Weekend Links

Spring Training is just around the corner and the Astros public relations push is in full swing. The Astros Care-avan has been touring the area and recently stopped in Corpus Christi, home of the organization’s AA affiliate. Greg Rajan covered the event locally in the home of the Hooks.

The festivities hit their peak next weekend in Houston with the annual Astros Fanfest. Alyson Footer gives details of next Saturday’s agenda at Minute Maid Park.

Richard Justice seems to have a man-crush on new Astros pitcher Livan Hernandez.

By now you’ve probably heard about Texas Rangers OF Josh Hamilton’s recent relapse in his battle against drug and alcohol addiction. Hamilton called a press conference Friday to issue a public apology, knowing that the media would eventually find out that he had a few drinks one evening. Although Hamilton owes no apology to us, he knew that the facts would get blown out of proportion and initiated a preemptive strike of damage control. Justin Hunter of Call to the Pen did a nice write-up on the Hamilton situation.

Our next stop on the N.L. Central Farewell Tour will be Milwaukee, where we will be collaborating with Lou Olsen. The editor at FanSided’s Reviewing the Brew recently posted an article on the impending suspension of slugger Ryan Braun. Lou, like the rest of us, wanted to know why is it taking so long to get a decision in this matter. Inquiring minds want to know. Stay tuned for more on the Brewers with Lou next week.