🚨 JUST IN: The Astros are eyeing a former White Sox pitching coach to replace Bill Murphy in a dramatic shake-up of their staff ⚡
The Houston Astros appear to have identified their successor to former pitching coach Bill Murphy, marking another significant move in what has already been a very active offseason for the organization.
As the MLB landscape buzzes with transactions and staffing changes, the Astros have been fully engaged in reshaping both their roster and their coaching ranks ahead of the 2026 season. While much of the attention has focused on player personnel, Houston has also been quietly but diligently addressing key vacancies on its staff.
One of the biggest openings came in October, when longtime pitching coach Bill Murphy announced he would be leaving the franchise to join the Pittsburgh Pirates. For many fans, the news was a tough pill to swallow. Murphy had been with Houston for nearly a decade and played a notable role in stabilizing and elevating the team’s pitching culture. His departure created not just a vacancy, but a sense of uncertainty around a staff that has long been considered one of the Astros’ strengths.
Despite the emotional impact of losing such a respected figure, Houston wasted little time in searching for a worthy replacement. And according to recent reports, the front office may have landed exactly the kind of experienced voice they were hoping for.
Ethan Katz Reportedly Set to Join Astros’ Staff
Insider reports indicate that the Astros have hired Ethan Katz, the former pitching coach of the Chicago White Sox. Katz, now 42, joined Chicago’s staff in 2021 and quickly earned recognition for his developmental work—most notably for helping shape star pitcher Garrett Crochet into one of the most electric arms in baseball.
However, the White Sox opted for a sweeping reset following another disappointing season, parting ways with Katz and several others in September.
Although Chicago’s struggles often overshadowed individual staff contributions, Katz built an impressive résumé during his tenure. His reputation for unlocking potential, modernizing pitching approaches, and helping young arms take meaningful steps forward makes him a valuable addition for a team like Houston, which is entering a transitional phase and looking to regenerate its pitching success.
A Fresh Start for Both Sides
For Katz, this move represents an opportunity to join a more stable, competitive environment and work with a pitching group that still contains considerable talent. For the Astros, it signals the beginning of a new chapter on the mound. They are actively reshaping their roster and staff in hopes of climbing back into postseason contention in 2026, and bringing in an accomplished coach like Katz could be a significant first step.
However, he will be stepping into a role that comes with high expectations. Murphy’s impact on Houston’s pitching staff was profound, and filling the void left by his departure will take both strategic insight and steady leadership. Katz will be challenged to maintain the standard that has defined Astros pitching for nearly a decade.
Still, this hire should relieve some of the tension that has hovered over the organization since Murphy announced his exit. With a new pitching coach secured, the Astros can move forward with more clarity as they continue navigating a fast-moving and critical offseason.
If Houston’s goal is to rebuild with purpose and return to the postseason quickly, bringing in Ethan Katz may prove to be a pivotal move—one that sets the tone for the franchise’s next era of pitching success.
