The Houston Astros are officially searching for a new manager after deciding not to renew Joe Espada's contract following three seasons at the helm. Espada helped Houston win two American League West titles, but the team's recent postseason struggles ultimately led the organization in a different direction. Now, the Astros must identify the right person to lead a roster that still has championship aspirations but needs to prove it can compete consistently in October.
Houston has several potential options, ranging from familiar faces within the organization to experienced managers and former players looking to make the jump into the dugout. It should be noted that Omar Lopez, the current Astros bench coach, has already been offered a different role to stay with the team. While he could get an interview for the job, it seems the organization wants a new face in the building.
Here are four candidates the Astros should consider (in no particular order) as they begin their search for Espada's replacement.
Brad Ausmus, Yankees Bench Coach
Ausmus offers Houston a combination of organizational familiarity and major league managerial experience. The former Astros catcher has deep ties to the franchise and previously interviewed for the team's managerial opening before Dusty Baker was hired.
Ausmus managed the Detroit Tigers from 2014 through 2017 and the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. Those experiences give him an understanding of the responsibilities and challenges that come with leading a major league clubhouse. He has since worked as the New York Yankees' bench coach, continuing to gain experience on a staff competing under significant expectations.
Houston would be taking a calculated risk by bringing Ausmus back into the organization in a leadership role, but his background makes him a candidate. His familiarity with the franchise could help him adapt quickly.
Rodney Linares, Rays Bench Coach
Linares would be another appealing option for an organization that values player development and familiarity with its personnel. He spent 21 seasons in Houston's organization, managing throughout the minor leagues before joining Tampa Bay's major league coaching staff.
During his time in Houston's farm system, Linares worked with several players who became central figures in the Astros' success, including José Altuve and Carlos Correa. He now serves as the Rays' bench coach, giving him additional experience working alongside a major league manager.
Linares has not managed at the major league level, which would make his hiring a significant step. However, his extensive experience developing talent and his familiarity with Houston's organizational structure could help him establish credibility with the clubhouse.
Albert Pujols, Dominican Republic Manager
Pujols would represent a much different direction for Houston, but his name deserves consideration. The Hall of Fame slugger has expressed interest in becoming a major league manager and has already gained experience leading teams after his playing career. He managed the Dominican Republic in the 2026 World Baseball Classic and previously interviewed for the San Diego Padres' managerial opening.
Pujols would bring immediate credibility to a clubhouse filled with accomplished veterans. His playing career gives him firsthand knowledge of the pressures elite athletes face, and his leadership could resonate with established stars.
Article Continues BelowThe obvious concern is his lack of major league managerial experience. Managing a national team loaded with talent is different from navigating a 162-game season, managing a pitching staff and making adjustments over several months. Still, Houston could consider Pujols if it believes his leadership and baseball knowledge outweigh the risks.
Jeff Banister, Former Rangers Manager
Banister would give Houston an experienced option who already understands the American League West. He managed the Texas Rangers from 2015 through 2018, won two division titles and earned American League Manager of the Year honors in 2015.
His familiarity with the division could be valuable as Houston attempts to reclaim its place among the American League's top teams. Banister also has previous connections to the Astros, having interviewed for the organization's managerial position before the team hired A.J. Hinch.
Banister has since continued his coaching career, most recently serving as the Arizona Diamondbacks' bench coach. His combination of managerial experience, division knowledge, and familiarity with Houston makes him a candidate if the Astros prefer an established leader over a first-time manager.
Ultimately, Houston's next hire must do more than maintain the status quo. The Astros need someone who can manage a demanding clubhouse, maximize the roster's talent, and help the team translate regular-season success into postseason wins. Each of these five candidates offers a different path forward, but the organization must decide which leadership style gives it the best chance to return to championship contention.