The biggest looming question for the Braves to answer in the coming weeks is who exactly will manage the team in 2026. Brian Snitker has been the man in charge since he took over in the middle of the 2016 season, and this season was the first time he failed to reach the postseason since 2017.
Snitker was speculated to be considering retirement as he entered the 2025 season, but his recent comments only made his future more puzzling. On top of that, Snitker isn't currently under contract for next season so it's important to remind people that the Braves do NOT have to retain him if they so choose.
Snitker has long been known for having the respect of many players in the locker room, and veterans like Chris Sale constantly sing his praise. After the season concluded on Sunday, Sale was one of a few Braves players who voiced their desire to see Snitker continue managing the club in 2026.
Chris Sale, Matt Olson and Drake Baldwin each endorsed Brian Snitker returning in 2026.
— Gabe Burns (@GabeBurnsAJC) September 28, 2025
Sale with a smile: "Absolutely (want him back). We didn't have a celebratory sendoff for him, so he can't go."
Players may want Snitker back in 2026, but does the Braves front office agree?
Sale and Matt Olson are two of the most respected veterans in the Braves locker room. Those two publicly coming out to support Snit managing in 2026 does carry weight, but is it enough to actually bring Snitker back if he does indeed want to manage again next season? The sentiment with Sale is that the club didn't get to send Snitker off the right way, but can Snitker even make that happen in 2026 or do the Braves need a new voice in the dugout?
The 2025 season can't be solely blamed on Snitker, but there were plenty of instances where his decision making process had Braves fans questioning his reasoning. From questionable lineup choices, to lack of aggression with the bullpen, these choices have numerous Braves fans ready for a new look in the Braves dugout.
The list of candidates to replace Snitker offers variety, but Atlanta is an organization that values stability. That value will be put to the test if Snitker decides he wants to manage again in 2026, especially after he just received support from a few of the team's best players.