clutchpoints
The Houston Astros have ushered in a new chapter by naming Brad Ausmus, previously the bench coach for the New York Yankees, as their manager. Ausmus takes the reins from Joe Espada, who had skippered the team since 2024.
During his introductory press conference on Friday, Ausmus provided a glimpse into the hiring process, disclosing that his interest in the organization extended beyond the managerial vacancy. According to Matt Kawahara of the San Francisco Chronicle, Ausmus interviewed for Houston's general manager position, which ultimately went to Randy Flores. Ausmus left that interview convinced he would not be offered the GM role, though he suspected he might be a candidate for manager—a possibility that was not guaranteed at the time.
Ausmus's deep ties to the Astros date back to his playing days. A catcher in the major leagues from 1993 to 2010, he had two separate stints in Houston: first from 1997 to 1998, and again from 2001 to 2008. During his second tenure with the club, he earned three Gold Glove Awards. He also brings managerial experience, having led the Detroit Tigers from 2014 to 2017 and the Los Angeles Angels in 2019.
Reflecting on his connection to the city and franchise, Ausmus spoke enthusiastically about the opportunity, noting that when he looks back on his playing career, he envisions himself in a Houston uniform. However, he made clear that he is not content to rest on past achievements.
"I'm here to talk about the Houston Astros today, and the Houston Astros going into 2027, which is now my main focus, and certainly, goal to win the World Series," Ausmus said via MLB.com. "Making the playoffs, great step. Winning the division, great step. But the goal is and should be, every single year, to win the World Series."
Ausmus now sets his sights on leading the Astros in 2027, aiming to improve upon a 2025 season in which the team finished with an 81-81 record—enough to win the AL Central but culminating in a wild card round elimination by the Chicago White Sox.
Originally reported by clutchpoints.