Still proud to be an Astros fan

In spite of getting swept in the World Series, the Astros have many reasons to be proud, as do Astros fans everywhere. It was a season of great achievement and milestones. The Astros became the first team in history to come from 15 games below .500 and make the playoffs. The team was a true team as it battled through injuries and other deficiencies through the season. For instance, when the bats were not hitting, the pitching picked up the team and vice versa. The Astros won the longest playoff game in history, came back to clinch the pennant after a rip-out-your-heart loss, and played in the longest World Series game in history.

A big Texas-sized THANKS! to the players, staff, and management for a great season.

And despite the World Series defeat, the franchise has made great gains in the last two years. Last year, they finally won a playoff series and came within one game of going to the World Series. This year they went one step further. There are many young players on this team, and next time, they will be so much better prepared to play on this stage.

The team could nonetheless look different next season. I have to think this was Clemens's last go round. Thanks, Rocket, for coming home and giving it your all. This could be the end for Jeff Bagwell, too, depending on how his surgery and rehab go. I hope he is back. I figure Biggio will be back. If he and Bagwell do not return, that will be a mournful time for Astros fans. I just cannot say enough good things about both of them.

Just wait 'til next year, baby...