I really don't understand what the Astros see in using Brandon Duckworth as a fifth starter. Unless they feel that the defense needs practice after Roger Clemens, Roy Oswalt, Andy Pettitte, and Brandon Backe shut the opponents down in valiant efforts. He doesn't belong in the same sentence as the other starters. Maybe they feel that the opponents will be completely fooled after Brandon Duckworth throws them batting practice in subsequent games.

If the fifth starter throws 18 percent of the games and Brandon Duckworth is starting them, we are in big trouble. It is time for the Astros to bring up Astacio for the minors. The kid is much better than the rubbage that we have seen from Duckworth. He deseves a chance and Duckworth doesn't deserve anything other than a waiver.