Recently dismissed General Manager Dana Brown expressed gratitude to the Houston Astros’ owner in his first public comments since parting ways with the team. Brown attributed his departure to the frustration over recent struggles, though owner Jim Crane stated the team’s performance during a 3-6 homestand was not a factor.
Brown, speaking on MLB Network Radio on SiriusXM, shared his thoughts on the move that occurred while the Astros were vying for the American League West title. The team entered a nine-game homestand with a lead over both the Texas Rangers and Seattle Mariners. However, losses against the Mariners, Los Angeles Angels, and Athletics — all of which have losing records — compounded frustrations.
“We go in and we lose six of the nine,” Brown said. “So we go 3-6 and we’re tied, but we have the tiebreaker, so we’re still in first place. And I just think the frustration mounted and it boiled over and that was the end of it.”
Jim Crane later emphasized their need for change and maintained the disappointing performance did not influence Brown’s dismissal.
Brown, serving as GM since January 2023, expressed appreciation for Crane hiring him and noted he was only the seventh Black general manager in MLB history. He highlighted his respect for Crane’s decision to give him this opportunity.
He rejected claims of Crane’s total control over baseball operations, stating ownership did allow him autonomy in running the club, albeit with some decisions requiring approval.
The former GM defended moves scrutinized by others, such as acquiring Mike Burrows and signing Japanese pitcher Tatsuya Imai, believing these players would succeed given time. He also pointed to the evolving roster, which had endured a period of success but was beginning to shift amid veteran aging and free agency departures.
Brown expressed his continued emotional tie to the Astros, declaring his support for the team and its leadership.
“My heart and soul’s still in it,” Brown said. “So I’m pulling for the Astros and the city and Jim Crane and the ownership.”