The Astros commenced their interviews for a manager Wednesday at Minute Maid Park by sitting down with interim manager Dave Clark and Minor League field coordinator Al Pedrique. Clark interviewed with president of baseball operations Tal Smith, general manager Ed Wade and several other members of the baseball operations staff for more than two hours in the morning, and Pedrique interviewed in the afternoon. The Astros are searching for a permanent replacement for Cecil Cooper, who was dismissed Sept. 21 after more than years on the job. Clark, who was in his first season as third-base coach, took over the managing duties for the final 13 games. "It went well," Clark said of his interview. "You talk about a pressure cooker and being put on the hot seat. I think the big advantage I have there is I was in a room with people I know and am very familiar with, and I think it makes the process a whole lot easier." Ned Yost and Randy Ready will interview Thursday, Bob Melvin and Manny Acta will interview Friday, Pete Mackanin and Phil Garner will interview Saturday, and Brad Mills and Tim Bogar will close out the first round of interviews Monday.