The following is a history of the Houston Astros of Major League Baseball. Major league affiliations National League (1962–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 5, 24, 25, 32, 33, 34, 40, 42, 49 Name Houston Astros (1965–present) Houston Colt . ... Major Leagues redirects here. ...

Franchise history

Beginnings: The 1960s

Houston Colt .45s Logo, 1962-1964

Subsequent to the Giants and Dodgers leaving for California, an abortive attempt was made to start a third major league. It was to be called the Continental League. Though the league never got off the ground, it nonetheless established the demand for major league baseball in other markets. Image File history File links HOU_1094. ... Image File history File links HOU_1094. ... Major league affiliations National League (1883–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers NY, NY, 3, 4, 11, 24, 27, 30, 36, 42, 44 Name San Francisco Giants (1958–present) New York Giants (1885–1957) New York Gothams (1883–85) Other nicknames The Jints, The Gigantes, The G... Major league affiliations National League (1890–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 2, 4, 19, 20, 24, 32, 39, 42, 53 Name Los Angeles Dodgers (1958–present) Brooklyn Dodgers (1932-1957) Brooklyn Robins (1914-1931) Brooklyn Dodgers (1913) Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers (1911-1912) Brooklyn Superbas (1899... This article is about the U.S. state. ... The Continental League (or formally the Continental League of Professional Baseball Clubs) was a proposed third major league for baseball, announced in 1959 and scheduled to begin play in the 1961 season. ...

On October 17, 1960, Judge Roy Hofheinz and the existing Continental League ownership group from Houston was awarded a franchise in the ten-team National League The team was to be named the Houston Colt .45s. In addition to the Houston Colt .45s, the New York Mets would also join the NL in 1962, a year after the 1961 expansion of the American League, which resulted in new AL teams in Los Angeles (Los Angeles Angels) and Washington, D.C. (a new Washington Senators franchise to replace the team that had left D.C. to become the Minnesota Twins the same year). is the 290th day of the year (291st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1960 throughout the world. ... Roy Mark Hofheinz (April 10, 1912–November 22, 1982), popularly known as Judge Hofheinz, was mayor of the city of Houston, Texas from 1953 to 1955. ... In the United States, the corporation which owns a major league sports team is often called the franchise as a colloqiual term. ... National league can refer to: National Basketball League, in the United States and Canada, which merged with the rival Basketball Association of America to form the National Basketball Association National Football League, the major American football league in the United States National Hockey League, the major ice hockey league in... Major league affiliations National League (1962–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 14, 37, 41, 42, Shea Name New York Mets (1962–present) Other nicknames The Amazin Mets, The Amazins, The Metropolitans, The Kings of Queens Ballpark Shea Stadium (1964-present) Polo Grounds (1962–1963) Major league... The following are the events of the year 1962 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... Major league affiliations American League (1961–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 11, 26, 29, 30, 42, 50 Name Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (2005–present) Anaheim Angels (1997-2004) California Angels (1965-1996) Los Angeles Angels (1961-1965) Other nicknames The Halos, The Wings, The Seraphs... Major league affiliations American League (1961–present) West Division (1972–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 26, 34, 42 Name Texas Rangers (1972–present) Washington Senators (1961-1971) Other nicknames None in common use Ballpark Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (1994–present) a. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 3, 6, 14, 29, 34, 42 Name Minnesota Twins (1961–present) Washington Nationals/Senators (1901-1960) Other nicknames The Twinkies Ballpark Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome 1982-present Metropolitan Stadium (1961-1981) Griffith Stadium (1911-1960...

The "Colts" began play on April 10, 1962, and for the next three years, the team would play in Colt Stadium. is the 100th day of the year (101st in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the events of the year 1962 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... Colt Stadium was a Major League baseball stadium that formerly stood in Houston, Texas. ...

On Sunday, September 29, 1963, the final day of the regular season, Colt 45's outfielder John Paciorek would have a career day, going 3-for-3 with 3 RBIs, 2 walks and 4 runs scored as the team beat the Mets 13-4. Because of chronic injuries, the game would mark Paciorek's only major league appearance. Through 2006, Paciorek still holds the record of having a perfect 1.000 average with the most at-bats. September 29, 1963 would also mark the last major league game for the winning pitcher of that game, Astros pitcher Jim Umbricht. Stricken with cancer, Umbricht would pass away on April 8, 1964. His number 32 was the first jersey number retired by the Astros. is the 272nd day of the year (273rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the events of the year 1963 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... John Francis Paciorek (born February 11, 1945, in Detroit, Michigan) is an American baseball player with three career Major League at-bats, all for the Houston Colt . ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2006 throughout the world. ... is the 272nd day of the year (273rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the events of the year 1963 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... James Umbricht (September 17, 1930 in Chicago, Illinois - April 8, 1964 in Houston, Texas) was an American pitcher in Major League Baseball. ... Cancer is a class of diseases or disorders characterized by uncontrolled division of cells and the ability of these to spread, either by direct growth into adjacent tissue through invasion, or by implantation into distant sites by metastasis (where cancer cells are transported through the bloodstream or lymphatic system). ... is the 98th day of the year (99th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1964 throughout the world. ...

The franchise's first decade displayed some great hitters (for example, Joe Morgan, Jimmy Wynn) and many great pitchers (for example, Bob Bruce, Ken Johnson, Mike Cuellar, Don Wilson, Larry Dierker, Dave Giusti, and Denny LeMaster.) This article is about the former Major League Baseball player. ... James Sherman Jimmy Wynn (born March 12, 1942 in Hamilton, Ohio), nicknamed The Toy Cannon, is a former center fielder in Major League Baseball who played for the Houston Astros, Los Angeles Dodgers, Atlanta Braves, New York Yankees, and Milwaukee Brewers. ... Robert James Bruce (born May 16, 1933, in Detroit, Michigan) was a starting pitcher in Major League Baseball. ... Kenneth Travis Johnson (born June 16, 1933 in West Palm Beach, Florida) is a former right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Houston Colt . ... Miguel Angel Cuellar Santana (born May 8, 1937 in Santa Clara, Cuba), best known as Mike Cuellar (coo-Eh-yar), is a former left-handed starting pitcher in Major League Baseball who spent most of his career with the Baltimore Orioles. ... Donald Edward Wilson, (February 12, 1945-January 5, 1975), was a Major League Baseball player for the Houston Astros. ... Lawrence Edward Dierker (born September 22, 1946 in Hollywood, California) is a former pitcher and manager in Major League Baseball who had a 14-year playing career from 1964 to 1977 and a 5-year career leading the Houston Astros from 1997 to 2001. ... Dave Giusti (born November 27, 1939, Seneca Falls, New York) was a Major League Baseball pitcher from 1962 to 1977. ...

New venue, new name

On April 9, 1965, the Houston Colt .45s became the Houston Astros and inaugurated indoor baseball in the Astrodome. is the 99th day of the year (100th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1965 throughout the world. ... The Reliant Astrodome, formerly just the Astrodome, is a domed sports stadium in Houston, Texas, and is part of the Reliant Park complex. ...

Houston Astros Logo, 1965-1974

The Sporting News Official Baseball Guide for 1965 had this to say about why the team was renamed: "Late in the year 1964 the Harris County Domed Stadium was officially named the Astrodome after the Houston club changed its nickname, December 1, from Colt .45s to Astros. The move resulted from objections by the Colt Firearms Company to the club's sales of novelties bearing the old nickname." Image File history File links HOU_1093. ... Image File history File links HOU_1093. ... Also Nintendo emulator: 1964 (emulator). ... is the 335th day of the year (336th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... For other uses, see CMC. Colts Manufacturing Company (CMC--formerly Colts Patent Firearms Manufacturing Company) is a United States firearms manufacturer founded in 1847. ...

Regardless of trademark issues, "Astros" was a good fit for the futuristic ambiance of the revolutionary domed stadium and also since Houston was by then the home of NASA's astronaut program. The scoreboard retained subliminal references to the old nickname, as it featured electronically animated cowboys firing pistols, with the "bullets" ricocheting around the scoreboard, when an Astros player would hit a home run. Early on, the groundskeepers also wore astronaut spacesuits to promote that futuristic image. For other uses, see NASA (disambiguation). ... For other uses, see Astronaut (disambiguation). ...

As a condition of their entry in the National League, the Astros committed to building a new domed stadium, designed as a defense against the oppressive heat and humidity of the Houston summer. The result was the Astrodome.

Loosely based on the old Roman Colosseum, the Astrodome was like no venue that had come before it, and it was dubbed the Eighth Wonder of the World. As with many stadiums of that era, such as RFK Stadium and Shea Stadium, the Astrodome was a multi-purpose stadium, designed for both football and baseball. However, because it was enclosed, it could also be used for events traditionally held in indoor arenas, such as basketball, concerts and political conventions, allowing outdoor-sized crowds in an indoor venue. The Colosseum in Rome, Italy The Colosseum, originally known as the Flavian Amphitheater (lat. ... Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Stadium, informally known as RFK Stadium, is a sports stadium that opened in 1961. ... This article is about the home of the New York Mets. ...

Besides its roof, the Astrodome was revolutionary for a number of other reasons. It was one of the first stadiums to have individual, theatre-type seats for every seat in the venue. Additionally, it was one of the first stadiums to have luxury seats and club seating, at the time a relatively new concept in sports venues. It also had an "exploding scoreboard", which would show various animations after a home run or a win, as well as messages and advertising.

The Astrodome was also one of the first stadiums in the country to use an artificial playing surface. The creation of an artificial surface came across based on necessity. Originally the Astrodome had a grass field and a transparent roof. However, during the 1965 season, players and fans complained about the glare on the field which detracted from the game. As a result, the roof was painted black. This solved the glare problem but killed off the grass. As a solution the Astros deployed a product from Monsanto Corporation called AstroTurf, a surface that could be used in any condition, and a surface that was, compared to grass, low maintenance. The following are the baseball events of the year 1965 throughout the world. ... The Monsanto Company (NYSE: MON) is a multinational agricultural biotechnology corporation. ... This article is about artificial grass. ...

The surface did prove resilient to routine game play and was relatively safe, resulting in a number of colleges and pro teams switching to artificial surface fields. Additionally, AstroTurf made possible a number of other domed stadiums, such as the Superdome, the Carrier Dome, and the Pontiac Silverdome. Superdome can stand for: Louisiana Superdome HP Superdome server ... The Carrier Dome is a 50,000-seat [1] domed sports stadium located on the campus of Syracuse University in the University Hill neighborhood of Syracuse, New York, USA. It is home to the Syracuse Orange football, basketball, and lacrosse teams. ... A disputed record setting 93,173 fans in attendance for WrestleMania III at the Pontiac Silverdome. ...

1970s

The year 1975 would be marked by tragedy with the suicide of former Astros pitcher Don Wilson, who had pitched two no-hitters for the club. Wilson's jersey, number 40, was also retired by the Astros. This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January-June January 23 - Ralph Kiner is elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... For other uses, see Suicide (disambiguation). ... Donald Edward Wilson, (February 12, 1945-January 5, 1975), was a Major League Baseball player for the Houston Astros. ...

The Astros in 1975 would also adopt the orange, yellow and navy "Rainbow Guts" uniforms that became a team trademark and would stay with them in some form through 1993. These uniforms (nicknamed "the popsicles") bore a black band around the sleeve with the number "40" written in white, honoring Don Wilson. They were originally made by Sand-Knit, were highly popular with fans, increased awareness of the Astros considerably, and kicked off a fashion trend which would spread to Astros' farm teams from the Dubuque Packers to the Charleston Charlies. Eventually, the Rainbow Guts would be worn by many a recreational softball team, as well as high schools and colleges (notably Seton Hall, Tulane, and Louisiana Tech). At the same time, the Astros also switched from blue caps to orange (although later they would revert to blue caps for road games and, eventually, all games). The Astros would sport a toned-down version from 1987 to 1993. This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January-June January 23 - Ralph Kiner is elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... The Rainbow Guts uniform or the popsicle uniform is a nickname for a series of uniform styles worn by the Houston Astros Major League Baseball club from 1975 to 1993. ... // This year in baseball Events January - Reggie Jackson is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America, receiving 94% of the vote. ... “Seton Hall” redirects here. ... Tulane University is a private, nonsectarian, coeducational research university located in New Orleans, Louisiana. ... Louisiana Tech University, located in Ruston, Louisiana, is a full fledged public university with an average 12,000 - 14,000 students each year. ... This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January 14 - Catfish Hunter and Billy Williams are elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... // This year in baseball Events January - Reggie Jackson is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America, receiving 94% of the vote. ...

In 1972, the Astros would have their best showing to date. Under three different managers - including legendary manager Leo Durocher, (whose last managerial job would be with these Astros), the Astros finished the 1972 season 84-69, and in second place in the NL West. The following are the events of the year 1972 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... Leo Ernest Durocher (July 27, 1905 — October 7, 1991), nicknamed Leo the Lip, was an American infielder and manager in Major League Baseball. ... The following are the events of the year 1972 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... In Major League Baseball, the National League Western Division, or NL West, is one of three subdivisions of the National League. ...

It was with the Astros that Bob Watson scored the 1,000,000th run in baseball history on May 4, 1975. Because there were other players in other venues competing simultaneously for the right to be designated with the milestone, Watson had to run around the bases after a home run at full speed so as to ensure that he would be the one credited with scoring the historic run. For the lacrosse player, see Bob Watson (lacrosse). ... is the 124th day of the year (125th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January-June January 23 - Ralph Kiner is elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ...

Former Pittsburgh Pirates player and manager Bill Virdon arrived in May, 1975 as the team's new manager. This article is about the baseball team. ... William Charles Virdon (born June 9, 1931) is a retired American baseball player, manager and coach. ... Year 1975 (MCMLXXV) was a common year starting on Wednesday (link will display full calendar) of the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January-June January 23 - Ralph Kiner is elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ...

1979-85: The Start of Something Big; Taste of October

Nolan Ryan pitching

After three seasons hovering around .500, the Astros would be involved in their first real pennant race in 1979. Though the team was dead last in power - they only hit 49 home runs as a team and nobody hit more than 10 home runs - the 1979 Astros were a team built around pitching and speed. In fact, the Astros led the National League with 190 steals; four of the Astros' regular players had over 30 steals. The team's stars included outfielder José Cruz, Sr., third baseman Enos Cabell and pitcher J.R. Richard. This formula enabled the Astros to lead the National League West for much of the season, leading the division by 10 games at the All-star break. Yet they were unable to hold off the Cincinnati Reds, who edged the Astros on the last weekend for the National League West title, ultimately winning the division by 1.5 games. Image File history File links Nolan_Ryan_in_Atlanta. ... Image File history File links Nolan_Ryan_in_Atlanta. ... Lynn Nolan Ryan, Jr. ... This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January-June January 23 - Ralph Kiner is elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... José Cruz (born August 8, 1947 in Arroyo, Puerto Rico) is a former outfielder and a coach in Major League Baseball. ... Enos Cabell (1949- Present) played 15 seasons of Major League Baseball for the Baltimore Orioles, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, Detroit Tigers, and Los Angeles Dodgers. ... James Rodney Richard (born March 7, 1950 in Vienna, Louisiana) was a Major League Baseball pitcher for the Houston Astros. ... Major league affiliations National League (1890–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 5, 8, 10, 13, 18, 20, 24, 42 Name Cincinnati Reds (1958–present) Cincinnati Redlegs (1953-1958) Cincinnati Reds (1882-1953) Cincinnati Red Stockings (1876-1882) Other nicknames The Redlegs, The Big Red Machine... In Major League Baseball, the National League Western Division, or NL West, is one of three subdivisions of the National League. ...

Following the 1979 season, Nolan Ryan signed with the Astros as a free agent, agreeing to MLB's first million-dollar per year salary. They also brought back popular Texas native Joe Morgan (who began his Hall of Fame career with the Astros) to bring leadership to this young team. The following are the baseball events of the year 1979 throughout the world. ... Lynn Nolan Ryan, Jr. ... Free agency can be: In Latter-day Saint theology, free agency is the name of the human capacity to make choices for themselves and to choose between right and wrong. ... The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, located at 62 Main Street in Cooperstown, New York, is a semi-official museum operated by private interests serving as the central point for the study of the history of baseball in the United States and beyond, the display of baseball-related...

Using much the same pitching and speed strategy in 1980 as they had in 1979, the Astros won their first NL West championship. They entered the final weekend series against the Dodgers with a three-game lead only needing to win one of the final three games to clinch the NL West. However, the Astros were swept, forcing a one game postseason playoff game - the first such playoff since the National League switched to two-division format in 1969. In the game in Los Angeles, Joe Niekro won his 20th game as the Astros cruised to an easy 7-1 victory over the Dodgers, clinching the team's first divisional title with a 93-70 record. This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January 9 - Al Kaline and Duke Snider are elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... Major league affiliations National League (1890–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 2, 4, 19, 20, 24, 32, 39, 42, 53 Name Los Angeles Dodgers (1958–present) Brooklyn Dodgers (1932-1957) Brooklyn Robins (1914-1931) Brooklyn Dodgers (1913) Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers (1911-1912) Brooklyn Superbas (1899... The following are the baseball events of the year 1969 throughout the world. ... Dodger Stadium is a large outdoor baseball stadium in Los Angeles, California at Chávez Ravine. ... Joseph Franklin Niekro (November 7, 1944 – October 27, 2006) was an American starting pitcher in Major League Baseball, the younger brother of Hall of Fame pitcher Phil Niekro, and the father of first baseman Lance Niekro. ...

In the National League Championship Series, the Astros would push the Phillies to five games in what is widely regarded as one of the best postseason series in baseball history. The last four games all went to extra innings, with the final game decided by one run after many twists and turns in the late innings. In the decisive fifth game the Astros would take a 5-2 lead into the top of the 8th against the Phillies. However, Nolan Ryan would be unable to hold the lead. The Astros would go on to lose to the Phillies in 10 innings, 8-7. The 1980 National League Championship Series was played between the Philadelphia Phillies and the Houston Astros from October 7 to October 12. ... Major league affiliations National League (1883–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 14, 20, 32, 36, 42 Name Philadelphia Phillies (1884–present) Philadelphia Quakers (1883-1889) (Also referred to as Blue Jays 1943-1945 despite formal name remaining Phillies) Other nicknames The Phils, The Phightin Phils...

Tragedy would rear its head again for the Astros in 1980. J.R. Richard, considered to be a front-runner for the National League's Cy Young Award and one of the most dominating pitchers in baseball, had a 10-4 record and an ERA of 1.73 on July 30, 1980 when he suffered a stroke before a game. In the days and weeks previous, Richard had complained of a "dead arm" and shoulder and neck pains. Additionally, in his last start on July 14, he said he was unable to read the catcher's signs. The stroke nearly killed him and although Richard survived, he never would pitch in the major leagues again. This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January 9 - Al Kaline and Duke Snider are elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... James Rodney Richard (born March 7, 1950 in Vienna, Louisiana) was a Major League Baseball pitcher for the Houston Astros. ... The Cy Young Award of the American League, 1983. ... In baseball statistics, earned run average (ERA) is the mean of earned runs given up by a pitcher per nine innings pitched. ... is the 211th day of the year (212th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January 9 - Al Kaline and Duke Snider are elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... For other uses, see Stroke (disambiguation). ... is the 195th day of the year (196th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ...

In the strike-shortened 1981 season, the Astros made the playoffs once again as the second half Western Division champions. This ballclub succeeded thanks to free agent acquisition Don Sutton. Even if their pitching was excellent, the Astros' "Chinese Water Torture" offense was so slow that it went "drip, drip, drip." The Astros got to face the Dodgers in the special pre-LCS playoffs. After winning the first two games, the Dodgers went on to win the final three games, thus making the Astros the first team in baseball history to lose a five game series, after winning the first two games. The 1981 baseball strike was the fifth work stoppage since 1972. ... Donald Howard Sutton (born April 2, 1945 in Clio, Alabama) is a former Major League Baseball player and current television sportscaster. ... Chinese water torture is the popular name for a method of water torture in which water is slowly dripped onto a persons forehead, driving the victim insane. ... The 1981 National League Division Series (NLDS), the opening round of the 1981 National League playoffs, began on Tuesday, October 6, and ended on Sunday, October 11. ...

After that loss to Los Angeles, the Astros' fortunes began to change for the worse. However, there were some shining moments that stood out - like in 1983 when Nolan Ryan became all-time strikeout leader in a game against the Montreal Expos at Stade Olympique. Ryan and Steve Carlton would battle for the lead until Ryan earned it for good. The next season, shortstop Dickie Thon was beaned in the head by Mets pitcher Mike Torrez, derailing what many thought would be an extremely promising career. The following are the baseball events of the year 1983 throughout the world. ... This article describes the now defunct Canadian baseball team. ... Stade Olympique (English: Olympic Stadium) is a multipurpose stadium located in Montreal. ... Steven Norman Carlton (born December 22, 1944 in Miami, Florida) is a former left-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball, from 1965 to 1988, who retired as one of the most successful pitchers to ever play the game. ... Richard William Dickie Thon (born June 20, 1958 in South Bend, Indiana) is a former shortstop in Major League Baseball. ... Major league affiliations National League (1962–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 14, 37, 41, 42, Shea Name New York Mets (1962–present) Other nicknames The Amazin Mets, The Amazins, The Metropolitans, The Kings of Queens Ballpark Shea Stadium (1964-present) Polo Grounds (1962–1963) Major league... Michael Augistine Torrez (born August 28, 1946 Topeka, KS - ) was a pitcher with a 18 year career from 1967 to 1984. ...

1986

After a mediocre 1985 season, the Astros fired general manager Al Rosen and manager Bob Lillis. The former was supplanted by Dick Wagner, the man whose Reds defeated the Astros to win the 1979 NL West. The latter was replaced by Hal Lanier whose "box-office baseball" took Houston by storm. Before Lanier took over, fans were accustomed to Houston's occasional slow starts. But with Lanier leading the way, Houston got off to a hot start winning 13 of their first 19 contests. The following are the baseball events of the year 1985 throughout the world. ... Albert Leonard Rosen (born February 29, 1924, in Spartanburg, South Carolina), nicknamed Al and Flip, was an American major league third baseman and right-handed slugger. ... Robert Perry Lillis (born June 2, 1930, in Altadena, California) is a retired American infielder, manager, coach and scout in Major League Baseball. ... For the classical music composer, see Richard Wagner. ... Major league affiliations National League (1890–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 5, 8, 10, 13, 18, 20, 24, 42 Name Cincinnati Reds (1958–present) Cincinnati Redlegs (1953-1958) Cincinnati Reds (1882-1953) Cincinnati Red Stockings (1876-1882) Other nicknames The Redlegs, The Big Red Machine... The following are the baseball events of the year 1979 throughout the world. ... Harold Clifton Lanier (born July 4, 1942 in Denton, North Carolina) is a former infielder and manager in Major League Baseball. ...

The Astros had many highlights. After the Astrodome hosted the Major League Baseball All-Star Game, the Astros went on a streak with five straight come-from-behind wins (two against the Mets and three against the Montreal Expos). In a game against the Dodgers, pitcher Jim Deshaies (who came from the Yankees in exchange for Joe Niekro) started the game with 8 straight strikeouts. On September 25, Mike Scott helped his team clinch the NL West by no-hitting the surprising San Francisco Giants. This was the only time in MLB history that any division was clinched via a no-hitter. Scott would finish the season with an 18-10 record and a Cy Young Award with it. The Reliant Astrodome, formerly just the Astrodome, is a domed sports stadium in Houston, Texas, and is part of the Reliant Park complex. ... The Major League Baseball All-Star Game, also popularly known as the Midsummer Classic, is an annual baseball game between players from the National League and the American League, currently selected by fan vote for the starting position players and by the respective managers (from the previous years World... Major league affiliations National League (1962–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 14, 37, 41, 42, Shea Name New York Mets (1962–present) Other nicknames The Amazin Mets, The Amazins, The Metropolitans, The Kings of Queens Ballpark Shea Stadium (1964-present) Polo Grounds (1962–1963) Major league... This article describes the now defunct Canadian baseball team. ... Major league affiliations National League (1890–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 2, 4, 19, 20, 24, 32, 39, 42, 53 Name Los Angeles Dodgers (1958–present) Brooklyn Dodgers (1932-1957) Brooklyn Robins (1914-1931) Brooklyn Dodgers (1913) Brooklyn Trolley Dodgers (1911-1912) Brooklyn Superbas (1899... Jim Deshaies (born June 23, 1960) is a former left-handed starting pitcher. ... Joseph Franklin Niekro (November 7, 1944 – October 27, 2006) was an American starting pitcher in Major League Baseball, the younger brother of Hall of Fame pitcher Phil Niekro, and the father of first baseman Lance Niekro. ... is the 268th day of the year (269th in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... Michael Warren Scott (born April 26, 1955 in Santa Monica, California) is a former right-handed pitcher in Major League Baseball for the New York Mets and - most notably - the Houston Astros. ... Major league affiliations National League (1883–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers NY, NY, 3, 4, 11, 24, 27, 30, 36, 42, 44 Name San Francisco Giants (1958–present) New York Giants (1885–1957) New York Gothams (1883–85) Other nicknames The Jints, The Gigantes, The G...

Their opponents in the NLCS were the New York Mets, a team that with 108 wins was considered a team for the ages, destined to win a World Championship. To add a hint of flavor to the matchup, both teams were celebrating their 25th season as MLB franchises that season. The 1986 National League Championship Series pitted the New York Mets against the Houston Astros. ... Major league affiliations National League (1962–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 14, 37, 41, 42, Shea Name New York Mets (1962–present) Other nicknames The Amazin Mets, The Amazins, The Metropolitans, The Kings of Queens Ballpark Shea Stadium (1964-present) Polo Grounds (1962–1963) Major league...

The 1986 National League Championship Series was noted for great drama and is considered one of the best postseason series ever. In Game 3, the Astros were ahead at Shea Stadium, 5-4, in the bottom of the 9th when closer Dave Smith gave up a two-run home run to Lenny Dykstra, giving the Mets a dramatic 6-5 win. This article is about the home of the New York Mets. ... Dave Smith (born January 21, 1955 in Richmond, California) was a Major League Baseball relief pitcher. ... Leonard Kyle (Lenny) Dykstra (born February 10, 1963 in Santa Ana, California, also known as Nails[1]) is a former Major League Baseball outfielder. ...

However, the signature game of the series was Game 6. Needing a win to get to Mike Scott (who had been dominant in the series) in Game 7, the Astros jumped off to a 3-0 lead in the first inning but neither team would score again until the 9th inning. In the 9th, starting pitcher Bob Knepper would give two runs, and once again the Astros would look to Dave Smith to close it out. However, Smith would walk Gary Carter and Darryl Strawberry, giving up a sacrifice fly to Ray Knight, tying the game. Despite having the go-ahead runs on base, Smith was able to escape the inning without any further damage. Robert Wesley Knepper (born May 24, 1954 in Akron, Ohio) is a former pitcher in Major League Baseball with a 15-year career from 1976 to 1990. ... Gary Edmund Carter (born April 8, 1954), nicknamed Kid, is a former Major League Baseball Hall Of Fame catcher from 1974-1992. ... Darryl Eugene Strawberry (born March 12, 1962) is a former baseball player who is well-known both for his play on the baseball field and for his controversial behavior off it. ... Ray Knight (born December 28, 1952 in Albany, Georgia) is a former right-handed Major League Baseball player in the 1970s and 80s. ...

There was no scoring until the 14th inning when the Mets would take the lead on a Wally Backman single and Kevin Bass error. The Astros would get the run back in the bottom of the 14th when Billy Hatcher hit one of the most dramatic home runs in NLCS history, off the left field foul pole. In the 16th inning, Darryl Strawberry doubled to lead off the inning and Ray Knight drove him home in the next at-bat. The Mets would score a total of three runs in the inning to take what appeared an insurmountable 7-4 lead. With their season on the line, the Astros would nonetheless rally for two runs to come to within 7-6. Kevin Bass came up with the tying and winning runs on base; however Jesse Orosco would strike him out, ending the game. Walter Wally Wayne Backman (born September 22, 1959 in Hillsboro, Oregon) is a retired baseball player. ... Kevin Charles Bass (born May 12, 1959 in Redwood City, California) is a former outfielder in Major League Baseball who played for the Milwaukee Brewers, Houston Astros, San Francisco Giants, New York Mets, and Baltimore Orioles. ... Billy Hatcher and the Giant Egg is a video game for the Nintendo GameCube that was developed by Sonic Team and published by SEGA on September 23, 2003. ... NLCS can refer to different things: North London Collegiate School, a girls school in North London. ... Jesse Russell Orosco (born April 21, 1957 in Santa Barbara, California) is a former relief pitcher in Major League Baseball who holds the major league record for career pitching appearances. ...

This 16-inning game held the record for the longest in MLB postseason history until October 9, 2005 when the Astros defeated the Atlanta Braves 7-6 in an 18-inning Division Series game. However, the 1986 game still holds the record for longest League Championship Series game. is the 282nd day of the year (283rd in leap years) in the Gregorian calendar. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2005 throughout the world. ... Major league affiliations National League (1876–present) East Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 3, 21, 35, 41, 42, 44 Name Atlanta Braves (1966–present) Milwaukee Braves (1953-1965) Boston Braves (1941-1952) Boston Bees (1936-1940) Boston Braves (1912-1935) Boston Rustlers (1911) Boston Doves (1907-1910) Boston...

1987–93: Destroy, Fire Sale, and Rebuild

Following the 1988 season the Astros experienced significant change. Manager Hal Lanier, unable to build on the Astros' success in 1986, was dismissed following the season, and the team went on a fire sale. Additionally, franchise icon Nolan Ryan left the Astros to join the Texas Rangers in 1989, after being considered "too old" by then-owner John McMullen. Ryan would go on to pitch two more no-hitters for the Rangers in the early 1990s to achieve a grand total of seven - more than anyone else in major league history. Ryan would also record his 5,000th strikeout and 300th win with the Rangers, and entered the Hall of Fame as a Ranger. This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January 12 - Former Pittsburgh Pirates slugger Willie Stargell is the only player elected this year to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America. ... Harold Clifton Lanier (born July 4, 1942 in Denton, North Carolina) is a former infielder and manager in Major League Baseball. ... Major league affiliations American League (1961–present) West Division (1972–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 26, 34, 42 Name Texas Rangers (1972–present) Washington Senators (1961-1971) Other nicknames None in common use Ballpark Rangers Ballpark in Arlington (1994–present) a. ... 1989 in baseball - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia /**/ @import /skins-1. ... Dr. John J. McMullen, Ph. ... The National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, located at 62 Main Street in Cooperstown, New York, is a semi-official museum operated by private interests serving as the central point for the study of the history of baseball in the United States and beyond, the display of baseball-related...

1989 would mark the rookie season of Craig Biggio, who would set team records in many offensive categories. Biggio started his career as a catcher, but was moved to second base so as to take full advantage of his speed and other offensive talents. 1989 in baseball - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia /**/ @import /skins-1. ... Craig Alan Biggio (born December 14, 1965 in Smithtown, New York) is a former seven-time All-Star Major League baseball player who played his entire 20-year career with the Houston Astros. ...

Many people consider the best move the Astros ever made their trade for Jeff Bagwell at the trading deadline in 1990. The Boston Red Sox, in a tight race for the American League East title, needed relief pitching help. The Astros gave the Red Sox journeyman Larry Andersen in exchange for minor-leaguer Jeff Bagwell, who would win the 1990 Eastern League MVP award for the AA New Britain Red Sox. With Mo Vaughn in their system, the Red Sox figured that Bagwell was expendable, and while Andersen did help the Red Sox to the divisional title, Bagwell would go on to become the Astros all time home run leader and, in most people's minds, the best overall player in Astros history. (In addition, Bagwell and Biggio would begin a quirky trend – an unusual number of Astro players having names beginning with B, thus earning the team the nickname "Killer B's".) Later, the Astros made one of the worst trades in franchise history by sending young speedy outfielder Kenny Lofton to the Cleveland Indians. Jeffrey Robert Bagwell (born May 27, 1968) is a former Major League Baseball first baseman, who spent his entire major league baseball career with the Houston Astros. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1990 throughout the world. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... The American League East Division is one of Major League Baseballs six divisions. ... Larry Eugene Andersen (born May 6, 1953 in Portland, Oregon) is a former relief pitcher in Major League Baseball and current color commentator for the Philadelphia Phillies. ... The Eastern League is a minor league baseball league which operates primarily in the northeastern United States, although it now has a team in Ohio. ... The New Britain Rock Cats are a minor league baseball team based in New Britain, Connecticut. ... [[:Template:Mlbretired]] Maurice Samuel Mo Vaughn (born December 15, 1967 in Norwalk, Connecticut), nicknamed Hit Dog, (a nickname given to him by his Omega Psi Phi fraternity brothers at Seton Hall University) was a Major League Baseball first baseman from 1991 to 2003. ... Kenneth Lofton (born May 31, 1967 in East Chicago, Indiana) is a Major League Baseball outfielder. ... For other uses, see Cleveland Indians (disambiguation). ...

The early 1990s were marked by the Astros' growing discontent with their home, the Astrodome. After the Astrodome was renovated for the primary benefit of the Houston Oilers, the Astros began to grow increasingly disenchanted with the facility. Faced with declining attendance at the Astrodome and the inability of management to obtain a new stadium, in the 1991 off-season Astros management announced its intention to sell the team and move the franchise to the Washington, D.C. area. However, the move was not approved by other National League owners, thus compelling the Astros to remain in Houston. Shortly thereafter, McMullen (who also owned the NHL's New Jersey Devils), sold the team to Texas businessman Drayton McLane in 1993, who committed to keeping the team in Houston. The Reliant Astrodome, formerly just the Astrodome, is a domed sports stadium in Houston, Texas, and is part of the Reliant Park complex. ... City New Orleans, Louisiana Team colors Old Gold, Black, and White Head Coach Sean Payton Owner Tom Benson General manager Mickey Loomis Mascot Gumbo League/Conference affiliations National Football League (1967–present) Eastern Conference (1967-1969) Capitol Division (1967; 1969) Century Division (1968) National Football Conference (1970-present) NFC West... This article is currently under construction // This year in baseball Events January 8 - Rod Carew, Gaylord Perry and Ferguson Jenkins are elected to the Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America, with Carew becoming the 22nd player to be named in his first year of eligibility. ... For other uses, see Washington, D.C. (disambiguation). ... NHL redirects here. ... The New Jersey Devils are a professional ice hockey team based in Newark, New Jersey. ... Drayton McLane, Jr. ... // This year in baseball Events January - Reggie Jackson is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America, receiving 94% of the vote. ...

1994-99: A New Owner, A New Look, A New Success

Houston Astros Logo, 1994

Houston Astros Logo, 1995-1999

Shortly after McLane's arrival, which coincided with the maturation of Bagwell and Biggio, the Astros began to show signs of consistent success. After finishing second in their division in 1994 (in a strike year), 1995, and 1996, the Astros won consecutive division titles in 1997, 1998, and 1999. In the 1998 season, the Astros set a team record with 102 victories. However, each of these titles was followed by a first-round playoff elimination, in 1998 by the San Diego Padres and in 1997 and 1999 against the Atlanta Braves. The manager of these title teams was Larry Dierker, who had previously been a broadcaster and pitcher for the Astros. Image File history File links HOU_1070. ... Image File history File links HOU_1070. ... Image File history File links HOU_1078. ... Image File history File links HOU_1078. ... The following are the events of the year 1994 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... The 1994 Major League Baseball strike was the eighth work stoppage in baseball history, as well as the fourth in-season work stoppage in 23 years. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1995 throughout the world. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1996 throughout the world. ... The following are the events of the year 1997 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... This year in baseball 1995 - 1996 - 1997 - 1998 - 1999 - 2000 - 2001 - 2002 - 2003 - 2004 - 2005 Events January-March January 5 - Don Sutton, a 324-game winner is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame on his fifth try. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1999 throughout the world. ... The 1998 National League Division Series was a best-of-five matchup that saw the Wild Card Champion Chicago Cubs face the Eastern Division Champion Atlanta Braves and the Western Division Champion San Diego Padres face the Central Division Champion Houston Astros. ... Major league affiliations National League (1969–present) West Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 6, 19, 31, 35, 42 Name San Diego Padres (1969–present) Other nicknames The Pads, The Friars, The Fathers, The Dads Ballpark PETCO Park (2004–present) Qualcomm Stadium (1969-2003) a. ... The 1997 National League Division Series was a best-of-five matchup that saw the Wild Card Champion Florida Marlins face the Western Division Champion San Francisco Giants and the Eastern Division Champion Atlanta Braves face the Central Division Champion Houston Astros. ... The 1999 National League Division Series (NLDS), the opening round of the 1999 National League playoffs, began on Tuesday, October 5, and ended on Saturday, October 9, with the champions of the three NL divisions – along with a wild card team – participating in two best-of-five series. ... Major league affiliations National League (1876–present) East Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 3, 21, 35, 41, 42, 44 Name Atlanta Braves (1966–present) Milwaukee Braves (1953-1965) Boston Braves (1941-1952) Boston Bees (1936-1940) Boston Braves (1912-1935) Boston Rustlers (1911) Boston Doves (1907-1910) Boston... Lawrence Edward Dierker (born September 22, 1946 in Hollywood, California) is a former pitcher and manager in Major League Baseball who had a 14-year playing career from 1964 to 1977 and a 5-year career leading the Houston Astros from 1997 to 2001. ...

Coinciding with the change in ownership, the team switched uniforms and team colors after the 1993 season. The team's trademark "rainbow stripes" were retired, and the team's colors changed to midnight blue and metallic gold. The "Astros" font was changed to a more aggressive font, and the team's traditional star logo was changed to a stylized, "flying" star with an open left end. It marked the first time since the team's inception that orange was not part of the team's colors. Despite general agreement that the rainbow uniforms identified with the team had become tired, the new uniforms and caps were never especially popular with fans. // This year in baseball Events January - Reggie Jackson is elected to the Baseball Hall of Fame by the Baseball Writers Association of America, receiving 94% of the vote. ...

Off the field, in 1994, the Astros hired one of the first African American general managers, former franchise superstar Bob Watson. Watson would leave the Astros after the 1995 season to become general manager of the New York Yankees and helped to lead the Yankees to a World Championship in 1996. He would be replaced by Gerry Hunsicker, who until 2004 would continue to oversee the building of the Astros into one of the better and most consistent organizations in the major leagues. The following are the events of the year 1994 that happened world-wide throughout the sport of baseball. ... An African American (also Afro-American, Black American, or simply black) is a member of an ethnic group in the United States whose ancestors, usually in predominant part, were indigenous to Africa. ... For the lacrosse player, see Bob Watson (lacrosse). ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1995 throughout the world. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 8, 9, 10, 15, 16, 23, 32, 37, 44, 49 Name New York Yankees (1913–present) New York Highlanders (1903-1912) Baltimore Orioles (1901-1902) (Also referred to as... The 1996 World Series matched the defending champion Atlanta Braves against the New York Yankees, with the Yankees winning in six games to capture their first championship since 1978, and their 23rd overall. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 1996 throughout the world. ... Gerald Hunsicker was the general manager of the Houston Astros baseball team from 1995 until his retirement in 2004. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2004 throughout the world. ...

However, in 1996, the Astros again nearly left Houston. By the mid-1990s, like the team's previous owner, McLane wanted his team out of the Astrodome and was asking Houston to build them a new stadium. When things didn't progress quickly toward that end, he put the team up for sale. He had nearly finalized a deal to sell the team to businessman William Collins, who planned to move them to Northern Virginia. However, Collins was having difficulty finding a site for a stadium himself, so Major League owners stepped in and forced McLane to give Houston another chance to grant his stadium wish. Houston voters responded positively via a stadium referendum and the Astros stayed put. The following are the baseball events of the year 1996 throughout the world. ... Map of Northern Virginia Northern Virginia (NoVA) consists of Arlington, Fairfax, Loudoun, and Prince William counties and the independent cities of Alexandria, Falls Church, Fairfax, Manassas, and Manassas Park. ...

The Killer B's

The Killer B's are members of the Houston Astros. They all have a last name starting with the letter "B." All have performed commendably. The original Killer B's were Craig Biggio, Derek Bell, Jeff Bagwell, and Sean Berry hitting in the Astros lineup in the late 90's. Newer members have included Lance Berkman, Carlos Beltrán, Eric Bruntlett, Brandon Backe, and Chris Burke. Some have bent the rule to include players with "B" in their first name, such as Brad Ausmus, or pitchers, such as Brad Lidge. Another exception came in 2006 with infielder Mike Lamb who became known as the "Killer Silent B" following a successful increase in playing time (and subsequent increase in popularity) throughout the summer due to the injuries and offensive shortcomings of third baseman Morgan Ensberg. Craig Alan Biggio (born December 14, 1965 in Smithtown, New York) is a former seven-time All-Star Major League baseball player who played his entire 20-year career with the Houston Astros. ... Derek Nathaniel Bell (born December 11, 1968 in Tampa, Florida) is a former Major League Baseball player. ... Jeffrey Robert Bagwell (born May 27, 1968) is a former Major League Baseball first baseman, who spent his entire major league baseball career with the Houston Astros. ... Sean Berry (born March 22, 1966 in Santa Monica, California), is a former professional baseball player who played in the Major Leagues primarily as a 3rd baseman from 1990-2000. ... William Lance Berkman (born February 10, 1976 in Waco, Texas) is a Major League Baseball player for the Houston Astros. ... For the article on the Mexican progressive rock musician, see Carlos Beltrán (musician) Carlos Ivan Beltrán (pronounced: bel-trahn) was born April 24, 1977 in Manatí, Puerto Rico. ... Eric Kevin Bruntlett (born in Lafayette, IN) is a baseball shortstop who currently plays for the Houston Astros. ... Brandon Allen Backe (born April 5, 1978 in Galveston, Texas) is a starting pitcher in Major League Baseball for the Houston Astros. ... Chris Burke (born August 26, 1965 in Point Lookout, New York) is an American actor with Down syndrome who played Corky Thatcher on the famous series Life Goes On. ... Bradley David Ausmus (born April 14, 1969, in New Haven, Connecticut) is an American 3-time Gold Glove Award winning catcher in Major League Baseball with the Houston Astros. ... Bradley Thomas Lidge (born December 23, 1976 in Sacramento, California) is an American Major League Baseball relief pitcher for the Philadelphia Phillies. ... Michael Robert Lamb (born August 9, 1975 in West Covina, California) is a Major League Baseball player for the Houston Astros. ... Morgan Paul Ensberg (born August 26, 1975 in Hermosa Beach, California) is a third baseman in Major League Baseball for the San Diego Padres. ...

2000s: New Stadium; First Pennant

Houston Astros Logo 2000-present

After years at the outdated Astrodome, the Astros moved into their new stadium in 2000. Originally called Enron Field, the stadium was one of the first to feature a functional retractable roof, considered a necessity in Houston. Additionally the ballpark featured more intimate surroundings than the cavernous Astrodome. Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... Image File history File links No higher resolution available. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2000 throughout the world. ... Enron Creditors Recovery Corporation (formerly Enron Corporation) (former NYSE ticker symbol: ENE) was an American energy company based in Houston, Texas. ...

The ballpark features a train theme, based on the ball park being built on the grounds of the old Union Station. The locomotive also pays homage to the history of Houston. By 1860, 11 different railroad companies had lines running through the city. This is also represented in the city of Houston's official seal. A train whistle sounds, and a locomotive, circles the outfield after Astro home runs. The ballpark also contains quirks such as "Tal's Hill", which is a hill in deep center field on which a flagpole stands, all in fair territory. This was modeled after a similar feature that was located in Crosley Field, former home of the Cincinnati Reds. The terrace at Crosley Field was sloped at 15 degrees in left field, while Tal's Hill is sloped at 30 degrees in straightaway center. Over the years, many highlight reel catches have been made by centerfielders running up the hill to make catches. // Union station (or terminal) are train stations used by more than one railroad company or line. ... Image:Http://www. ... Major league affiliations National League (1890–present) Central Division (1994–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 5, 8, 10, 13, 18, 20, 24, 42 Name Cincinnati Reds (1958–present) Cincinnati Redlegs (1953-1958) Cincinnati Reds (1882-1953) Cincinnati Red Stockings (1876-1882) Other nicknames The Redlegs, The Big Red Machine...

Perhaps most significantly, with its short left field fence (only slightly longer to left field than Fenway Park), overall shorter dimensions, and exposure to the elements, including the humid Texas air, Enron Field played like a hitters' park. This was a dramatic difference from the Astrodome, which was considered to be an extreme pitchers' park. In a challenge to home run hitters, Drayton McLane's office windows, located in the old Union Station above left field, are made of glass and marked as 442' from home plate. Fenway redirects here. ...

With the change in location also came a change in attire. Gone were the blue and gold uniforms of the 1990s in favor a more "retro" look with pinstripes, a traditional baseball font, and the colors of brick red, sand and black. The "shooting star" logo was modified but still retained its definitive look. Retro is a term used to describe the culture of the past. ...

2001

In 2001, the Astros won another NL Central title, but were again eliminated from the playoffs in the first round by the Braves. Despite four NL Central division titles in five years, the Astros lost in the first round each year (three times to the Braves) so Dierker was fired and replaced by former Boston Red Sox manager Jimy Williams. After the Enron scandal made headlines across the nation, the stadium's naming rights were eventually resold to Coca-Cola, which dubbed the park Minute Maid Park, also jokingly called "The Juice Box". The following are the baseball events of the year 2001 throughout the world. ... The National League Central Division is one of Major League Baseballs six divisions. ... The 2001 National League Division Series (NLDS), the opening round of the 2001 National League playoffs, began on Tuesday, October 9, and ended on Sunday, October 14, with the champions of the three NL divisions – along with a wild card team – participating in two best-of-five series. ... Major league affiliations American League (1901–present) East Division (1969–present) Current uniform Retired Numbers 1, 4, 8, 9, 27, 42 Name Boston Red Sox (1908–present) Boston Americans (1901-1907) Other nicknames The BoSox, The Olde Towne Team, The Sox Ballpark Fenway Park (1912–present) Huntington Avenue Baseball Grounds... James Francis Jimy Williams (born October 4, 1943 in Santa Maria, California) is a former manager in Major League Baseball. ... Enron Creditors Recovery Corporation (formerly Enron Corporation) (former NYSE ticker symbol: ENE) was an American energy company based in Houston, Texas. ... The wave shape (known as the dynamic ribbon device) present on all Coca-Cola cans throughout the world derives from the contour of the original Coca-Cola bottles. ... Minute Maid Park (formerly Enron Field and Astros Field) is a baseball stadium in Houston, Texas, that opened in 2000 to house the Houston Astros. ...

2004

Roger Clemens with the Astros

After two fairly successful seasons without a playoff appearance, at midseason in 2004 the Astros were floundering. Before the season, the Astros had added star pitchers Andy Pettitte and Roger Clemens to a team that already included stars like Lance Berkman and Jeff Kent as well as the nucleus of Bagwell and Biggio. They were quickly anointed one of the favorites to win the National League. However, at the All-Star Break, they were 44-44 largely due to an inability to score runs, and a poor record in 1-run games. After being booed at the 2004 All-Star Game held at Minute Maid Park while serving as a coach for the National League, Williams was fired and replaced by Phil Garner, who had been a star for the Astros' second division winner in 1986. Though many people were highly skeptical of Garner, who had a mediocre track record in his prior managerial stints in Milwaukee and Detroit, with only one winning season at either stop (in 1992), the team responded to Garner, who led the team to a 46-26 record in the second half and the National League's Wild Card. They would go on to win their first playoff series in eight attempts, beating the Braves in five games of the National League Division Series to advance to the National League Championship Series for the third time. However, they would lose to the St. Louis Cardinals in seven games, most dramatically on a walk-off home run by Jim Edmonds in the twelfth inning of Game 6. Roger Clemens pitching for the Houston Astros, 5/22/2004, by Rick Dikeman File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... Roger Clemens pitching for the Houston Astros, 5/22/2004, by Rick Dikeman File history Legend: (cur) = this is the current file, (del) = delete this old version, (rev) = revert to this old version. ... William Roger Clemens (born August 4, 1962, in Dayton, Ohio), is a starting pitcher for the New York Yankees, and is one of the preeminent pitchers in Major League history. ... The following are the baseball events of the year 2004 throughout the world. ...