About 35 regular and prospective members attended our meeting at the Inn at the Ballpark on March 12th and found the facilities to be outstanding. At the entrance to the lobby we were met by a life sized bronze statue of Nolan Ryan and throughout the hotel were photographs and sketches of former baseball players and ballparks.

It was also our honor to celebrate the birthday of SABR member and friend Jimmy Wynn who turned 70 years young that day. Jimmy is an icon, not just as an outstanding player but as a wonderful human being as well.

New member Johnny Valeriote was welcomed along with first time visitors Mike Davilia, Patrick Lopez and Erika Everett, all of whom appeared to be eager to join SABR asap.

Bill Brown kicked off the official proceedings with a review of team prospects for the 2012 Houston Astros. position by position. Bill commented on the many young athletes in camp and the upbeat atmosphere around the club this spring. Bill said he would not be surprised if the club improved their record in 2012 by winning an additional 16 games; something traditionally tough to do.

Bill and Tim Gregg next discussed the book they are writing about Bill's many years as a television broadcaster highlighting moments that were both motivational and inspirational. The book is to be released this summer.

Harry McHahon then talked about an historic baseball tabletop simulation game that he and others have been playing locally for years. He demonstrated a half of an inning of an actual game, stressing all of the significant strategic options available to both managers. Harry is looking for 2 or 3 managers for the 2012 season. If have an interest contact Harry at www.outtahere.com.

Robert Beal provided an interesting report on the Astros 25th Reunion held in February and shared with the group player comments on the 1986 season and what they were doing today.

Jim Kruez passed out his trivia contest which started out asking who had sung the National Anthem at the Baseball Dinner in January (SABR member Mike McCroksey) and got progressively harder. Bob Dorrill had the most correct answers.

Our next meeting will be on MONDAY April 16th (since the Astros are home during the 2nd week of the month), again at the Inn at the Ballpark, and feature noted baseball author and fellow SABR member Norman Macht.