Astros Spring Notes: Time to Return Home

At long last, the Astros are returning to Houston, which signifies the near-arrival of the 2017 season.

Hallelujah! Spring Training is nearing the end and we can now focus on games that actually matter come Sunday. Don’t get me wrong, though, as I state this. I honestly like Spring Training. Any amount of baseball is better than no baseball. I am just anxious for the season to start and to see the Astros play meaningful games.

So how did Houston perform in their last Grapefruit League game in 2017?

Unfortunately, it ended in another tie, which is the last result that I would like to see on a baseball field. But it is Spring Training so who cares?

The Astros anyway put up five runs and witnessed Mike Fiers pitch 5.1 quality innings. Ken Giles struck out three batters in one inning of work. Overall, it was an encouraging display.

The player that truly stood yesterday though was Derek Fisher, who hit the tying three-run home run in the ninth inning. While he won’t make the Opening Day roster this year, pay attention to Fisher in the future. He is making waves now and may continue this season.

2017 Spring Training Statistics: .300 BA, .945 OPS, 2 HR, 12 RBI, 11 SB in 40 at-bats

The one piece of news that we are all waiting on is the decision between James Hoyt and Jandel Gustave. The winner receives the remaining roster spot in the Astros bullpen to open the season. Pay attention to Hoyt’s ability to get left handed hitters out. But Gustave has looked just as good for the majority of Spring Training.

Next: The Astros 2017 Starting Rotation Preview

Anyway, we still have to wait for Monday for meaningful games as the Astros take on the Chicago Cubs in a pair of exhibition games to end the week. At least we get relive one NL Central rivalary for two more days.

**Statistics courtesy of MLB.com**