Astros Talk with John Lopez

Earlier this month, I asked numerous sports writers and talk radio personalities in Houston to take part in an "Email Round Table" discussion about the Houston Astros. The first to respond is Houston Chronicle writer and co-host of the "Monsters of the Midday" afternoon radio show on ESPN790 The Sports Animal. My questions and John's answers are below. Enjoy!

1.) We are now through the 1st month, are you concerned with the direction or is it too early?Absolutely concerned. The front office convinced itself that Carlos Lee was some kind of magic pill to make everything better. He'll make the offense better (marginally), but there are too many other things going wrong and they saw them coming. Lidge, Burke in center, Ensberg, starting pitching (although that hasn't been a problem).
2.) If you could look into a crystal ball and see the team on July 31st, from what you know now, who can you see packing their bags for another city?
Ensberg, if he doesn't pick things up. There are too many options at third and he holds more value than anyone else. Second option: Lidge.
3.) Everyone knows that Houston's pitching is suspect right now, but we do have some bright spots in the minors. What are your thoughts on the Astros minor league pitching talent?Fernando Nieve belongs up here sooner rather than later, even if his numbers haven't quite been overwhelming. I think Troy Patton and Felipe Paulino have the brightest futures from what I've seen. Beyond that, haven't seen anything out of this world yet.
4.) Now that Hunter Pence is in his proper place (Centerfield in the Majors), does this make Chris Burke/Luke Scott/Jason Lane expendable?
Yes. Lane should be the one out on the market, but the Astros love him for whatever reason. I'm guessing Scott will be odd man out.
5.) What is your greatest Astros memory?
Too many to name them all. Most recently, though -- Bagwell's opposite-field single to beat the Brewers in '05, Oswalt's effort at St. Louis to clinch the NL, Burke's extra-inning blast, Kent's walk-off homer in the playoffs.
6.) Tim Pupura is facing a big year. Should he be more flexible in the talks of trading Brad Lidge? Also, does Brad Lidge still have good value on the trade market? Also, if Lamb and Loretta could provide a serviceable platoon at 3rd, do you see Morgan being moved?
THat's pretty much what I answered a few questions earlier. Lidge, not so valuable on the market, but still would bring something. And yes, Purpura needs to be more flexible, as you put it.
7.) If the Astros remain a .500 team throughout the season, will Phil Garner be looking for a new job?
Only if the Astros want him to.
8.) What player in the Major League do you want to see play more then any other?
You probably won't like it: Carlos Beltran. Or Albert Pujols. Pitching-wise, Roy O or Johan Santana.
9.) Is the Rocket headed back home to Houston? With the Yankees in serious trouble, they are not looking that hot right now, but the Red Sox are sure pouring it on.
I think he'll end up in Boston. But I've been in the minority on that opinion for months now.
10.) If to win the division, the number is 87, are the Astros over or under?
Under.

I want to thank John for taking the time to read and respond to my questions. I'll post my responses to his answers in the next post.