The Houston Astros have announced that they will not be renewing the contract of longtime third-base coach Gary Pettis, ending his extended tenure with the team. Pettis, who has been a key figure in the Astros’ coaching staff since 2015, will be stepping down after nearly a decade of service that included multiple postseason appearances and a World Series title.
The decision not to renew Pettis’ contract marks the end of an era for the Astros, as he has been a significant part of the team’s recent successes. Known for his strategic acumen and sharp instincts on the field, Pettis played a crucial role in guiding the Astros to their World Series victories in 2017 and 2022, as well as numerous deep playoff runs. His presence on the coaching staff has been widely respected by players and colleagues alike.
Astros General Manager Dana Brown spoke on the decision, emphasizing the need for change while also acknowledging Pettis’ valuable contributions to the organization. “Gary has been an incredible asset to our team over the years, and his knowledge and experience have been instrumental to our success,” Brown said. “However, we believe it’s time to take a new direction with our coaching staff as we continue to evolve and build for the future.”
Pettis, a former five-time Gold Glove winner as an MLB outfielder, has not yet commented publicly on his departure from the Astros. His career as a coach is highly regarded across the league, and there’s speculation that he may continue his coaching career with another organization.
