Brian Snitker Leaves the Atlanta Braves Dugout
Brian Snitker, the man who led the Atlanta Braves to victory in the 2021 World Series, will leave his position as manager. After nearly half a century with the organization, 69-year-old Snitker will move to an advisory role and will be inducted into the team’s Hall of Fame next year. The press conference, described as a celebration by Braves president Terry McGuirk and general manager Alex Anthopoulos, was filled with emotion. Snitker shared his uncertainty about continuing to lead the team and how he ultimately decided to step aside.Snitker has been with the organization for 49 years, as a player and minor league manager, and as a coach and major league manager. In his 10 seasons as manager, he led Atlanta to 811 victories, six National League East Division titles, a wild card spot, and the 2021 World Series championship.I needed time after the last out to decide what to do. I decided this was the best step.
Brian Snitker
Snitker, visibly emotional, expressed his joy at “being around a group of guys who make this so special”. Braves players such as Ozzie Albies, Spencer Strider, Joe Jimenez, Reynaldo Lopez, Austin Riley, Michael Harris II, and Drake Baldwin were present at the conference. McGuirk handed Snitker the keys to a Ford pickup truck and announced that the team would send Snitker and his wife on vacation to Hawaii.Honestly, I never thought I would manage in the Major Leagues, let alone 10 years. I never thought I would lift a trophy.
Brian Snitker
Snitker expressed his enthusiasm for his new role.Today, we celebrate and honor not only one of the most successful managers in the history of our franchise, but also one of the best people who has ever worn the uniform. You will always be a Brave, a Brave forever, and this organization will always be your home.
Terry McGuirk
Snitker, who signed with the team as an undrafted free agent catcher in 1977, spent 20 seasons as a minor league manager. He was named interim manager of Atlanta on May 17, 2016, and earned the permanent position after the season. His record as a manager was 811-688, and he ranks third in franchise history in wins, behind Hall of Famer Bobby Cox (2,149) and Frank Selee (1,004). Cox was Snitker’s mentor. Snitker continued to visit Cox regularly after Cox was hospitalized in 2019 following a stroke. Cox returned to Truist Park on August 22 for a celebration of the 30th anniversary of the Braves’ 1995 World Series title. Anthopoulos and McGuirk did not address a plan to find Snitker’s replacement. Braves bench coach Walt Weiss is the former manager of Colorado. Third base coach Fredi González is a former manager of Atlanta and the Marlins. The Braves finished the season with a 76-87 record, the last year of Snitker’s current contract. The Braves are the fifth MLB team to dispense with their manager since the regular season ended on Sunday. The Los Angeles Angels announced on Tuesday that 73-year-old Ron Washington would not be returning. San Francisco said goodbye to Bob Melvin and Minnesota said goodbye to Rocco Baldelli on Monday, before Bruce Bochy and the Texas Rangers mutually decided that Bochy would not return to the dugout. Washington, 70-year-old Bochy, and Snitker were the three oldest managers in the majors.I’ll still be here. I’ll be at spring training. I’m excited about this new role.
Brian Snitker
