Bagwell takes over as Astros hitting coach

[Joseph]

From the AP:

HOUSTON (AP)—Former Astros star Jeff Bagwell has taken over as Houston’s hitting coach after the team fired Sean Berry.

General manager Ed Wade said Sunday that Berry became “a victim of circumstances” as the Astros offense has sputtered this season. Still, Wade believes the offense can do better and hopes Bagwell can help that happen.

The former standout first baseman has served as special assistant to the general manager since retiring from the team in 2006.

Berry, who has been the hitting coach for the past five seasons, was given a chance to remain with the franchise in a development role. He hadn’t yet decided if he’ll accept that opportunity.

[RedsManRick]

I guess you can't fire the players. Just once I'd like to see one of these firings justified with an actual explanation of what the guy did wrong. "Berry had our guys taking too many pitches and we were constantly hitting from behind in the count." or "The guys weren't really responding to Berry. They were sort of doing their own thing and we need somebody who can command some respect."

I guess none of those are good P.R., but it sure smells like scapegoating otherwise.

[VR]

Here....pop these.