Joe Espada’s status unchanged after Astros part ways with GM Dana Brown

NEW YORK — Houston Astros manager Joe Espada’s status is unchanged in the wake of general manager Dana Brown’s dismissal on Monday, according to two team sources granted anonymity for their candor to discuss internal matters.

Espada has not been told anything about his future beyond this season, according to two sources. Earlier on Monday, USA Today reported that a “high-ranking team official” told Espada he would not receive another contract after the season. USA Today’s report added that Espada was “given the choice of staying with the team through the duration of the season or departing now.” According to the two team sources, Espada has had no conversations about his future.

Espada, who missed Sunday’s game while tending to a family emergency, is in New York with the club and will manage Tuesday’s series opener against the New York Yankees.

Like Brown, Espada is working this season in the final year of his contract. Houston has not won a playoff game since Brown hired Espada to succeed Dusty Baker after the 2023 season. Espada has led the Astros to a 240-214 record across his two and a half seasons in charge, including the 2024 AL West title.

His 2026 club entered Monday tied with the Texas Rangers atop the AL West at 65-66, but in first place via the tiebreaker Houston has already clinched over the Rangers.