Astros manager Joe Espada chose to wear one of the Astros’ championship rings to the media luncheon.
“I like to wear all of them,” Espada responded to. “It reminds me of where we’ve been and how we got to where we’re at.”
He sported the Astros’ 2019 American League championship ring, but his ultimate goal is to earn the ring for the 2024 World Series champions.
Espada will debut as the Astros’ manager in spring training, commencing Wednesday in West Palm Beach.
Transitioning from six years as the Astros’ bench coach, Espada reflects on feeling “blessed and lucky” to hold his current position while striving to enhance the team’s performance. This task proves challenging after seven consecutive appearances in the AL Championship Series and two World Series victories.
Espada aims to address areas needing improvement while fostering a culture of continuous growth.
“You can’t allow complacency and arrogance,” Espada emphasized. “If you see those two things enter your clubhouse, weaknesses begin to emerge.”
During their time in West Palm Beach, Espada plans to focus on refining aspects such as base running and pitchers’ ability to control base runners.
Recognizing the team’s potential, Espada believes attention to detail will be pivotal in their pursuit of the championship.
He also intends to prioritize rest for the veteran players. Considering a six-man rotation to preserve Justin Verlander’s stamina and leveraging the designated hitter position to maintain Jose Abreu’s health, Espada aims to optimize the team’s performance while ensuring the well-being of key players.
