'Joe Espada’s Job In Danger' – MLB Insider Sees Houston Astros Parting Ways With Manager

Joe Espada (Image Credits: Imagn)

'Joe Espada’s Job In Danger' – MLB Insider Sees Houston Astros Parting Ways With Manager

Originally posted on Total Pro Sports | By Heena Singh | Last updated May 18, 2026 2:16 PM ET

The vibes around the Houston Astros have shifted fast. A franchise that spent years bullying the American League is stuck searching for answers, and the Astros’ rough opening stretch has pushed the spotlight directly onto manager Joe Espada.

Across MLB, teams have already started making aggressive moves, which naturally dragged Houston into the rumor cycle. The Astros entered the season with postseason expectations, but a 19-28 start has completely changed the mood.

Per MLB insider Bob Nightengale’s report for USA Today, Espada’s job security may be slipping. Nightengale reported that the Houston skipper may be in increasing danger with each passing day and also noted earlier this month that Espada could be the next manager dismissed, following managerial changes around the league.

“Houston Astros manager Joe Espada’s job may be in increasing danger with each passing day. Now that Carlos Mendoza has been informed that his job is safe for the time being, Houston Astros manager Joe Espada could be the next manager dismissed amid the Astros’ struggles.”

Joe Espada (Image Credits: Imagn)

Despite the outside noise, Astros general manager Dana Brown has continued to stand behind Espada. Brown pointed toward injuries and inconsistent pitching as major reasons for the disappointing start, while also praising the manager’s steady personality during difficult stretches. For now, though, Houston is publicly backing its manager.

Is Joe Espada Really the Main Problem?

The Houston Astros’ season has turned messy real fast, but putting everything on manager Espada feels a little too easy. Injuries have crushed both the lineup and pitching staff, and even the offense that carried them early has cooled off badly. Nothing has clicked consistently.

Sure, some fans want a new voice in the clubhouse. Joe Espada’s calm personality sometimes comes off too relaxed, especially when the Astros look flat on the field. However, it’s tough judging any manager when half the opening-day lineup and key bullpen arms are unavailable.

Joe Espada (Image Credits: Imagn)

The bigger question is whether firing Joe Espada actually fixes anything. Houston already proved under him in 2024 that this group can climb out of huge holes. If healthier players return soon, the Astros may still believe the problem lies in the roster, not in the manager sitting in the dugout.

This article first appeared on Total Pro Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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