Astros Hire Randy Flores, But Is Jim Crane Willing to Give Up Control?

The Houston Astros have hired former St. Louis Cardinals executive Randy Flores as their new general manager, following an offseason search that previously featured Milwaukee Brewers assistant GM Matt Kleine. Although Astros owner Jim Crane stated during Monday's introductory press conference that Flores will hold full authority over baseball operations, writer Joel-Blank questions whether Crane is truly willing to relinquish control.

The writer argues that the team's upcoming managerial search will reveal Flores' true level of autonomy. Prospective managerial candidates discussed include Brad Ausmus, Albert Pujols, and Flores' former college teammate Morgan Ensberg, following an 81-81 season for the franchise.