There is an understandable sense of angst among Atlanta Braves fans with the departure of manager Brian Snitker, coming off an incredibly rough 2025 season. While Snitker is going to be staying with the organization, it will be in an incredibly different capacity. The former manager will be working in an advisory role while Atlanta looks for new perspectives and fresh leadership from the organization. While things remain in question, there is no doubt that serves as an opportunity for the franchise to improve in a number of areas.
This does create hope that the move will be an improvement for the franchise. One that gives a needed jolt in leadership and decision-making. Starting with the obvious when it comes to complaints around the former Braves manager.
1. Managing the Bullpen by Who's Hot
This sounds like a no-brainer, that is how many franchises operate when it comes to how to manage their pen. However, Snitker is incredibly loyal to resumes and players who have previously served important roles. This has often led to fan frustration, wondering why the manager won't pivot to a piece that is offering superior production. It is impossible to believe the Braves aren't going to upgrade in this area with new leadership.
If the Braves are losing the experience of Snitker, it needs to work to the benefit of the franchise, and this means a change in how the bullpen is managed. Not turning to a closer simply because it was his past role or a former player who was once a trusted piece. The adjustment needed is simple in that Atlanta simply needs a manager who is able to read the pen and ride with the hot arms.
2. A Quicker Hook
Snitker is old school in both the best and worst ways when it comes to his managing style. At times, this has ruined incredibly pitched games by the manager allowing a starter to stay out far past his comfort zone. As a competitor, the pitcher is rarely going to want out of a game, whether or not he feels himself capable of continuing. It's the manager's job to read when it is time to pull the starter, understanding the need to make the decision too early.
It isn't a skillset that Snitker has ever completely figured out, and one that Atlanta fans can only hope is upgraded with the change in leadership. This is especially the case with Spencer Strider and Chris Sale, who are going to be your most important rotation pieces moving into the 2026 season. The Braves must do a better job protecting their top-of-the-rotation arms.
3. More Energy
It is important to note that Snitker's steady presence helped the Braves establish themselves as contenders over the last half-decade and win a World Series in 2021. However, there is also a clear lack of energy in the clubhouse and throughout the lineup. Perhaps a change will prove to be the jolt needed to bring the team to the needed level of intensity.
In both the 2022 and 2023 season, this was glaring when the Braves were losing to the Philadelphia Phillies in the playoffs' first round. There was simply a level of focus and intensity that the franchise lacked. Perhaps the change will be the needed move to breathe life back into an often uninspiring group.