McTaggart talks to Ed Wade regarding the goals for next week's Winter Meetings in Indianapolis. And it sounds like it was a brief conversation.
What's the priority? Same as it was yesterday: re-signing their own free agents.
The Astros' top priority remains re-signing their own free agents, a group that includes closer Jose Valverde, reliever LaTroy Hawkins and infielder Miguel Tejada, who, at this stage of his career, appears destined for a move to third base from shortstop.
Still, Wade will be on the lookout for help at the back of the bullpen. The Astros would have an even bigger need in that area if they lose Valverde and/or Hawkins to free agency. Wade also wants to explore the possibility of finding an offensive player to play third base and platoon with Geoff Blum.
So, despite having no money, the Astros need one - maybe two - relievers, a starting pitcher, and a half of a third baseman. Yep, it's all coming together...
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
