Brian Snitker, the seasoned manager who led the Atlanta Braves to a remarkable World Series victory in 2021, recently announced that he will not be returning after the conclusion of the 2025 season. This decision came after Atlanta missed the postseason for the first time since 2017, signaling the end of Snitker's illustrious 10-year tenure as the Braves' manager. The team confirmed on Wednesday that Snitker will transition into an advisory role within the organization for the upcoming 2026 season.
Having been a part of the Braves organization since 1977 in various capacities, including player, coach, and manager, Snitker's career with the team spans nearly five decades. He took the helm as the interim manager in May 2016, replacing Fredi Gonzalez, and later secured the permanent managerial position before the start of the 2017 season. Under his leadership, the Braves experienced significant success, clinching six consecutive NL East titles from 2018 to 2023 and securing their first World Series triumph in 2021.
Despite the Braves finishing the 2025 season with a 76-86 record and missing the playoffs, Snitker expressed optimism about the team's performance, particularly highlighting a 10-game winning streak in September. His overall record with the Braves stands at an impressive 811-668 over eight-plus seasons, solidifying his legacy as one of the most successful managers in the franchise's history.
As news of Snitker's departure spread, fans and analysts alike have begun speculating about potential candidates to fill the managerial position for the Braves in the upcoming season. With Snitker set to be inducted into the Atlanta Braves Hall of Fame before a game in 2026, the organization is expected to embark on a thorough search for his successor.
General manager and president of baseball operations Alex Anthopoulos, while expressing his admiration for Snitker's contributions, emphasized that the Braves will prioritize finding a suitable replacement to build on the team's legacy. The announcement of Snitker's departure adds the Braves to the list of teams in search of a new manager, with several other Major League Baseball franchises undergoing similar transitions during the offseason.
As the Braves navigate this pivotal period of change, the baseball world eagerly anticipates the next chapter for the organization and the appointment of a new manager to lead the team into the future. Snitker's impact on the Braves, both on and off the field, will be remembered as a significant part of the team's storied history, leaving behind a legacy that will endure for years to come.
