Houston Astros: Orbit authors his first children’s book

The furry green mascot is known for his tricks on and off the field for the Houston Astros. Now, after 15 years in Houston, the alien wrote his first book.

Mascots across the league pull teams’ crowds of fans together despite whether or not that team enjoys success or not. Most are entertaining creatures or individuals that amuse people of all ages. For the Houston Astros, Orbit is a representation of the charismatic, fun-loving environment that envelopes Minute Maid Park and the team’s fans.

And he’s sharing that enjoyment with children now, as the other-worldly mascot just launched his first book, “Orbit’s First Day of School.”

This is not the first time someone has written a book about a professional mascot, but it’s the first time Orbit has donned the cover of a written piece. Houston Astros fans even visited the team store Sunday to purchase a signed copy of it.

Orbit returned to the field in 2013 after a 12-year intergalactic hiatus and became popular instantly. Known for his hijinks, the beloved mascot played tricks on some of the game’s more popular stars, including Mike Trout and Chris Archer.

He made his way around the team’s farm system in the past too, spending time in Fresno with the Grizzlies’ fun-filled bear, Parker. Other than the Philly Phanatic, Orbit could be the most popular mascot in the league – maybe in the entire American League.

Orbit has made an impact in the city of Houston, cruising around the city and making appearances practically everywhere. Houston Press named him as the city’s best mascot in 2015, and several local news organizations argued he is the best in the league.

However, it’s difficult to claim that he surpassed several of the traditional mascots. Mr. Met and Mr. Red are two of the well-known ones across the country. Some argue he’s not the most popular green-colored creature either, thanks to Wally the Green Monster in Boston.

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Also, crews – not considered mascots – garner a lot of attention. Sausages race in Milwaukee and presidents race in Washington, and now “The Freeze” is a phenomenon in Atlanta.

But not all of them bring the joy, and comedy-filled fun Orbit brings on and off the field for the Astros. He spends a substantial amount of time visiting local schools and involves himself in “Make-a-Wish” moments.

Some agree that he is truly out of this world. And as the team continues to win, he will be there to enhance the fanatic experience.

Whether fans see him rush the field with the team’s flag, play pranks on opposing players or dance around the field with his jersey off, the league should be thankful for him. His book should also be an interesting read for any child that follows the Houston Astros.

Next: What to do with Derek Fisher next season.

Stay classy, Orbit.