The Rocket Is Ready To Launch, Almost

The Astros fans let out a collective sigh of relief yesterday. Roger Clemens re-signed for another year(almost). He will make his first start at MinuteMaid on June 22nd. Are the numbers significant? First start date June 22 and his salary is 22,000,022 pro-rated at $12+million. Since his jersey number is 22, go figure. He will first warm up by pitching at the Lexington minor league team with his son. Can you imagine the buzz around that dugout? The kids at the lowest level are going to try to hit the Rocket.

The 'Stros really need a lift. The team is really eager to have him back. Maybe he can help out his good friend Andy who has been struggling this year. And the rookie pitchers would love to have a little advise. Right now the younger pitchers are getting quality starts most of the time. The bullpen on the other hand is not doing it's job very well.

The defense is doing a relatively good job both outfield and infield. But the offense is again irritating. One game they have runs galore and the game struggle for runs. There are untold times the team has ended an inning with the bases loaded. That is obviously frustrating. But on the whole the team is doing better than last year. Last year they were considered "dead and buried" on June 1st. Now we are a 500 team and in 4th place. Could be better, but there is hope. After all, the Astros, traditionally, have always been a second half team. After the All-Star break they seem to pick up steam.

The fans are giddy with anticipation. As soon as they heard that the press conference was to begin, fans flooded the ticket office wanting to buy tickets. Hopefully, the fans will again have hope. The big question is can his 43 year old body take the strain? That is what Clemens wants to know. No one wants to see that much money spent if he can not do the job. Only time will tell.

At least the Rocket is on the pad, getting ready to launch!