The Houston Astros will not renew the contract of manager Joe Espada, who had served as the club’s manager since the 2024 season. He also served as the Astros bench coach from 2018-23. Espada’s contract is set to expire at the end of October.
In his three seasons as manager, Espada compiled a 256-229 won-loss record, which included two postseason Wild Card round appearances.
“We are thankful for Joe’s hard work, his passion for the game, and for his commitment to the Houston Astros. He represented the Astros and the Houston community in the most positive way. We wish he and his family the best moving forward,” said Astros Owner and Chairman Jim Crane.
COACHING STAFF UPDATES
The Astros also announced Wednesday that the following members of the Major League Staff will be retained for the 2027 season: Pitching Coach Josh Miller, First Base Coach Dave Clark, Major League Field Coordinator Jason Bell, Hitting Coach Victor Rodriguez and longtime bullpen catcher Javier Bracamonte. Bench coach Omar Lopez has been offered an opportunity to remain in the Astros organization in a new role.
The following coaches from the 2026 staff will not be returning for the 2027 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.