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Houston Astros: A.J. Hinch, Jeff Luhnow not affected by delayed season

By David Hill

HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 05: Manager AJ Hinch #14 talks with Jeff Luhnow, General Manager of the Houston Astros, prior to game two of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park on October 05, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - OCTOBER 05: Manager AJ Hinch #14 talks with Jeff Luhnow, General Manager of the Houston Astros, prior to game two of the American League Division Series against the Tampa Bay Rays at Minute Maid Park on October 05, 2019 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images) /
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The delayed season may push back the date that suspended players can return, but it will not affect former Houston Astros manager A.J. Hinch or former general manager Jeff Luhnow.

One of the more interesting dynamics about the delayed major league season is how it affects suspended players. With the likelihood of fewer games being played, the likes of Domingo German and Michael Pineda had hoped for some leniency in their punishments. However, as their suspensions were tied to the number of games they had to serve, a reprieve will not be forthcoming.

Then there is the case of a pair of former Houston Astros. Former manager A.J. Hinch and former general manager Jeff Luhnow were suspended for 2020 and were subsequently fired as the fall guys for AstroGate. It would make sense if their ability to return from suspension was also delayed.

However, that will not be the case. Since they were suspended for 2020, and not a specific number of games, both will be eligible to return once the postseason comes to an end. Their return may be delayed in terms of a calendar date, but the timeline will remain the same.

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This determination keeps open their avenue to return to the game. Hinch, before his dismissal, was considered one of the brightest managerial minds, a strategic genius who was able to get the most out of his players. Luhnow rebuilt the Astros roster, turning them into a perennial postseason contender.

Presumably, both former Astros will be in demand once they are eligible to return. Even with the stench of AstroGate upon them, it is difficult to argue against the success that they had during their time in Houston. Either Hinch or Luhnow would be a dramatic upgrade for quite a few teams around the league.

Chances are, however, that it will take some time before either find themselves with a major league position again. The outcry over AstroGate will need to die down before either Hinch or Luhnow can truly return. That time will come.

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The delayed start to the 2020 season truly does not matter to former Houston Astros A.J. Hinch or Jeff Luhnow. They will still be eligible to be reinstated once the postseason is over.

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