Joe Espada will interview for the Seattle Mariners’ open manager position after receiving permission from the Houston Astros, according to reports Tuesday, October 13.
MLB.com first reported that Espada would meet with Seattle. USA TODAY Sports subsequently reported that a baseball official with direct knowledge confirmed the interview, speaking anonymously because Espada remains under contract.
His Houston contract expires at the end of October. The Astros have not announced a final decision on their manager position, and an interview with Seattle does not establish that either club has made a hiring decision.
Espada has managed Houston for three seasons, succeeding Dusty Baker after the 2023 campaign. He previously served as the Astros’ bench coach beginning in 2018 and led the club to AL West titles in 2024 and 2026.
Seattle is searching for a replacement for Dan Wilson after a 76-86 season. Espada’s existing major-league managing experience gives the Mariners an external candidate while Houston weighs its own leadership decisions for next season.
Photograph: Austin Thomas / U.S. Army / Wikimedia Commons. U.S. government work, public domain.
.jpg){kind=link}