# Houston Astros general manager and manager search > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/houston-astros-general-manager-search-and-hiring > Updated: 2026-11-06T23:06:25.000Z. Sources: 38. Developments: 5. Following the departure of Dana Brown in August, the Houston Astros initiated a search for a new general manager. The search concluded with the appointment of Randy Flores, who joined from the St. Louis Cardinals. Flores, a former Major League pitcher, becomes the 15th general manager in franchise history. This leadership change occurs alongside a search for a new manager following the decision not to renew Joe Espada’s contract. Randy Flores is leading the managerial search process. Albert Pujols, a three-time National League MVP and future Hall of Famer, has completed an interview for the role. While Pujols lacks Major League managerial experience, his recent credentials include managing the Dominican Republic national team to a third-place finish in the 2026 World Baseball Classic and leading the Leones del Escogido to a Dominican winter league title in early 2025. Pujols’ candidacy has sparked debate among analysts regarding his transition from player to coach. While his leadership presence is cited as a strength, some question if his exceptional natural talent might make it difficult to communicate complex skills to less gifted players. Former Astros player Josh Reddick has expressed support, suggesting Pujols could provide “new direction and revitalize the team’s energy.” Other candidates reportedly being considered for the role include New York Yankees bench coach Brad Ausmus, Texas Rangers bench coach Luis Urueta, and former Astros player Morgan Ensberg. ## Claims - Albert Pujols will interview for the Houston Astros manager position. (reported by 3 sources) - The interview is scheduled to take place on Thursday at Daikin Park. (reported by 3 sources) - Randy Flores is the new general manager of the Houston Astros. (reported by 3 sources) - Pujols and Flores were teammates on the St. Louis Cardinals during their 2006 World Series win. (reported by 3 sources) - Pujols managed the Dominican Republic national team in the 2026 World Baseball Classic. (reported by 3 sources) - Brad Ausmus is among the candidates being considered for the manager role. (reported by 2 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-11-06: Albert Pujols emerges as candidate for Houston Astros manager Albert Pujols has interviewed for the Houston Astros managerial role, raising questions about whether his legendary playing career will translate into successful coaching. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/albert-pujols-emerges-as-candidate-for-houston-astros-manager ### 2026-11-04: Albert Pujols to interview for Houston Astros manager role The Houston Astros will interview MLB legend Albert Pujols this week for their vacant manager position, following the departure of Joe Espada. 24 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/albert-pujols-to-interview-for-houston-astros-manager-position ### 2026-11-02: Houston Astros name Randy Flores as new general manager The Houston Astros have appointed former St. Louis Cardinals executive Randy Flores as their new general manager. His first priority is hiring a replacement for manager Joe Espada. 6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/houston-astros-hire-randy-flores-as-new-general-manager ### 2026-10-31: Houston Astros hire Randy Flores as general manager The Houston Astros have hired former St. Louis Cardinals executive Randy Flores as their new general manager to replace Dana Brown. 12 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/houston-astros-hire-randy-flores-as-general-manager ### 2026-10-26: Houston Astros interview Mike Rizzo for General Manager vacancy The Houston Astros are interviewing former Washington Nationals GM Mike Rizzo for their vacant general manager position, alongside other candidates like Matt Kleine. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/mike-rizzo-set-to-interview-for-houston-astros-general-manager-position --- Cite as: Houston Astros general manager and manager search. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/houston-astros-general-manager-search-and-hiring