Looking forward to the off season

Everything is still on the table for the current regular and post seasons. We could conceivably miss the playoffs entirely or win another World Series. Time will tell. Frankly, my hope has taken a beating this past month. I’m finding it harder and harder to get stoked about what I’m seeing on the field of late. On the other hand, looking ahead to the offseason has me hyped in anticipation. From Dana Brown’s real complete full season as GM, to hiring a new manager and coaching staff, to roster turnover and talent replacement and acquisition, it’s going to be very interesting. Heck, even the broadcast network will look different next year with a new name and maybe even some new on air personalities. Let’s start with the selection of a new manager. These are my top two picks. Pipe dreams if you will. Your opinions will likely differ and I hope that you’ll share them. First choice: Brandon Hyde, current Orioles manager. He is working under two former Astros front office guys, embraces the type of analytics that helped build our organization into a powerhouse and has impressed me from afar all year. As a fan, if this series with the O’s were a job interview, he has passed with flying colors. He is not under contract for next year, but I can’t imagine Baltimore not bringing him back. Second choice is Snitker. No, not that one; not ours, but his dad and current Braves manager, Brian Snitker. He’s under contract through ‘25, so that won’t happen. What about others? Some names currently coaching at the MLB or collegiate level with Houston ties are Brad Ausmus, Mark Loretta and Ray Montgomery. I know I’m overlooking a ton of names, and these are just off the top of my head. Notice that I didn’t include the current Rangers or Angels managers who are former players of ours. I would rather have a manager who can be molded into a successful manager. I don’t want someone who is coming from a losing environment. What about a rookie manager with no managerial or coaching experience? What about Biggio or Bagwell? I’ve seen stranger things happen, like Dierker going from announcer to manager. Whoever the choice is, the tone on the field will be vastly different from the Baker regime. Notice that I didn’t mention Espada. I didn’t overlook him, I just don’t want him. I want a clean break from anything “Dusty.” Can you blame me? Now what about the new coaching staff? That would take volumes to write, so I’ll pass for now. But, it will be very interesting to see who our support staff will be. For example, what about Uncle Mike as a hitting coach? From trainers to coaches, most will be new. Next, what about roster turnover and talent acquisition? What about the possible return of current injured players? What about prospect promotions? What about long term deals for our core stars like Tucker and others? All the talent related moves should be fun to watch. Lastly, what about Jim Crane? Is he satisfied? Is he hungry for more on field excellence? Time will tell. No matter what, we will return a very talented group of players next year and I don’t think our championship window is closed by any means. Many of the off season moves should, however, impact just how long that window stays open. It’s going to be an interesting and hopefully exciting offseason. The current season is winding down. Let’s hope that the tide turns in our favor. If it doesn’t, please try to stay positive. Our future isn’t gloomy at all. Go Astros!