Houston Astros Interview General Manager Candidates
The club is currently evaluating candidates to lead its baseball operations following a disappointing 2026 season.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Baseball
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The Houston Astros are actively searching for a new general manager after dismissing Dana Brown in mid-August. The club is currently the only Major League Baseball team in the market for a new head of baseball operations.
Why it matters
Following a mediocre 81-81 finish in 2026 and the departure of manager Joe Espada, the front office changes are critical for the team to return to its recent level of competitiveness. Owner Jim Crane and Jeff Bagwell are overseeing the search process to determine the future direction of the franchise.
The team operated with a $240 million payroll during the 2026 season, which ended in an 81-81 record. Houston is currently the only Major League Baseball team without a designated head of baseball operations.
The players
Jim Crane
He is the primary owner and chairman of the Houston Astros who exerts significant influence over major front office decisions.
Jeff Bagwell
He is a former Houston Astros star player who currently holds a prominent advisory role within the team's front office.
Matt Kleine
He is a long-time baseball executive who currently serves as an assistant general manager for the Milwaukee Brewers.
Josh Barfield
He is a front office professional who has served as an assistant general manager for the Chicago White Sox since 2023.
Randy Flores
He is a seasoned executive who has served as the assistant general manager for the St. Louis Cardinals since 2018.
The details
The search process includes interviews with high-level candidates such as Milwaukee Brewers assistant GM Matt Kleine, Chicago White Sox assistant GM Josh Barfield, and St. Louis Cardinals assistant GM Randy Flores. While the team considers these external options, Jim Crane and Jeff Bagwell remain the primary figures influencing the final hiring decision.
Timeline
2007: Matt Kleine interned with the Houston Astros.
2015: Randy Flores joined the St. Louis Cardinals front office.
November 2023: Matt Kleine became assistant general manager of the Milwaukee Brewers.
Mid-August 2026: The Houston Astros dismissed general manager Dana Brown.
October 19, 2026: The Oakland Athletics hired Taylor Smith.
Season Trajectory
This search represents the final major structural change for a team coming off an .500 season and the departure of its manager. The hiring will dictate the team's roster strategy, trade market approach, and overall competitiveness for the upcoming season.
The new general manager will immediately oversee a roster supported by a $240 million payroll and determine whether to retain existing talent or pursue significant off-season trades. This hire will directly influence the team's ability to bounce back from an 81-81 finish in 2026.
The takeaway
The Houston Astros are entering a pivotal off-season with significant resources and high expectations despite their recent performance. Fans should watch for the new general manager's initial moves, as they will set the tone for roster construction and long-term organizational goals.
What happens next
The Houston Astros could hire a new general manager before the end of the World Series.
Further reading
For more updates on organizational changes across the league, visit Baseball.
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