Baseball in Houston

We had quite the surprise on Tuesday. We were given tickets to the Padres vs Astros game. Not only were they FREE tickets, they were along the first baseline (okay mostly right field) and in the 2nd row! We were very close to action. We could see Brian Giles get hammered with all the balls that made it in the gap in right field (maybe we should become Astros fans?)

A couple of things I noticed. First was the sign telling us to "Beware of Bats and Balls Leaving the Playing Field". That gives you a little pause, as well as the fact that the ball boy who was sitting almost directly in front of us is required to wear a helmet. Why does he need a helmet and me - sitting 3 feet from him - do not?
We also sat close enough to see kids swarm the fence to get autographs. Hunter Pence the Astros right fielder was more than obliging and it was fun to watch kids of all sizes rush him to get a signature.

I also noticed the best and worst of fans. First I started a conversation with a gentlemen sitting near us before the game. I never remember talking to anyone at Petco! Then as the game got a little ugly for Astros fans there was the booing, the yelling "pull him out!" and the controversial play. Now while I understand passion in sports and the cheering and jeering, one "fan" behind us couldn't let the play go. He kept yelling about it and bemoaning it - with expletives - well beyond the need to vent. Did he really think the umpire would hear him (and I'm sure he could) and say "My bad, he was out". It was amazing how all this venom quickly turned to praise as the Astros bats warmed up and the Padres made all their fans again wonder "And why didn't we acquire some HITTERS this year?"

All in all it was a fun evening. The roof of Minute Maid was open on one of those rare evenings in Houston. We decided too that San Diego needs a song to sing in the 7th evening after "Take me Out to the Ballgame". It is quite something to hear a crowd sing (and clap) to "Deep in the Heart of Texas". Wow! We live in Texas!