Astros Front Office: Randy Flores Hired As General Manager

The Houston Astros named Randy Flores as their new general manager on Friday. The hire fills the vacancy left by Dana Brown, whom the team released in August as his contract entered its final year. Flores, 51, will become the 15th general manager in the franchise's history.

Flores spent the last decade with the St. Louis Cardinals. He joined their front office as director of scouting in 2015 and served as assistant general manager for amateur and pro acquisition from 2019 through 2026. Before his executive career, he pitched in Major League Baseball for eight seasons between 2002 and 2010. His career record stands at 11 wins and 5 losses with a 4.61 earned run average and four saves. He made 347 relief appearances for the Rangers, Rockies, Cardinals, and Twins.

Astros owner Jim Crane cited Flores's background in scouting and player acquisition as key factors in the decision. In a statement, Crane said the team was impressed throughout the interview process. "Randy has had a huge impact on the Cardinals over the last 10 seasons," Crane said. "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."

Flores expressed gratitude for the opportunity in his own remarks. "I am excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity," he 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."

The Astros are also searching for a new manager. Joe Espada's contract was not renewed after the team was swept by the Chicago White Sox in the Wild Card Series. From August 24 until a permanent hire is made, three assistant general managers and Hall of Famer Jeff Bagwell shared the duties previously held by Brown. Bagwell serves as a special adviser to the club.

Houston finished the 2026 regular season with an 81-81 record. That marked their fifth AL West title in six years. The team became the first Major League club to reach the playoffs with a losing record in a non-shortened season. Flores will be formally introduced at a news conference Monday morning at Daikin Park.