The Houston Astros have initiated interviews for their vacant managerial position and are reportedly considering Yankees bench coach Brad Ausmus for the role. Ausmus, who has spent the past three seasons working alongside Yankees manager Aaron Boone, was in Houston for an interview on Thursday, according to Brian McTaggart of MLB.com. This interview took place a day before Randy Flores was announced as the new general manager of the Astros.
The Astros parted ways with manager Joe Espada after a disappointing postseason exit in the Wild Card Series, where they lost to the Chicago White Sox. Despite finishing the regular season with an average record of 81-81, the team managed to clinch the AL West division title.
Ausmus, 57, brings five years of managerial experience to the table. He managed the Detroit Tigers from 2014 to 2017, leading the team to a postseason appearance in 2014, where they were swept by the Baltimore Orioles in the AL Division Series. He also served as the manager of the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. His overall managerial record stands at 314 wins and 332 losses.
An experienced former catcher, Ausmus played 10 of his 18 Major League seasons with the Astros, where he accumulated 41 home runs and a 5.0 bWAR over 1,259 games. His familiarity with the organization may enhance his candidacy for the managerial position.
While Ausmus appears to be a significant candidate for the role, the Astros could consider additional applicants as they navigate this offseason’s search for a new manager. The potential for a lockout could further complicate their efforts.
The Astros have entered a pivotal phase in their quest to find a new leader as they prepare for the upcoming season.
