Astros name McCracken Director of Player Development
Former Major League outfielder spent the last two seasons in Arizona’s front office
HOUSTON, TX - The Houston Astros have named former Major League outfielder Quinton McCracken as their new director of player development this afternoon. The announcement was made by Astros General Manager Jeff Luhnow.
“Quinton had a long and successful playing career, so he knows what it takes to get to the big leagues and stay there,” said Luhnow. “He has successfully transitioned to a front office role in Arizona and we are excited to have him join our efforts in Houston. He will be instrumental in developing the next generation of Astros stars.”
McCracken, 42, spent the last two seasons working in Arizona’s front office as their assistant director of player development. In that role, he worked with all aspects of Arizona’s minor league system and served as a liaison between the Major League club and their minor league affiliates. McCracken is a graduate of Duke University, where he starred on the baseball field, while earning his degree in political science and history.
He was a 25th-round selection out of Duke in the 1992 draft by Colorado and went on to have a 12-year Major League career (1995-2006) while playing for six different organizations. He owns a career .274 Major League average with 21 home runs, 244 RBI and 89 stolen bases.
McCracken replaces Fred Nelson, who has been offered an opportunity to stay in the organization in a different capacity.
ASTROS PROMOTE ROWIN TO ASSISTANT DIRECTOR OF PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
Today, the Astros also announced that Allen Rowin has been promoted to assistant director of player development. Rowin has been with the club since January of 2007 and had served as the player development coordinator since April of 2007. Rowin will support McCracken in all areas of player development.