Ed Wade: How to Lose $20 Million Dollars In 14 Hours

Timeline:

Around 10 PM yesterday, the Astros signed Brandon Lyon to a three year/$15 million dollar contract.

Around 12 PM today, the Astros signed Pedro Feliz to a one year/$4.5 million dollar contract.

Nearly $20 million spent on two players...two very average players.

What I'm struggling to understand is GM Ed Wade's motivation for making these two moves.

• Are the Astros looking to compete in 2010?
• Are the Astros still looking to cut payroll?
• If the Astros plan on competing in 2010, then are they prepared to take on even more payroll?

***What do you think of these two signings?***