The Houston Astros have officially announced the hiring of Brad Ausmus as the franchise's next manager, bringing a familiar face back to the organization. Ausmus, who spent ten seasons as a catcher with the Astros from 1997 to 1999 and again from 2001 to 2008, returns to Houston after previous managerial stints with the Detroit Tigers and Los Angeles Angels.
The announcement was made on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, with the club citing Ausmus's deep institutional knowledge and leadership experience as key factors in the decision. A three-time Gold Glove winner during his playing career, Ausmus compiled a .251 batting average with 80 home runs over 18 major league seasons.
Ausmus managed the Tigers from 2014 to 2017, leading Detroit to an AL Central title in his first season, and served as the Angels' manager for the 2019 campaign. His return to the Astros organization marks a full-circle moment for the former All-Star catcher, who was widely respected for his game-calling abilities and clubhouse presence during his playing days in Houston.
