Houston Astros hire Randy Flores as general manager

The Houston Astros have appointed Randy Flores as their new general manager, replacing Dana Brown, who was dismissed in August. Flores, 51, joins the organization from the St. Louis Cardinals, where he spent the last 11 seasons. He previously served as the Cardinals' assistant general manager of amateur and professional acquisition and as their director of scouting.

Flores, a former Major League pitcher and 2006 World Series champion, becomes the 15th general manager in Astros franchise history. Astros owner Jim Crane stated that the organization was impressed with Flores’ background in scouting and player acquisition during the interview process.

The move comes during a period of transition for the Houston front office. Following a postseason sweep by the Chicago White Sox, the team also decided not to renew the contract of manager Joe Espada, leaving the club in search of a new manager this offseason.