The Houston Astros’ 2024 season ended in disappointment, falling to the Detroit Tigers in the AL Wild Card round. This follows their 2023 loss to the Texas Rangers in the ALCS after seven games. With back-to-back postseason exits, is Houston’s era of dominance coming to a close?
After 2023, the Astros parted ways with Dusty Baker, the manager who guided them out of the sign-stealing scandal and into the spotlight, including a 2022 World Series win. Though not perfect, Baker provided the stability Houston needed when their credibility was in question.
Baker still isn’t happy with how things ended. Much of the blame for falling short in 2023 was placed on him by fans, and the front office ultimately decided to move on. Baker has since taken a role with the San Francisco Giants but revealed his frustrations, particularly about not having control over the coaching staff. While Baker’s team won a World Series, the staff remained largely from A.J. Hinch’s tenure, raising questions about the lingering effects of the sign-stealing scandal. Still, Baker helped the Astros reach the top, but now that same core might be unraveling.
With longtime players like Alex Bregman hitting free agency and key players like Jose Altuve expressing concern about losing him, Houston’s dynastic run could be nearing its end. General Manager Dana Brown is hopeful to retain Bregman, but the odds aren’t in their favor. After Baker’s departure, the Astros’ golden era could be slipping away.