Timeline: A look at key events during Joe Espada's tenure as Houston Astros manager

Joe Espada's tenure as the Houston Astros manager began in November 2023, after spending three seasons as the Yankees' third-base coach. He took over as bench coach following the ejection of Dusty Baker in Game 5 of the American League Championship Series, making his most notable managerial decision by reaching base on two pinch-hitting decisions in the ninth inning. Espada was promoted to manager in November 2023, his first managerial role after interviewing with several teams.

During his first season, Espada made several managerial decisions, including signing closer Josh Hader and naming him to the role. He also made his managerial debut on March 28, 2024, with the Astros losing 5-4 to the Yankees. His first win came on April 1, when Ronel Blanco no-hit the Blue Jays, earning Espada his first victory as a manager.

Espada's second season began on February 12, 2025, with a 3-1 win over the Mets. However, his second season was marred by injuries to key players, such as Yordan Alvarez, who suffered a hand fracture and was sidelined for 100 games, and closer Josh Hader, who was placed on the injured list with a capsule sprain in his left shoulder. Despite these setbacks, the Astros finished the season with a strong performance, leading the AL West by a season-high seven games.

However, Espada's tenure came to an end at the conclusion of the 2025 season. On September 21, the team fell behind the Wild Card leaders, and with the Mariners sweeping a key series, the Astros were eliminated from playoff contention. The team confirmed that Espada and general manager Dana Brown would return for the 2026 season, but it was later announced that they would not be granted extensions.