The Corpus Christi Hooks are a Minor League Baseball team that plays in the Texas League and are the Double-A affiliate of the Houston Astros. The team is located in Corpus Christi, Texas, and is named after the city's association with fishing. The team's colors are white, red, and light blue, representing the ocean and sky of the popular South Texas fishing area. The team mascots are Sammy the Seagull and Rusty the Fish Hook.
The Hooks play their home games at Whataburger Field, which opened in 2005 and is located on Corpus Christi's waterfront. The stadium can seat just under 7,700 fans and has hosted notable events such as the Texas League All-Star Game in 2007. One of the most exciting moments in the team's history involved an appearance by Roger Clemens on June 11, 2006, as he prepared for his return to the Astros. Clemens' start attracted nationwide attention and a record crowd of 9,022. Clemens struck out 11 batters in six innings on his way to the victory.
The Hooks' franchise has a rich history that traces its roots back to 1968, when it initially emerged as the Memphis Blues in the Texas League. The franchise has celebrated two league championships, claiming the crown in both 1969 and 1973. Subsequently, in 1974, the team relocated to Victoria, Texas, and found success in Toro Stadium, triumphing as the Toros during their sole season there. The following year, the franchise journeyed to Jackson, Mississippi, where it made its home for an impressive span of 25 seasons. During this time, the team underwent a transformation, first as the Mets (1975-1990), and later as the Generals (1991-1999). Throughout this period, the franchise achieved playoff berths on 13 occasions and emerged victorious in the TL championship five times: 1981, 1984, 1985, 1993, and 1996.
Since the team's establishment in Corpus Christi, several talented Hooks players have received the call-up to the major leagues, including Alex Bregman, Jose Altuve and Hunter Pence. With their strong affiliation with the Houston Astros and their talented roster of players, the Hooks are sure to continue making their mark in the Texas League and beyond.
