New MLB Rumors Update Don Mattingly, Joe Espada Hot Seat Buzz Amid Phillies, Astros Playoff Series

The Philadelphia Phillies and Houston Astros could reportedly be searching for new managers if they aren't able to go on lengthy postseason runs.

According to Ken Rosenthal of The Athletic, Phillies interim manager Don Mattingly is "likely to be replaced" unless the team can advance deep into the playoffs.

Astros owner Jim Crane also won't hesitate to fire manager Joe Espada if the team can't advance beyond the Wild Card round or only lasts "a round or two" in the postseason, per Rosenthal.

Philadelphia is currently tied 1-1 through two games in its National League Wild Card Series matchup with the Atlanta Braves, while Houston faced a 1-0 series deficit against the Chicago White Sox in the American League Wild Card round heading into Wednesday's action.

Mattingly has operated as the Phillies' interim manager since Rob Thomson was fired on April 28. Philadelphia opened the season with a 9-19 record before Thomson was let go, but was able to advance to the playoffs with an 88-74 overall mark.

While the turnaround has been impressive, the Phillies could still look in a different direction for their next full-time manager if they suffer an early playoff elimination.

As for Houston, Espada's future became particularly murky after the team parted ways with general manager Dana Brown on Aug. 24.

The Astros still won the AL West this year, but finished at just 81-81. It represented their lowest win total in a 162-game season since 2014.

After Houston missed the playoffs entirely in 2025, a Wild Card exit will likely cause a change at manager.