Instant reactions to Astros hiring Randy Flores as general manager (as potential second choice)

Houston Astros hire Randy Flores as GM over Mike Rizzo and Matt Kleine.

By Scott Barzilla · Climbing Tal's Hill

Published: Saturday, 31 October 2026 at 1:17 AM

Key Things to Know

The writer argues the Houston Astros settled for a second-choice option by hiring Randy Flores as general manager.
Randy Flores joins the Astros with an extensive player development background from the St. Louis Cardinals.
Milwaukee Brewers executive Matt Kleine was reportedly Houston's preferred target before talks stalled over contract buyout or autonomy terms.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Houston Astros have hired Randy Flores as their general manager, bringing in an executive with an extensive player development background from the St. Louis Cardinals. The decision followed interviews with former Washington Nationals executive Mike Rizzo, as well as pursuit of Milwaukee Brewers executive Matt Kleine.

Writer Scott Barzilla argues that the hiring feels like owner Jim Crane settled for a second choice after failing to secure Kleine due to contract buyout or autonomy hurdles. Barzilla notes that while Flores shares a similar analytical background to Jeff Luhnow, the process leaves supporters concerned about organizational ambition.

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Instant reactions to Astros hiring Randy Flores as general manager (as potential second choice)

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