[quote name="baddog" post="1017469" timestamp="1307655706"] AJ 25, I realize that Pence is not a 30 HR or 100 RBI man, but he is a solid player who gives his all on every play and at bat. On a routine ground out, he is running full speed to first base, forcing the infielder to scoop and throw. I wonder how many times Berkman could have been safe at first had he hustled down the line. If we trade Pence, why do we think we can get two players in return if Pence is not that good. Plus, a trade for prospects is always a crap shoot. Diamonds in the rough are too few and far between. The only way to bring in great players, if not up through the farm system, is to pay them dearly (the Yankees come to mind, and look what Clemens did for the Stros). [b]Carlos Lee attracts the hispanic crowd, of which Houston has a sizeable one.[/b] [/quote] I agree just like the Rockets keeping Yao for the Chinese crowd overseas.