The Biggest Names Still in Play for MLB’s Seven Open Manager Jobs

Highlights

• Skip Schumaker filled the Rangers' job, but seven MLB teams still need managers.
• Braves: Walt Weiss and David Ross among top names.
• Nationals: Miguel Cairo and Ryan Flaherty are linked to the search.

Well, that was quick. On the very first day possible, the Texas Rangers promoted Skip Schumaker to replace Bruce Bochy as manager. That filled one of the highest-profile job openings of the offseason, pretty much as expected. 

 His hiring narrows the field as seven teams still look for managers: Atlanta, Washington, Baltimore, Minnesota, San Francisco, Los Angeles (Angels), and Colorado. With one domino down, here’s where the other openings stand and the candidates tied to each job.

Braves

Brian Snitker stepped down after a long run in Atlanta, leaving one of the most attractive jobs in the majors. Bench coach Walt Weiss is the internal favorite thanks to his experience and ties to the clubhouse. Former Cubs manager David Ross is also expected to draw consideration, while Mark DeRosa’s stint managing Team USA in the World Baseball Classic has kept him on candidate lists. Ron Washington’s name has been floated, but the health conditions that forced him out in Anaheim are a concern. 

Nationals

Washington parted ways with Dave Martinez in July, with Miguel Cairo finishing the season as interim manager. Cairo remains in the mix, but new president of baseball operations Paul Toboni is overseeing a wider search. Bench coaches with player development backgrounds, such as Ryan Flaherty, who played in Baltimore and is now with the Cubs, have been mentioned as possible fits. Meanwhile, Brandon Hyde, dismissed by Baltimore in May, could receive another look if the Nationals are seeking an experienced teacher for their young roster.

Orioles

The Orioles moved on from Hyde after a 15–28 start in May, promoting Tony Mansolino to interim. Mansolino remains a candidate, but the front office is expected to consider more experienced external options. Bob Melvin’s name has surfaced after his exit from San Francisco, and Flaherty is also being discussed as a potential long-term fit.

Twins

Minnesota dismissed Rocco Baldelli at the end of the season. The job is expected to draw interest from a wide pool. Derek Shelton, recently let go in Pittsburgh, has a history as the Twins’ former bench coach. Yankees hitting coach James Rowson, who spent several years with Minnesota developing its lineup, is another candidate. Craig Albernaz, the Guardians' associate manager, and David Bell, the former Reds manager, are also viewed as potential fits. Torii Hunter and Detroit Tigers bench coach George Lombard have been mentioned in local speculation.