Astros announce Espada as new manager

The Houston Astros have officially named Joe Espada as the team’s new manager. Previously the bench coach, Espada succeeds Dusty Baker, who entered retirement last month.

“We got our guy!” the franchise said in a post on Platform X. “We have hired Joe Espada as our 20th manager in franchise history.”

Espada expressed his commitment and affection for the city and the team on the Astros’ website. "I had hoped to stay in Houston and manage the Astros. I love this city, this team, and this community," said Espada. He further indicated that his experience managing Game 5 of the 2023 American League Championship Series (ALCS) against Texas Rangers has familiarized him with the role. Despite winning Game 5 with a score of 5-4, The Astros lost the ALCS.

Espada's arrival in Houston was preceded by a stint with New York Yankees. Prior to this, he replaced Alex Cora who was then Boston bound, according to the Astros’ report. Among his previous experiences are managerial roles in Puerto Rican Winter League and interviews held with Miami Marlins, San Francisco Giants, and Chicago White Sox which turned out unsuccessful.

ESPN reported that Espada took time off last year to attend to his father who had heart complications. On hearing about his son's appointment as the manager of Astros, he responded with applause. According to ESPN reportage, Espada is only the second Latino manager in Astros history.