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The first day on the Astros’ quest to repeat as World Series champions begins now.
Spring training has officially started!
Yes, Astros’ pitchers and catchers reported to camp on Tuesday, yet the first workout didn’t occur till Wednesday, February 14th. Otherwise known as Valentine’s Day.
And…that’s the most excitement as I can muster on the subject. Don’t get me wrong as I am thrilled that the 2018 season is quickly approaching. But spring training can never fully substitute the feeling of Opening Day. Like the chips, queso and salsa at my favorite Tex-Mex restaurant, and I love chips, queso and salsa, it’s a mere appetizer to the shrimp fajitas. Or, in this particular example, the regular season.
The players, though, seem ready to kick things off. Justin Verlander believes, and understandably so, that the path to AL supremacy runs through Houston.
Verlander: "I think we're the team to beat. ... I think the American League goes through us." pic.twitter.com/YEp8AFRFgN
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) February 14, 2018
Verlander also states how he believes that the Astros could be a dynasty in the making in terms of mentality.
.@JustinVerlander believes the #Astros have the talent in place to build a dynasty." pic.twitter.com/VD0rEFMubm
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) February 14, 2018
Mr. Verlander has not been an Astro for long, but I think I speak for the entire fan base when I say that there should be a statue of him in front of Minute Maid Park one day. Next to Jose Altuve. Wearing the famous “I literally love you too, Jose Altuve.” Make it happen, Jim Crane.
Back to spring training business.
Dallas Keuchel sheds light on his contract status past the 2018 season. Honestly, you can’t blame the man.
Dallas Keuchel can become a free agent after the 2018 season: "If there's something (contract talks), it's going to happen before the season. There's going to be no contractual negotiations during the regular. season." #Astros pic.twitter.com/sLeeuZniVT
— Mark Berman (@MarkBermanFox26) February 14, 2018
Keuchel also states his opinion on the starting rotation.
Dallas Keuchel on the 2018 Astros' rotation: "We've got four flamethrowers and a poo baller. That's OK, though. Lefties always rule."
— Jake Kaplan (@jakemkaplan) February 14, 2018
Mr. Keuchel, you’re definitely not a “poo baller.” Just promise everyone to use a better pillow, alright? We don’t to see any more pinched nerves in the injury reports.
Next: Let's not forget about Francis Martes, shall we?
Anyway, spring training is a valuable time to begin the process of gauging the team. For example, the Astros, on paper, appear to be stronger than ever. Jeff Luhnow and his front office have added Gerrit Cole, Joe Smith, and Hector Rondon to strengthen an already quality pitching staff. Derek Fisher is currently presumed to be the front-runner for the starting job in left field. The only question marks on this Astros’ roster is left-handed reliever and backup catcher. It’s nice, and a luxury, to have an abundance of talent.