By Will Martin
A solid week of spring training has now run its course in Florida.
Later this week spring training games will begin to lead us toward the start of the regular season come April 1st in Houston, Texas.
Wednesday marked the sixth full workout squad and tenth overall for the Houston Astros.
Starting Friday, Houston will begin their slate of exhibition games with the Atlanta Braves at Disney. Right hander Lucas Harrell will get the start on the 28th of February.
Manager Bo Porter will announce the rest of the pitchers for Friday night’s game soon.
Minor league mini-camp commenced with at least 20 players taking part.
Craig Biggio will be in camp for March 17th-19th. You can also expect to see familiar faces of the past like Jose Cruz, Dickie Thon, and Enos Cabell.
Last week on February 20th Roy Oswalt was in camp for a visit. Both Roy and Lance Berkman will be honored on April 5th at Minute Maid Park in a pregame press ceremony and presser.
Currently the Houston Astros have 64 players in camp. 24 of those are non-roster. 34 pitchers, 6 catchers, 13 infielders, and 11 outfielders.
Last week there were visits by Joe Torre and Tony LaRussa to discuss the new guidelines in place for instant replay as it will be used in some games and instances during spring training.
In case you wonder Nolan Ryan-the Astros newest hire as of February 11th-will make a trek to camp in Kissimmee, Fla. on March 10th.
Baseball indeed is back.