Petit plans to make good impression

HOUSTON -- In the lineup on Wednesday for the second game in a row and third time in five games, Gregorio Petit appreciates every opportunity he gets, especially since he hopes to make a good impression heading into the offseason.

Petit wants to remain with the organization next year and beyond, which would allow him to live at home, as he bought a house in the Houston area last offseason. Entering Wednesday, Petit had hit safely in eight of his 12 starts since being called up in July after a solid showing for much of the season at Triple-A.

"This has been a great experience," Petit said. "It's been a great opportunity for me. I appreciate it more than anybody can think, anybody can imagine. Of course, I'll be more than glad to be part of the Astros for the next year and for a long time.

"Even just by living here, it makes it way easier for me to be close to my kids and family and be able to be part of a Major League team. I'll be more than happy to be an Astro for a long time."

September figures to be a big month in which Petit can show what he can do, but he says it's really no different from any other time he takes the field.

"I'm trying to be the guy they need," he said. "Coming into September, I'm going to take any opportunity the manager gives me to be out there any time during the game."