Houston Astros part ways with manager Joe Espada

The Houston Astros announced on Wednesday that manager Joe Espada will not return to manage the team in 2027, according to UPI and CBS Sports. UPI reported that Espada's contract is set to expire at the end of October. [1][2]

According to UPI, Espada compiled a 256-229 regular-season record over three years after being hired in 2024. UPI reported that the Astros finished with an 81-81 record in 2026 and went 0-4 in the postseason under Espada. Both UPI and CBS Sports quoted team owner Jim Crane, who thanked Espada for his hard work and commitment in an official statement. [1][2]

The New York Post reported earlier that the Seattle Mariners requested and received permission from Houston to interview Espada while his contract situation remained unresolved. The publication noted that allowing an existing manager to speak with a division rival indicated the franchise intended to move on. [3]

Espada previously served as a Major League Baseball coach for the Miami Marlins and New York Yankees, as well as the Astros, and earned two silver medals coaching Puerto Rico in the World Baseball Classic. The Astros compete in the American League West Division and play home games at Daikin Park. [10][11]

CBS Sports reported that the decision expands a leadership void at the top of the team following continuous decline since its 2022 World Series championship. [2]