Return to Houston
Brad Ausmus has returned to the Houston Astros as the team's 21st manager. The 57-year-old takes over after Joe Espada was not brought back following three seasons in charge. Ausmus previously played as a catcher for Houston from 1997 to 1998 and again from 2001 to 2008.
He originally interviewed for the general manager role late last month. After a four-hour meeting in San Diego with new general manager Randy Flores, he was selected for the dugout position instead.
Clear focus on the future
Ausmus made it clear during his introduction on Friday that he is not focused on his past playing days. His main goal is preparing the team for 2027 and winning the World Series. He stated that making the playoffs or winning the division are good steps, but the ultimate target every year must be the championship.
His former teammates Jeff Bagwell and Craig Biggio attended the news conference alongside his wife Liz. When asked about the influence of Bagwell, who serves as a senior advisor, Ausmus said that question was better suited for Bagwell himself.
Addressing the doubters
Some fans have expressed doubts about the appointment due to his past management records. Ausmus went 72-90 in his single season with the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. He also recorded 314 wins and 332 losses over four years with the Detroit Tigers between 2014 and 2017. His best year in Detroit was 2014, when the Tigers finished 90-72 before being swept by the Baltimore Orioles in the division series. He spent 2024 through last season as the bench coach for the New York Yankees.
Responding to skeptics, Ausmus urged doubters to get back on board, promising that the team will work hard in spring training to win games.
How the deal happened
Astros general manager Randy Flores admitted he did not know Ausmus before the hiring process began. However, strong recommendations and their interview convinced him that Ausmus was the right fit. Houston had also considered Albert Pujols, Morgan Ensberg, and Luis Urueta for the position.
Ausmus shared that he always believed he might return to Houston one day. He expressed excitement to take on the managerial role and work alongside Flores.
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