The Atlanta Braves are continuing to round out their coaching staff under newly minted manager Walt Weiss, and their latest move could spark a ripple effect within the dugout. According to reports from The Athletic, the Braves are set to bring in Tommy Watkins, a well-regarded baseball mind with a long tenure in the Minnesota Twins organization. Watkins’ role is still being ironed out, but he’s expected to join as either a third-base coach or a general Major League coach.
A Twist in the Braves Coaching Lineup
That uncertainty matters. Atlanta had only recently announced the hiring of Tony Mansolino as its third-base coach, but that position now appears to be in flux. Should Watkins be installed at third, Mansolino could shift into the bench coach role — a position that remains unfilled and critical to game management. On the other hand, if Watkins slides into a general coaching position, the original plan likely holds.
Watkins brings both experience and continuity. He’s been with the Twins’ Major League staff since 2019 and spent over a decade before that developing players in the Twins’ minor league system — a full-circle journey after his playing days with the same organization. His reputation for player development and clubhouse leadership would be a strategic gain for Atlanta, especially as it bolsters a staff undergoing sweeping changes.
Baldwin Claims Rookie Honors as Staff Expands
Monday night proved especially eventful for the Braves. Even as reports about Watkins emerged, news broke that rookie catcher Drake Baldwin had been named the 2025 National League Rookie of the Year — a prestigious honor that cements the 24-year-old’s breakout season. It’s a moment that hints at a promising future, not just for Baldwin but for the franchise’s continued push for dominance.
A New Era Under Walt Weiss
The Braves have been methodical yet aggressive in reshaping the staff around Weiss. Jeremy Hefner, brought in from the Mets, will handle the pitching staff, while Antoan Richardson takes over at first base. Another former Met, JP Martinez, joins as bullpen coach. It’s a coordinated effort to infuse the organization’s culture with new voices, fresh ideas, and trusted experience.
With Watkins’ arrival, the Braves are signaling that their ambitions aren’t just about maintaining success — they’re aiming to evolve it. The final pieces are nearly in place.
