Astros General Manager Search Is On

In the wake of last week's firing of Tim Purpura, the Astros have a hole to fill in the General Manager's office. Team President Tal Smith (pictured, on left) is running the show for the time being, but a long-term replacement is required. Yesterday, owner Drayton McLane, Smith, and former vp Bob McClaren interviewed three candidates, and more interviews will take place before the end of the week. Let's take a look at the candidates so far:

Ed Wade: former GM of the Phillies, Wade presided over many teams that were projected to make the playoffs. Close friend of Smith's. Plenty of years of baseball knowledge, but has yet to put together a World Series team.

Muzzy Jackson: Not actually a blues singer, but in fact a former assistant GM in Kansas City. Definitely the winner of the name game, so far.

Ruben Amaro, Jr.: Protege of both Smith and Wade. Currently an assistant GM in Philly. Naturally, Phillies fans hate him. But they also booed Santa Claus.

Jim Beattie: Former Expos and Orioles GM. Has worked with both kinds of owners in Montreal (cheap) and Baltimore (ruthless), while still putting together competitive teams. Could be a perfect match for McLane.

Bob Watson: A true Astro, Watson is currently a VP for Major League Baseball. Used to be the Astros GM after a playing career for the rainbow jersey-era team, and also served as the Yankees GM before working for MLB. Feels like he has some unfinished business in H-town. Definitely Houstonist's favorite for the job.

The Astros are also going to interview internally, particularly assistant GMs Ricky Bennett and Dave Gottfried. McLane hasn't set a calendar on when he'd like a replacement hired, but it certainly looks like he's trying to fill the position before the end of the season. As soon as a choice is made, Houstonist will let you know. Until then, there's some fantastic discussion going on over at Orange Whoopass, the best Astros message board around.