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The Houston Astros Get Their Preseason Report Card by CTH
Opening Day is now two days away, and there is a buzz surrounding the Houston Astros across the nation, not just in the Houston area. We haven’t felt this much anticipation since the 2005 season with Roy Oswalt, Roger Clemens, and Andy Pettite in the rotation. People across baseball are predicting that the Astros could go all the way this year, but we have to play game one before we can worry about games past the 162nd.
Despite the success last year, the Astros didn’t feel like they needed to make too many splashy trades or signing to continue the success of 2015 into 2016. They brought back Tony Sipp and Colby Rasmus while trading for potential closer Ken Giles. Doug Fister was a late signing to sure up the rotation, especially with Lance McCullers starting the season on the disabled list. Where are the Astros strengths and weaknesses as the begin a new season in which they will get their revenge on the Royals.
Let’s take a look at how the writers at CTH and a few others would grade specific segments of the Astros final 25-roster. Will the Astros make the grade in 2016, certain players are the keys to the season.
Next: Grading Catcher and Designated Hitter