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 Cooper to the media. “He took a lot of pitches today. That’s what he’s got to do. He had some deep counts and then he got a base hit and stole a base.”

Our own Hunter Pence finished 0-2 on the day. However, despite going hitless, it was good to see him on the field after his recent accident.

The Astros play again on Friday, where Miguel Tejada will debut for Houston.

Post from: EveryJoe

Houston Astros Lose in Spring Opener

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 ready for the opener. I don’t care about being ready for the spring training opener.”

Backe suffered his injury after being hit by a liner off the bat of Carlos Lee. The pitcher was hit on the foot and has been diagnosed with a bone bruise. X-rays on the foot were negative.

“This is just a freak, innocent injury,” said Backe. “Thank gosh it’s not as bad as it feels. No fracture, no break. It just hurts.”

Although Backe was sporting crutches after being hurt, he doesn’t believe he will miss much time.

Said Backe: “I’m not going to miss much. It’s one of these things that happens.”

Post from: EveryJoe

Berkman, Backe Suffer Minor Injuries

Ryan has a long history with both the Astros and the Rangers. At the age of 33, Ryan joined the Astros in 1980. He pitched nine seasons for the Astros and is still the all-time franchise leader in strikeouts with 1,866. Ryan is also third all-time in franchise history in innings pitched, sixth in wins and seventh in ERA.

After the 1988 season, Ryan joined the Texas Rangers where he pitched until 1993. When Ryan retired, at age 46, he had cemented his legacy as one of the most feared pitchers in major league history. With 5,714 career strikeouts, that’s likely a record that will never be broken.

Twenty years after leaving the Astros for the Rangers, Ryan is leaving again. With the Rangers, Ryan will look to help turn around a team that hasn’t made the playoffs since 1999.

Check out this Nolan Ryan Tribute …

Post from: EveryJoe

Nolan Ryan Becomes Rangers Team President