Brian Snitker’s time as Atlanta Braves manager has officially come to an end. After nearly 50 years in the organization — and a 2021 World Series championship — Snitker will not return to the dugout in 2026.
That leaves one of the most high-profile managerial jobs in baseball wide open. Who could step into the role? Here’s a look at six names being mentioned, with their pros, cons, and fit for Braves Country.
Who Could Replace Brian Snitker As Braves Manager?
The Braves don’t lack for options. Some names come from within the organization, while others bring external experience and fresh perspective. The decision will shape not only the dugout dynamic but also how Braves Country views the next chapter.
1. Walt Weiss — The Internal Favorite
Weiss has been Snitker’s bench coach since 2018, giving him a deep understanding of both the roster and the organization’s culture. Before Atlanta, he managed the Colorado Rockies from 2013 to 2016.
Pros: Weiss brings continuity, player familiarity, and a calm presence in the dugout. His long run as a bench coach means he already has strong relationships with Atlanta’s stars.
Cons: His 283–365 record as Rockies manager wasn’t inspiring. Critics may view him as too safe and not a big enough change from Snitker.
Fit: If the Braves value stability over a shake-up, Weiss represents the cleanest transition. He would keep the current system intact while offering veteran leadership.
2. Mark DeRosa — The Braves Connection
A versatile infielder during his playing career, DeRosa spent time with Atlanta from 1998–2004. Since then, he’s gained respect as a sharp analyst with MLB Network and as manager of Team USA during the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Pros: DeRosa has strong Braves ties, is well-regarded in the media, and is praised as a natural leader. His WBC stint proved he can handle a dugout full of stars.
Cons: He has never managed an MLB team full-time, and transitioning from broadcasting to managing is a leap. Some executives may see him as a gamble.
Fit: A bold choice who would energize fans and bring a modern voice, but the lack of MLB track record would make him a true risk-reward hire.
Atlanta Braves Next Manager: Options On The Table
Beyond the familiar Braves names, there are proven managers and rising stars available outside the organization. Each comes with different risks — but also the potential for fresh energy in the dugout.
3. David Ross — The Experienced Option
Ross managed the Chicago Cubs from 2020–2023, leading them to the postseason in his debut year. He’s known for his ability to connect with players, particularly younger talent, while balancing expectations in a major market.
Pros: Ross has real managerial experience in a large market. His reputation as a strong communicator and steady leader could translate well to Atlanta’s roster.
Cons: His Cubs tenure was uneven, finishing with a 257–281 record. There’s debate over whether he maximized that roster’s potential.
Fit: Ross would bring credibility and experience while also being familiar to Braves fans from his playing days. He’s a steady hand, though not necessarily a “wow” hire.
4. Skip Schumaker — The Rising Star
Schumaker managed the Miami Marlins in 2023 and 2024, winning NL Manager of the Year in 2023. After parting ways with Miami, he joined the Texas Rangers as a senior advisor.
Pros: Schumaker proved right away he can elevate a roster, guiding the Marlins to unexpected success. He’s praised as a relatable communicator and motivator.
Cons: With just two seasons of MLB managing, his track record is short. Some wonder if his success in Miami was sustainable.
Fit: A fresh voice who could grow alongside Atlanta’s young core. Schumaker has upside but would need to show he’s ready for the weight of Braves expectations.
5. Ron Washington — The Fan Favorite, But With Health Questions
Washington became beloved in Atlanta as the Braves’ third base coach from 2017–2023, credited with helping build championship-level infield defense. He later managed the Angels but stepped aside in 2025 due to health concerns, then the team decided not to pick up his 2026 option.
Pros: Braves Country adores him, and his teaching reputation is unmatched. His experience with the Texas Rangers (including two AL pennants) proves he can guide a contender.
Cons: Washington underwent quadruple bypass surgery in 2025 and may not be healthy enough for a full-time return. At 73, the grind of 162 games is a real concern.
Fit: Washington’s Braves ties make him a sentimental favorite. If healthy, he’d bring instant credibility and fan buy-in — but realistically, he’s more a “what if” than a likely hire.
6. Eric Young Sr. — The Players’ Pick
Young served as Atlanta’s first base coach during much of Snitker’s tenure and built strong relationships with the roster. Though he hasn’t managed in MLB, his reputation with players is a real asset.
Pros: Respected inside the clubhouse, praised for his energy and player-first approach. He knows the Braves’ system and would have immediate buy-in from veterans.
Cons: Zero MLB managerial experience. His lack of dugout track record could be a sticking point for a win-now organization.
Fit: A long shot, but if the Braves want to reward loyalty and prioritize clubhouse harmony, Young could emerge as a surprise candidate.
Honorable Mentions
- Joe Espada (Astros): Highly respected, but already committed in Houston.
- Carlos Beltrán: Consistently linked to managerial roles, though still untested as a full-time skipper.
- Raúl Ibañez: Front office experience, strong communicator, but no dugout resume.
- Other Braves coaches: Names like Kevin Seitzer or Rick Kranitz could surface, though neither has been mentioned publicly yet.
What Braves Country Should Expect Next
Brian Snitker’s departure leaves the Braves at a crossroads. Do they stay in-house with Walt Weiss, take a chance on Mark DeRosa, or chase upside with Skip Schumaker?
Atlanta has options — but whoever steps in will inherit a championship-caliber roster and the weight of Braves Country’s expectations.
