What Were the Astros Called Before? A Look at Houston’s Baseball History

When it comes to the history of the Houston Astros, fans may be surprised to learn that the team was originally known as the Houston Colt .45s.

The Colt .45s played in Major League Baseball from 1962 until 1964 before changing their name to the Astros in 1965. This change marked a significant transition in the franchise’s identity and set the stage for its future success.

The name “Colt .45s” was inspired by the famous revolver and reflected a Western theme that resonated with Texas culture. However, with the move to the newly built Astrodome and an emphasis on modernization, the team adopted the name “Astros,” symbolizing its connection to space and progress.

This shift occurred during a time when the team was transitioning from the National League to the American League in 2013.

Understanding the journey from the Colt .45s to the Astros provides insight into how baseball teams often reinvent themselves. This history not only highlights changes in team identity but also reflects broader trends within Major League Baseball.

The Houston Colt .45s Era

The Houston Colt .45s were the city’s first Major League Baseball team, playing from 1962 until 1964. This era set the stage for the franchise’s development, culminating in a key transition to a new name and a new stadium. The team left a lasting mark on baseball in Houston.

Transition to Houston Astros

In 1965, the Colt .45s changed their name to the Houston Astros. This change coincided with their move to the Astrodome, a state-of-the-art facility that represented a new era in baseball.

The name “Astros” reflected Houston’s growing connection to the space industry, highlighted by the nearby Cape Kennedy and Cocoa Beach. This redesignation helped connect the team with the rapidly advancing era of American space exploration.

Colt Stadium and the Astrodome

Colt Stadium was the original home of the Colt .45s. Opened in 1962, it was a temporary venue that could hold about 32,000 fans.

While it served its purpose during the initial seasons, the team’s move to the Astrodome in 1965 was pivotal. The Astrodome was also known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World” and provided a more comfortable environment for fans and players alike. The transition marked a significant step up in facilities for the team.

Notable Colt .45s Figures

Several key players defined the Colt .45s’ early years. Rusty Staub made an impact as the team’s first star, known for his hitting skills and strong presence in the lineup.

Joe Morgan, who would later become a Hall of Famer, also played for the Colt .45s before achieving greater success. The team was managed by Harry Craft, who guided the players during their formative years. Key figures like these helped shape the identity of Houston baseball.

The Colt .45s remain a significant part of the city’s sports history, leading to the establishment of the Astros and their ongoing success in Major League Baseball.

The Astros’ Growth and Evolution

The Houston Astros have undergone significant changes since their inception, influencing their growth in the realm of Major League Baseball. This evolution includes their quest for championship success, transitions between stadiums, and the impact of key players and management.

World Series Pursuits

Since their founding, the Astros have strived for a World Series title. They made their first appearance in 2005, but unfortunately, lost to the Chicago White Sox.

After years of ups and downs, they achieved their first championship in 2017, defeating the Los Angeles Dodgers. This win was a significant milestone, affirming their place in the American League after moving from the National League in 2013.

The team later added another title in 2022, showcasing their ability to compete at the highest level consistently.

Stadium Transitions

The Astros started playing in the Astrodome, which was known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” The Astrodome served as their home from 1965 until 1999.

In 2000, they moved to Minute Maid Park, a more modern facility. Minute Maid Park emphasizes a fan-friendly experience and features a home run zone known as the “Toyota Hall of Fame Alley.” This evolution from the Astrodome to Minute Maid Park illustrates the team’s growth and adaptation to the changing landscape of baseball and fan engagement.

Iconic Astros Players and Management

Several players have left a lasting mark on the Astros’ history. Notable figures like Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio were pivotal during the team’s early successful years.

Their contributions helped to shape the franchise. Additionally, Roger Clemens made a significant impact during his seasons with the team.

Under the leadership of general manager Jeff Luhnow, and with manager Joe Espada, the team has enjoyed a successful era, resulting in several Wild Card berths and meaningful playoff appearances.

Furthermore, Dallas Keuchel earned the Cy Young Award in 2015, highlighting the team’s strong pitching talent during their rise to prominence.