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NLDS: Astros-Braves
game 1 recap, game 2 preview
by Daniel Paulling
October 7, 2004
The Houston Astros did not even win a game the
last time these two teams hooked up in the ALDS. That was 2001,
this is 2004. The ‘Stros picked up a win in the first game
of the series by utterly destroyed the Braves 9-3. This makes them
2-9 vs. the Braves since 1997, quite a dubious record.
What Went Right
The Houston Astros received the offense they were expecting
from their Killer B’s. Beltran, Berkman, and (Brad) Ausmus
connected for long shots, as did Jason Lane. They got 13 hits, tying
a franchise record for an ALDS game. For the Braves, there wasn’t
really a bright spot, but the bullpen did pitch better than Jaret
Wright. There were concerns about Antonio Alfonseca, but he pitched
well in his inning of work.
What Went Wrong
The biggest thing for the Astros that went wrong was Carlos
Beltran being hit in the ribs with a fastball. He had to leave the
game and is doubtful for Game 2. Clemens also threw 117 pitches
in a game that did not require him to be at that number. On the
other side of the diamond, Jaret Wright was completely incinerated
on the mound going 4.1 innings and allowing 6 earned runs. Those
kinds of starts don’t usually win you games in the postseason.
Commentary
"I know the history, but it's just history, this is a different
club," Astros 1B Jeff Bagwell said. "We've got a ton of
talent in our lineup, and I really feel good about this club, including
our offense. We came in here on a roll and we've continued it, and
that to me is the most important thing."
"This is a very good offense, we've got guys who not only get
on base like Biggio, Bagwell and Berkman, but they can also hit
the ball out of the park," Astros CF Carlos Beltran said. "To
me, this is a very good offense. We can do a lot of things, and
that's what we did today."
"The past is past," Astros LF Craig Biggio said. "That's
over and done with. This is something else."
What to Expect From Game 2
The Braves will be sending Mike Hampton to the mound against youngster
Roy Oswalt. This is definitely a mismatch in the terms of pitchers,
and there is a big chance the Braves could go down 2-0 heading to
Houston, where the ‘Stros have won 18 straight games. I definitely
hope that Hampton can keep it close until the late innings and that
the Braves can get Oswalt knocked out early by getting his pitch
count as high as possible early on. I think that might be the only
way for the Braves to win his crucial game.
Feel free to leave comments in the forums or
e-mail Daniel at daniel@athomeplate.com.
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