Late yesterday afternoon, the Atlanta Braves got some saddening news that their beloved third base coach Ron Washington was accepting a managerial position with the Los Angeles Angels. It will be Washington's first time managing since 2014 with the Texas Rangers.
Not only did the Braves lose Wash, but early reports indicate first base coach Eric Young Sr. could be joining Washington as apart of his new coaching staff. However, nothing is official as of yet, so it's just something we have to keep an eye on.
The Angels have yet to make any official coaching hires, but these are the names Ron Washington and the Angels are currently discussing to be on their staff https://t.co/VYFjdzHm65
— Bob Nightengale (@BNightengale) November 9, 2023
For now the Braves will have to focus on replacing the defensive acumen, positive energy, and player admiration that has departed from the third base coaches box. Although no names have been officially linked to Atlanta yet, we did come up with a few plausible names that could be the next Braves hire.
David Ross
The former Braves backup catcher has already carved out an impressive managerial resume since retiring after the 2016 season. Ross had the upstart Cubbies in playoff contention until a costly trip to Atlanta in the final week of the regular season.
Chicago was perfectly content rolling with Ross at the helm in 2024, but a suddenly available Craig Counsell was enough to kick Ross to the curb. Truly, a sad way to send Ross out, but the result could spell good fortune for Atlanta should Ross not land another managerial role this year.
Matt Tuiasosopo
Should the Braves want to look internally for candidates Tuiasosopo would figure to be one of the first names they take a look at. Since his playing days have ended, Tuiasosopo has remained in the Braves organization in coaching roles.
Tuiasosopo made his managerial debut in 2019 with the Class-A Rome Braves and earned the organizations' minor league manager of the year award. Tuiasosopo became the youngest manager in Gwinnett history when he was named manager of the Triple-A club in March of 2021.
His constant partnership on movement affecting the big league club makes him a respected man in the organization. If the Braves do take the internal search route, don't be surprised if you hear his name floated around.
Mark DeRosa
Dero played seven years in Atlanta from 1998-2004 to begin his 16 year major league baseball career. Since his retirement, DeRosa has longed been linked to Atlanta anytime a coaching role has been discussed.
DeRosa finally got a bit of managerial experience in March of 2023 when he led the USA baseball team to the championship game in the World Baseball Classic. DeRosa's long Atlanta roots and ability to relate to the talented young core the Braves have would make this a great fit.
Martin Prado
This last name may be one of the most popular in Braves circles. Both the fanbase and many who have been in the organization for a long time have a great appreciate for Martin Prado's baseball mind. Prado was one of the most consistent Braves during his time in Atlanta from 2006-2012.
You will be hard pressed to find a bad word ever said about Prado. Bobby Cox, Chipper Jones, Brian Snitker, and many more have came out with glowing reviews of the former Braves All-Star. Although, Prado has yet to enter the coaching circle since his retirement, coming back to the organization that he debuted with and working with an exciting young team just might be the ammunition needed.