Brad Ausmus Reportedly Expected to Become Astros’ Next Manager

Dana Brown was let go in August, followed by Joe Espada. Now, Randy Flores is the new GM, and he has some big decisions ahead. But it looks like one of the biggest decisions could be made very soon, and Brad Ausmus’ name seems to be everywhere.

When Houston hired its new GM, it looked like Matt Kleine might have had the job, but the Astros landed on Flores, surprising everyone. So, you never know. That said, a new report is pointing to Ausmus.

On Wednesday morning, John Granato of ESPN 97.5 Houston reported that Ausmus will be the next manager. MLB.com’s Brian McTaggart says Ausmus is flying to Houston on Thursday.

Ausmus is one of four publicly identified candidates who interviewed for the position, alongside Albert Pujols, Morgan Ensberg, and Luis Urueta.

Pujols and Ensberg interviewed for the position last week. Both are former teammates of Flores. Flores also discussed what he’s looking for in a manager, emphasizing the importance of trust.

However, this week Ausmus is in the headlines, but some fans on social media don’t seem too happy about that.

This is all speculation so far, and the Astros have not officially announced a decision.

Who is Brad Ausmus, and why does that name sound so familiar?

Ausmus is a former Astro. He played parts of 10 seasons with Houston across two stints, and he was the Astros’ catcher during their 2005 World Series appearance.

He previously managed the Detroit Tigers from 2014–2017 and the Los Angeles Angels in 2019. His combined managerial record was 386–422. He currently serves as the New York Yankees’ bench coach.

Ausmus actually initially interviewed for Houston’s GM position before conversations shifted toward the managerial opening.

When to expect to hear the official new manager announcement?

Flores spoke to reporters Tuesday at the GM Meetings in Las Vegas. He said he hoped to finalize the managerial decision by the end of the week.

While there are lots of decisions Flores needs to make, finding a new manager remains a top priority ahead of all other issues he needs to tackle. Flores wants to finalize the managerial hire before addressing the coaching staff and roster decisions.

So, should Ausmus be the new manager?

If some Astros fans have anything to say about it, it would be a hard no.

Ausmus’ managerial record is below .500, and some fans have questioned whether bringing back another familiar face is the right direction for Houston. 

That said, being familiar with the organization could bring benefits, but the fear is it could also hold them back from moving forward with change.

Once the decision is made, Houston will have plenty on its plate. Whoever becomes the next manager will inherit a team facing significant roster decisions, and finding the right person will be key.