The kids aren't alright in Houston. The Astros are the owners of a League-worst 14-27 record. Roy Oswalt is the bearer of a 2-6 record, and he wants out.
2-6 with a 2.66 ERA, Oswalt has gotten the lowest run support in the National League. He has stated that he is willing to waive the no-trade claus in his contract. He was asked by the Astros' front office whether he was requesting a trade or demanding it, and made it clear that the distinction between the two was of no consequence.
"Roy's contract has a no-trade clause, not a trade-me clause," said Astros' GM Ed Wade. "There is no rule that allows a player in his contract status to demand a trade. So demand, request, hold your breath until you turn blue, it's all the same. It's acknowledged and noted."
Oswalt's not the only one lowering the lifeboat. Lance Berkman has also juggled around the idea of waiving his no-trade clause, although there has been no hard evidence of this becoming a reality.
The Astros have more problems than just 2 guys quitting on them. Everyone around the organization seems to understand why. Clearly you're not going to win if you let your players give up. Brad Mills is in his first year of managing, I get that. They just had bad luck the first 7 games, fine. Every team has a rough patch. You let yourself get down, then kiss it goodbye, folks. Oswalt wants to be traded? Cry me a river, Roy. Get your ass back out on that mound and throw the ball. If your team isn't scoring any runs, then don't let the other team score any either.
And the Big Puma is all that's left of what was once good about baseball in the city of Houston. The Killer B's, man... You're the last one. Why don't you help out Oswalt and get both of your asses in gear. The buddy system, guys. Come on.
