Astros Name Randy Flores General Manager

The Houston Astros have hired Randy Flores, an executive from the St. Louis Cardinals, as their new general manager, the team announced Friday. Flores steps into the role previously held by Dana Brown, who was dismissed in August as his contract neared its expiration at the end of the season.

The Astros are also in the process of hiring a new manager, as Joe Espada's contract was not renewed following the team's playoff exit. Flores, 51, becomes the 15th general manager in the franchise's history. He most recently served as the Cardinals' assistant general manager for amateur and professional acquisition.

Flores joined the Cardinals' front office in 2015 as director of scouting and spent eight seasons as an assistant GM. "Randy has had a huge impact on the Cardinals over the last 10 seasons," Astros owner Jim Crane said in a statement. "Throughout the entire interview process we’ve been thoroughly impressed with Randy and his background in scouting and player acquisition. We’re happy to welcome Randy and his family to the Astros and we can’t wait to get to work on bringing another championship to Houston."

A former major league pitcher, Flores played for eight seasons from 2002 to 2010 for the Texas Rangers, Colorado Rockies, St. Louis Cardinals, and Minnesota Twins. He compiled an 11-5 record with a 4.61 ERA and four saves across 347 relief appearances and three starts.

Flores is scheduled to be formally introduced by the Astros at a news conference Monday morning at Daikin Park. "I am excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity," Flores said. "The Astros have a long winning tradition under Jim Crane and I look forward to contributing to the success. I want to thank the Cardinals organization for the opportunities and support that made this next chapter possible. My family and I are excited to make Houston home."

The Astros parted ways with Brown on August 24. Following Brown's departure, three assistant general managers and special adviser Jeff Bagwell managed the team's baseball operations for the remainder of the season while Crane searched for a successor.

Last season, Houston finished with an 81-81 record, winning the AL West for the fifth time in six years. They became the first MLB team without a winning record to reach the playoffs in a non-shortened season.