Dear Astros Family,
As I sit down to write this letter, my heart is filled with immense gratitude, unwavering pride, and profound humility. It is a privilege to address not only the extraordinary players I have the honor of coaching but also the loyal fans, dedicated staff, and the entire Astros community who have stood by this organization through triumphs, challenges, and everything in between.
When I first joined this franchise, I was struck by the unique bond that exists within the Astros family—a bond that extends far beyond the diamond. It’s a bond built on resilience, passion, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Now, as I assume the role of head coach, I carry with me the weight of your expectations and the promise of our shared vision for the future.
This team is more than a collection of athletes; it’s a legacy. It’s Jose Altuve sprinting down the baseline with unyielding determination, Yordan Álvarez sending moonshots into the night sky, and Framber Valdez bringing the heat when it matters most. It’s the countless hours spent in the batting cages, the bullpen sessions under the Texas sun, and the late nights breaking down film to gain that one extra edge.
But the heart of this organization beats strongest in you—the fans. Whether you’re cheering from the stands at Minute Maid Park, watching from your living rooms, or donning Astros gear halfway across the globe, you are the lifeblood of this team. Your energy fuels us. Your faith sustains us. And your unwavering support inspires us to give nothing less than our absolute best.
To the players, let me say this: we are not just playing for today. We are playing for the history we build with every pitch, every swing, and every step on that field. We are playing for the kids in the bleachers dreaming of their turn at bat. We are playing for the people who make Houston the vibrant, resilient city it is. And we are playing to uphold the legacy of excellence this organization has fought so hard to achieve.
To the Astros staff and front office, thank you for your tireless dedication and belief in this team’s potential. Your efforts often go unnoticed, but they are the foundation of our success.
And finally, to the Astros community, I pledge this: I will lead with integrity, courage, and an unwavering commitment to our shared goals. The journey ahead will not be without obstacles, but together, we will face them head-on. We will rise to every challenge, learn from every setback, and celebrate every victory—big or small—with the same fervor that defines us.
This is more than just a new chapter. It is a new era. One that will be defined by our collective grit, determination, and unity. Together, we will continue to make history, and together, we will ensure that the Houston Astros remain a beacon of excellence in the world of baseball.
Let’s make this season—and every season after—something to remember. Let’s go to work.
With deep respect and boundless optimism,
Joe Espada
Head Coach, Houston Astros
