The Astros became the first team to make the postseason despite not finishing over .500 (they went 81-81), but it was quickly understood that they did not belong after getting walloped in the Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox.Much of the organization has changed from the top down since it last won the World Series in 2022, and one of the cherries on top commenced on Wednesday when the team announced it would not be renewing the contract of manager Joe Espada.This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners.If you sign up or place a wager, FOX News may be compensated.
This content was created by a team that works independently from the FOX newsroom.CLICK HERE FOR MORE OUTKICK SPORTS COVERAGEManager Joe Espada of the Houston Astros looks on during a game against the Athletics at Sutter Health Park in Sacramento, California, on Sept.25, 2026.
(Lachlan Cunningham/Getty Images)The team announced it was moving on from several members of Espada's coaching staff.His contract is set to expire at the end of this month."We are thankful for Joe’s hard work, his passion for the game, and for his commitment to the Houston Astros," team owner Jim Crane said in a statement.
"He represented the Astros and the Houston community in the most positive way.We wish he and his family the best moving forward."The Astros will now be searching for a new manager and general manager after former GM Dana Brown was fired in August.Manager Joe Espada, No.
21, of the Houston Astros stands for the National Anthem before Game 2 of the American League Wild Card Series against the Chicago White Sox at Daikin Park on Wednesday, Sept.30, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
(Logan Riely/MLB Photos via Getty Images)2026 WORLD SERIES ODDS: BREWERS TAKE OVER AS FAVORITESIt was the first managerial job for Espada, who was in his third year after being promoted from bench coach after Dusty Baker retired following the 2023 season.Espada had been with the organization since the 20...