Mostly Quiet Trading Deadline for the Astros
The non-waiver trade deadline passed with relative silence for the Astros. There was no trade for Lamb, Loretta or Lidge although Loretta to the Mariners was rumored until just about the last minute. Only thing they managed to do was dump Ensberg and some cash on to the Padres for a player to be named later or cash back.
I wish Morgan Ensberg the best. He has to be happy he’s going home to Southern California and to a contender to boot. Morgan has always been a classy guy and I’ve always respected him as a person. His parting words to the Astros fans in Houston yesterday included phrases like "Hello to Astros fans from the unemployment line." and "If you would like a player who looks at too many pitches and only swings when one is right in the heart of the strike zone, please give me a call."
At least he hasn’t lost his sense of humor. I’m sure a change of scenery will do wonders for Ensberg. Good luck Morgan with your new team. Hope you do great in the playoffs, unless of course, by some miracle the Astros end up facing you.
Hot Stove and Beyond 
Mo is without a doubt, one of the classiest guys in baseball. He loved his Astros fans, and fellow players. I used to love to watch him sign autographs on the first base line before the games. He made so many fans happy. I wish you all the luck in the world Mo. And since you did not ask to be traded, everytime we face you, I will still cheer for you. You treated your fans like gold, and I appreciate it. We will miss you. Good luck to you and your family in San Diege. Hope they know what a class act they signed.