Astros Make Decision About Manager Joe Espada's Future With Team

The Houston Astros won the AL West pennant this year, but fell short in the AL wild-card series after being swept by the Chicago White Sox in two games.

This result wasn't ideal for manager Joe Espada, who finished the final year of his contract. He knew discussions would take place this offseason to decide whether it was worth keeping him around for a longer tenure.

The Astros announced on Wednesday that Espada has been dismissed as his contract will not be renewed. Houston will begin searching for Espada's replacement this offseason.

"We are thankful for Joe's hard work, his passion for the game, and for his commitment to the Houston Astros," team owner Jim Crane said in a statement. "He represented the Astros and the Houston community in the most positive way. We wish he and his family the best moving forward."

Espada was promoted to the manager role in 2024 after being a bench coach with the team for six seasons. The 51-year-old ends his stint with a 256-229 record and two AL West pennants. The Astros lost in the wild-card series in both postseason appearances with Espada.

Houston finished with an 81-81 record this year, making them the first team in MLB history to reach the playoffs without a winning record. The Texas Rangers nearly beat out the Astros for the AL West.

Espada may be landing with another MLB team before too long. Houston gave the Seattle Mariners permission to interview Espada for their manager position on Tuesday, one day before he was let go. The Mariners parted ways with Dan Wilson after the 2026 season.

The Astros won't only be looking for a new manager this season. The organization parted ways with general manager Dana Brown in August, so the team will be looking to fill that role this offseason as well. The Astros will be led by two new people in 2027.

Houston also let go catching coach Tim Cossins, game plan coordinator Tommy Kawamura, third-base coach Tony Perezchica, assistant hitting coach Anthony Iapoce and assistant pitching coach Ethan Katz on Wednesday.