With slugging first baseman Lance Berkman sidelined until at least Opening Day, the Houston Astros are in serious danger of a second straight anemic season at the plate.
In 2009, the Astros finished 14th in the National League in runs scored, 12th in home runs, and 15th in walks.
Much of the problem stemmed from Berkman's inability to stay healthy. In 136 games (his fewest since 2005), Berkman had only 562 plate appearances (his fewest since 2000).
Now, after arthroscopic surgery on his left knee, Berkman is out for the remainder of spring training and may not be ready when Houston opens its regular-season schedule on April 5.
In Berkman's stead, Houston manager Brad Mills has utility man Geoff Blum slated for first base duty. Aside from shortening the bench, however, inserting Blum into t ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - MLB
Article written by Matt Trueblood
Why Free Agent Jermaine Dye Should Be Targeted by Houston Astros
Posted: 15th March 2010 by Matt Trueblood in MLBComments Off on Why Free Agent Jermaine Dye Should Be Targeted by Houston Astros