Joe Espada to interview for Seattle Mariners managerial vacancy
Joe Espada, recently released by the Houston Astros, will meet with the Seattle Mariners as they search for a new manager following Dan Wilson's departure.
A source told MLB.com on Tuesday that former Astros manager Joe Espada will interview with the Seattle Mariners for their open managerial position. The Astros announced Espada's departure a few weeks before his contract was set to expire, ending his nine-year tenure with the club that included a World Series title in 2022 and two American League West championships.
Espada, who served as Houston's bench coach from 2018 and was promoted to manager after Dusty Baker retired, posted a 256-229 record over three seasons. After the Astros were eliminated in the AL Wild Card Series, he said he would like to continue managing in Houston.
"I respect the process and how blessed I've been of being here for over nine years and experienced so many division titles, Championship Series, World Series, winning one," Espada said.
The Mariners, who dismissed Dan Wilson after the 2026 season, have indicated they will look outside the organization for their next manager. President of baseball operations Jerry Dipoto said prior major-league managing experience is not required but would be preferred, and emphasized the need for fresh ideas.
"We need fresh thought. We need something new. It could be a shift in programming, messaging, or language. We'll collaborate with whoever our future manager is and try to find the right person," Dipoto said at a post-season news conference.
Seattle's search comes as the club seeks to improve after a 76-86 record in 2026, despite having a strong roster that includes Julio Rodríguez and Cal Raleigh. The managerial vacancy is considered one of the most sought-after positions in the upcoming offseason.