Although he has never managed in the big leagues, MIlls is a life-long baseball guy. He has managed a total of 11 seasons in the minor leagues and has spent the last six with the Chowda heads up in Beantown. So, it is obvious that the man knows the game and experience was very important for the new manager.

But experience, doesn't necessarily mean winning. Mills has both. Plenty of years in the game and the taste of victory as evidenced by his two World Series rings. That winning mindset will be key for a team that hasn't had a lot to be excited about since '05.

With this hire...the Astros are on their 4th manager in 4 years...not a good ratio. But even with that, this team is closer than people think. They just need a new attitude and some CHANGE which is why it was essential to bring someone from OUTSIDE the organization.

But you ask, why not bring someone with managerial experience at the BIG leagues? Well, they narrowed it down to 10. Ned Yost hasn't won anything...neither has Bob Melvin. Manny Acta, who was offered the job here first, was dreadful in Washington (good luck in Cleveland by the way, thats a definite rebuilding project). Garner, he was great, when he was here the first time, but that train has since left the station.The only guy that stood out, that wasn't part of the Astros culture at one point or another, was Mills.

They have some work to do, but in the National League, anything is possible. Mills brings a winning attitude from a great organization. Two things that have been lost here in Houston since winning the pennant in 2005.