Astros GM Brown Already Knows Who He Wants to Replace Baker

The Houston Astros are on the search for their new manager after the legendary and future Hall of Famer Dusty Baker retired following the end of the 2023 MLB season. 

Plenty of high profile names have been tossed out in the media as rumored potential replacements, but general manager Dana Brown said they would be taking their time with the search. 

But despite all the talk, the answer may already be in the building. 

According to USA Today, Brown is pushing for current bench coach Joe Espada to become the next manager of the Astros.

Espada is at the top of a lot of front offices' list when it comes to a replacement for their own managers. 

However, Houston's vacancy is arguably the most attractive with a built in core and knack for winning. Add in the fact that Espada already understands the culture, knows the players and the transition would be seamless, it appears to be an easy decision.

Additionally, Espada was on the shortlist for the Astros managerial position when A.J. Hinch saw his exit from the team and before Dusty Baker was originally hired. 

Regardless of the managerial search and its outcome, Houston will want to get someone in quick so they can help formulate the personnel plan moving forward and into next season.

It took owner Jim Crane months last winter to finally land on Dana Brown as the new general manager. In the interim, Crane made baseball operations decisions. Hiring a new manager quickly will allow for those decisions to be made as a team.