HOUSTON — The Houston Astros confirmed on Wednesday that former catcher Brad Ausmus will take over as the team’s manager. General manager Randy Flores made the announcement, emphasizing Ausmus’s deep ties to the franchise and his proven leadership abilities.
Ausmus’s connection to Houston
Ausmus spent 10 seasons as a catcher for the Astros, appearing in 1,259 games – the most by any catcher in franchise history. During his playing days he earned three Gold Glove awards and helped shape the club’s culture on and off the field. “The Astros and the city of Houston have been a huge part of my life,” Ausmus said. “I’m thrilled to create a new chapter as the team’s manager and can’t wait to get to work.”
Why the change
The move follows the non‑renewal of Joe Espada’s contract after the Astros were swept by the Chicago White Sox in the Wild Card series. Flores praised Ausmus’s interview performance, noting his “leadership, energy, and expertise critical to driving a winning culture both on and off the field.”
Ausmus’s managerial résumé
Ausmus becomes the 21st manager in Astros history. He previously managed the Los Angeles Angels in 2019, posting a 72‑90 record, and led the Detroit Tigers from 2014‑2017, compiling a 314‑332 record. His best season came in 2014 when Detroit finished 90‑72 to win the AL Central before falling to the Orioles in the Division Series.
Before returning to the dugout, Ausmus served as the New York Yankees’ bench coach from 2024 through the 2025 season, gaining recent big‑league coaching experience. He also spent time in front‑office roles with the San Diego Padres (special assistant to baseball operations, 2011‑13) and the Los Angeles Angels (special assistant to the GM, 2018).
Looking ahead
With Ausmus at the helm, the Astros aim to rebound from their early‑season postseason exit and re‑establish themselves as a contender in the American League. Flores expressed confidence that the new leadership will reinforce the club’s commitment to excellence and community engagement.
“I am excited to work alongside Brad and happy to have him back in an Astros uniform,” Flores added. “His experience and passion for this organization will be invaluable as we pursue another championship season.”
The hiring marks a homecoming for Ausmus, who began his major‑league career with Houston in 1997 and returned for several seasons before retiring after the 2010 campaign. Fans can expect a manager who understands the franchise’s history and is eager to build on its recent successes.
Original reporting: Fort Worth, TX Sports (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
