Houston -- Longtime Astros fan favorite Jose Cruz is sticking with his roots. Cruz, removed from his role as Astros First Base Coach last week, has decided to accept his new role with the organization on and off the field.

Astros GM Ed Wade told KPRC Local 2 Tuesday, " Cheo and Tal met today(Tuesday) and exchanged ideas about his role going forward."

Cruz, who is excited to remain with the organization he has served as a player and a coach, agreed to accept a public relations and community service role with the Astros. His job, with details still yet to be finalized, will also include a role as instructor at the big league camp in Kissimmee, Florida as well as homestand in uniform duties at Minute Maid Park throughout the season.

"We want to carve out a meaningful role that takes advantage of Cheo's tremendous experience and public appeal in our community," Wade told KPRC Local 2.

"We're sure that we'll be able to work out the details to keep Cheo as a close member of the Astros family."

Cruz is 62 years old and had spent 13 seasons on the Astros coaching staff. The club is focusing on its managerial search after interviewing 10 candidates. Wade will cut the list down to a small group of finalists with the process now going internal.