It’s starting to feel like the end of an era in Atlanta. Brian Snitker, who guided the Braves to a 2021 World Series title, is now in the middle of the ugliest season of his tenure. He’s 69 and in the final year of his contract. Nothing’s official yet, but the writing on the wall is this could very well be Snitker’s swan song.
And if he steps aside? The dream candidate is obvious: Skip Schumaker. USA Today’s Bob Nightengale didn’t mince words, calling him “the hottest free-agent managerial candidate this winter.” The only problem? Atlanta won’t be the only team calling.
Giants Could Crash the Party
The San Francisco Giants are in their own freefall. Bob Melvin hasn’t delivered the spark ownership expected, and despite picking up his $4 million option, there’s already chatter that he could be out. If Buster Posey and the Giants’ brass decide to pull the plug, that’s where things get dicey for Atlanta.
On paper, both the Braves and Giants are disappointing clubs in 2025. But if you’re Schumaker, one situation might look shinier than the other. Why? Because San Francisco has been swinging for the fences. They’ve chased every big-ticket free agent in recent years, landed Rafael Devers and his massive contract, and made it clear they’re willing to spend. Results? Not great. Intent? Crystal clear.
Compare that to Atlanta, which has leaned on cheap extensions for its young core while avoiding true splash moves since 2021. Yes, the Braves locked up Acuña, Riley, Strider, and company, but the front office has shied away from stacking proven star power on top of that core. The result? A slow regression from World Series champs to a club clinging to “what could be” rather than chasing “what should be.”
Which Job Is More Appealing?
If Schumaker has the pick of the litter, the Giants’ job might simply look more aggressive, more ambitious. Atlanta still has the better roster foundation, but San Francisco appears more willing to spend whatever it takes to win. For a manager hungry to prove himself and add another feather to his cap, that matters.
For Braves fans, it’s a tough pill to swallow. Snitker may be on the way out, and the franchise’s top choice could be lured west by a team equally desperate but far more willing to open its wallet.
The Braves’ front office faces a moment of truth this offseason. If they want to make themselves as appealing as San Francisco — to Schumaker or anyone else — it won’t be enough to sell stability. They’ll have to prove they’re serious about going all-in again.
