The Hits Just Keep On Comin' from T-Poo

I'm still in a state of shock over Pettitte's departure. How McLane failed to see the impact that this would have on his team is beyond my comprehension. The rotation now consists of Roy Oswalt, ________, __________, Woody Williams, and _________. Given Lefty's return to the Bronx, you have to think that one of those blanks won't be filled with "Roger Clemens." This was just a terrible, terrible move on every level.

And to add insult to injury, it appears the sage of the 'Stros bullpen, Russ Springer, has agreed to terms with St. Louis. I've never been enamored with Springer's stuff, but he was pretty solid in middle relief and always took the ball. And I love the guy for throwing at Bonds last season. Most importantly, the younger guys in the pen looked up to him for guidance, and all of them raved about Springer's professionalism. How McLane and T-Poo would let this guy walk for $1.75 million is merely the latest disgrace. They're making it awfully hard to be an Astros fan right now.