What happened: Per Ken Rosenthal and PJ Mooney, Seattle's managerial search centers on two alumni of the Houston Astros' 2022 coaching staff. Espada entered the open market after Houston let his contract expire without a renewal earlier in October.

Why it matters: Seattle is weighing Espada's major-league dugout tenure against Kanzler's minor-league player development background to lead the club forward. Focusing on two coaches from the same 2022 division-rival staff underscores the front office's interest in Houston's organizational blueprint.

What to watch: Seattle will continue vetting finalists as the front office works to install a new manager ahead of offseason roster decisions.