Dana Brown is a true success story in the world of baseball. From an undrafted player to the General Manager of the Houston Astros, Brown has achieved a remarkable feat. His journey to the top of the baseball ladder was made possible due to the help of Phillies legend Del Unser and Omar Minaya, the Yankees’ senior advisor to baseball operations. Both were pleased by the Astros hiring Brown as their general manager and shared their thoughts on the remarkable journey.
Unser was not shocked by the news of Brown’s appointment and was pleased to have played a role in his success. He praised Brown for his positive attitude, dedication to the game and leadership qualities. Minaya, who gave Brown his first front-office job, was also proud of Brown’s success. He highlighted Brown’s talent for recognizing the right players and his ability to remain the same person he was back in Montreal.
Brown’s baseball career changed in 1991 when he was released from the Phillies’ organization. Unser offered him a coaching job with Class A Martinsville in the Appalachian League and Brown accepted. He took advantage of the situation and spent two years as a coach with the Phillies before spending eight years in the Pirates’ organization as a scouting supervisor and East Coast cross checker.
Minaya’s first successful Draft pick was Chad Cordero in the 2003 MLB Draft. By August of that year, Cordero was in the big leagues as the Expos’ closer. Brown’s biggest success came this past season when outfielder Michael Harris II and right-hander Spencer Strider finished first and second, respectively, in the National League Rookie of the Year balloting.
Unser’s advice to Brown was to surround himself with smart people and not be afraid to rely on the combination of traditional scouting and sabermetrics. Minaya said he knew Brown was GM material during his four-year run as the Braves’ vice president of scouting.
Brown’s story is an inspiration for all aspiring baseball players and front office personnel. It is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication to the game.
Source: www.mlb.com