Astros Part Ways with Manager Joe Espada
The Houston Astros announced on Tuesday that they will not renew Joe Espada's contract, which is set to expire at the end of October. Espada managed the team from 2024 to 2026 and will now enter free agency.
In addition to Espada's departure, several other coaching staff changes are planned. Bench coach Omar Lopez will not return in his current role but has been offered another position within the organization. Other coaches, including Tim Cossins, Tommy Kawamura, Tony Perezchica, Anthony Iapoce, and Ethan Katz, will also be replaced next season. However, the team will retain pitching coach Josh Miller, first base coach Dave Clark, field coordinator Jason Bell, and hitting coach Victor Rodriguez.
This decision aligns with expectations that had been building for months. Under Espada's leadership, the Astros won the American League West in 2026, but their 81-81 record was the worst for a postseason team. They were eliminated in the Wild Card round by the Chicago White Sox, losing both games of the series.
Espada's contract situation had been uncertain, especially after general manager Dana Brown was dismissed in August. Despite being in the final year of his contract, Espada was expected to remain until the season's conclusion. He previously served as the bench coach for the Astros and has a solid reputation in the industry, already receiving permission to interview for the managerial position with the Seattle Mariners.
