Star Turn: Astros Sign Ed Wade To Three-Year Deal As GM

Wade Inks Three-Year Deal To Become Astros GM

The Astros Thursday announced the signing of ED WADE to a three-year deal as GM.  Wade previously held the same role with the Phillies from '98-'05. Astros Owner  DRAYTON MCLANE indicated that the hiring was "the most important decision he's made as owner." In Houston, Brian McTaggert reports Wade was one of 11 candidates interviewed to replace former GM TIM PURPURA. Wade and Astros President of Baseball Operations TAL SMITH have had "a long history together," as Smith was Astros GM when Wade was hired in the PR department in '77.  Smith also hired Wade in the mid '80s to work for his consulting company that "represented teams in contract talks and arbitration hearings." Wade will join the team Sunday for the team's final road trip of the season (HOUSTON CHRONICLE, 9/21).