HOUSTON -- To fully understand the ideology of Astros first-year general manager Jeff Luhnow will require supreme patience and constant reminders that such processes take time to reach fruition.
During his introductory press conference on Dec 7, Luhnow revealed a philosophy shaped by an extensive background in traditional scouting methodology combined with an adherence to data analysis derived from his Ivy League education and subsequent career in the business sector. Luhnow aroused curiosity, but until he completed his first series of transactions to advance the Astros' rebuilding, his words were mere theory.
Then came the acquisitions of Jed Lowrie and Marwin Gonzalez, the signings of Jack Cust and Chris Snyder, and the spring training invitations extended to Zach Duke, Livan Hernandez and Justin Ruggiano. Now there was some substance to what Luhnow had shared, a basis for which one could begin the process of forming an opinion.
The Astros will invite 61 players to Kissimmee, F...