Sign Carlos Beltran

This is a petition to request that the Houston Astros re-sign centerfielder Carlos Beltran during the 2004 off-season.

The advantages of signing Beltran are many. Not only does he provide excellent defense at an important position, but he adds speed to a lineup that sorely needs it. In addition, he is a great offensive player capable of hitting 40 home runs in a season.

In 2004, Beltran hit 38 homers, drove in 104 runs and stole 42 bases. He is clearly the most productive centerfielder the team has seen in decades. And, at just 27 years old, Beltran is now hitting his prime as a player.

Beltran will be a free agent after the 2004 season but has expressed an interest in staying with Houston. Beltran's astounding performance in the post-season is just the kind of spark the team needs if it wants to compete for a World Championship each season.

We would like for the Houston Astros to make every effort to retain Beltran in 2005 and beyond. We will be notifying fellow Astros fans of this petition so that they can sign as well.

In addition, many of us will compose a personal letter to the team owner, Drayton McLane, expressing your hopes that the team will re-sign Carlos Beltran. Hopefully, enough mail will be received to help persuade the team of the popularity of Beltran. Our mail will be sent to:

Drayton McLane
Minute Maid Park
501 Crawford St.
Houston, TX 77002

Thanks for considering this petition!