Houston Astros News

Wandy Rodriguez had his best outing of spring training on Saturday, and then the Houston Astros said the left-hander will be their fourth starter. Despite a rough camp, Rodriguez had been penciled in at the position mainly because he’s the only left-handed starter remaining on the roster following Andy Pettitte’s move to the Yankees.

Astros starter Woody Williams got an unexpected jolt when he took the mound at Minute Maid Park on Friday night for the first time since joining the team. The 40-year-old right-hander, who grew up in Houston and is a longtime Astros fan, signed a two-year, $12.5 million contract in November to be the Astros’ No.

To get inside players’ heads, check these Q&A’s from players on teams in the National League Central. For more 2007 preview info, get this week’s Sporting News.

Houston Astros second baseman Craig Biggio might announce his retirement, effective at the end of the season.

Jason Jennings settled down and finished with a flourish in his final spring training tuneup. Houston’s No. 2 starter gave up two runs — one earned — in the first inning before finding a groove Thursday night and pitching an Astros split squad to a 6-4 victory over the Round Rock Express, their Triple-A affiliate.

Roger Clemens is in no hurry to make a decision on whether or not to continue his career, but he did tell a fan…

With the first pitch ready to be thrown, we take a look at who will shine and who will flop in 2007.

Yankees manager Joe Torre isn’t sure whether his team will break camp with two left-handed relievers. Ron Villone didn’t help his cause for the potential spot by allowing three runs without recording an out in New York’s 12-2 loss to the Houston Astros on Wednesday night. Villone’s exhibition season struggles continued.

The Houston Astros placed pitcher Brandon Backe and catcher Hector Gimenez on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday. Backe is rehabbing from right elbow reconstruction surgery, and Gimenez had shoulder surgery this month. Houston also released minor league left-hander Kelly Wunsch. Outfielder Charlton Jimerson requested and was granted his release.

Washington first baseman Nick Johnson went on the 15-day disabled list Wednesday, while he recovers from the broken right leg that ended his 2006 season. Right-hander Luis Ayala (reconstructive elbow surgery in March 2006), left-hander Mike O’Connor (left elbow surgery in November) and outfielder Alex Escobar (right shoulder surgery in September) also were put on […]