Astros hire Cardinals executive Randy Flores as general manager

USA TODAY reports that Flores was the Cardinals’ assistant GM and scouting director, and drafted Jordan Walker and Masyn Winn for St. Louis. Houston parted ways with former GM Dana Brown in August and let manager Joe Espada go in October, leaving Flores to fill the dugout vacancy. The Athletic’s Chandler Rome says the 68-day GM search initially focused elsewhere; USA TODAY says Brewers assistant GM Matt Kleine was reportedly Houston’s top target.