The Corpus Christi Hooks begin their spring season on April 2. The Hooks will play a 138-game season with half of their games taking place at home in Whataburger Field, giving fans the opportunity to see the new era of talent for the Houston Astros.
As a Double-A affiliate competing in the South Division of the Texas League, the Corpus Christi Hooks face competition across Texas, Arkansas, and Oklahoma. Last season the Hooks finished last in their division with the worst record in the Texas League (48-89). Despite last season’s struggles, the organization remains optimistic under second-year manager Ricky Rivera. Rivera, 31, brings five seasons of experience to the team and is focused on moving the team in the right direction.
With promising returners coming back, the Houston Astros organization is looking to make moves to win across all their teams. Outfielder Zach Cole led the Corpus Christi Hooks in batting average hitting a .267. Unfortunately for the Hooks, Cole was sent to Sugar Land, then made his debut with the Astros on Sept. 12 of last season. The Hooks also lost left-handed starting pitcher Trey Dombroski who led the team in wins, and put up an impressive 3.61 ERA over 112 innings pitched. Dombroski was promoted to the Astros Triple-A in Sugar Land, leaving a gap in the starting rotation.
The Astros organization continues to feel the effect of penalties from their 2017 World Series season. As part of the damage, the team forfeited its 2020 and 2021 first and second round picks. Those losses have reflected throughout the farm system. The High A team in the Astros organization, the Asheville Tourists, are also seeing the effects, finishing last overall in the 12-team South Atlantic League.
As the Corpus Christi Hook spring season awaits, the focus on development and growth with new players and returners is still the main target in the Houston Astros organization. The Hooks will look to leave the past behind and take a step forward as the new season offers an opportunity to reset and build winning momentum.
