--The Astros' Rodriguez battery -- left-hander Wandy and catcher Ivan -- on Tuesday night marked the first time since 1974 that the Astros had a pitcher throw to a catcher of the same last name.

In 1974, the Astros had RHP Jerry Johnson throw to C Cliff Johnson, making their final appearance together on Sept. 22 of that season. Although Rodriguez is a common last name in the majors these days, Ivan Rodriguez had never caught one throughout his lengthy career.

--RHP Russ Ortiz earned the fifth spot in the rotation. "My whole mind-set coming in was to make the team," Ortiz said. "I had it set in my mind that as long as I'm healthy that I had a very good chance of making the team and these guys gave me a tremendous opportunity to do that. I just had to make sure I was prepared every day and try to take advantage of that opportunity." Ortiz, 34, was a non-roster invitee to camp after signing a one-year, $750,000 minor league contract in January.

BY THE NUMBERS: 7 -- Opening-day starts by RHP Roy Oswalt, an Astros franchise record.

QUOTE TO NOTE: "What I've learned from Miguel (Tejeda), I think many people would like to live it. Miguel had his problems with those accusations, and he stepped up. I think what he has done is incredible. To me that's one of the things that every human being can learn from. You know how to deal with problems but not carry it to the field of play, nor where your friends are. You leave it at your house, drop it there. And if you want to carry it with you, you do. But if you don't want to carry it, you don't." -- Closer Jose Valverde.