This and That

THE 2013 DRAFT

As you may have noticed, I didn't post anything to do with the draft. That's because I couldn't possibly give it the time and detailed attention that so many others have. The Crawfish Boxes, in particular, has put in countless hours putting together scouting reports and analysis. Astros County put together relevant links on each of the players as they were drafted. And my friend @itsDTrain put together this ongoing comprehensive list which he will update with player signings and bonuses as the information becomes available. I suggest you bookmark it as I have.

I'll admit that I cared far less about 1.1 than most Astros bloggers. No matter now successful Mark Appel proves to be, the strength of the 2013 draft class will be determined by the totality of all the players who sign and eventually contribute in the major leagues, not just Appel. Right this minute, I care as much about 40th round pick Tyler Brunnemann as I do about first overall pick Appel.

My job, in conjunction with the 2013 draft, is just starting. I will undoubtedly try to see Appel in person and interview him at some point, but I will be just as zealous (if not more so) in getting to know an Adam Nelubowich or a Randall Fant or an Alex Schick should those players sign. Last year at this time, I knew virtually nothing about Aaron West or Daniel Minor or Austin Elkins or Kenny Long. My job is to bring these young men to life for you through Tweets of the Day, through interviews, through recaps, through photos and video. It is a lot of work, but it is a labor of love.

ALL-STAR GAMES

The California/Carolina League All-Star Game will be next Tuesday, June 18th, in San Jose, California. Outfielders Preston Tucker and Andrew Aplin, third baseman Matt Duffy and RHP Brady Rodgers will represent the JetHawks.

The Midwest League All-Star Game will also be on the 18th, and will be held in Dayton, Ohio. Shortstop Carlos Correa and RHPs Jordan Jankowski and Lance McCullers will represent Quad Cities.

The Texas League All-Star Game is scheduled for June 25th in Springdale, Arkansas. All-Stars have not been announced yet.

The AAA All-Star Game will be in Reno, Nevada on July 17th.

SHORT SEASON TEAMS

The Dominican Summer League Astros are already seven games into their season, and the rest of the teams will follow shortly.

The Class A Short Season Valley Cats will start their season on Monday, June 17th, at home against Vermont.

The Rookie League Greeneville Astros will start their season on the road against the Bluefield Blue Jays on Thursday, June 20th. Their home opener will be Sunday, the 23rd.

The Gulf Coast League Astros will start their season on Friday, June 21st at the Braves complex in Florida.