The Seattle Mariners have identified two finalists for their managerial vacancy: Houston Astros major league coach Jason Kanzler and Astros bench coach Joe Espada, according to a staff discussion published October 29, 2026.
Kanzler, 41, has served on the Astros' major league staff and was photographed fist-bumping designated hitter Yordan Alvarez before Game 1 of the 2022 ALDS against the Mariners at Minute Maid Park. Espada, a longtime coach with experience as a bench coach, is also considered a leading candidate.
The Mariners have been searching for a new manager since the end of the 2026 season. Both finalists come from an Astros organization that has reached multiple World Series in recent years, suggesting Seattle is targeting coaches with recent playoff experience.
