"New owner Jim Crane ended a week of speculation and rare attention on a national level and anticipated backlash among Houstonians, saying he would not change the name of the club – a possibility he floated last week.

"You asked for change and we added several fan friendly initiatives last week and we hope you like them," Crane said in a video message to season ticket holders. "We will continue to listen, and to look for additional ways to improve on and off the field.

"One thing that we are not going to change is the name. We received strong feedback and consensus among season ticket holders and many fans, and we will not change the name Astros. The Houston Astros are here to stay.""