What happened: On Foul Territory, AJ said Houston granted Joe Espada permission to talk with Seattle about its opening while still under contract, citing Mark Feinsand. Co-host Kratz asked which side leaked the talks and called making Espada play out the final year without an extension a lame-duck exit. The hosts praised Espada for reaching the postseason with an injury-depleted roster.

Why it matters: On Foul Territory, Kratz argued Seattle needs a more outgoing dugout voice after reserved ex-catchers Scott Servais and Dan Wilson. AJ said Espada's AL West familiarity gives Seattle inside knowledge of a rival.

What to watch: On Foul Territory, the hosts said they will shelve managerial talk until the postseason slate clears and more openings surface.