UPDATE: In a stunning turn of events, Brian Snitker will not return as the manager of the Atlanta Braves after the team failed to make the postseason for the first time since 2017. Sources close to the situation confirmed this news to ESPN’s Jeff Passan just moments ago.
Snitker, who led the Braves to their triumphant 2021 World Series championship, informed the organization of his decision on Tuesday. While he will step down from his managerial role, he will continue with the Braves in a senior advisory capacity, ensuring his experience remains within the franchise.
This season ended in disappointment for the Braves, who finished with a 76-86 record, placing them fourth in the National League East. Snitker’s contract expired after his ninth season at the helm of the team, which raised questions about his future after the Braves’ lackluster performance.
Reflecting on the season, Snitker expressed uncertainty about his future after the Braves’ final game on September 28. “I’ve teetered on the fence (about retirement),” he stated. “I’ve never been through this before… I still feel good.”
Despite the disappointing season, Braves General Manager Alex Anthopoulos had previously declared that Snitker would be a “Brave for life,” although he did not elaborate on the manager’s future following this announcement.
Fans and analysts alike are reacting to this significant change within the organization, which comes after a season that included moments of hope, such as a 10-game winning streak from September 14 to September 23. The upcoming days will be pivotal as the Braves look to rebuild and determine their next steps without Snitker at the helm.
As the baseball world processes this unexpected news, the focus will shift to who will succeed Snitker and how the Braves will retool for a more competitive future. Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.
