One day after the Houston Astros announced they would not renew his contract, former manager Joe Espada said goodbye to the organization and the city he called home for nine seasons.
Espada shared a farewell message on Instagram Thursday evening, thanking the Astros organization, his players, coaches, staff, and Houston fans for their support throughout his tenure. His message was gracious and appreciative despite the disappointing conclusion to his managerial career in Houston.
The farewell followed Wednesday’s announcement that the Astros would move in a different direction for 2027, ending Espada’s three seasons as manager and six previous seasons as bench coach.
A Message of Gratitude
Espada thanked the organization for allowing him to be part of its history and acknowledged the players, coaches, staff, and behind-the-scenes personnel who helped make his nine seasons memorable.
He also expressed appreciation for Houston fans, recognizing their passion and support through the team’s victories and challenges.
Espada wrote that “the time has come to begin a new chapter,” expressing pride in the team’s accomplishments and gratitude toward the city and its people.
His message reflected the optimism and professionalism that characterized his public appearances throughout his tenure, even during some of the team’s most frustrating stretches.
Nine Seasons, One World Series Championship
Espada joined Houston as bench coach in 2018, working under A.J. Hinch and later Dusty Baker. During those six seasons, the Astros reached three World Series, winning the championship in 2022.
He also played an important role in developing Houston’s infielders, working closely with several players who became central figures during the franchise’s most successful era.
When Baker retired following the 2023 season, Espada was promoted to manager, taking charge of a club accustomed to competing deep into October.
He guided Houston to American League West titles in 2024 and 2026, overcoming difficult starts in both seasons. His three-year managerial tenure ended with a 256-229 regular-season record.
Postseason success, however, proved elusive. The Astros were swept by the Detroit Tigers in the 2024 Wild Card Series, missed the playoffs in 2025, and returned to October this year only to suffer another two-game sweep, this time against the Chicago White Sox.
Houston finished the 2026 regular season at 81-81, winning the division despite a season marked by injuries, roster challenges, and the August departure of general manager Dana Brown.
Espada left without a postseason victory as manager, although his record also reflects two division championships during a period of considerable organizational change.
What’s Next for Espada and the Astros?
Espada’s departure leaves Houston searching for both a manager and a general manager ahead of the 2027 season.
Owner Jim Crane has begun restructuring the organization, with several coaching staff changes announced alongside Espada’s departure. The selection of a new general manager will be an important part of determining Houston’s direction, including its next managerial hire.
Espada, meanwhile, has reportedly attracted interest from the Seattle Mariners, who are searching for a manager following Dan Wilson’s departure. According to the Houston Chronicle, the Astros granted Seattle permission to speak with Espada. MLB.com also reported that a meeting was planned, although neither club confirmed the arrangement. No appointment has been announced.
His nine seasons in Houston included some of the greatest moments in Astros history, as well as the increasingly difficult task of maintaining the club’s success as its championship roster changed.
Whatever comes next, Espada’s farewell suggests he intends to remember his time in Houston for more than the difficult ending.
He leaves with two division championships as manager, a World Series ring as bench coach, and nine years of memories from one of the most successful periods in franchise history.
Photo credit: U.S. Army photo by Austin Thomas
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