Braves interest in Skip Schumaker, and more coaching staff changes

This is one of the more remarkable hiring cycles in recent memory, featuring seven job openings, only one of which has been filled, with Skip Schumaker taking over in Texas after spending this season as a special advisor with the Rangers.

Schumaker, who was named National League Manager of the Year in 2023 after leading the Marlins to a surprise postseason appearance, was one of the most sought-after candidates on the market — except, apparently, by the Braves.

According to Brittany Ghiroli of The Athletic, Atlanta was the only team with a managerial vacancy that did not reach out to Schumaker about their opening.

“Schumaker, the 2023 National League Manager of the Year, is widely respected and was seen as the top managerial candidate available. Every team with an opening — except the Atlanta Braves — inquired about Schumaker’s interest, league sources told The Athletic, perhaps prompting the Rangers to act as quickly as they did Friday.”

Of course, that doesn’t necessarily mean there was no interest from the Braves. Schumaker was hired last Friday, and the following day, Alex Anthopoulos admitted he hadn’t even begun compiling a list of managerial candidates. Credit the Rangers for acting decisively, but most people around baseball expected Schumaker to stay in Texas. He essentially positioned himself for that job when he joined the organization as a special advisor last offseason.

Another interesting detail from Ghiroli’s report: the Braves have granted permission for their current coaching staff to explore other opportunities.

“Atlanta gave Brian Snitker’s coaches permission to interview for other jobs, though bench coach Walt Weiss is expected to get consideration as Snitker’s successor.”

In the past, the Braves likely would have wasted little time promoting Weiss from within. He’s paid his dues, has prior managerial experience, and would provide continuity for a clubhouse that’s grown accustomed to stability. Nobody would be surprised if that’s the route they eventually take, but it doesn’t sound like a quick decision is coming.

There’s no shortage of intriguing candidates available, and they come from a variety of backgrounds. Given Atlanta’s status as one of baseball’s premier organizations, with a roster built to win immediately, Alex Anthopoulos should have his pick of the litter.

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