Brian Snitker, the strategist who led the Atlanta Braves to victory in the 2021 World Series, will leave his manager position next season. The organization announced that Snitker, 69, will take on an advisory role and will be honored with his induction 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 charged with emotion. Snitker shared his feelings about his decision to leave the position, revealing the uncertainty he felt at the end of the season about whether or not to continue.
“I needed some time after the last out to decide what to do,” Snitker commented, accompanied by his wife, Ronnie. “After getting home and relaxing a bit, I decided this was the best step.”
Brian SnitkerSnitker has dedicated 49 years to the organization, working as a player and manager in the minor leagues, and as a coach and manager in the major leagues. During his 10 seasons as manager, he led Atlanta to 811 victories, six National League East Division titles, a wild card spot, and the World Series championship in 2021.Visibly emotional, Snitker highlighted the joy of “being with a group of guys who make this so special.”“Honestly, I never thought I would manage in the Major Leagues, let alone for 10 years,” Snitker expressed. “I never imagined lifting a trophy.”
Brian SnitkerAmong the Braves players present at the conference were:
McGuirk presented Snitker with the keys to a new Ford truck and announced a trip to Hawaii for him and his wife.
- Ozzie Albies
- Spencer Strider
- Joe Jimenez
- Reynaldo Lopez
- Austin Riley
- Michael Harris II
- Drake Baldwin
“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 have worn this uniform,” McGuirk said. “You will always be a Brave, a Brave forever, and this organization will always be your home.”
Terry McGuirkSnitker expressed his enthusiasm for his new role.“I’ll still be here. I’ll be at spring training. I’m excited about this new role,” he affirmed.
Brian SnitkerSnitker, 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 obtained the permanent position at the end of the season. His record as a manager is 811-688, ranking third in franchise history in wins, behind Bobby Cox (2,149) and Frank Selee (1,004). Cox mentored Snitker, who continued to visit him 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 reveal plans to find Snitker’s replacement. Walt Weiss, Braves bench coach, is the former manager of Colorado. Fredi González, third base coach, is a former manager of Atlanta and the Marlins. The Braves finished the season with a 76-87 record, this being the last year of Snitker’s current contract. The Braves are the fifth MLB team to dismiss their manager since the regular season ended on Sunday. The Los Angeles Angels announced on Tuesday that Ron Washington, 73, would not be returning. Washington was a coach for the Braves. San Francisco said goodbye to Bob Melvin and Minnesota to Rocco Baldelli on Monday, before Bruce Bochy and the Texas Rangers mutually decided that Bochy would not return to the dugout. Washington, Bochy (70 years old) and Snitker were the three oldest managers in the majors.
