanuel?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KentEmanuel</a>: “I’m going into the surgery hoping to get a UCL repair which is a little bit different than a reconstruction. So when you say Tommy John that’s referring to reconstruction. We don’t think that’s gonna be the case, but we won’t know for sure until they get in...” <a href="https://t.co/Y41UFbjIuA">pic.twitter.com/Y41UFbjIuA</a></p>— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) <a href="https://twitter.com/MarkBermanFox26/status/1400510112695992327?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 3, 2021</a>
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<p id="pUMpMI">Could this have been why Baker was hesitant to use Emanuel at times? We may not know unless Baker addresses it after today’s game. Emanuel is already a 28-year-old rookie. Losing a full 12 months plus would be another big setback for his career. He showed some promise this year in his brief stint with the Astros. Hopefully, this is a shorter recovery. </p>
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https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/6/3/22516102/astros-kent-emanuel-out-for-the-rest-of-2021-with-elbow-surgeryEric Huysman2021-01-20T18:04:46-06:002021-01-20T18:04:46-06:00Astros Shock Baseball By Re-Signing Michael Brantley
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<img alt="MLB: ALCS-Houston Astros at Tampa Bay Rays" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/qvgFG813r0LQJ8dsDj8iej8ZeTQ=/0x65:4096x2796/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/68697534/usa_today_15082393.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Welcome Back, Michael. Even though you never really left.</p> <p id="MhG4th"><strong>Just goes to show, you can’t believe everything you hear.</strong></p>
<p id="h85o2x">The day started off really rough for Astros fans with the late-night rumors that George Springer was set to sign with the Blue Jays. Then it was confirmed that the beloved Springer signed a six-year deal to play with the up-and-coming Blue Jays team for $150 million. Yes, the writing was on the wall, but Springer represented a light at the end of the tunnel during the process. With the passion and energy he played with, he will be missed. </p>
<p id="r9xYod">But to add insult to injury, there were some rumors that the Blue Jays were looking to bring in Springer’s buddy Michael Brantley as well. Looking at the Blue Jays depth chart, it made little sense for them to add both outfielders. However, that lineup would be imposing to any pitching staff. But those are rumors, right? You can’t BOGO an outfielder.</p>
<p id="Aui255">Then the reports started the Blue Jays signed Brantley as well Wednesday morning. <a href="https://twitter.com/thehazelmae/status/1351935496629460999?s=21">Hazel Mae</a>, among others, started reporting that Brantley signed with the Blue Jays according to a source. Later the Blue Jays <a href="https://twitter.com/thehazelmae/status/1351956672013598725?s=21">refuted her</a> report saying they are interested, but were not close to signing the 33-year-old Brantley. During a slow offseason, it appears that people are eager to get players signed. </p>
<p id="jz8FQN"><strong>It Didn’t Make Sense.</strong></p>
<p id="nzsUae">Still, I kept thinking, are Springer and Brantley that close of friends where Brantley would move to Canada to play with him? This is not the NBA when stars try to create the big three types of dynamics, sorry Nets. It didn’t make sense. All I could think about is tonight’s <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/locked-on-astros">Locked On Astros</a> podcast would be so somber losing Springer and Brantley. Give it a listen tomorrow, it should be exciting!</p>
<p id="Q4TIBu">Even yesterday I kept denying the Springer reports, but I don’t believe the rumors until the big boys start Tweeting it. Well, that is unless it’s Mark Berman who always seems to know when a player is at the airport. When it comes to Houston TV reporters, Berman is right more often than not. </p>
<p id="ZFHjHc"><strong>Not So Fast!</strong></p>
<p id="yeQQru">Despite all the conflicting reports that Brantley signed with the Blue Jays, <a href="https://twitter.com/markbermanfox26/status/1351998674801479684?s=21">Berman dropped a bomb</a> on that discussion with this Tweet. Brantley re-signed with the Astros for a 2-year deal. After losing Springer and potentially Josh Reddick to free agency, Brantley then returned back to Houston. </p>
<p id="7ads93">Later, Berman’s report was <a href="https://twitter.com/bnightengale/status/1352006454127968261?s=21">confirmed</a> by Bob Nightengale. Then, Buster Olney, <a href="https://twitter.com/buster_espn/status/1352002585415327744?s=21">reported</a> that it was a 2- year, $32 million deal to return to Houston. Olney even <a href="https://twitter.com/buster_espn/status/1352004023579271169?s=21">tweeted</a> out that the Blue Jays were never close to signing Brantley. <a href="https://www.spotrac.com/mlb/free-agents/">Sportrac</a> had Brantley’s market value at $21.3 million, but the market is what some team will give you. You might be having some Deja-Vu, this is the exact length and money amount he agreed to before the 2019 season. </p>
<p id="X5pYf3">What do you expect from a consistent bat like Brantley? Consistency! There were rumors earlier in the off-season that Brantley and the Astros were interested in reuniting. Maybe Brantley was engaging with other teams. But maybe now that Springer signed with the Blue Jays, this opens the floodgates a little with free agency. Because Brantley signed for $16 million AAV, this saves the Astros $5 million-ish to maybe go get a closer. </p>
<p id="b2MSTk">Brantley now joins Kyle Tucker and TBA in the Astros outfield. Many will question how much outfield Brantley can play, but Yordan Alvarez is the primary designated hitter. Now Dusty Baker has one more piece to the lineup puzzle, but the center field still has a blank. Yes, there are internal replacements in center for Springer. But is James Click done with the outfield? We shall see! But it’s great to see Uncle Mike back in the fold with the Astros! </p>
<p id="X3V884">More to come on The Crawfish Boxes.</p>
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https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2021/1/20/22241555/astros-shock-baseball-by-re-signing-michael-brantleyEric Huysman2020-07-28T14:54:39-05:002020-07-28T14:54:39-05:00Astros Reportedly About to Add Fernando Rodney
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<img alt="MLB: World Series-Washington Nationals at Houston Astros" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/3aoTaZ3JivTAtzVizVWQW6eRmoA=/0x0:4131x2754/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67123015/usa_today_13559894.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Astros need some veteran help in the bullpen.</p> <p id="Q1UvmF">In a 60-game season where a series can be canceled at any moment, anything goes, but MLB teams still have to follow roster rules. So far, the <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Astros</a> have had six players make their major league debuts. For a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a> contender, relying on so many young players is not normal, but this is not a normal season or year. With so many early injuries, the bullpen has become a critical part of the Astros season.</p>
<p id="nFJ127">After letting <span>Will Harris</span> and others leave town, they re-signed <span>Joe Smith</span> to help stabilize the bullpen. Unfortunately, he was placed on the restricted list to miss the shortened season. Well, at least you have <span>Brad Peacock</span> and <span>Austin Pruitt</span> to eat up some innings. Yeah, about that! They are currently on the IL. <span>Josh James</span> is being converted to a starter in <span>Jose Urquidy</span>’s absence. So who is left in the Astros bullpen?</p>
<p id="3ftsua"><span>Roberto Osuna</span>, <span>Ryan Pressly</span>, <span>Chris Devenski</span>, and <span>Joe Biagini</span> and the young guys. Well, <span>Pressly</span> and <span>Devenski</span> are both having elbow soreness. <span>Biagini</span> does not look great at the moment, leaving a beleaguered Astros bullpen after both <span>Zack Greinke</span> and <span>James</span> failed to complete four innings in their starts. Oh, yeah, <span>Justin Verlander</span> is out for a significant time with a right forearm strain. Don’t you just love 2020! </p>
<p id="war1Xi">Pitching for the Sugarland Skeeters is <span>Fernando Rodney</span>, from the 2019 World Champion <a href="https://www.federalbaseball.com/">Washington Nationals</a>. <span>Rodney</span> didn’t get signed to an MLB deal, so the 43-year-old decided to join the Skeeters just in case there was a need for his services in 2020. The Astros need some veteran bullpen help, could they try to get <span>Rodney</span> on the team. </p>
<p id="qJnlSy"><a href="https://twitter.com/adamspolane/status/1288182125309710342?s=21">According to Adam Spolane</a> of Sports Radio 610, the Astros are nearing an agreement to purchase Rodney from the Skeeters. Later, <a href="https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/1288190674312069121?s=21">Brian McTaggart confirmed</a> that report. Rodney pitched on Sunday and had a scoreless inning. The 17-year veteran would be a good addition to the bullpen, but fans should not expect the same dominance in his career as a closer. Between the A’s and Nationals last year, he was 0-5 with a 5.66 ERA with 49 strikeouts in 47 ⅔ innings pitched. </p>
<p id="mMpaRx">Rodney can still throw in the low 90’s with a mid 80’s slider and changeup according to Fangraphs last year. He is a groundball (49.6%) pitcher, which would play well with the great Astros infield defense. The bullpen has a couple of warm bodies in it at the moment, but the rookies have pitched really well at the moment. Adding a veteran like Rodney will help with his experience as a reliever. </p>
<p id="uEGDR9">The only problem is the Astros 40-man roster is full at the moment after adding <span>Brandon Bielak</span>, so they would have to DFA someone or add them to the 60-day IL. With <span>Pruitt</span>’s setback, he could be a possibility, but those 60-days mean they are done for the season. Fans would tell you that <span>Devenski</span> or Biagini need to be DFAed, but I’m not sure what Dusty Baker and James Click think. </p>
<p id="l9ZzPN">He will probably report to the alternate training site in Corpus Christi, but maybe he joins the team ASAP. We will definitely discuss this on tonight’s Locked On Astros podcast tonight, after the Astros take on the <a href="https://www.truebluela.com/">Dodgers</a> tonight at 8:10 PM CT.</p>
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https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/7/28/21345585/astros-reportedly-about-to-add-fernando-rodneyEric Huysman2020-07-14T10:26:01-05:002020-07-14T10:26:01-05:00Astros Place Alvarez and Uquidy on the 10-Day IL
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<img alt="MLB: Spring Training-St. Louis Cardinals at Houston Astros" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fK4o3ekm-TqID6EGJy762xPx_WA=/0x18:3000x2018/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67055358/usa_today_14100951.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jim Rassol-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>With opening day 10 days away, will we see Alvarez in the lineup?</p> <p id="kBAlpI">The <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Astros</a> are supposed to take on the <a href="https://www.lookoutlanding.com/">Mariners</a> at home on July 24th to open up the 2020 season. As we have seen over the past couple weeks of Summer Camp, MLB has its hands full trying to keep pace with the testing needs for baseball. Yesterday, <a href="https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/1282706934005673986?s=21">James Click announced</a> that the Astros will play two exhibition games at Kauffman Stadium before opening the season. This will be the first time they will travel as a team since returning from the Covid-19 shutdown. </p>
<p id="N6ydF7">But, that wasn’t the biggest news of the day. Two key players from the 2020 season were added to the 10-day IL. With ten days before the season starting, <a href="https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/1282720891978362880?s=21">Click said</a> reigning AL Rookie of the Year Yordan Alvarez and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a> hero <span>Jose Urquidy</span> were added to the IL. Why? Because the Astros said so!</p>
<p id="Rutqll">That’s really all they can tell us. Last week, Dusty Baker said that Alvarez and Urquidy had a condition that’s preventing them from participating at Summer Camp. A condition, can it get any vaguer than that. Well, welcome to the new normal, at least for the 2020 season. Unless a player gives the team permission to reveal that they have tested positive for <a href="https://www.vox.com/2020/1/31/21113178/what-is-coronavirus-symptoms-travel-china-map">Coronavirus</a>, they have to keep that information private. </p>
<p id="FRgOSQ"><strong>Where does that leave us fans?</strong> </p>
<p id="JrMZoc">Why speculation of course! Russell Westbrook just announced that he has tested positive. When the NBA season restarts, at least fans will know why he’s not in the NBA bubble. James Harden, on the other hand, has yet to report. Wonder what condition he is suffering from?</p>
<p id="VXSpQB">This is the new normal. <a href="https://twitter.com/brianmctaggart/status/1282793635344338944?s=21">Click said yesterday</a> that the team with the fewest COVID-19 cases will likely win. I’m sure there is a little luck involved, but according to the <a href="https://www.sportsbettingdime.com/mlb/world-series-odds/">Sports Betting Dime</a>, the Astros are the third favored team to win the 2020 World Series. Would losing one of your starting pitchers or DH hurt those odds? Maybe, but every team will deal with this. </p>
<p id="Rn5ZfG">Will Alvarez be ready for opening day? According to Brian McTaggart, <a href="https://www.mlb.com/astros/news/astros-to-play-exhibition-games-against-royals">Click said “we’re hoping but obviously it’s difficult to say.”</a> Alvarez, after hitting 27 homers in 313 at-bats in 2019, was supposed to help anchor the batting order. Hopefully, he will be able to get ready for the season. As a DH, it will probably be easier to ready on the fly later. </p>
<p id="IvJEKu">For Urquidy though, missing this time will potentially cost him a chance at being a starter for the 2020 season. Yes, they could stretch him out, but we don’t know what condition his condition is in. Sorry for the Big Lebowski moment there. Maybe you remember it more from Kenny Rogers. Either way, Urquidy is a question mark. So is <span>Joe Smith</span>, but at least we know he is hesitant to play this season.</p>
<p id="LANO0K"><strong>Next man up?</strong></p>
<p id="uZBPo8">These injuries could open up a spot for <span>Kyle Tucker</span> and <span>Josh Reddick</span> to both be on the field. <span>Tucker</span> could be the DH with <span>Abraham Toro</span>, <span>Aledmys Diaz</span>, and others rotating through. This team is better with Alvarez and his 3.7 WAR from last year’s 87 games played in the lineup. However, getting Tucker semi-everyday playing time will help him get comfortable in the big leagues. </p>
<p id="qqeBq9">As far as the rotation, it’s good that <span>Josh James</span> looks to be returning from the birth of his daughter. <span>Framber Valdez</span> could be given the first look if Urquidy is not fully stretched out or ready. <span>Cristian Javier</span> and <span>Valdez</span> both pitched in yesterday’s split-squad game. Maybe others like Austin Pruit could get a shot, but time is running out. No one will be fully stretched out, that’s why there will be an expanded roster to start the season. </p>
<p id="nGyWl4">There will be so many interesting plot twists this year. All you can do is watch the games, shrug off the COVID-19 IL stints, and hope for postseason play. Some may wonder if they will play 60-games. Shrugging emoji!</p>
https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/7/14/21323779/astros-place-alvarez-and-uquidy-on-the-10-day-ilEric Huysman2020-07-03T11:03:13-05:002020-07-03T11:03:13-05:00Rivalry Week: The Texas Rangers
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<img alt="MLB: Houston Astros at Texas Rangers" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/A4N4bph4bEcV_Duyike_f1Mz-Fs=/0x0:4746x3164/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/67014617/usa_today_13032265.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Let’s Poke Some Fun at the Rangers</p> <p id="yr023Y">If you went to school in Texas, you most likely did a Pledge of Allegiance to the Texas flag. One state, under God, one and indivisible. Texans are known for many things, some are fair and some, not so much. When it comes to baseball, the state is split in half, depending on where you grew up and your preference in teams. </p>
<p id="t0oc2v">In 1972, the Washington DC Senators moved to Arlington to become the <a href="https://www.lonestarball.com/">Texas Rangers</a>. Because ‘Texas’ is in the name, people think that if you live in Texas, you must be a Rangers fan. But sorry, the <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Astros</a> started playing major league ball seven years earlier in 1962 as the Colt 45’s. They became the Astros in 1965 and played in the 8th wonder of the world, the Astrodome. Why a dome? Because it gets hot in Texas. </p>
<p id="30ocLb">The Rangers (Mall Cops down Houston way) played in the Arlington Stadium between 1972 and 1993, so they knew it was hot in North Texas or southern Oklahoma. When it came up building a new stadium, they didn’t think of adding a roof when they built Globe Life Park. I have been there twice. Yes, it was hot, but I liked how the concourse was open to the real world. According to Mike Acosta, <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/locked-on-astros?selected=LKN5165511778">on last night’s Locked On Astros podcast</a>, they could have added a roof on Globe Life Park, but it would have cost as much as just building a brand new stadium. </p>
<p id="wZzEwJ">That’s how we got Home Depot Field; I mean Globe Life Field. Per Acosta, they dug 60 feet below ground level to build the ballpark. If they kept most of the building underground, it could save some money with their AC bill. The initial drawings bore a lot of resemblance to Houston’s Minute Maid Park, and while the final product has similarities, there are some differences. We don’t want to cook our players in a grill, as some of the recent memes of Globe Life Field depicted. </p>
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<p lang="und" dir="ltr"><a href="https://t.co/9YlK9zexXb">pic.twitter.com/9YlK9zexXb</a></p>— Alvin Gentry’s Imaginary Beard (@KeuchelDBeard) <a href="https://twitter.com/KeuchelDBeard/status/1275875256591417345?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 24, 2020</a>
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<p id="DASIWG">(Plus, Minute Maid Park is so much better, homer talk here)</p>
<p id="1W9r3e"><strong>A Texas rivalry?</strong></p>
<p id="K73DKj">Looking back at the rivalry between the Astros and Rangers, it used to mean very little to most fans. Yes, there was a natural ‘state’ rivalry, but it was more of an inter-league matchup that you could watch in person with a few hours drive. The Rangers were good (for once) when the Astros came over to the American League, averaging about 90 wins a season from 2010-2016. In the Astros first season in the American League in 2013, the West beat up the Astros 51-111. </p>
<p id="xGQVs6">The Astros were in the middle of a rebuilding project that Jeff Luhnow dubbed ‘the process.’ It appeared the Astros were going to be the whipping boy of the West again, but for the first time, things started to trend up in 2015. The Astros became the team on the rise. But in 2016, current trash can jokes aside, the Rangers still continued to treat the Astros like trash, going 15-4 against them, causing them to miss the 2016 playoffs. </p>
<p id="RCDGoH">But despite the Rangers reaching the playoff eight times, they have yet to win a <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a>. But, at least they tried. They made it to back to back appearances in the World Series between 2010-2011, to the <a href="https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/">Giants</a> and <a href="https://www.vivaelbirdos.com/">Cardinals</a> respectively. Then the Astros came to the neighborhood, and the rivalry took a different tone. Don’t expect <span>Rougned Odor</span> to come to any Astros holiday parties ever. </p>
<p id="dh0JS2"><strong>Looking at some of the Rangers history.</strong></p>
<p id="6USUhk">We have seen some crotch-grabbing over the years, self and otherwise, the Rangers have had some awkward reputations and history.</p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Along with fist bumps, the CDC advises against "Dallas Handshakes." <a href="https://t.co/0lOeSLTkCK">pic.twitter.com/0lOeSLTkCK</a></p>— Archbishop Deshaies (@HouCounterplot) <a href="https://twitter.com/HouCounterplot/status/1238923796003860480?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 14, 2020</a>
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<p id="0eOwbj">Granted, the Astros have “bang...bang.” But, <span>Odor</span>’s younger brother was part of a group of Rangers prospects who gave another player an inappropriate hand. David Stewart, a Rangers pitcher in 1985, was arrested for soliciting prostitutes. Oh, they once traded <span>Sammy Sosa</span> as well. (Not that the White Sox made great use of him. The <a href="https://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/">Cubs</a> thank them both!)</p>
<p id="y9HJ8H">You can’t forget about that time that a ball bounced off Jose Canseco’s head for a homer. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">27 years ago today, Jose Canseco let a fly ball bounce off his head and over the fence for a home run at Municipal Stadium. In retrospect, this was so Canseco. Never forget. <a href="https://twitter.com/MLBcathedrals?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@MLBcathedrals</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/ScottSabolFOX8?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@ScottSabolFOX8</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/theaceofspaeder?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@theaceofspaeder</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/SkrticX?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@SkrticX</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/KenCarman?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@KenCarman</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/jfeador?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@jfeador</a> <a href="https://t.co/amfka4rdTN">pic.twitter.com/amfka4rdTN</a></p>— John Sabol (@John_Sabol) <a href="https://twitter.com/John_Sabol/status/1265308364118134786?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 26, 2020</a>
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<p id="BM41tj">Speaking of which, did you hear he wants to run for President. We can blame that on getting hit in the head as a Ranger, and we’ll go with that. That same year, he came in to pitch in a blowout and threw out his arm pitching. </p>
<p id="L1t7Zk">One prop I can give the Rangers is them bringing Nolan Ryan into the organization, and it really solidified the rotation that went to the playoffs zero times in his stint. The Rangers didn’t make the playoffs until the 1996 season. Wait, what? Let’s do the math here, 1996 minus 1961 is 35 years of futility. Of course, that was when they were the Washington Senators as well. Oh, one more point about Nolan Ryan, he did get to punch that Robin Ventura fellow too. No one charged the mound on him anymore. </p>
<p id="EKXGaw">The Rangers may hold the honor for the biggest choke in the history of baseball. 2011, up 3-2 in the World Series facing the St. Louis Cardinals, the Cards were down 7-5 with two outs and two strikes in the bottom of the ninth. But a two run double tied the game.</p>
<p id="zdpX5D">The Rangers went up a run in the tenth, and once again the Cardinals were down to their final strike. But an RBI single tied the score again, and in the 11th inning the Cards got a walk-off homer by David freeze to tie the Series. Of course they went on to win.</p>
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<p id="douySR">Remember in 2015 versus the <a href="https://www.bluebirdbanter.com/">Blue Jays</a> in the ALDS Game 5, how the Rangers forgot how to catch the ball? Dropping three of them in the 7th inning before a bloop hit over <span>Odor</span>’s head allowed one run to tie the game? The rest is history after <span>Jose Bautista</span> hit the grand slam with the epic bat flip. </p>
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<p id="VdoS8q">Remember the next year when <span>Odor</span> threw a punch at <span>Jose Bautista?</span> We all remember where we were when we first saw that video. Stay classy Arlington. </p>
<p id="xPOswj">Oh forget it.</p>
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<p id="W7CdLi"><strong>One Texas?</strong></p>
<p id="UkGe7A">Let’s talk about 2017. Remember when that hurricane called Harvey flooded Houston? The Astros and Rangers were supposed to play a series in Houston, but it needed to be moved to an alternate location. The Astros asked if they could switch home series so that they could play the games in Arlington. But the Rangers said no, so they ended up playing the Rangers in Tampa Bay. Is Bud Selig running the Rangers?</p>
<p id="StU4he">What about the rivalry between former Astros manager AJ Hinch and former Rangers manager Jeff Bannister. In 2015 Bannister and Hinch almost had fisticuffs after Roughned Odor (of course) started s#*! with Hank Conger. See the scrum here.</p>
<div id="wwGXIe"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KH0ZMd1Ixpk?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
<p id="s4Lw3j">The Rangers’ slogan was ‘One Texas’ during the 2018 season, which unfortunately was the end of Bannister’s time managing the Rangers. Wouldn’t it have been ironic if Bannister had gotten Dusty Baker’s job this off-season? </p>
<p id="wvZR2h">While my Dad may be right, that is, root for the Rangers (when not playing the Astros), because they are in the same state, I don’t think I can root for the Rangers. The Rangers have eight playoff appearances in franchise history, but only two pennants and zero World Series rings since 1961. The Astros have 13 playoff appearances, with three pennants and one World Series victory. </p>
<p id="U8QBJd">Who knows how the Rangers 2020 season will pan out. The team Twitter handle sent out a tweet that had a picture of <span>Corey Kluber</span>, <span>Mike Minor</span>, and Lance Lynn. The text said, “A warning to the West.” If the Rangers pitchers can stay healthy, they could be a good team, but what is the state of their offense? Can <span>Kluber</span> rediscover his ace form? </p>
<p id="kWYRiU">Who knows, be glad there will be baseball, and you don’t have to root for the Rangers.</p>
<p id="JUbXCJ">Here is the definitive history of the Rangers.</p>
<div id="BdQlbC"><div style="left: 0; width: 100%; height: 0; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.25%;"><iframe src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/tWnV45BXMCE?rel=0" style="border: 0; top: 0; left: 0; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;" allowfullscreen="" scrolling="no" allow="encrypted-media; accelerometer; gyroscope; picture-in-picture"></iframe></div></div>
https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/7/3/21311951/rivalry-week-the-texas-rangersEric Huysman2020-01-29T15:33:48-06:002020-01-29T15:33:48-06:00The Astros Bring in Dusty Baker to Manage the Circus
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<img alt="MLB: NLDS-Washington Nationals at Chicago Cubs" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/BB6CmArA_U0OG0V_MnLipmJDX6c=/0x50:4134x2806/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66216309/usa_today_10340677.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jerry Lai-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Dusty Baker becomes the new Astros manager for the short term</p> <p id="UuYrfr">As has been discussed many times on <a href="https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/locked-on-astros">Locked On Astros</a>, the Astros will have a difficult season in 2020. Talent-wise, they will still have a team that should compete for the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/world-series">World Series</a> again. But they will be constantly exposed to constant questions surrounding the Astros getting caught using technology to steal signs. They will have to answer to fans, media, and other players for what happened in 2017. Mostly, to the players who they cheated against. </p>
<p id="d1LDca">They needed someone who could come in as an outsider to deflect some of those questions. They needed someone who has dealt with controversy before. Most importantly, they needed someone experienced to come in and continue the Astros success in 2020 and beyond. </p>
<p id="n2yQdl">They needed Dusty Baker, and that’s who they were rumored to be going with yesterday. While <a href="https://twitter.com/BNightengale/status/1222183251466321920?s=20">Bob Nightengale</a> said it was a done deal, others like <a href="https://twitter.com/ken_rosenthal/status/1222206464527347714?s=21">Ken Rosenthal</a> said that the two sides are discussing a deal. <a href="https://twitter.com/JonHeyman/status/1222208615932743680?s=20">Jon Heyman</a> had said the Astros have not contacted Baker. In my opinion, it was probably over Baker wanting a three-four year deal, the Astros may only want to give him a two-year deal. Well, if that was the case, Baker settled for a short-term deal to be the manager according to Nightengale. </p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">The Houston <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Astros?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Astros</a> and Dusty Baker have reached agreement on a short-term deal to become their new manager</p>— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) <a href="https://twitter.com/BNightengale/status/1222628962871861248?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a>
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<p id="byRjuG">Baker was the longtime coach with the <a href="https://www.mccoveychronicles.com/">Giants</a>, spent time with the <a href="https://www.bleedcubbieblue.com/">Cubs</a>, <a href="https://www.redreporter.com/">Reds</a>, and <a href="https://www.federalbaseball.com/">Nationals</a>. He has a career 1,863–1,636 record and has led teams to the postseason many times. His success in the postseason has not always been great, but he seems passionate to get the Astros to the postseason in 2020. In his last four years with the Reds then Nationals, his teams made the playoffs.</p>
<p id="LXn72Z">Baker wants to be the first African-American coach in the Hall of Fame. If he would lead the 2020 or 2021 Astros to the playoffs, it would help his cause to be the first. He’s after that ring, which may be why he’s coming back after being out for two years. </p>
<p id="E1cmEQ">Many will scoff at his age (70), but that is what the Astros need right now to settle this talented roster down. Baker is also very much an ‘old school’ manager, but that is where Joe Espada fits in. Espada knows the players and can help Baker get to know the players that like to dance in the clubhouse. Espada can also help Baker with the, cough, analytics. </p>
<p id="4yeMOr">Baker has dealt with the BALCO fallout with <span>Barry Bonds</span>, his own IRS issues, and many other issues. We will look more into what Baker can offer over the next few weeks at the Crawfish Boxes. He is not AJ Hinch, nor should he try to emulate his managing style. Baker and his 22 years of managing experience will help the Astros ride out the storm that will be 2020. </p>
<p id="N2QdKH">Baker will be the Astros manager for the next two years. What do you think Astros fans?</p>
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<p id="IezZtP"><em>Update 4:14 pm CST: Baker’s contract is for 1 year with a club option for a 2nd, not 2 as originally reported.</em></p>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Now hearing Baker deal with <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Astros?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Astros</a> might be one year with an option, not two years I reported earlier. Working to get this straight.</p>— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1222640897181061126?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a>
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<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Here’s Bob confirming one year and a club option for Baker. Possible <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Astros?src=hash&ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Astros</a> also go short-term with GM and reassess at season’s end. <a href="https://t.co/fvtm60p3pl">https://t.co/fvtm60p3pl</a></p>— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) <a href="https://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/1222642915547238400?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">January 29, 2020</a>
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<aside id="dO5r2l"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"Contra Dusty: Why I Hate This Hire","url":"https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/1/30/21115295/contra-dusty-baker-astros-why-i-hate-this-hire"},{"title":"Hiring Dusty Baker is the Astros making the best of a rough situation","url":"https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/1/29/21113158/hiring-dusty-baker-is-the-houston-astros-making-the-best-of-a-rough-situation-manager"},{"title":"Why The Astros Should Not Hire Dusty Baker","url":"https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/1/20/21073545/why-the-astros-should-not-hire-dusty-baker"}]}'></div></aside>
https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/1/29/21112164/the-astros-bring-in-dusty-baker-to-manage-the-circusEric Huysman2020-01-12T18:30:23-06:002020-01-12T18:30:23-06:00Astros Beat Writer Chandler Rome Joins Talking Stros Tonight
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<img alt="MLB: Winter Meetings" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/-QRSQdmWfr77zONNIqWuIuJiOvI=/1x0:3180x2119/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66089021/usa_today_13777699.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Listen live via link in post.</p> <p id="zSKi8O">Talking Stros will return after the holidays for the first show of 2020. Eric and Brandon will discuss all the latest <a href="https://www.crawfishboxes.com/">Astros</a> new and what could be possibly coming up as a result of the investigation. What to think about the trade for <span>Austin Pruitt</span>, could this be a sneaky good moves by Jeff Luhnow? </p>
<p id="ytmCO8">Also, the Houston Chronicle’s Chandler Rome will join to talk about the offseason and what is next for the Astros. If you have any questions for Rome or the show, you can send a text to 281-819-0251. Or you can follow Talking Stros on Twitter @TalkingStros and send questions as well. </p>
<p id="5FBfga">Can’t wait for the podcast, you can listen live to the show with <a href="http://tun.in/sfl1D">this link</a>. The show will start at 7pm central. The 2020 season nears, but the future for the Astros is up in the air. Listen to Eric and Brandon every week on KTXF the Reel. </p>
<p id="V8TpIw"><a href="http://tun.in/sfl1D">Listen live here</a>. </p>
<p id="35Z3gq">Also, follow @LockedOnMLB_Net and vote for <span>Alex Bregman</span> as the player you are the most Locked On. Voting begins tomorrow around 9 am. </p>
<p id="JDavhH"><strong>The podcast is linked below.</strong></p>
<div id="nBhZsL"><iframe width="100%" height="400" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?visual=true&url=https%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F742565185&show_artwork=true&=&color=%2523ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true"></iframe></div>
https://www.crawfishboxes.com/2020/1/12/21062944/astros-beat-writer-chandler-rome-joins-talking-stros-tonightEric Huysman