Updated: Nov 30, 2005, 9:06 AM

Vote: What should Astros do this offseason?


On the morning of May 25, the Houston Astros were 15-30 and had lost seven straight games and 17 of their last 21. Five and a half months later, we're talking about what the Astros need to do to stay on top in the National League. It was both that unexpected and impressive for the Astros to recover and participate in the first World Series in their 44 seasons of existence.

In today's sports world, success can be fleeting, and general manager Tim Purpura will be out to make sure the Astros don't fall into the One-Hit Wonder category. Speaking of one hit, that's reasonably close to what Roger Clemens became accustomed to receiving in support of his efforts on the mound in 2005. It will be the Rocket's decision to re-sign or retire that will set the tone for the Astros' offseason.

So, SportsNation, how would you attack this offseason if you were Tim Purpura? What is your Plan B should Clemens decide not to come back? Do you wait to see how Jeff Bagwell's rehab is progressing? Or do you do whatever it takes to offer protection for Lance Berkman and Morgan Ensberg? And how long do you wait for Brad Ausmus to decide if he wants to remain in Houston? You hold the keys, so let us hear from you.

  • Click here for ESPN.com's complete Hot Stove coverage
    • 1) Do you think Roger Clemens will come back for another season in Houston?
    • 2) If Clemens doesn't return, which of these starting pitchers should the Astros pursue in free agency?
    • 3) What should the Astros do about first base in the offseason?
    • 4) If Bagwell is slow to recover, which free-agent outfielder should the Astros pursue?
    • 5) Which area do the Astros need to address the most in the offseason?
    • 6) Which of these players do you expect to make the greatest improvement next season?
    • 7) Which National League opponent should the Astros be most concerned about looking ahead to 2006?
    • 8) What should the Astros do at catcher?

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