At the halfway point

Saturday’s 7-2 loss to the Angels was the Astros’ 81st game of the season, putting them at exactly the halfway point. The team’s record stands at 30-51, meaning they are on pace to go 60-102 for the year. That would be an improvement over last year and a lot better than most of the so-called experts predicted for a rebuilding team transitioning into the American League. So, I guess you could say the Astros had a good first half.

After a 10-30 start the Astros have managed to win almost half of their games over the last six weeks. I don’t think they can keep up that pace for the remainder of the season but seeing them play near .500 for an extended period of time is encouraging. No one knows how the second half will unfold. Hopefully it is better than last season’s catastrophe. But, for now, let’s take a look back at the first half and hand out some praise/criticism.

Most pleasant surprise: Matt Dominguez

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We knew Dominguez was a good defender. But his sudden surge of power and uncanny ability to drive in runs has been a pleasant surprise. Dominguez leads the team in RBIs with 44 and is second with eleven homers. He’s done it mainly hitting in the number eight spot in the order and despite not hitting a homerun until the 37th game of the season. The 23-year old is making that Carlos Lee trade look like the deal of the century.

Biggest disappointment: Lucas Harrell

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This one was a tough choice — because there have been so many. I could have gone with Philip Humber because he was so incredibly ineffective after getting off to a nice start in his first three games. Brett Wallace also comes to mind. But he has shown signs of life lately.
After a breakout season in 2012 much was expected from Harrell in 2013. Harrell has great stuff and there was no reason to believe that 2012 was a fluke. But, despite a few good starts here and there, the 28-year old has struggled mightily. His ERA is up more tha a run from last year and an inflated WHIP has led to a 5-8 record at the halfway point.

Most fun to watch: Brandon Barnes

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Barnes has produced more exciting moments on the field than any other Astros player. A number of excellent defenders have patrolled centerfield in Houston over the years and Barnes ranks right up there with the best of them. His circus catches make him a regular on highlight shows all over the country and Barnes has also put together some decent numbers at the plate.

Scariest to watch: Jose Veras

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This was an easy one for me. Not only does he make things interesting in the ninth inning — his maximum effort delivery looks like it would be painful. The way his head bounces from the right to the left has to be unnerving for opposing hitters and chiropractors alike.

Living up to expectations: Jason Castro

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After battling injuries early in his career, Castro is finally healthy and delivering the kind of performance Astros fans have been waiting for. Jason’s eleven homers puts him on pace to establish a franchise record for catchers. Castro has shown marked improvement on both offense and defense and has established himself as a key component for the team moving forward.

Maybe next year: John Ely & Alex White

John Ely (Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports)

This one goes out to two pitchers who have yet to see any action in an Astros uniform. Offseason acquisitions

Ely and White were brought in to help a beleaguered pitching staff. Both ended up going under the knife before the season got started. Hopefully both can contribute in 2014.

Impact rookie: Jose Cisnero

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Cisnero didn’t make the club out of Spring Training but has been a breath of fresh air for the bullpen since making his big league debut in late April. Cisnero has been brought along slowly but his outstanding performance has earned him a more significant role going forward. Cisnero should be given a chance to work in high pressure late inning situations in the second half of the season. A starter throughout his minor league career, Jose’s long term role could eventually change. Whether it turns out to be as a starter or reliever, the 24-year old should be a part of the team for years to come.

Why is he still here? Hector Ambriz

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Oh… the mystery of Ambriz. Installed as the Astros setup man to start the season, Ambriz has posted a .301 average against and a WHIP over 1.5. These are not numbers conducive to holding leads and Ambriz has blown more than his fair share. With plenty of options on the big league roster and in the minors, I see no reason why Ambriz is still around.

Most media friendly: Bud Norris

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Appearing on MLB Network’s Intentional Talk and during the Fox Game of the Week broadcasts, Norris has established the fact that he can be a great interview. He’s outgoing and witty and has a great smile. But non-video interviews haven’t gone as well for Bud. Some of his quotes about a possible trade to the Giants were scrutinized by certain reporters. This is an area where Bud has some room for improvement, and like he has done with his pitching, I think he’s up to the task.

Unfriendly media: CSN Houston

Need I say more? The new RSN has left the majority of would-be viewers out in the cold for the first half and there’s no light at the end of the tunnel.