HOUSTON -- Watch live from Daikin Park as the Astros introduce new general manager Randy Flores in a news conference.
The Flores hiring comes more than two months after the Astros parted ways with GM Dana Brown, who was in his fourth season. The Astros won their eighth American League West title in 10 seasons this year but finished 81-81 and with a ton of roster questions that have clouded the future of the club.
Flores, a former left-handed pitcher who appeared in 350 career Major League games with the Cardinals, Rockies, Rangers and Twins, has been an assistant GM with the Cardinals for eight seasons (2019-26) after joining the club’s front office as its director of scouting in 2015.
“Randy has had a huge impact on the Cardinals over the last 10 seasons,” 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.”
Flores’ first task will be finding a manager to replace Joe Espada, whose contract wasn’t renewed after three seasons on the job. The Astros also have several holes to fill on their coaching staff, as well, including bench coach.
After his playing career, Flores returned to his alma mater at USC, earning a master’s degree in postsecondary administration in 2014. During graduate school, he was USC’s pitching coach (2013), worked as a college baseball analyst for ESPN and Pac-12 Networks, and founded a sports video technology company.
“I am excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity,” Flores said in a statement. “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.”