Spring Training 2008: The Atlanta Braves Take on the Houston Astros

LAKE BUENA VISTA, Florida, March 8 - The 2008 Atlanta Braves are already two weeks into their Spring Training games, held at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. As part of the Grapefruit League, the Braves play other American and National League teams across the state of Florida. On Saturday, March 8, the Houston Astros sent a split squad to play against the Braves for an afternoon game. The rest of the Astros played another game in Kissimmee; which is located about twenty minutes away from Lake Buena Vista. Parking was free yet crowded due to other sporting events being performed at the complex. I arrived at 11 a.m. and was able to purchase my program in the parking area for $5.

When it was time to play, the starting pitchers for both teams were Jo-Jo Reyes for the Braves and Wandy Rodriguez for the Astros. While there were many famous Braves that were making a returning trip this season for Spring Training, there were also some Non-Roster Invitees playing. The same could be said for the Astros; especially since they were a split squad, however, some new acquisitions were also present in the dugouts. The Braves have returning pitcher Tom Glavine, who after being on the Mets last year, returned to his former Atlanta team for the 2008 season. Also new to the Braves this season is former Oakland outfielder Mark Kotsay.

Bringing a great performance to the day's game, including stealing a base during an inning, was outfielder Michael Bourn of the Houston Astros. Bourn was on the Philadelphia Phillies last year, however, he is a veteran to the Grapefruit League and was an asset in Saturday's game. Other key players which helped the Astros secure a victory that day were Miguel Tejada (shortstop, previously with the Baltimore Orioles) and Ty Wiggington (third base, previously with the Tampa Bay Devil Rays).