Deadspin: Astros hire Cardinals’ Randy Flores as general manager, bringing scouting experience to Houston

Flores takes over in Houston

The Astros announced Friday that they hired Randy Flores as their new general manager. Flores spent the past 11 seasons with St. Louis, becoming the Cardinals’ director of scouting in 2015 and moving up to assistant general manager after the 2018 season.

He replaces Dana Brown, who had held the job since January 2023. Owner Jim Crane dismissed Brown on Aug. 24, and Houston interviewed several candidates before choosing Flores. Recent speculation had identified Milwaukee Brewers assistant general manager Matt Kleine as a leading contender.

Flores said he was excited and grateful for the opportunity, and thanked the Cardinals for their support. He said his family looked forward to making Houston home.

Crane cites scouting background

Crane said the Astros were impressed by Flores’ experience in scouting and player acquisition during the interview process. He welcomed Flores and his family and said the club was eager to work toward another championship.

Flores played as a left-handed pitcher and spent most of his eight-year major league career with the Cardinals. He recorded an 11-5 record and a 4.61 ERA across 350 appearances, including three starts, for four teams. His teams were the Texas Rangers in 2002, Colorado Rockies in 2002 and 2008-10, Cardinals in 2004-08, and Minnesota Twins in 2010.

Houston’s recent postseason record

The Astros have reached the American League playoffs in nine of the past 10 years, including eight West Division titles. Their last two postseason trips ended in sweeps, against the Detroit Tigers in 2024 and the Chicago White Sox in 2026.