How Can the Astros Make Baseball Better?

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.

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.

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.