Astros: J.R. Richard’s Number Should Be Retired

Making a case for the Astros to finally retire the number of one of the franchise’s all-time greats

On March 7, the Astros’ social media accounts posted happy birthday wishes to former pitcher J.R. Richard. Naturally, the mere mention of one of the greatest players to take the mound for Houston’s baseball club prompted me to think about the man, his incredible story, and his legacy.

Richard’s Story

For a period of time in the late 1970s and early 1980s, Richard was arguably the most unhittable pitcher in the major leagues. Armed with a triple-digit fastball and a slider that could reach the upper 90s, he struck out Willie Mays three times in his debut.

He won 18 or more games in four…