ATLANTA — For the first time in nearly a decade, the Atlanta Braves are heading into an offseason without Brian Snitker as their manager. The longtime skipper officially stepped down this week, marking the end of an era and beginning one of the most important managerial searches in franchise history.
General manager Alex Anthopoulos now faces a busy offseason filled with difficult decisions — from reshaping the roster to selecting the next leader in the dugout. For a time, there were whispers that Snitker might return for another season. Even he seemed uncertain about walking away. But ultimately, the 69-year-old manager made his decision official.
“Brian Snitker will not return as manager of the Atlanta Braves,” ESPN’s Jeff Passan reported. “He informed the team of his decision yesterday. But he will remain with the organization in a senior advisory capacity.”
Anthopoulos clarified that Snitker’s departure was entirely voluntary and emphasized how highly he regarded his longtime manager.
“If Snitker had wanted to remain in the dugout for an 11th season, Anthopoulos would not have stood in the way of that,” wrote Nick Deeds of MLB Trade Rumors. “He spoke glowingly of their relationship and revealed that Snitker is under contract with the organization through 2030.”
Snitker leaves behind a legacy that includes six straight playoff appearances, a 2021 World Series title, and one of the most consistent winning stretches in franchise history. But as Atlanta transitions to its next phase, attention now turns to who might take his place — and one familiar name has already emerged.
Mark DeRosa Could Be Next in Line
According to MLB.com’s Mark Bowman, former Braves utility player and current MLB Network analyst Mark DeRosa is viewed as an early favorite for the job.
“This MLB Network star has come a long way since being the quiet young guy who drew the favor of Chipper Jones, B.J. Surhoff and many other veteran Braves around the start of this century,” Bowman wrote. “His lone managerial experience came as Team USA’s skipper in the World Baseball Classic, but he’s a great communicator who could benefit from an experienced bench coach.”
DeRosa, 49, spent seven seasons with the Braves (1998–2004) and built a reputation as a cerebral player and clubhouse leader — traits that have translated into his success as a broadcaster and analyst. He guided Team USA to the World Baseball Classic final in 2023, though that remains his only managerial experience.
Despite the limited track record, DeRosa’s deep ties to Atlanta, his championship pedigree, and his reputation for communication and leadership make him an intriguing candidate. His relationship with franchise legend Chipper Jones, who has remained involved with the team in a hitting consultant role, only strengthens that connection.
Anthopoulos has made it clear there’s no rush to make a hire. The Braves will take their time to find the right voice to guide a roster that remains one of the deepest and most talented in baseball. Still, as speculation builds, Mark DeRosa — the former Brave turned media star — appears to be near the top of the list to succeed Brian Snitker.
