The Atlanta Braves are entering unfamiliar territory. For the first time in nearly a decade, the organization faces a major decision in the dugout — whether to stay in-house, as has long been the club’s tradition, or look outside for new leadership.
After years of consistent success, it appears that Brian Snitker’s tenure is nearing its conclusion. The 69-year-old manager, who guided Atlanta to a World Series championship in 2021 and six straight postseason appearances, is in the final year of his contract and was widely expected to step away at season’s end.
The End of an Era
As Bleacher Report’s Kerry Miller put it:
“Because of that consistent recent success, Snit would normally be afforded a ‘mulligan’ year—even though going from the second-best preseason World Series odds to possibly the third-best odds of winning the draft lottery is a pretty serious mulligan. At 69, though, he’s already the oldest manager in the National League by a several-year margin and was likely to retire at the end of this season.”
Snitker’s departure marks the end of an era defined by player development, clubhouse stability, and sustained competitiveness. His steady hand guided the Braves through both rebuild and renaissance — but with age, contract status, and shifting roster dynamics all converging, a managerial change now seems inevitable.
The Search Begins: Familiar Faces and Old Friends
Among external candidates, one name already drawing buzz is John Gibbons, who has long-standing ties to Braves general manager Alex Anthopoulos.
“Before serving as the Mets bench coach the past two seasons, Gibbons was Anthopoulos’ manager in Toronto from 2013–15. The bond led to Gibbons being hired as a special assignment scout for the Braves in 2020,” MLB.com’s Mark Bowman noted.
Gibbons boasts multiple ALCS appearances with the Blue Jays but never reached the World Series. Still, his familiarity with Anthopoulos — and his reputation as a player’s manager — could make him an appealing option should Atlanta look for an experienced outsider to guide its next chapter.
As HTHB’s Steven Teal added:
“Gibbons is the first, and AA is very familiar with him as he managed the Blue Jays from 2013 to 2015. Gibbons has been with the Mets as their bench coach for the past two years and may want another shot at managing.”
What’s Next for Atlanta
The Braves’ front office now faces a defining choice: promote from within, maintaining continuity and culture, or entrust the roster to a veteran voice like Gibbons, who brings a proven track record and a deep relationship with Anthopoulos.
Whatever direction they choose, one thing is certain — the next manager will inherit a talented but transitioning roster and the challenge of living up to one of the most successful eras in modern Braves history.
