Astros’ GM search reaches boiling point (with a potential complication)

Milwaukee Brewers assistant general manager Matt Kleine is reportedly the top target for the Houston Astros general manager position, while owner Jim Crane has also interviewed former Washington Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo. However, reporter Brian McTaggart notes that Kleine recently signed a four-year contract extension with Milwaukee, meaning any potential hire would require a contract buyout.

Writer Scott Barzilla argues that Crane should willingly pay the estimated buyout for Kleine rather than hiring Rizzo. Barzilla contends that Rizzo's track record resembles former Astros general manager Ed Wade and urges Houston to invest in modern analytical leadership instead of cost-saving alternatives.