Astros Fire Manager, GM
Two seasons ago the Houston Astros won the National League pennant. But just like everything in sports, nothing stays the same for long. Yesterday, the organization decided to fire manager Phil Garner and general manager Tim Purpura.
The Astros have dropped to the bottom of the National League Central Division, and ownership thought that it was time for a change. For the time being, President Tal Smith will act as the general manager, and bench coach Cecil Cooper will take over managerial duties.
The main reason for this decision is the lack of progression and success that the team has shown this season. They have lost five of seven home games, and are falling ever further behind the division leading Chicago Cubs. With a record of 58-73, the team is nine games out of first place. This is far from where they stood just a couple of short years ago.
It will be interesting to see what direction the Astros organization moves in this off season. Cooper is going to have his chance to make a name for himself as manager, and if he does a good job, chances are that he may stick around. But of course, the general manager position is still wide open. The team has made it known that they want to find a new GM by the time the season ends.
Overall, the Astros are not afraid to make personnel moves in order to keep the team on top. This is a tough time for the organization, players, and fans, but if the Astros are to reach the playoffs again in the near future, this is a move that had to be made.
Source: sports.yahoo.com (AP Photo/Keith Srakocic)