The Atlanta Braves are expected to keep Brian Snitker in the dugout, per a new Sporting News analysis that frames the season’s disappointment as a roster-build issue more than a managerial one. That tracks with Snitker’s recent remarks about “unfinished business” and with how Atlanta historically handles managerial transitions.
Snitker’s Status: “Unfinished Business,” Not a Hot Seat
Snitker publicly left the door open to return in 2026, saying the down year pushed him toward finishing what he started; that aligns with the tone of the ESPN interview and that the organization won’t push him out. The club’s posture has repeatedly emphasized respect for the 2021 title manager and his long tenure.
Why Anthopoulos Is Under Review Right Now
A season that fell short of expectations invariably turns the lens toward roster construction. Earlier this year, the front office made a notable in-season staff change, bringing back Fredi González to coach third base—an uncommon midyear move under this regime and a window into how the club tried to course-correct on the margins. And during a previous slump stretch, Anthopoulos addressed the team’s struggles on MLB.com, taking questions about performance and roster depth—another sign the front office shoulders much of the accountability narrative.
What the 2025 Results Actually Say
Even amid a late uptick, Atlanta’s record reflects a step back from recent standards. The MLB standings show the club outside the postseason mix heading into the final stretch, a stark contrast to the run that produced seven straight playoff berths. That backdrop explains why external chatter focuses more on roster architecture than on a managerial shakeup.
What Comes Next for 2026
If Snitker returns and the blame shifts toward the roster, the winter priorities become straightforward: a healthier rotation and impact depth, plus a bullpen with more swing-and-miss late. Those decisions, more than anything, will define whether 2025 is a blip or a trend.
Snitker’s legacy buys him time; the roster’s trajectory will determine the timeline. If the Braves pair a healthy core with targeted upgrades, the conversation around both the manager and the GM changes quickly in 2026.
