The Atlanta Braves are entering a critical offseason after one of the worst seasons in recent memory. Now, they must find a way to address a plethora of needs to ensure it doesn't happen again in 2026.
Atlanta's starting rotation has a great baseline to work with, but the team should consider adding at least one starter. Sonny Gray has been floated as an early trade target for the Braves, but they could ultimately choose to do nothing with rotation additions.
The main areas we should see focus are with the bullpen, shortstop, and designated hitter candidates. However, there is another area that may need to be resolved before those other things can be done. That would be with manager Brian Snitker.
Uncertainty over Snitker's retirement plans casting a shadow over Braves' offseason planning
Snitker has yet to say if 2025 was his final season with the organization after 49 years or if he plans to run it back another year. Neither side has engaged in any talks, but that was intentional on his part. "I haven't approached them. We're (going to) talk this week (after the season). That's kind of where I wanted it to go. That's on me.", Snitker said.
His decision to manage after this season depends on whether he wants to and if the organization chooses to offer him another contract if he decides not to retire. Until that is decided, Atlanta can't worry about what additions they'd like to make.
If Snit stays, the coaching staff likely remains unchanged going into 2026. If he doesn't return, this could see the organization experience a complete change in coaching staff. There are too many unknown variables to work through.
Chris Sale's recent comments on wanting Snit to return imply the team enjoys their leadership. But at the end of the day, Alex Anthopoulos and company will make that call. We could likely see Snit manage one last year and retire after 50 years with the organization. Hopefully, we will have an answer sooner rather than later.