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Jim Crane Fires GM Dana Brown, Leads Search

8/26/2026

34 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Owner Jim Crane dismissed general manager Dana Brown.
The move followed a 3-6 homestand that erased the Astros’ AL West lead.
Crane will temporarily oversee baseball operations while the Astros search for a new GM.
Joe Espada remains manager through 2026, although his contract will not be renewed.
The club sits 65-66, tied for first in the AL West as the playoff race tightens.

History

Historical Context

After the Astros’ first NL pennant in 2005—when GM Tim Purpura was fired despite an 89-73 record—the franchise entered a new era when Jim Crane bought the team in November 2011 and dismissed GM Ed Wade. Crane’s pattern continued with the 2026 departure of GM Dana Brown, leaving the club 65-66 and tied atop the AL West.

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Story summary

Owner Jim Crane dismissed general manager Dana Brown.
The move followed a 3-6 homestand that erased the Astros’ AL West lead.
Crane will temporarily oversee baseball operations while the Astros search for a new GM.
Joe Espada remains manager through 2026, although his contract will not be renewed.
The club sits 65-66, tied for first in the AL West as the playoff race tightens.

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