Jeff Bagwell is coming off an injury plagued 2005 season, and will be 38 years old this coming season.  At first glance, you may think this is a selfish move by the Astros management - it’s not.  Let’s not feel too sorry for Bagwell, who couldn’t lead his Astros to the World Series during his prime, getting ousted by the Braves 3 times and by the Padres in ‘98 in the division round.  The Astros finally got past the Braves for the first time two years ago in 2004, mostly in part by Carlos Beltran’s heroics.  Bagwell has earned an excess of $108,765,000 in salary throughout his career for the Astros, so he has been compensated extremely well for his services.

The Astros found out last year in the playoffs that they need an extra bat or two in their lineup to go all the way, having insurance company pick up the majority of Bagwells $17 million he will be owed in the ‘06 season would be a good place to start and free up some money to pursue a young big time hitter.  Fans do not need to point out that Bagwell has been loyal to the team, and now the Astros aren’t showing any loyalty in return, this is a business, and the $108 million should suffice.