From the start of the Atlanta Braves' 2025 season, there has been speculation that this would be manager Brian Snitker's final season. The aging manager has spent 49 years as a part of Atlanta's organization. Having joined the team as a player in 1977, before transitioning into a coaching and eventually a managerial role. With this in mind, it doesn't come as a surprise that retirement is very much on the table for the veteran manager.
Still, Snitker is uncertain about what lies ahead, and it seems the Braves are content to let the manager decide his own future. Considering his tenure and what he means to the organization, it is understandable for the franchise to take this approach. The only downside is the fact it leaves the future murky.
Braves Remain in Limbo Unsure of Manager Brian Snitker's Future
Snitker is 811-668 in his managing career, with many of these losses coming in the manager's first two seasons. Atlanta turned to the veteran coach right as the rebuild was coming to an end, leaving the early record extremely underwhelming. However, the most important accomplishment is on Snitker's resume having won a World Series in 2021 and playing a huge role in that run.
Fans still can't help but wonder if a change wouldn't be for the better. Snitker has earned a heavy level of criticism based on a tendency to stay loyal to failing pieces. While the 2025 season shouldn't count based on a lack of options, the past years have plenty of examples of the manager pushing the wrong buttons out of loyalty. With that said, this is also a trait that gave former Atlanta closer Will Smith confidence to close out the 2021 World Series or Marcell Ozuna the ability to put up dominating numbers in the 2023 and 2024 seasons after appearing to be headed for a franchise exit.
The point being, Snitker's return would be a mixed bag with fans unable to help themselves from wondering what the future might be with a change in leadership. This leads to looking at the obvious candidates who would be the perfect options to give the 2026 Braves a boost.
4 Best Brian Snitker Replacement Options Already Obvious
1. Andruw Jones
The former Atlanta legend already has coaching experience and will be managing team Netherlands in this year's World Baseball Classic. One of the biggest changes the Braves need to make if Snitker does ride off into the sunset is finding leadership that isn't afraid to bring a level of intensity and energy. Jones accomplishes this while having the resume to back it up.
Having a manager who was one of the best fielders in franchise history while hitting 434 homers in an incredible career lends itself to a level of respect. Add in the fact that the former outfielder has remained consistently around the team, showing his support, and it makes sense to bring back a former player to take over. If anyone can instantly step into a managing role and have a high level of success, it is Jones.
2. Travis d'Arnaud
This one is completely speculative with the former Atlanta catcher remaining active and under contract. However, d'Arnaud hit under the Mendoza line this season and ended the year on the IL. Already, the catcher is an incredibly respected leader in the Braves clubhouse, having spent the previous years as an important contributor and tone setter.
With this in mind, if the Braves want to think outside the box while going with someone with ties to the organization to replace Snitker, d'Arnaud is an extremely interesting option. One who has experience with the group of players and understands the inner workings of the clubhouse. Making the potential hire all the more enticing if the veteran backstop does decide to call it a career after a frustrating 2025 season with the Los Angeles Angels.
3. David Ross
Some Braves fans will remember Ross for his time with the organization, backing up Brian McCann. The former catcher would prove to be an important leader in the Chicago Cubs' curse-breaking World Series run and eventually transition into a managing role with the club. One that was shortened due to the franchise opting to tear down its core and go into a rebuild.
Still, Ross has managing experience, ties to the Braves, and has proven to be a tone setter for his lineup. All of this making the former catcher a great potential option if the Braves are going to be turning the page on the Snitker era.
4. Rickie Weeks
The former infielder doesn't have any clear ties to Atlanta, but is going to be at the top of many lists for potential managerial openings. Weeks has spent the last two years with the Milwaukee Brewers as an associate manager. Both seasons, there has been a level of overachievement for an afterthought of a franchise. Setting up a clear chance for Weeks to cash in on the recent run and get his own coaching role.
Weeks checks a lot of boxes in the energy he brings and the youth that perhaps would give the Braves a chance to find a long-term answer at the position. If Snitker does walk away you at least pencil Weeks into your potential fits. Based on the last two seasons and a solid career that demands a level of respect.