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Source: Fox Sports
Summary
Houston Astros owner Jim Crane said the team’s playoff berth will be considered when deciding on manager Joe Espada’s future. Espada’s contract expires after the season, and no discussions have taken place recently. Crane also said the Astros’ decision to part ways with general manager Dana Brown had no impact on the team’s performance. The Astros made the playoffs for the ninth time in 10 years, becoming the first team in MLB history to do so without a winning record.
Our Reading
The game followed a familiar script.
Crane says Espada’s future is up in the air.
They fired Brown, then said it didn’t matter.
They made the playoffs, so that’s a plus.
Winning always feels like a miracle after the losses.
Author: Evan Null
Jim Crane’s Playoff Mindset
Houston Astros owner Jim Crane is weighing the future of manager Joe Espada, whose contract is set to expire after the season. Crane said the team’s playoff berth will be a factor in the decision, but no formal discussions have taken place yet. He emphasized that the team’s performance this season will be evaluated when the time comes.
Unpacking the Manager’s Future
Despite the Astros making the playoffs, Espada’s position remains uncertain. Crane has not ruled out a new contract for the manager, but he has also not confirmed any plans to extend it. The decision will be made after the season ends, and Crane said he will sit down with Espada to discuss things at that time.
The Dana Brown Situation
The Astros recently parted ways with general manager Dana Brown, a move that raised questions about its impact on the team’s performance. Crane said the decision to not renew Brown’s contract had no effect on the team’s finish. He explained that the move was a courtesy to allow Brown time to regroup.
Assistant GMs Step In
After Brown’s departure, assistant general managers Charles Cook, Gavin Dickey, and Connor Huff, along with senior adviser Jeff Bagwell, took over his responsibilities. Crane said the transition has gone smoothly and that communication within the organization remains strong. He added that the team is ready to win.
Historic Playoff Run
The Astros became the first team in MLB history to make the postseason without a winning record, finishing 81-81. They outlasted the Texas Rangers to secure a spot in the Wild Card Series. The team will face the Chicago White Sox in a best-of-three matchup starting Tuesday. This marks the Astros’ ninth playoff appearance in 10 years, a streak that includes multiple World Series appearances and two championships.
