HOUSTON -- Astros right-hander Bud Norris took a giant step forward in 2011 by posting a career-best 3.77 ERA, as well as setting career highs in strikeouts (176), innings pitched (186) and starts (31).
Norris, 26, may have finished with only a 6-11 record, yet he improved upon several strengths and demonstrated a strong overall ability to manager Brad Mills and the club to fine-tune weaknesses.
Despite a handful of positives, Norris told Examiner.com that it's time for him in 2012 to step up to the next level and begin to transform into the starting pitcher he's meant to be for the Astros.
"I took a lot of steps forward last season," Norris said. "I know the pitcher I am and the pitcher I want to be. I know how much progression I want to make over my career. It does take time, but I'm happy with the progress I have made. I know there is a lot more in me and a lot more I need to get out of myself. By looking back to last season, I recognize the good things I did, as well as the bad things. I'm trying to get better. When the time comes to get back out there in February, I'll be ready to go."
Norris recognizes the Astros' desire and vision to rebuild after dealing Roy Oswalt, Lance Berkman, Jeff Keppinger, Hunter Pence and Michael Bourn for younger players over the past two seasons.
In the midst of all the changes, Norris admits he's more proud than ever to be a part of the Astros, especially since the front office under the previous guidance of GM Ed Wade and the new direction of Jeff Luhnow treats him with a great deal of respect.
Houston could have easily put Norris on the trading block, but the front office refuses to consider that particular scenario an option.
The hard-throwing right-hander has developed a strong love toward the Astros and the fan base, and wants nothing more than to make his career memorable over the long-run in the city of Houston.
He credits outfielder and Houston native Jason Bourgeois for being a standout example of how to be a young leader in the clubhouse
According to Norris, he's ready to accept that role as a vocal, young veteran leader for the Astros' inexperienced squad in 2012.
"I feel the respect," Norris. "I understand that I am one of the younger guys and have done well enough. The Astros need somebody to lead the young group. If that's the role they want me to take, then I'll absolutely be that guy. The young players are eager to learn each day. We have to be vocal. That's one of the things I cherish about Jason Bourgeois. He has taught some of us veteran, young guys that we do need to be a little vocal.
"At the big league level, you need to be comfortable in being that kind of leader in the clubhouse. I'm excited to be here. I want to be with Houston over the long run. I want to make my career worthwhile here in Houston. You take it one day at a time and one year at a time. I am going to play real hard for Houston."
The Astros believe Norris does possess the potential to be an All-Star pitcher, but the responsibility falls on him to make it a reality.
Norris has faith in himself and will rely on a strong hunger and determination to attain his goals over the course of the 2012 season.
Although Norris continues to mix the fastball more effectively with the slider and changeup, he's aiming to become an elite starter.
He's prepared to go the extra mile.
"As a starting pitcher, you need to know what to do in order to get better," Norris said. "That's what I'm continuing to work at. Your strengths are your strengths and your weaknesses are your weaknesses. You're always trying to make adjustments here and there. With me specifically, my two-seam [fastball] and changeup need to get better. My command, endurance and the drive to toss over 200 innings are all big things. This is my season to take it to the next level. That's what I'm going to do."
Norris made it known that he's fully recovered and no longer bothered by a sore shoulder suffered down the stretch last season.
"I feel great," he said. "I will be ready to get out there soon for Spring Training. There's no doubt in my mind that I'm going to accomplish everything I set out to do in 2012. I am going over 200 innings.
"I'm going to be an impact starter for the Houston Astros and do my very best to help the ballclub win games when I'm on the mound."
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