The Houston Astros’ search for a new head of baseball operations has ended with the hiring of general manager Randy Flowers. Flores, 51, had been assistant general manager with the St. Louis Cardinals. In Houston, Flores replaces Dana Brown, who was released in late August. Flores becomes the fourth head of baseball operations to serve under Astros owner Jim Crane.
“Randy has had an impact on the Cardinals over the last 10 seasons,” Crane said in a statement released by the club. “Throughout the interview process, we were thrilled with Randy and his team in scouting and acquiring the player. We are thrilled to welcome Randy and his family to the Astros and can’t wait to help bring another championship to Houston.”
Flores added: “I am excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity. The Astros have a long tradition under Jim Crane, and I look forward to contributing to their success. I want to thank the Cardinals for the opportunities and support that will make this next chapter possible. My family and my home are excited to be in Houston.”
Flowers served as the Cardinals’ scouting director for about a decade and worked with their running back draft. He added the title of assistant GM in 2018 and saw his portfolio expanded within the next year.
Is it before the Astros rebuild?
Flores takes over the Astros organization beset by uncertainty. With an aging roster and the departure of several key players over the years, the Astros have seen their season total decline for four straight years. This past season, the Astros took out the American League Central title but finished with a .500 record and a negative differential. In terms of success and roster strength, they are a long way from their 2017-22 dynasty. It’s not certain whether the Astros moving forward will try to express a different era of reality or embrace the establishment, but either way will have its challenges.
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Speaking of challenges, Crane and trusted adviser Jeff Bagwell have been an increasingly curious presence in recent years, and it’s unclear to what degree Flowers will have autonomy in their role. Whatever the future holds, the first mayor Flores fills the vacant stewardship. After the end of the regular season, Crane opted to renew the contract of former manager Joe Espada.
Flowers started as a former reliever who played parts of eight seasons in the majors. In 2006, he earned a World Series title as a member of the Cardinals team.