Astros fans will start getting to know catcher Jason Castro, the club's first-round pick from the 2008 draft, as he participates in his first spring training as a non-roster invitee. 

--INF David Newhan signed a minor league contract with an invitation to spring training, and he's in great position to earn a spot on the Opening Day 25-man roster. 

Bobbie Caruthers, a nurse at Bailey Middle School in the Spring school district, has her jersey signed by formerHoustonAstros Craig Biggio during a recent visit to the school by the Astros Caravan. 

Infielder David Newhan and the Houston Astros have agreed to a minor league contract. 

Garrett Anderson is one of many free agents waiting on a market that's making even the Yankees trim payroll, Tracy Ringolsby says. 

Garrett Anderson is one of many free agents waiting on a market that's making even the Yankees trim payroll, Tracy Ringolsby says. 

Garrett Anderson is one of many free agents waiting on a market that's making even the Yankees trim payroll, Tracy Ringolsby says. 

Garrett Anderson is one of many free agents waiting on a market that's making even the Yankees trim payroll, Tracy Ringolsby says. 

The pitching dominos might be starting to fall. 

The Astros remained in postseason contention until Sept. 

The Astros remained in postseason contention until Sept. 

The Astros remained in postseason contention until Sept. 

Right-hander Brandon Backe, a local fan favorite as a native of Galveston, signed a $1. 

--OF Carlos Lee will play for Panama in the World Baseball Classic, as he confirmed that he is recovered from a broken finger that cost him the last seven weeks of the 2008 season. 

Right-hander Brandon Backe, a local fan favorite as a native of Galveston, signed a $1.