As per numerous reports, the Houston Astros are anticipated to appoint bench coach Joe Espada to the managerial position.
At the end of the year, Dusty Baker would retire, and Espada would assume his position.
The following was one report by Bob Nightengale of USA Today:
Joe Espada is anticipated to be promoted to manager by the Houston Astros on Monday.
We had been informed that this was a possibility and that Espada was the frontrunner for the job.
Upon its actualization, this circumstance would promptly transform into an advantageous one for Espada. Despite falling to the Texas Rangers in Game 7 of the ALCS, the Astros continue to be one of the sport’s preeminent organizations and teams.
There is no doubt that certain players, including Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, and Yordan Alvarez, are aging, but they continue to be among the greatest at their positions in all of baseball.
In addition, the club will acquire Justin Verlander for an entire season in 2024 (he was returned to Houston at the trade deadline this year).
Veteran Jose Abreu should also improve for the Astros over the course of the entire season, and Kyle Tucker is among the finest young hitters in baseball.
If there is one area in which the Astros should be concerned, it is their bullpen: both Hector Neris and Ryne Stanek are free agents.
Additionally, they compete in one of the top divisions in all of baseball. Last season, three American League West teams, including the defending world champion Rangers, won at least 88 games.
