Astros Name Randy Flores as New General Manager

The Houston Astros hired Randy Flores as their new general manager on Friday. Flores, 51, had served as St. Louis' assistant general manager of amateur and pro acquisition. He becomes the 15th person to hold the general manager title in the franchise's history.

Flores replaces Dana Brown, whom the team released on Aug. 24 with his contract set to expire after the season. Following Brown's departure, three assistant general managers and special adviser Jeff Bagwell handled the front office duties for the remainder of the year. Jim Crane, the team's owner, searched for a replacement during that period.

The Astros also have an open manager position. Joe Espada's contract was not renewed after the team was swept by the Chicago White Sox in the Wild Card Series. Houston finished the season 81-81, a record that still secured the club its fifth AL West title in six years.

Flores joined the Cardinals in 2015 as director of scouting. He held the role of assistant general manager with the club from 2019 through 2026.

Crane said in a statement that he had been impressed by Flores' background in scouting and player acquisition during the interview process. Flores pitched in the major leagues for eight seasons from 2002 to 2010, recording an 11-5 record, a 4.61 ERA, and four saves. The left-hander made 347 relief appearances and three starts for Texas, Colorado, St. Louis, and Minnesota.

The team will introduce Flores to the media during a news conference Monday morning at Daikin Park. Flores said he looks forward to contributing to the team's history of winning. He also thanked the Cardinals for the support that led to this next chapter.