While the Houston Astros lost their first exhibition game of spring training by a final score of 12-2 against the Cleveland Indians, it wasn’t all bad for Houston. Wandy Rodriguez, who started for the Astros, tossed two scoreless innings. Rodriguez is expected to be in the pitching rotation once the season begins.
Michael Bourn, who is slated to play centerfield and bat first in the lineup, also played well. He got a hit, stole a base and scored a run for the Astros.
“Michael looked like the guy we’re going to need at the top of the lineup,” said manager Cecil …read more

As players got back into the swing of things during spring training, minor injuries are common at this time of year. Both Lance Berkman and Brandon Backe can now confirm that theory.
Berkman, the star outfielder for the Houston Astros, suffered a strained oblique muscle while batting during a workout. Although Berkman won’t be available for at least the first few spring training games, he isn’t worried.
“You don’t want to do anything to really hurt yourself,” Berkman told MLB.com. “Who cares about playing the first two weeks of spring training? It’s one of those deals, I want to try to be …read more

In tragic news, the brother of Miguel Tejada died in a motorcycle accident in the Dominican Republic. Freddy Manuel Tejada, 37-years old, was killed when his motorcycle was struck by an SUV in the city of Bani.
The Houston Astros acquired Tejada from the Baltimore Orioles this offseason and he’s expected to be the team’s everyday starting shortstop. Tejada, who is a former MVP in the American League, said he plans to honor his brother by continuing to play winter baseball in their home country of the Dominican Republic.
“I will continue playing ball with the Eagles as long as I can. …read more