Astros hire Randy Flores as new general manager as offseason filled with questions begins in Houston

Flores assumes his role at an uncertain time. Is a rebuild ahead, or will Houston try to squeeze out another season of relevance? The Houston Astros' search for a new head of baseball operations has ended with the hiring of Randy Flores as general manager. The 51-year-old Flores had been an assistant general manager with the St. Louis Cardinals. In Houston, Flores replaces Dana Brown, who was let go in late August. Flores becomes the fourth head of baseball operations to serve under Astros owner Jim Crane. "Randy has had a huge impact on the Cardinals over the last 10 seasons," Crane said in a statement released by the club. "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." Added Flores: "I am excited and grateful for this amazing opportunity. 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." Flores for roughly a decade served as scouting