One-time Astros ace Mike Hampton opens the 2009 season hoping to put his injury troubles behind him. 

Russ Ortiz hadn't thrown a pitch in the major leagues in 597 days, so it's not like anyone expected him to be perfect. 

The Astros aren't expecting Mike Hampton to duplicate the dominance from his first stint with Houston but feel if he can revive his career and stay healthy, the club will have success. 

Ronald Bourquin, 1B 

Put 'em in 

Right-hander Brandon Backe, who is on the disabled list with a strained left intercostal muscle, threw off a mound Wednesday for the first time since early March. 

--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. 

After a 19-game winless streak between their first and second Grapefruit League victories, the Astros improved dramatically and looked like a legit major league club by going on a seven-game winning streak. 

The Cubs got out of Houston with a series win to open the new season, but not before showing a glimpse of what could be their Achilles heel. 

Something seemed different about Cubs center fielder Kosuke Fukudome on Wednesday, even in batting practice. 

Minute Maid Park, home of theHoustonAstros Baseball team, will be host to Eagle Scouts of all ages on May 12, 2009 at 6:00 p. 

Cubs manager Lou Piniella joked with Ted Lilly that he picked the right night to have a mediocre start. 

Astros 3, Cubs 2 10 innings 

For a minor league Baseball franchise, the Express has reveled in some major league moments. 

After a 19-game winless streak between their first and second Grapefruit League victories, the Astros improved dramatically and looked like a legit major league club by going on a seven-game winning streak.