When Major League Baseball’s Houston’s Astros made a managerial change from Bo Porter to AJ Hinch in 2014, it symbolized a turning point. Houston was looking to move to the next phase of its rebuilding plan.
With the benefit of hindsight, it was a change that eventually led to an ongoing baseball dynasty in Houston. During Hinch’s five seasons with the team, the Astros finished with one World Series title, two American League pennants and four postseason berths.
To say the least, it’s a run of success new Rockets head coach Ime Udoka would love to emulate as Houston’s NBA franchise attempts to transition back to winning after three rebuilding seasons.
So, perhaps fittingly, Udoka’s first public appearance in Houston since accepting the job came Thursday at Minute Maid Park, where Udoka threw out a ceremonial first pitch prior to a game between the Angels and the defending World Series champion Astros.
Scroll on for a look at photos, videos, interviews and reaction.