4:31 AM EDT, Fri March 29, 2024
Mar 18, 2024
A Time To Lament?

A Time To Lament?

Photo by Daniel Shirey/MLB Photos via Pitching depth was tested last season and it appears 2024 will feature more of the same, at least to start the new campaign. Remember when Dusty Baker lamented the lack of starting depth last season? Yeah, I think he would lament this year’s development, too. I certainly do. With José Urquidy now out for an indefinite amount of time, the Astros are already pushing against the precipice of last season’s conundrum: A lack of depth in starting pitchers. To be clear, it is possible to envision a situation when Dana Brown and Joe...
Mar 7, 2024
Only Spring Training, But Cristian Javier’s Velocity Is Encouraging

Only Spring Training, But Cristian Javier’s Velocity Is Encouraging

Photo by Rich Storry/ I’ve written about Cristian Javier’s struggles ad nauseam in 2023, including his velocity issues and release point troubles. His performance to start last season is also why I wouldn’t concentrate largely on ERA regarding analysis. Through his first 12 starts, Javier posted a 2.84 ERA in 69 2⁄3 innings. That is generally regarded as pretty good, at least among the general public. But there were some red flags embedded in Javier’s numbers through early June, whether it be his FIP (3.60), xFIP (4.25), declining velocity, and a sinking...
Mar 4, 2024
Some Spring Training Thoughts

Some Spring Training Thoughts

Photo by Rich Storry/ When it comes to Spring Training, I’d like to think that I have a fairly level head about it. Good, bad, or somewhere in between, I don’t tend to get all worked up a player’s performance this time of the year. Sure, there are instances when excitement or panic is likely warranted, but evidence is usually required. A new pitch, for example, would draw attention. A different batting stance (hello, Jeremy Peña). Insert your favorite best shape of their lives joke. Noticeable change in velocity, in either direction. Injuries. Spring Training is...
Feb 29, 2024
Extension Priority: Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker, or Framber Valdez?

Extension Priority: Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker, or Framber Valdez?

Photo by Carmen Mandato/ The Astros can focus on the next extension with Jose Altuve now under contract through 2029. The pressing question is who the organization will choose to extend. Wait, let me rephrase that thought: Who will be most willing to accept the terms Dana Brown and Jim Crane may offer? The extension chatter at present has primarily centered around three players: Alex Bregman, Kyle Tucker, and Framber Valdez. Brown has been vocal about retaining this trio of star players, but there is also reality to contend with. The odds of retaining all three, while...

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