Lance

Berkman

Berkman’s numbers look more like a slap-hitting leadoff man to start the season -- .359 on-base percentage, eight walks, seven runs scored, one steal. It’s just a matter of time before the slugging component of his game comes through, and when it does, he will produce in bunches.

“That’s a realistic goal,” Berkman said. “According to my physical therapist, I’m ahead of where I should be.” Astros manager Phil Garner told reporters at the winter meetings he doesn’t think Berkman will be ready for Opening Day.

Berkman will be one of next winter’s top free agents. Assuming that he bounces back well after recovering from a torn ACL, he should receive $12 million per year.

Berkman missed the four game series against Milwaukee but has wanted to play since Saturday. Keep him active.

Berkman will likely begin baseball-related activities around March 12, which would be the four-month mark in his recovery from surgery. The Astros think May 1 is a realistic return date for Berkman. ''I wish he would be ready April 1, but he’s not,’' manager Phil Garner said. In other Berkman news, the two sides have agreed to an April 1 deadline for a contract extension to get worked out. Berkman would still consider re-signing with the Astros as a free agent if nothing gets done this spring.

A meeting between Astros owner Drayton McLane and Berkman’s agent could take place as soon as tomorrow. Berkman, who is eligible for free agency after the season, likely will seek a deal worth more than $12 million per season.

''We’re a ways apart, but it’s not insurmountable,’' he said after announcing that the two sides had agreed to a one-year, $10.5 million yesterday. Purpura also indicated that he expected Berkman to miss the first month of the season with his torn ACL. ''Lance is more optimistic than that, which is great,’' Purpura said. ''The normal course of recovery is five to six months. But if it’s sooner than that, certainly that’s to our advantage.’'

Berkman suffered the injury Friday, but it only became known when Morgan Ensberg pinch-hit for him Monday night against a lefthander. ''Today it has calmed down and feels good,’' Berkman said.

Berkman, troubled by a sprained ligament is his left elbow, will only be available as a pinch-runner today.

Berkman was denied permission to take live BP today. ''They’re talking about not starting me until Wednesday,’' he said. ''They want to see me take live batting practice first. I was hoping to be able to take live batting practice. I feel good.’' Keep Berkman active this week.