AP
The rumor mill is again hard at work, taking statements by Jim Crane that his marketing team is investigating the possibility of a name change and turning it into a fully-fledged panic attack. What could a name change mean to the Astros? In the negative, it would mean yet another departure from tradition, sure to alienate the hardened core of Astros fans aged twenty to ninety. In the positive, it would create a clean slate, a new era, and the opportunity to establish new traditions in a new league, shedding the stigma that has dogged the franchise for years.
Everybody is rightfully debating the pros and cons (though to be honest, I haven't heard very many people 'pro-ing' on the subject), but nobody is asking the important question:
Thankfully, the recently-fire-hardened Astros fanbase has The Crawfish Boxes to turn to for answers. Below are the options that the Astros' Marketing Department may or may not be definitely considering for absolutely possibly changing the Astros' name.
The Astros' new name must be something that is clearly affiliated with the city of Houston. It must be something that brings the paying customers together - makes them feel as if their ball team understands them, identifies with them, and feels their pain. Thus, one option is to re-name the Astros to the Traffic. This has the bonus that Jim Crane and company will be able to charge licensing fees to every T.V. and Radio Station who announces, "And now let's turn to Layne Boulevard for the Houston Traffic Report" every quarter-hour.
As much as it would disgust me to have my favorite ball club named after a rival SEC school, there are advantages to the name Rebels. It would help the fabricated rivalry between our friends in Arlington, as "Rebels and Rangers" has the same kind of ring as "Cowboys and Indians," or even "Cowboys and Aliens." Regardless, it would also add a bit of spice to match-ups with the Yankees.
Here's a novel concept. During the off season, hold a contest for the fans. Allow them to submit suggestions and vote for the new name and logo of the team. The winner gets season tickets and free food (but not beer! Crane has to make his money somewhere!) and the fans have the extra spice of seeing a scenery change every season. The marketing possibilities are limitless.
Speaking of marketing possibilities, here's a name that will help the Astros pay down the debt sooner. Simply pimp the team's dignity out to the highest bidder, name the club after that company (or individual), and pay off the debt to make them competitive faster. Other clubs will be jealous, though the the players would have to put up with a bit more playground name-calling on game day. Other options along this line: The Houston Continental-Uniteds, the Houston Halliburtons, the Houston Mattress Macks, or the Houston Memorial Hermann Healthcare Systems (though this would likely end their affiliation with the Methodist Hospital system, but hey - bring in the new, right?).
Actually, this one wouldn't work because lately the Astros and their fans have been required to take @#%& from just about everybody. Scratch that idea.
As a form of ultimate protest against Bud Selig's Draconian rule, the Astros should change their name to the National Leaguers, refuse to utilize the DH rule by continuing to bat pitchers 9th once in the American League, and thus lead the revolution by making the other AL teams admire their pluckiness in the face of adversity. They'll say, "Those Houston National Leaguers came to the AL under duress, but they sure know how to fight! Maybe they've got something there. We will eliminate the DH for our club too!" And the other 14 teams will eventually fall in line, completely undoing the concept of the Designated Hitter, thus sending Selig packing to his retirement with his dreams crushed.
This as a nod to the best Houston blog site on the internet. Call me a suck-up, but you know that'd be awesome.
0 recs | 292 comments
I voted for Traffic
I think that’d be an awesome name.
CRPerry13 - January 24, 2012
why not trafficERS
HTown80 - January 24, 2012 via Android app
houston katricians
HTown80 - January 24, 2012 via Android app
Traffic or Flood would be good
though I was hoping "Turncoats " was on the list.
Joe in Birmingham - January 24, 2012
Benedict Arnolds?
chilam balam - January 25, 2012
Posted this on another topic, but here goes
Houston Loop
Colors smog and international orange. Bring back the old bullpen car but it will never be able to get out of the bullpen because there will be 4 other bullpen cars in its way with their hoods up and smoking.
Joe Fisher - January 24, 2012
More options
The Houston Flood—A hat tip to H-town’s most common disaster.
The Houston Sprawl—Like the city, the team will spread out all over you.
The Houston Humidity—Or smother you like a wet blanket.
The Houston Rainbows—Move over Redlegs and White Stockings; we’re throwing back to our most infamous unis and naming the team after them to boot.
The Houston Screw—Before they lost the team to Utah, New Orleans named their original pro basketball team The Jazz after the genre of music that was born there. So why shouldn’t we honor Houston’s late DJ Screw and his undying contribution to American music?
The Houston Fire Ants—Ouch! Ooch! Ouch! Ooh, that Houston team is a real pest!
Austin Astroholic - January 24, 2012
The Houston Screw would also reference the league change to the American League. Not bad.
CRPerry13 - January 24, 2012
Rather than Houston Flood, how about Houston Hurricanes? Not only is that a frequent disaster for the area, but it would pay homage to the event that allowed Bud Selig to make Miller Park in Milwaukee an Astros’ home field.
clack - January 24, 2012
I like that one.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I like Flood
Joe in Birmingham - January 24, 2012
Could just go with Houston Colts
/nod to Colt .45s
peppermartin - January 24, 2012
Houston Hydros
Houston Spicolis
Houston Rush
The Abrego - January 24, 2012
ready for the Astros to play the Rangers?
A Rangers’ fan at BBTF posted this comment on the thread about a possible Astros’ name change:
For the rest of the decade the most appropriate name would be Houston Bitche$. Because they will be the Texas Rangers’ bitche$ until at least 2017.
As a Ranger fan I go to Houston for two of the three games there every year. And every year Texas crushes them in Houston.
If the new front office isn’t brain dead I expect the Bitche$ to be adequate again in a couple of years. By then most Texans will have become Ranger fans instead of remaining Bitche$ fans. Say what you will about Houstonians, but they are the most bandwaggoning, “I will root only for a team that is winning and then abandon them when they hit hard times” bunch in the nation.
You might live in Houston and say “I am not that way” but you know most “fans” in Houston are.
I can’t WAIT for 2013. Welcome to the AL, Bitche$
clack - January 24, 2012
Stay classy, Arlington.
CRPerry13 - January 24, 2012
It's hard to be classy when you live in Southern Oklahoma
OremLK - January 24, 2012
funny
I have many friends from southern oklahoma. not one of them was a rangers fan until 2 yrs ago. I guess the “bandwaggon” label only applies to the city they’re insanely jealous of.
HTown80 - January 24, 2012 via Android app
truth
Only_A_Lad - January 24, 2012
Agree
There is so much truth to that statement, it’s not even funny. I lived in the Colony for a few years and maybe saw 30-50 people ever rocking Rangers gear in the streets of Dallas.
LonerATO - January 24, 2012
Wow. As a Ranger fan who lives in Houston
This really isn’t the right attitude, and doesn’t speak for all of us.
Most Rangers fans (who haven’t been following the team for just the last few years) are quite more humble when it comes to the success of our team. I mean, until 2010 the Rangers hadn’t even won a playoff series. We were perennial losers.
Team success comes and goes—and the Astros should be competitive if they go through some good rebuilding (i.e., just say no to Jack Cust). I welcome the rivalry and look forward to when our division is more than just west coast posers.
RyanBlueThunder - January 24, 2012
+1
McCutchenIsTheTruth - January 24, 2012
lol Im an Astros fan in southern Oklahoma
Danteslion - January 25, 2012
as long as Nelson Cruz is playing RF
we have a chance
04'-05'-glorydays - January 26, 2012
astros
ASTROS is a good name…. keep it…mike h
Mike HJALM - January 24, 2012
Then vote for Houston ______________________ and lead a fan initiative to keep it every year.
CRPerry13 - January 24, 2012
Way off topic from the name change,
And that Rangers fan comment that Clack posted above was just a tad infuriating, but it looks like Fielder is a Tiger. So much for Carlos becoming one.
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2012/01/tigers-to-sign-prince-fielder.html
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Sure is nice of all of the NL Central Stars to come hangout in the AL with us.
MadMartygan - January 24, 2012
That's
why I’m suggesting the
“Houston I thought we were getting away from Pujols and Fielder”
McCutchenIsTheTruth - January 24, 2012
Eh, maybe they'll be looking for a 5th DH come July or August 31.
reillocity - January 24, 2012
Angel Sanchez DFA'd
Our long nightmare has ended
OremLK - January 24, 2012
I just read that. We wont have to worry about Mills working Angel into the lineup this season.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The Marwin Gonzalez era has begun?
OremLK - January 24, 2012
That’s a good thing. I would much rather Marwin Gonzalez and Matt Downs get those at-bats instead of Angel.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
This makes it look very likely that Mar-Go makes the roster
Subber10 - January 24, 2012
I think it makes an infielder signing much more likely.
I am hoping both Theriot and Keppinger languish for a few more weeks before one is finally taken off the market and the other is left scrambling for a team… it is not worth getting them at market value, but getting a good deal on one of them carries a great deal of positive value for us.
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
Since Tatum was DFA’d last week, doesn’t this mean that an extra 40 man roster spot is open.
clack - January 24, 2012
I believe Tatum was DFA’d for Cust, and Sanchez was necessary for Snyder.
MadMartygan - January 24, 2012
you may be right about that.
clack - January 24, 2012
that is what happened. We had our roster filled after the rule 5, then we signed Cust and Snyder. So we dropped Sanchez and Tatum
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
I’m trying to think. The Villar designation was to make room for Martinez, the Tatum move was for Jack Customers, and now Sanchez for Snyder. Is that correct? Did the Customers signing mean that someone had to be removed from the roster or no since its not a guaranteed contract.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
No, they're trying to bring in more customers by lowering ticket prices.
:)
CRPerry13 - January 24, 2012
Yeah, didn’t catch that mistake. Thanks.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Sorry, Customers is Cust. Victim of autocorrect on the mobile.
Sorry guys.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
haha. I am sure that won’t be the last time that happens to one of us this year.
MadMartygan - January 24, 2012
I thought it was some weird nickname I hadn't heard before
OremLK - January 24, 2012
same here
orangeblood kid - January 24, 2012
Enough people post from their phones
that it could easily be one by the end of the season.
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
Commenting from my phone is
All I can do while I’m at work because the stupid firewall blocks all other sites. And unfortunately it seems like I’m at work all the time, so sorry if you get more crazy comments from me.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I like Jack Customers
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
That’s gonna stick now isn’t it.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
I dont know but I like it
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
Yes. I’m hoping it does.
MadMartygan - January 24, 2012
I love it too!
BustaPozee - January 24, 2012
va que va
I smell a new corporate sponsorship, with naming rights:
Jack-in-the-Box Field
Home of the Jack Customers
va que va - January 26, 2012
That’s why you need to be in control of the firewall. Like me.
Timothy De Block - January 24, 2012
I would love that. Unfortunately I’m a nobody and don’t have that kind of pull.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Houston Gamecocks
Timothy De Block - January 24, 2012
I don’t want to flag this comment….but I will give you a verbal thumbs down!
Subber10 - January 24, 2012
If you flag it then it would be Houston Gamecock red
Timothy De Block - January 24, 2012
I’d also like to point out that shirts like these get made.
http://r25.imgfast.net/users/2515/73/61/05/album/cocks_10.jpg
Timothy De Block - January 24, 2012
THATS HORRIBLE
She should take that shirt off immediately!
Its Gonna Happen - January 24, 2012 via mobile
giggity
Subber10 - January 24, 2012
butterface
LonerATO - January 24, 2012
LOVE!
Austin Astroholic - January 24, 2012
Houston "Non Southern Oklahomans"
we could lose 100 every year, but at least we’re not from dallas.
HTown80 - January 24, 2012 via Android app
Houston Phillies
fanoflosingteams - January 24, 2012
To be serious
If they really did change the name, which I’m 99% sure they won’t, maybe something to do with the shipping or railroad industries? Houston’s early growth historically came from those industries.
OremLK - January 24, 2012
I kept trying to think of a train reference but I kept coming back to “Houston Bazingas”
Timothy De Block - January 24, 2012
I agree i dont really see us as space city anymore. I thought something to do with trains would be much more fitting considering our mascot is Junction Jack and we have a train in the ballpark, and the ballpark is built around an old train station. Houston Steamrollers, IDK
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
The Houston Midnight Specials
a tribute to the great blues man Lead Belly, who wrote “Midnight Special” while incarcerated in a prison farm in Sugarland
thebluffrat - January 24, 2012
Fitting, considering that several of our games will drag on past midnight now.
T-Moar - January 25, 2012
How about the Houston Stars or Shooting Stars (Could even have a star coming out of a Colt .45?)
HBBigDog - January 24, 2012
One I forgot to put in the article, but meant to: Houston Comets
As a nod to the winningest Houston franchise in history. Sad but true. The now defunct WNBA team is the winningest Houston franchise that I know of.
CRPerry13 - January 24, 2012
Dynamo?
T-Moar - January 25, 2012
Comets won 4 straight championships '97 thru '00
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
Houston Cranes
astrosfan3 - January 24, 2012
Houston Warpigs
in honor of our illustrious owner
Only_A_Lad - January 24, 2012
If it results in this being played during the seventh inning stretch I’m all for it
OremLK - January 24, 2012
Bass god Geezer Butler agrees with you ---->
mike_o - January 27, 2012
... I just assume we stick with the Astros but if I must.
Houston Colt 45’s (we just have to spin it to them as marketing)
Houston Wildcatters
Houston Volunteers, Patriots, etc (Just south of Houston was the sight of the “battle” that won Texas independence)
Houston Comets
Houston Vaqueros
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
Wildcatters is actually pretty cool.
MadMartygan - January 24, 2012
Yes
BustaPozee - January 24, 2012
The reason that Colt 45s was originally dropped is that Colt firearms considers it a copyright violation.
clack - January 24, 2012
Wildcatters and Vaqueros sound good.
hunterpencefan - January 25, 2012
The Warmongers
After our owner and a nod to the bushes. I suppose war profiteers is more accurate but Warmongers sound better. Or “The Team That Used to Be” because between sucking so bad, moving to the AL, and a name change attendance is going to be exactly 1 whenever Itsgonnahappen gets tickets for free and feels like going to the game so the team will die off.
ntn - January 24, 2012
Just a hunch, but I’m not sure that alienating the republican majority in Houston is a great way to raise ticket sales. :)
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
-1
04'-05'-glorydays - January 26, 2012
I like the (Sam) Houston Generals
We can borrow from the Texans and become the Battlin’ Generals
thebluffrat - January 24, 2012
I really liked Houston Honeybadgers, that would be bad you know what. Lets tell the league, Houston dont give a s***
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
What IS the policy on swearing here? I know we’d like to keep it mostly work appropriate but is the occasional ass or shit punishable?
Its Gonna Happen - January 24, 2012 via mobile
We are about to find out
:)
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
If I recall from the terms of use
As long as it’s not excessive, and the ‘f’ word can only be used sparingly as in knee jerk reactions during live game threads
thebluffrat - January 24, 2012
Oh...ya...right...
The terms of use….ya, I read that too…. :^/
Its Gonna Happen - January 24, 2012 via mobile
This pretty much nails it
We’re not going to ding people for every little swear word, but if it starts getting out of hand or it’s going to escalate a situation we’ll step in and do something.
Timothy De Block - January 25, 2012
I care not
I’m not in charge. I’m not going to put anything explicit in my articles though. I debated long and hard about using the word “pimp,” but frankly I couldn’t think of another way to convey what I meant without sounding really boring.
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
Lol, "pimp" eh?
bet you almost had your fair share of soap in the mouth as a kid...almostIts Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
va que va
Honeybadgers is SO…2011.
va que va - January 26, 2012
I like what we could do with a name like the "Rebels"
But I can’t see myself rooting for a baseball team NOT called the Astros.
Then again, who could pass up listening to Billy Idol pump fans up?
Its Gonna Happen - January 24, 2012 via mobile
The name change will be our very own White Wedding
“It’s a nice day to…….START AGGAAAAAAAIIINNNNNN!!!
thebluffrat - January 24, 2012
Houston Decision Scientists
reillocity - January 24, 2012
Houston Metrics
Houston Outliers
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
the WARiors
thebluffrat - January 24, 2012
eh.. if we are going on Crane
Houston Investors
or
Houston Businessmen
but those are boring titles I suppose.
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
He he...
wrong War.. im a little slow today
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
I love the idea of having part of the team nickname in caps and part in lower case.
The problem is that the the decision scientists would have to scientifically decide whether Baseball Reference or FanGraphs was the better WAR source, and that would determine whether the club would be known as the bWARriors or fWARriors moving forward.
reillocity - January 24, 2012
I am sure they have their own Metric for wins added or something similar
so it would be Houston’s WAR… so the Houston WARriors would say it all.
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
Houston SABERs. Works on two levels. Ha.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Comrades
Since we are defecting to the AL, we shall be known as the Cosmonauts (or just Cosmos)
thebluffrat - January 24, 2012
va que va
Terrestros would be more appropriate the first couple of years of the move.
va que va - January 26, 2012
The Houston Oilers
Sam13 - January 24, 2012
The Houston Houstone's?
Can keep the same logo…
Its Gonna Happen - January 24, 2012 via mobile
That’s a good one. You could also go with Houston Houstonians there.
conroestro - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Colt 45's
The only name change i will be ok with.
CoolBreeze3 - January 24, 2012
I hope the Astros
Know that our joking means a name change is laughably stupid. Also I have question about the original article: what stigma are we trying to get rid of? The stigma of being a pretty good team for more than a decade before letting it all fall apart? If the pirates haven’t changed their name yet then there is a precedent set and we still have a long time before a name change is in order due to colossal sucking.
ntn - January 24, 2012
Pirates?
The Pirates have at least won a World Series title!
k36whitt - January 25, 2012
The Houston Obesity
Can’t take credit—suggested by a friend.
Austin Astroholic - January 24, 2012
Lets just cut to the chase on that one and call the team the
Houston El Caballos.
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
Love it!
McCutchenIsTheTruth - January 24, 2012
hah, thanks
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
Unrelated
https://twitter.com/#!/jcrasnick/status/161978520938094592
https://twitter.com/#!/jcrasnick/status/161978520938094592
I wonder if Snyder still gets the buyout if he declines his end of the mutual option? One would hope not.
This looks like an extremely reasonable deal though, regardless.
OremLK - January 24, 2012
I love the Astros and for the record I do not want the name to change
but with these reasonable deals it sure does not feel like the Astros… I like it.
Crzycjunx76 - January 24, 2012
That is a good contract. So 750K deal, 350K guaranteed, and the possibility for more in bonuses and incentives? The wording seems kind of confusing. Is the up to 750K part of the incentives or separate?
Either way its a good deal.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
No if they release him or anything like that he gets $350K, if he plays but doesnt reach any incentive levels he gets $750K, if he reaches all of his incentive levels he will get the $750K plus $1.75M.So he stands to earn as little as $350K and as much as $2.5M.
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
Gotcha. Thanks.
conroestro - January 24, 2012 via mobile
Houston Liberty
Buddahfan - January 24, 2012
+1
ccislanders - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Idiotic
I can’t believe this is serious enough to warrant two front-page posts. If it happens, then the exodus of fans will only hasten.
I’m with the above who said a retrogression is the only acceptable compromise:
Houston Colt .45’s
I’d also entertain returning to:
Houston Buffs
(Buffaloes)
pel - January 24, 2012
Sir
I concur, or Houston Honeybadgers just sayin
Astro#1fan - January 24, 2012
Come on!
What does either name signify that would just kill you to part with. Colt .45’s and Astros are symbolic for their tenure, not winning. Sometimes you need to just start over and begin a new tradition.
k36whitt - January 25, 2012
I can't believe you used the word "serious" when referencing my post above.
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
Houston Killer Bees
Jordan Sams - January 24, 2012
Game of the Week
Oakland A’s vs Houston B’s
Joe in Birmingham - January 24, 2012
I like the idea of that.
Timothy De Block - January 25, 2012
va que va
The permutations with split-squad games in Spring would cause one’s brain to hemorrhage. Thank god they play in different spring leagues.
va que va - January 26, 2012
Sorry for all the posts with my name in the title line. I forgot how to post.
I’ve laughed more reading through this thread than I have in a long time.
“I love you guys” —Cartman
va que va - January 26, 2012
I think a Killer Bee
would be a half-decent idea for a mascot.
My memory’s a little hazy, but didn’t minute maid park used to play a bzzzzzz every time one of the Killer B’s either got a hit or was up at the plate?
AstroB - January 28, 2012
Yes they did do that. It was great. Need to get some more B’s.
MadMartygan - January 28, 2012
Dude, killer bees is not the preferred nomenclature…Africanized honeybees, please. ;)
If Biggio and Bagwell don’t get into the Hall, I think we should start a local campaign to enshrine them locally in the team’s name like that.
AstroAndy - January 25, 2012
preferred nomenclature
Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man.
El Speverino - January 26, 2012
Killer bees is a negative stereotype, man. They’re not killers, man. They’re just misunderstood, man.
And illegal immigrants, but let’s not go there.
Matt McDougle - January 30, 2012
Houston Eclipse
Name still keeps in touch with the Space Industry, and sounds cool to me.
k36whitt - January 24, 2012
I like that one.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Sponsored by Mitsubishi
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
Houston Wranglers
2013. Wranglers vs. Rangers!
k36whitt - January 24, 2012
Would Brett Favre appear in our ads, too?
T-Moar - January 25, 2012
Just don't text him.
mike_o - January 27, 2012
Wranglers sounds cool. I prefer concrete mascots instead of inanimate mascots like Eclipse or similar names.
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
Houston Exporters
Last one I had in mind. Signifies Houston’s shipping industry.
k36whitt - January 24, 2012
Houston Longshoremen!
yaaar
Only_A_Lad - January 25, 2012
Bowman?
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
Houston Ions?
Houston Spartans?
Houston Dragons?
However said Houston Eagles, that’s pretty cool too.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
*Whoever
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Houston Bubble Boys?
Joe Fisher - January 25, 2012
Moops!
jello44 - January 25, 2012
Medical Center
When I think of Houston industries, the medical center comes to mnd. How about the Houston Heart Attacks? Methodist Hospital might renew their sponsorship for many years.
clack - January 25, 2012
What, you didn't like the "Houston Memorial Hermann Healthcare Systems" that I suggested in the post?
haha.
Houston Catheters?
Houston Chemos?
Houston HMOs?
Houston Medics?
I’m a bad person.
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
I like your Idea
i like the Houston "Sugeons’… will be called DOCS for short
monty4aloha - January 25, 2012
Houston Suicides
Houston Deaths
Houston Homicides
Houston Disabilities
Houston Amputations
Houston Wrecking Balls
Houston Terminally Ills
Houston Surgeries
Houston Lawsuits
Houston Bad Asses
BustaPozee - January 25, 2012
And now I’m depressed.
I’m ok with the Houston Bad Asses. I don’t think Selig would be, though.
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
LOL - here's a quote from my dad:
“I like the Houston Rangers, just to cause confusion.”
That’s a fantastic idea!
CRPerry13 - January 25, 2012
love this
one step further: let’s keep the n.a.s.a. theme and go with the ‘houston space rangers’
mikrobass3 - January 25, 2012
Houston Space Cowboys
Only_A_Lad - January 25, 2012
OK, I like it. But I am a Steve Miller Band fan.
clack - January 25, 2012
The Houston Gangsters of Love
Or Houston Maurices?
Foster Child - January 26, 2012
Least....favorite....band....ever.
…and I heart me some classic rock. But Steve Miller? C’mon man….
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
You’re just too young, I guess.
clack - January 26, 2012
No…I’ve played music for too long. Bands who only play 3 chords and force their rhymes just kill me on the inside.
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
The Houston (I can’t get no) Satisfaction are right out then.
mikrobass3 - January 26, 2012
To infinity and beyond!
Buzz Lightyear could be our mascot! Tal’s Hill could be the evil villain or lair
Timothy De Block - January 25, 2012
Now that's one way to top Arlington!
OremLK - January 25, 2012
Houston ZZ Tops
jello44 - January 25, 2012
They sometimes come to Astros’ games. Jeff Bagwell could grow the old ZZ Top facial hair for old time’s sake too.
clack - January 25, 2012
Eureka! I've got it! Ladies and Gentlemen, your 2013 HOUSTON TUSH !!!
mikrobass3 - January 26, 2012
Gets a rec from me.
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
Nah, there would be too many "bottom of the division" jokes
Foster Child - January 26, 2012
Or the Hush.
Hush – Deep Purple
mike_o - January 27, 2012
'Surgeons' or DOCS...
I want something positive and orginal and is about the city… The “SURGEONS” or THE DOCS…
monty4aloha - January 25, 2012
We could be ironical
The Houston Texans…wait a tic…taken. Well, Washington took Nationals, maybe we embrace our move to the AL, The Houston Americans! Slightly limits our player developement though…
Ironical
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Houston Americans.. Hmm
BustaPozee - January 25, 2012
Not really, as long as we only sign players from North, South, or Central America they can count as “Americans”. We don’t do much development of players outside of the Americas anyway.
Other than Matsui and RRS, how many other non-“Americans” have we had?
Matt McDougle - January 30, 2012
Astros prospects Chia Jong Moon and Chia Jen Lo say Hello!
clack - January 30, 2012
Why not the Oklahoma City Lightning
to go with the Thunder? Might as well move anyway, if the team is going to change its name.
T-Moar - January 25, 2012
Name Change
How ’bout the Houston Space Cadets?
jsalaska - January 25, 2012
The Houston Microdoctoraters of McAllen.
We gotta combine the cities.
ccislanders - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Lumberjacks?
ccislanders - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Off topic...prospects (the new top 100 comes out tonight)
I wonder how Adrian Houser has flown under the radar for so long. He was right there with Dylan Bundy and Archie Bradley (literally) but has received nowhere near the same hype, despite having a .62 ERA and 125 K’s in 62 IP as a senior in HS.
How many Astros prospects make the top 100, 3?..5?…?
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
I’ll guess Singleton, Springer and Cosart.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
With Singleton being in the top 50.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
Springer deserves top 50 too
But will only get it from a few publications, I think. Cosart is outside top 50 IMO.
OremLK - January 25, 2012
MLB.com will be releasing it a 9 I believe, so we’ll have something to talk about.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
Ugh. Singleton at 44.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
Cosart at 61 and Springer at 84.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
Villar cracked the top 100 last year.
He was somewhere in the 90s. Maybe he’ll make it in again.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
BA's top 100, anyway.
Any others? He was very borderline and I think most believe he didn’t take the step forward this year they wanted to see for him to maintain stock. Sickels has him at B- which is typically well outside the top 100 range.
OremLK - January 25, 2012
Oh…for some reason I thought that we were talking about BA’s list. But now I see we’re talking about MLB’s list. I’ll have to pay better attention.
Villar took some strides forward in the development of his power potential, but that’s about it. I don’t think his stock has fallen, but it didn’t rise either.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
BA tends to be more tools oriented, and that may be why Villar ranked higher with BA’s list.
clack - January 25, 2012
Yes, I think so.
Villar is nothing if not toolsy.
OremLK - January 25, 2012
If he has a really good year, I think he can get back in for 2013. I’m gonna say that DDJ gets into a few top 100s for 2013. I’m going all in on him.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
I’m still excited about Deshields, as well. I think he starts the season in Lexington, but moves up to Lancaster by June and kills it for the rest of the season.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Hmmm...
DDJ still puzzles me. I’m glad to see MLB ranked him in the top 10, but I am blinded by his .220-ish BA. I just can’t see past it. I know he was young and all but until he gets it up over .250 I’m going to let him make me eat my words.
Between whiffing on the 07 draft, taking mostly safe low ceiling guys in 08, and reaching for Mier and DDJ in consecutive years, I feel like we JUST started getting back on track. Hopefully we flat out ace this upcoming draft.
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
I think between A and A+ this year he will get 12 homers, 40 steals and get that OBP up above .360.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
I could live with that. Here’s hoping your psychic abilities are better than mine.
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Houser just doesn't have the stuff of Bradley or especially Bundy
His ceiling is probably as a number two guy and he’s a lot farther from getting their. Bundy and Bradley have ace potential and Bundy should move quickly.
That’s why Houser was a 2nd rounder and why he’s not getting much press. Is he a little underlooked, maybe, but he’s definitely not a top 100 guy.
No Astros prospects should make any top 100s except Singleton, Springer, Cosart. Well, maybe Villar from a few guys who really, really buy into his potential, but he doesn’t deserve top 100 status in my opinion.
OremLK - January 25, 2012
*getting there
Typing one-handed sucks and is so slow
OremLK - January 25, 2012
I KNOW right!
So hard to type while watching porn…
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
LOL
I actually cut my left hand wood carving, but yeah, I just realized that sounded hilarious
OremLK - January 25, 2012
Is that what they’re calling it these days?
Matt McDougle - January 30, 2012
5 on the high end no less than 3 for sure though.
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
If they want a cheesy new style name...
The Houston Energy
auclairkeithbc - January 25, 2012
Fuel, Bolts, or Power would work for that… but neither is befitting a baseball team IMO.. might as well name us the Hard Hats and go with a bright yellow cap.
I am narrowing my earlier list to three and adding a new one
Astros
Wildcatters
Vaqueros
Pistols (Selig would not be amused)
Crzycjunx76 - January 25, 2012
“Bolts” is a good one. I could see that one working.
Stupendous Man - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Selig wouldnt be amused but I would be!!
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
For a train reference, the Houston Spikes could be good.
AstroAndy - January 25, 2012
va que va
Houston We-Have-A-Problems
va que va - January 26, 2012
2 cents
I want to keep the name bc I feel like good names are hard to come by the Astros are one of them.
Houston Rigs (oil reference)
Houston ’Novas (space ref)
theSpaceCityKid - January 25, 2012
why not super Novas then that would be pretty cool actually.
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
"Super-" nomenclature would fit
what with the team being “moved” and all.
Only_A_Lad - January 25, 2012
Ya i actually suggested it for the Texans originally
The concept would be similar to the SuperSonics where they basically go by the Sonics. We would be the Supernovas but just the ’Novas
theSpaceCityKid - January 26, 2012
Astros have 3 top-100 prospects
BustaPozee - January 25, 2012
Whats this Im feeling?
Pride? It feels so strange…
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
I mean, just think….3 top 100 prospects! And we even drafted 1 of them!
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
Left me a little depressed. I was hoping Singleton and Springer would be a little higher. I guess you figure each team should have 3.3 prospects on average and we made all of the trades in the last few years. I guess if we could have considered Lyles, Alutuve and possible J.D, it would have looked way better.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
Thats how I figured it
Martinez and Lyles would have definately been in. And Altuve, from a numbers standpoint should have been in but there’s always the size factor and I can’t say for sure that they’d take him seriously.
Its Gonna Happen - January 25, 2012 via mobile
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
I don’t think Martinez ever made it on anybody’s Top 100 list. Altuve made it on Goldstein’s Top 100 list before he was called up. And, of course, Lyles was a Top 100 player before he was called up. I think Martinez’s wasn’t on a Top 100, because his offense wasn’t projected to be average for a starting LFer.
clack - January 25, 2012
As a theoretical Astros 2012 top ten. It starts looking nice.
1. Singleton
2. Lyles
3. Cosart
4. Altuve
5. Springer
6. Villar
7. Clemens
8. Folty
9. Santana
10. Obie
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
You don't think Martinez would've been in there?
I think he would have come in at number six on that list. I also think Altuve and Springer should be above Cosart, but I’m not that big on Cosart I guess.
If you take into account Paredes doing surprisingly well in the majors I think he also might be above most of these guys. Probably either just above, or just below Villar.
6 grade B or higher is pretty solid, possibly in the 10-15 range of farm systems. I think it’s kind of too bad Wade pushed Altuve, Martinez, Paredes, and Lyles so hard. It wouldn’t have been a bad thing at all for them to spend the rest of the year in the minors.
OremLK - January 25, 2012
I’m going by what Mayo tweeted, and I think J.D should have been on the big league club last year. I totally forgot about Paredes, but I’d have put him right after Villar.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
I’m going by what Mayo tweeted and that’s why Cosart is after Lyles. I’d probably have him at number 5 personally.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
Gotcha
Thought it was just your list and was meant to include all the rookies.
OremLK - January 26, 2012
Also somehow started both of those comments with the same beginning, ha, this Lakers-Clips game keeps catching my attention.
MadMartygan - January 26, 2012
who's winning
please say clips, please
HTown80 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
Freaking Lakers pulled it out.
MadMartygan - January 26, 2012
bastards with ears
HTown80 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
It really does start looking like a good farm system. There’s also some guys like DDJ, Wates, Nash and Houser. If some of the young C+ guys breakout, we’re not looking bad at all.
MadMartygan - January 26, 2012
agreed
we’re still far from being competitive. most people say 5-7. I say 3-5
HTown80 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
I saw Martinez on a Top 100 list last season
Back when B-Pro compiled different 100’s lists into one spreadsheet, I saw one site that had Martinez listed around the 80’s. I remembered thinking that that site must be less reputable than the others, because I agree with Mayo….Martinez is a great story, and might end up being a real good player, but he’s definitely not a scout’s dream.
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
Yeah I felt like we would/should have more but due to the complete rebuild last year most of our prospects before last years trade played too much to be considered prospects anymore. So I agree with It’s Gonna happen i am feelin pretty good.
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
Was anyone surprised not to see Delino Deshields? I know his numbers werent great last year, but the raw talent is there like few others, and he is only 19.
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
I didn’t think he’d make it this year, but I’m gonna expect him on a bunch next year. I’m on the bandwagon.
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
I guess it could be premature, but he just has too much raw talent not to be on the list i feel. But what do I know??
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
There are a bajillion toolsy guys in just about every team
DDJ has a great chance to move up some lists, but at his age, he’s done nothing to warrant top prospect recognition.
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
It’s his age that warrants the top prospect ranking. I wouldn’t put him on the Top 100, but it is the combination of tools with his very young age that makes him a top prospect.
clack - January 26, 2012
I meant top 100
You’re splitting hairs. :)
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
just a thought
with fielder and pujols both gone from the nlc, I think there is actually a chance we only lose 95-99 next year. small victories guys, small victories.
HTown80 - January 25, 2012 via Android app
That’s the spirit!
MadMartygan - January 25, 2012
I can see a wide range for the record—-from worse than last year to 70 wins on the optimistic side. Some people think the Cubs can lose 100 games. The Pirates could have 95 or more losses. The Astros will have a lot of losses, but how many 100 loss teams can you have in the same division?
clack - January 26, 2012
So we are going to save the Cubs and Pirates from hitting 100 by being worse than them
Better 100+ losses and a #1 pick than 95 losses or so and a lesser pick.
Crzycjunx76 - January 26, 2012
I think it’s possible that the Astros will be better than the Cubs. The Pirates probably will regress from last year. I’m not sure whether each of those teams makes 100 losses or not, given the large number of games against each other. But it will mean that the Reds, Cards, and Brewers will have a chance at really good records.
clack - January 29, 2012
reds signed Jeff Francis, Rays sign Keppinger
Astro#1fan - January 25, 2012
also
RoyO likely to end up in occupied oklahoma south. why god, oh why. berkman wears pinstripes ans then a shit bird on his uni. now roy will be touting our states name on a team from oklahoma.
HTown80 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
dallas is in oklahoma right?
HTown80 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
Yes. Yes it is.
KWashburn - January 26, 2012
gonna miss kepp
HTown80 - January 25, 2012 via Android app
Im in favor of Houston Space Cowboys. AL won’t know what hit em.
Astrofan - January 26, 2012
How about
Houston Apollos
Houston On-Ramps
Houston Alligators
Houston Bud Selig Haters
Houston Blues
Foster Child - January 26, 2012
I like the Apollos
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
I like the Blues
i could see how the Blues could relate to Houston.
also it sounds like a pretty traditional Baseball Nickname.
(kind of fits the confidence of the city too)
i like the Houston Buffaloes (has history)
Houston Revolution (reference to San Jacinto)
What about the Babies? ( Houstons first baseball team)
i could never imagine the Astros with a different name.
dont change it.
byrontye - January 26, 2012
but, being that they are moving to the AL, a name change would be a way to close the book in the NL and start anew.
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
Blues
Could introduce a “Love Ya Blues” campaign as a subtle nod back to the Oilers.
PJanuary - January 28, 2012
new name
I would rather see more serious name suggestions and not jokes. Maybe something train related. Something that the will be cool with a cool logo.
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
I'd rather see jokes because I'd rather not discuss a serious name change for the Astros. It's a horrible idea.
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
Train-related?
I don’t get this line of thinking, when Houston has one of the most unique things to be associated with a city; the space program.
mike_o - January 27, 2012
what space program?
Timothy De Block - January 27, 2012
NASA.
They’re kind of a big thing.
mike_o - January 27, 2012
"Kind of" being the key word there
http://blog.chron.com/txpotomac/2012/01/budget-conscious-gop-candidates-largely-accept-obamas-roadmap-for-space/
Timothy De Block - January 27, 2012
www.catskillarchive.com/rrextra/glossry1.Html
Train’s are known as Ironhorses, cold like that with Colts
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012 via Android app
What's in a name
How about either the Houston Bud Seligs or the Houston Cockroaches ? Wait a second……there’s no difference between the two. Oh well, when they start playing in the adult T-ball league in 2013, it won’t matter to me because this fan of 51 years won’t be watching and won’t be caring. Thanks for absolutely nothing Mssrs. Crane, Selig, and McLane. ( who are also all candidates for the 2012 Biggest Douche in the Universe Award )
lymber1955 - January 26, 2012
who are you going to root for?
Who are you going to root for?
Can you just switch off your love for the game?
byrontye - January 26, 2012
I will root for NO team.
Yes, I can switch off my love of the game, because I USED to love the HOUSTON ASTROS, and no other team. The vast majority of today’s professional athletes, and the owners of their teams, are nothing more than spoiled, egotistical, HIGHLY overpaid wimps. I refuse to put up with their never ending streams of B.S. and will no longer spend ( or should I say waste ) so much as a minute of my time watching these various assortments of millionaire buffoons and thugs play the games that I once enjoyed. Of course, it won’t be too much longer, and professional sports will be one of the very last things ANY American will be concerned about. But that’s another story.
lymber1955 - January 26, 2012
First time I’ve read of a 51 year old using “Douche” on an internet message board. That probably qualifies you for some kind of award.
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
not joking
im not keen on idea of trains.
i wish the would get rid of the train in center
along with junction jack and bring back orbit.
Stay the Houston Astros (Greek for star and short for astronauts?)
byrontye - January 26, 2012
what about a Space Train?
Timothy De Block - January 26, 2012
All of this.
mike_o - January 27, 2012
not joking
im not keen on idea of trains.
i wish the would get rid of the train in center
along with junction jack and bring back orbit.
Stay the Houston Astros (Greek for star and short for astronauts?)
byrontye - January 26, 2012
I think we're missing the obvious one
Houston Crawfish!
Foster Child - January 26, 2012
No
Need a cool and/or tough mascot.
Ryan2907 - January 26, 2012
have you ever fought a crawfish before? those things are mean.
Timothy De Block - January 27, 2012
You realize that's one of the options on the poll, right?
CRPerry13 - January 26, 2012
You totally just snuck that in after the fact. Shenanigans!
MadMartygan - January 26, 2012
What I meant was that everyone who reads the blog should vote for that name automatically...
Foster Child - January 27, 2012
seriously, though
i like the rhythmic sound of the Houston Revoution. and it does have a historical connotation.
i am on record for supporitng a voluntray uniform, logo and name change to go along with the forced league change.
mikrobass3 - January 27, 2012
Screaming Yellow Parakeets
Jim Deshaies was asked about the possibility of a name change during an online chat with fans on Tuesday. He said he prefers they remain the Astros, but if they do change the name he likes the “Screaming Yellow Parakeets”.
Matt McDougle - January 29, 2012
NAME CHANGE
HOUSTON HOTSHOTS
jssptx - January 29, 2012
Name changer
Here is a couple
Houston Raiders
Houston Mockingbirds
Houston Rockets
adamgh1 - January 29, 2012
I like "Mockingbirds"
CRPerry13 - January 30, 2012
I can see a lot of “clever” sports writers weaving “To Kill A Mockingbird” into their stories
clack - January 30, 2012
It’d be a welcome relief from the variations on “Houston, We Have A Problem,” but it would probably get old very fast.
AstroAndy - January 30, 2012
NAME CHANGE
Half-Astros
CandiKutie76053 - January 30, 2012
well-played
CRPerry13 - January 30, 2012
McTaggart reporting Astros name here to stay
http://brianmctaggart.mlblogs.com/2012/01/30/astros-wont-change-name/
jmike - January 30, 2012
A legit possible new name.
We should call em the “Houston Wranglers”. I think it’s actually pretty good.
Chandler A - January 31, 2012
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