The Astros remain without a GM or manager, while Joe Espada, the skipper they recently fired, has emerged as a finalist to manage the rival Mariners. 

Former Twins manager Rocco Baldelli and Espada were the two most prominent known candidates, so Baldelli’s decision to withdraw for “family” reasons appears to leave Espada in good position. 

Espada and Cubs exec Jason Kanzler, a hitting guru, are the two publicly known candidates (though there may be others). The Astros also seek hitting help, so Kanzler would be of interest to the Mariners in any case. 

The Mariners are aiming to name a new manager by just after the World Series.