Cecil Cooper will return as manager of the Houston Astros next season. Cooper, 57, was given a two-year contract that runs through the 2009 season. He was named interim manager when he replaced the fired Phil Garner on Aug. 27. The announcement was made before the Astros opened their final series of the season, against Atlanta. "It's a great thrill for me," Cooper said. "I'm very confident I can do this. I know I can do it. We're going to get it done."