The Astros are headed for a change in the manager’s office after deciding not to extend Joe Espada’s contract, ending a three-year run that began in 2024. Espada, whose deal expires at the close of October, leaves with a 256-229 regular-season record and two trips to the Wild Card round.
Houston’s decision closes a long chapter for Espada with the organization. Before taking over as manager, he spent six seasons as the Astros’ bench coach from 2018 through 2023, working alongside the club through much of its recent run as an American League contender.
Owner and chairman Jim Crane praised Espada’s work and his presence around the club and city.
“We appreciate Joe’s work ethic, his love for the game and his dedication to the Astros,” Crane said. “He represented both the team and the Houston community extremely well, and we wish Joe and his family all the best in what comes next.”
Coaching staff reshaped for 2027
Houston also set part of its Major League coaching staff for 2027, retaining pitching coach Josh Miller and hitting coach Victor Rodriguez. First base coach Dave Clark, Major League field coordinator Jason Bell and longtime bullpen catcher Javier Bracamonte will also remain with the club.
Bench coach Omar Lopez has been offered another position within the Astros organization rather than a return to the same Major League staff role.
Several members of the 2026 coaching group will not be back next season:
- Catching instructor Tim Cossins
- Game-planning coach Tommy Kawamura
- Third base coach Tony Perezchica
- Assistant hitting coach Anthony Iapoce
- Assistant pitching coach Ethan Katz
The Astros now move into an offseason search for Espada’s successor, with key pieces of the pitching, hitting and on-field support staff already staying in place for 2027.
