March 29, 2011

Twenty-nine SABR members and friends met last night at our monthly meeting to eat pizza together and show off their new name tags.

Bill Brown Astros television broadcaster led off the session with his assessment of the local club, focusing on new members to the team as well as outstanding prospects. In spite of the 11-23 spring record and a variety of early injuries Brownie said there are many positive signs for the 2011 club, not the least of which is what Bill called the Astros' best asset who wears uniform #2,

Judge David Hittner followed Bill with a fascinating talk about his favorite Brooklyn Bums and the impact the team had on local residents and a young man growing up during Baseball's Golden Age, the 50's. The Judge's passion and knowledge of his subject was obvious and he was fortunate enough to meet many of his idols like "Oisk", Newk" and the Duke at a Fantasy Camp. His chambers, he says, are filled with momentos of those times and those visits.

Tim Gregg was next and he showed everyone the new website he is designing for the chapter which will be the envy of all SABR chapters. He asked for participation from all members, including commentary of what SABR means to them took a number of individual photographs for inclusion in the new site.

Bill McCurdy batted clean-up and once again stressed the importance of developing further the history of Houston baseball. 9 members stepped up to the plate and volunteered their time for this effort which Bill will faciliate. In addition a number of other members signed up for various committees to assist in the growth and development of the chapter.

The trivia contest written by Mike McCroskey was won by Tom White.

Our next meeting will be on Saturday May 14th at Minute Maid Park prior to the game between the New York Mets and the Houston Astros. Since the game time has changed to 3:05PM, we will start our meeting at 1:00 PM. Details on obtaining tickets will follow.