The Houston Astros have fired (hat tip to Baseball Musings) manager Phil Garner and GM Tim Purpura. Garner is replaced on an interim basis by bench coach Cecil Cooper, while speculation abounds on who will be the new GM.
A reader points out that Richard Justice of the Houston Chronicle has mentioned Padres GM Kevin Towers as a possible replacement. Although I have no doubt that Towers would do a world of good in Houston, I’m not sure what the incentive would be for him to leave San Diego and an organization that is on the rise.
Whatever the Astros end up …read more

After watching Brad Lidge struggle during the first week of the season, Houston Astros manager Phil Garner has removed Lidge from the closer role. In his place steps right-hander Dan Wheeler.
Wheeler has been one of the better relievers in the National League the past couple years, and I’m sure he’ll do a fine job closing games for Houston. That said, folks who are writing off Lidge might want to bear this quote from Garner in mind:
Two games in this season is not a sample to say he’s done as the closer. I don’t feel like that at all. What I …read more