Washington Nationals general manager Mike Rizzo has released a statement addressing the Houston Astros' hiring of Bo Porter, the Nats' third base coach, as their new manager. The Nationals' GM expressed his happiness for Porter and admitted he encouraged Porter to take the job.

"Despite his obvious value, we allowed and encouraged Bo to meet with his hometown Houston Astros to pursue his dream to manage in the major leagues," Rizzo said. "He is smart, talented, and as fiery a competitor as there is in the game today. Bo will always be a member of the Nationals family, and we wish him every success with the Astros."

Porter, a resident of Houston, will be replacing former manager Brad Mills, who was fired in mid-August. Mills was unable to improve the Astros organization, which currently holds the worst record in Major League Baseball (51-105).

Next season, the Astros will be moving to the American League West, where they will compete with the Texas Rangers, who currently hold the AL's best record, the Oakland Athletics, the Los Angeles Angels -- both possible postseason teams -- and the Seattle Mariners.