Astros to Interview Former Bench Coach Eduardo Perez for Managerial Vacancy

The Houston Astros' search for their next manager continues, after the ouster of AJ Hinch (and GM Jeff Luhnow) amid the controversial sign-stealing scandal.

Since then, a handful of names have been linked to the 'Stros vacancy -- as well as that of the Mets and Red Sox -- including one familiar face. Former Astros bench coach and current ESPN analyst Eduardo Perez is reportedly set to interview for the opening on Tuesday.

Confirming the Astros will interview Eduardo Perez for the managerial position on Tuesday. He is an analyst for ESPN and was Houston’s bench coach in 2013 under Bo Porter.
— Brian McTaggart (@brianmctaggart) January 20, 2020

Perez served as the Astros' bench coach during the 2013 season under former skipper Bo Porter.

He played professionally for 13 seasons, spending time with the Angels, Reds, Cardinals, Indians and Mariners. The former first baseman and outfielder had a career slash-line of .247/.326/.431 with 79 home runs and 294 RBI. He featured in four postseason games in his career, all coming in 2002 as a member of the Cardinals.

After his playing career concluded, Perez joined ESPN's Baseball Tonight as an analyst from 2006-2011. He also managed in the Puerto Rican league in 2008 and 2009, earning Manager of the Year honors in 2008.

Eduardo Perez interviewing for #Astros’ managerial vacancy tomorrow, sources tell The Athletic. First to note Houston’s interest: @martinonyc.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) January 20, 2020

With the Astros looking to shake off the PR nightmare hanging over them, the first step is bringing in a new manager. Perez seems like a fairly safe option considering his past connection to the organization. He'll get his chance to impress the 'Stros on Tuesday when he sits down for an interview.