MLB Manager Openings Ranked

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Kristie Ackert | Last updated Oct 2, 2025 12:39 PM ET

Not all jobs are created equal—especially when it comes to being an MLB manager. Yes, there are only 30, making each one unique. But some come with real perks, and others are loaded with red flags.

With so many managerial openings across MLB, which job is the most desirable? Which comes with a short runway and inevitable pink slip? Here’s how the vacancies stack up.

1. Braves

Why it ranks here:Core talent, resources, and a win-now runway. Whoever takes over inherits October expectations immediately.
Names to know: Internal push for Walt Weiss makes sense for continuity. C.J. Nitkowski has floated Derek Shelton and John Gibbons as possible options.

2. Giants

Why: San Francisco has money, ambition, and a competitive roster. Buster Posey has shown he’ll make bold moves.
Names: Skip Schumaker, Nick Hundley, Rocco Baldelli, David Ross, Luis Rojas, and Craig Albernaz have been linked. Posey ruled out a Bruce Bochy reunion, signaling a long-term, hybrid hire.

3. Orioles

Why: The young core is loaded and the competitive window is open. The only question is whether ownership will spend wisely.
Names: Interim Tony Mansolino, Schumaker, Gabe Kapler, Robinson Chirinos, and Ryan Flaherty are in the mix.

4. Rangers

Why: Post-Bochy Texas is recalibrating but remains a destination. Resources aren’t as unlimited as 2023–24, yet the roster is strong.
Names: Schumaker, Hundley, bench coach Luis Urueta, Tony Beasley, and catching coach Bobby Wilson.

5. Twins

Why: Playing in the fluid AL Central helps, but ownership instability is a concern.
Names: James Rowson, David Bell, Albernaz, George Lombard, Rickie Weeks, and Danny Lehmann.

6. Angels

Why: Big market, small-market mentality. Arte Moreno makes this a volatile gig.
Names: Albert Pujols is rumored to be the leading candidate.

7. Nationals

Why: Miguel Castro was still awaiting word on if he would transition from interim to manager going forward, but with a new head of baseball operations, it's fair to expect them to open up a search. A young roster with low expectations, but ownership has wavered on selling the team.
Names: Brad Ausmus, Joe Maddon, Shelton, Brandon Hyde, Cairo, Weeks, Chirinos, Flaherty, and Lombard.

8. Rockies

Why: A big-league job in name only. The organization is in need of a full rebuild.
Names: Interim Warren Schaeffer, Hyde, Baldelli, Shelton, Schumaker, Lombard, Flaherty, and Albernaz.

What’s Next

Early interviews are expected to move quickly in Atlanta, San Francisco, and Baltimore, where urgency is high. Texas and Minnesota can afford patience. The Nationals and Rockies will likely pair their searches with front-office overhauls, stretching timelines into the offseason.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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