Astros extend contract of GM Ed Wade

KISSIMMEE, Fla. — The Houston Astros have extended the contract of General Manager Ed Wade through the 2012 season, Chairman and CEO Drayton McLane announced today.

Wade, who was originally named Astros G.M. on September 20, 2007, was given a two-year extension on his original contract, which was through the 2010 season.

“We feel this is very appropriate,” McLane said. “Ed is an outstanding baseball man. He’s organized and has surrounded himself with a good, solid staff. Much of the work Ed did in Philadelphia had a lot to do with them becoming a champion. We feel he has us moving in the right direction to be a champion as well.”

Wade is in his 34th season in professional baseball. Prior to his current stint with the Astros, he served as the Philadelphia Phillies G.M. from 1998-2005 and then spent two seasons (2006-07) as a professional scout for the San Diego Padres.

“I’m tremendously gratified that Drayton has shown his faith in what we’re doing here and what we hope to accomplish, both in 2010 and for years to come,” Wade said. “Drayton has been very supportive of our approach.

“I also want to extend my thanks to Tal Smith and Pam Gardner. Tal has played a huge role in my entire baseball career and I value his guidance and support. And, Pam and the folks on the business side have been true allies.”

The 54-year-old Wade began his baseball career in 1977 as an intern in the Phillies public relations department. In 1977, he was named public relations assistant for the Astros and was promoted to public relations director in 1979. In 1981, he left Houston to become the public relations director for the Pittsburgh Pirates, and he remained with that club for five seasons.

In 1986, Wade returned to Houston to work as an associate for Tal Smith Enterprises, a firm which has provided consulting services to 26 of the 30 Major League clubs. The most recognized functions have been in the preparation of arbitration cases, the financial appraisal of franchise, contract negotiations and other baseball-related matters.

Wade worked for the company until May 5, 1989, when he rejoined the Phillies as assistant to the general manager. In 1995, he was promoted to assistant general manager, and he served in that role until assuming the general manager duties for Philadelphia in 1998.

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