--After playing host to one of their biggest rivals and losing two of three against the Chicago Cubs, the Astros' second series of the season is against another top division foe, the St. Louis Cardinals.
"It's a tough way to begin the season, no question," manager Cecil Cooper said of the three-game series that starts Friday at Busch Stadium. "But I don't think there's any better way to do it. That's a good challenge for us as a team." --With Mayor Bill White in attendance, Milo Hamilton Way was unveiled at the east corner of Texas and Hamilton Street in honor of the Astros radio broadcaster Wednesday afternoon.
"Holy Toledo," Hamilton said, "what a day. What a day."
--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.
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.
