How Can the Astros Make Baseball Better?

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Apr 4, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros center fielder George Springer (4) celebrates with teammates after the Astros defeated the Seattle Mariners 2-1 at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

How can the Astros make baseball better? Well, I have a few ideas.

I believe we all agree that baseball is an amazing sport. And the Astros have the potential to be amazing in 2017.

That said, I believe the Astros could make baseball better for everyone. Sure, I am personally biased to Houston and my opinion on this matter may not mean anything to anyone else. My opinion is (most) likely wrong. But hey, this an Astros blog and I’ll write about Astro-like things.

Apr 9, 2017; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros relief pitcher Chris Devenski (47) pitches during the twelfth inning against the Kansas City Royals at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Idea #1: Utilize Chris Devenski in a variety of roles

One of baseball’s well-kept secrets for nearly a year was the emergence of Chris Devenski. The right-hander since his debut early last season has been a revelation for the Astros. His 2.2 WAR was the ninth-best out of all qualified relievers in 2016. But what makes Devenski truly interesting is ability to pitch multiple innings in a single outing. In fact, he pitched the third-most innings last season, 83.2, out of all qualifying relievers. When you combine the two, you arguably have one of the best relievers in baseball.

Flash forward to the current season, and Devenski has gotten off to a terrific start. Before last night’s game, he has pithed in eight innings while striking out 14 and walking just one batter. Oh, Devenski has also allowed only a lone run. Thanks to his efforts, he has kept the team in close games.

One interesting way that the Astros could use Devenski is to pitch him in different scenarios. For example, the team could let him pitch from, let’s say, the sixth inning through the eighth if the game is close and the starter is finished early on. Or utilize him in high leverage situations, no matter the inning. Long outings or short appearances. Start him on occasion. Baseball may not have a true bullpen revolution for quite some time. However, Devenski and his usage this season could be part of the catalyst of change. He could be the definition of a true “swing pitcher”. And if he is effective in such a role, then baseball would be better for it. Dang it, I want to witness a pitcher revolution at some point in my lifetime. It is long overdue.

Aug 6, 2016; Houston, TX, USA; Houston Astros third baseman Alex Bregman (2) hits a double during the first inning against the Texas Rangers at Minute Maid Park. Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports /

Idea #2: Wear More Throwbacks

In my opinion, baseball needs to embrace throwbacks more than they currently do. Now, I understand the purpose of wearing today’s uniform set. You just simply have to more times than not. There is a balance that has to be met and certain amount sales to generate that will satisfy all parties. However, the more frequent throwbacks are then the more fun baseball is to watch.

Remember back when the Astros, for the lack of a better term, sucked, the one ploy that drew fans to Minute Maid Park was the throwback games. One day you would see the infamous “Rainbow Gut” jerseys. The next week you may see the 1990’s gold shooting star hat. The original shooting star is another fan favorite. How about the Colt .45’s look? Heck, I would even entertain a game involving the brick-and-sand look for the ol’ times sake. All were winners in my book. The uniforms, not the actual team.

When you have a team that has such a “colorful” uniform history like the Astros, then it would be remiss not utilize it as much as fiscally possible. On the flip side, there is also the risk of over saturating everyone with throwbacks. Like I stated earlier, a balance must be kept. But with so many teams playing it safe in terms of uniforms, I would like for the Astros to lead the revolution of throwbacks. Baseball would be more colorful, and fun, to watch.

Sep 4, 2016; Arlington, TX, USA; Houston Astros shortstop Carlos Correa (1) and right fielder George Springer (4) celebrate Springer’s home run against the Texas Rangers during the first inning at Globe Life Park in Arlington. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports /

Idea #3: Win Against the Texas Rangers…in the Playoffs

For those wondering how the Astros besting the Rangers in a ballgame improves baseball, let me explain. You see, there has never been a true rivalry in Texas in terms of baseball between Houston and Dallas. Sure, you do have some recent history between the two as of late. But it is nothing of significance. Regular season match-ups can only accomplish so much.

One way to make this better: play and defeat the Rangers on national television in a playoff series.

Not only would the rivalry between the two franchises go to an all-time high, which is good for baseball, the state of Texas would become baseball crazy. Make no mistake as football will remain king in the state, even though I would like for that to change. But this would elevate the game to new heights in one of the most populated states in our fair Union.

Next: Astros Minor League Spotlight: Fresno Grizzlies Hitters Doing Work

Regardless of the marketing, free stuff or throwback uniforms, the act of winning is what truly drives interest in all sports. Some teams have a large enough following despite poor results, but not all are afforded the same luxury. See the 2010-2014 Astros as a prime example. And when baseball teams are winning and competing, then the game itself actually improves.

**Statistics courtesy of Fangraphs and MLB.com**

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How can the Astros make baseball better? Well, I have a few ideas.

Idea #1: Utilize Chris Devenski in a variety of roles

Idea #2: Wear More Throwbacks

Idea #3: Win Against the Texas Rangers…in the Playoffs

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