The Houston Astros have named Brad Ausmus as their new manager, returning the former catcher to the club where he spent much of his playing career. Ausmus, 57, takes over after three seasons as the bench coach for the New York Yankees and will replace Joe Espada, whose contract was not extended despite leading the Astros to an AL West title this year.
Ausmus’s appointment was first reported by ESPN 97.5 in Houston and confirmed by multiple sources. He will begin his third stint managing at the major league level, having previously led the Detroit Tigers from 2014 through 2017 and the Los Angeles Angels for the 2019 season. His managerial record stands at 386 wins and 422 losses.
As a player, Ausmus was a catcher for the Astros from 2001 to 2008. He grew into a core member of the team that reached the World Series in 2005. His history with the Astros adds an element of familiarity, though this is not an internal promotion. Jeff Bagwell, the Hall of Fame first baseman, remains a trusted advisor to Astros owner Jim Crane, who recently appointed Randy Flores, formerly of the St. Louis Cardinals, as general manager.
The Astros’ previous manager, Joe Espada, took charge three years ago and guided the team to the playoffs twice. He also led them to the AL West title this season, albeit with a .500 regular-season record. Before managing, Espada was the bench coach for the Astros during their 2022 World Series-winning campaign under Dusty Baker. Despite his playoff appearances, Crane opted not to renew Espada’s contract.
Ausmus has an All-Star appearance and three Gold Glove awards in his playing career. His first managerial season with Detroit followed the team’s 2013 ALCS run under Jim Leyland but ended with an ALDS exit in 2014. The Tigers failed to return to the postseason during Ausmus’s final three years as manager.
The Astros’ choice signals a preference for experience and a connection to the club’s past. Ausmus’s time with the Yankees as bench coach has kept him close to the game at a high level, and his familiarity with Houston’s culture could help bridge the transition after Espada’s departure.
The move also comes shortly after the Astros brought Flores on board as general manager, suggesting an intent to blend new leadership with established ties. Ausmus will now prepare for the 2027 season aiming to build on the Astros’ recent success and contend again in the American League.
According to Yahoo Sports.