Houston Astros Fan Favorite Makes Surprise Return in Uniform as Coach

After some speculation, it seems like the Houston Astros are going to have one of their star players back with the team as a coach.

In early March, manager Joe Espada shared some exciting news that the Houston Astros could have one of their most beloved players back with the team in some capacity after announcing his retirement.

At the time, it was unknown what type of role Michael Brantley would have or when he would make his return.

"I asked him to come back again and put a uni on and spend some time. His presence is very valuable. The guys really ask him to come around and I ask him to come around. I'm happy to have him around," the new skipper said back when asked about the clubhouse leader returning.

Well, it looks like Brantley has decided to join the team down in Florida.

Michael Brantley is here and in uniform today at Astros camp, and just walked back from the hitting cage with a group of players, including Jeremy Peña.

— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) March 19, 2024

The smooth-swinging lefty was a mentor to many of the younger players during his time competing, so it's no surprise that he would return in some sort of coaching role.

However, for a team who will now be led by a first-time manager, this could prove to be more valuable than anyone might know.

Espada has been around this group of players, coaching under A.J. Hinch and Dusty Baker on championship teams, but he is now responsible for the entire on-field operation.

Having someone like Brantley around assisting in whatever capacity he will take on should help tremendously.

As one of the best pure hitters in the game when active, he'll likely use his expertise in that area, like Brian McTaggart noted happened at camp when he returned from the hitting cage with a group of players.

The Astros have World Series aspirations once again, and there's a good chance that their beloved clubhouse leader will be a major help in them getting back to the mountain top, but this time, as a coach.