Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker has been a popular decision-maker to blame for the dumpster fire that has been the 2025 season. A piece of this is fair when you consider Snitker's response to Jarred Kelenic's lack of hustle early in the season, or the infuriating usage of Raisel Iglesias when it was clear that the closer wasn't getting it done.
However, the biggest piece of the blame belongs on the shoulders of the Atlanta front office and ownership group. While it isn't clear who decided to become increasingly cheap, the lack of depth has cost this roster. It is hard to win a lot of games when you're unable to trust one piece of the bullpen consistently.
Add in a bench full of offensive liabilities, and a piece of the Snitker criticism is overblown. Still, a change in energy might not be the worst thing for the Braves, and this appears to be the path the franchise is walking. A recent report by The Athletic's Jim Bowden hints that many around the league expect the veteran manager to retire at the end of the season.
This decision would go a long way in explaining the veteran's approach this year. Knowing he is heading for an exit is likely a bit freeing, even in a season as frustrating as this.
Braves Manager Brian Snitker Is Reportedly Heading for Retirement
Snitker retiring and turning the page on the old regime in some ways is bittersweet. In others, it presents a chance for meaningful change for a club that is increasingly embracing mediocrity. This roster lacks the needed fire and energy of the teams of the past. Turn back the clock to the 2021 World Series and consider the energy and leadership on this roster. Ron Washington, Joc Pederson, and Freddie Freeman are obvious examples that jump to mind.
While each of these pieces has left the Braves unable to fight back at this level. Rewinding a bit further to when Atlanta first began to turn the corner after a long rebuild, you had veteran infielder Josh Donaldson. Another player who was unafraid to play with fire and speak his mind on and off the diamond.
As great as Snitker has been for Atlanta's organization, perhaps a 2026 retirement gives the team a chance to once again find this energy. Players who clearly enjoy playing the game and aren't willing to accept losing. A change in manager gives you a chance to reset the tone and embrace bringing in these types of voices. No question, Snitker's retirement is going to be a difficult one, but if the report is true, it could be for the better for an Atlanta team that badly needs a culture reset.