*Dallas Keuchel threw four scoreless innings, working in and out of trouble yesterday. Hinch:
It's a positive sign that he's talking about pitch execution and not about how he feels or what he's trying to overcome. He's officially transitioning into getting ready for the season.
*The absence of Correa, Altuve, Bregman, Beltran to the WBC is benefitting the younger guys.
*The Astros are intrigued by 23-year old lefty Framber Valdez, and could be a bullpen option in Houston this season, despite starting 2016 in rookie ball.
*Alex Bregman is Danny Knobler's pick for the AL West's Next Big Thing.
*15 years ago yesterday Operation Shutdown began.
*Five years ago yesterday Fabrice Muamba's heart stopped beating in the middle of a game (I was watching the game, it was terrifying).
We didn't come out here to play tiddlywinks, son.
-Hal Smith
