The Atlanta Braves will have a new manager in the 2026 season after news broke that Brian Snitker would not return, according to the franchise's Wednesday morning press release. The 69-year-old bench boss will remain with the organization in an advising role and will be inducted into the organization's Hall of Fame next season.
It is a bittersweet decision that is difficult based on Snitker's organizational accomplishments and what he means to the players and fans; however, it is also easy to argue that perhaps this is the change Atlanta needed after a rough season.
The attention will now shift to who could fill the position and where the Braves could turn, either within their own organization or looking at outside options. That list starts with a manager who was just let go himself and was badly missed by the Braves throughout the 2025 season.
1. Ron Washington
The Los Angeles Angels parted ways with the former Atlanta bench coach after he missed much of the 2025 season due to health concerns. It is important to note that Washington's health comes above all else, and if the manager isn't going to be able to keep up with the rigors of the league, it is time to walk away.
However, if his health is improving, there is zero question that the Braves would love to have Washington back in the dugout. The energy and focus he brought to the organization were badly missed and showed what this franchise is clearly lacking in its leadership. If there is any level of the aging manager who believes he can still take on the stress of the position, it should be with the Braves.
It's also worth noting that Washington has a 664-611 (52.1%) all-time record, which also includes a pair of American League pennants.
Considering the history with the organization and the accomplishments while he was here, it would be a shock to see Washington not at least garner an interview.
2. Albert Pujols
If the Braves want to go with a younger option, they could look at former superstars, with none being a more interesting fit than Albert Pujols. The legendary hitter put together an incredible resume that is going to garner a sense of belief that he can take this level of production into the next phase of his career.
Having Pujols sitting in the dugout unquestionably lends itself to a level of buy in from your players.
His on-field accomplishments are recent enough to garner respect from younger players, while older players have experience playing with or against him. Furthermore, he just managed the Dominican Republic's Leones del Escogido en route to winning the 2024-25 Serie Final, so it's clear that his winning is extending into his post-playing days.
It is at least worth looking into and giving Pujols an interview as he continues to look to step into the next phase of his career.
3. Walt Weiss
If the Braves were going to go the boring route of giving the job to someone already on the coaching roster, Walt Weiss makes the most sense. While Fredi Gonzalez has managerial experience as well, fans would lose their collective minds if the failed manager was brought back not only in a coaching role but to attempt to replace the franchise legend that is Snitker.
With this in mind, Weiss must be counted among the possibilities simply based on his tenure and experience. He managed the Colorado Rockies and has spent a lot of time around current players, working directly with Snitker for much of his tenure.
Putting the Weiss back into a familiar role makes a level of sense, even if it isn't going to excite your fan base, making him a name to keep in mind as the Braves go deeper into the process.
4. Andruw Jones
Hiring former players to managerial roles seems to be a growing trend around the Majors, which the Braves could follow. Andruw Jones would be the perfect option if this is the line Atlanta chooses to follow. The former outfielder is an accomplished Brave and has stayed around the team throughout the last years, which includes working as a special assistant.
Whether it is the broadcast highlighting his presence in the crowd, or Jones taking part in some team event, there has been a level of interaction that hasn't been there with all former players. This leads to speculation as to whether or not Jones wants a larger role, with it being clear that Snitker's exit could be his opportunity.
No question, seeing Jones back in an Atlanta uniform would be a fun way for the search to end. One that is going to be at the top of Braves fans' minds as we near the offseason.