Who are the best fits for each MLB managerial vacancy?

Changes will be coming to eight MLB teams in 2026.

Eight teams moved on from their previous manager, with the Texas Rangers promoting manager-in-waiting Skip Schumaker to take over from future Hall of Fame manager Bruce Bochy. However, seven vacancies remain, some of which may not be filled until the postseason concludes. Let's take a look at the best fits for those openings.

Best fit for each MLB managerial vacancy

Los Angeles Angels: Bob Melvin

The Angels are not exactly the most coveted of vacancies; they have finished below .500 for 10 consecutive years and have virtually zero minor league development to speak of. Team owner Arte Moreno reportedly wants future Hall of Famer Albert Pujols to manage the team in 2026 but a neophyte may not be the best choice. Melvin, a three-time Manager of the Year, has plenty of experience with younger players and veteran rosters. He could be the best option to get the most out of the disappointing Angels.

Atlanta Braves: Walt Weiss

The Braves have a tendency to pull from their own ranks when it comes to the managerial position. Bobby Bragan, who managed the Braves from 1963-66, was the last managerial hire without ties to the organization. It would not be a surprise if that trend continued this offseason. Braves bench coach Walt Weiss has managerial experience, leading the Rockies from 2013-16, and would bring continuity to a franchise that values consistency.

San Francisco Giants: David Ross

President of baseball operations Buster Posey is set to make his first managerial hiring after Melvin was dismissed. Susan Slusser of the San Francisco Chronicle reported that Posey interviewed one of his former backup catchers, Nick Hundley, for the Giants' vacancy. Another former backup catcher, David Ross, may be a better fit. The Giants are looking to contend in a difficult NL West and Ross' previous experience could make a difference.

Washington Nationals: Mark DeRosa

The Nationals are in the process of making wholesale changes after firing their brain trust a week before the 2025 MLB Draft. New president of baseball operations Paul Toboni's first order of business is finding a manager and he indicated that previous experience is not a prerequisite. DeRosa, who has been the manager for Team USA in the World Baseball Classic, could be the right fit for a young Nationals team looking to take the next step in their development.

Baltimore Orioles: Tony Mansolino

The Orioles were one of the most disappointing teams in 2025, falling out of playoff contention early and finishing the year in the AL East basement. Mansolino took over on an interim basis on May 17 and posted a 60-59 record despite a selloff at the trade deadline. Although he is not guaranteed the job, Mansolino will be given the opportunity to interview to become the full time manager. His performance, and the Orioles' response to his guidance, should lead to a permanent promotion.

Colorado Rockies: Clint Hurdle

Hurdle had already served as the Rockies manager, leading the team from 2002-09, a span that included the franchise's only World Series appearance. He had returned to the organization as a special assistant to the GM before taking over as the Rockies' hitting coach when Hensley Meulens was fired on April 17. His familiarity with the players and the previous deep playoff run may be enough to bring hope to a team desperately in need of something to believe in.

Minnesota Twins: Toby Gardenhire

The Twins were hovering in the periphery of the wild-card chase before injuries and an unexpected fire sale torpedoed the season. Former manager Rocco Baldelli became the scapegoat and was let go after the season. Gardenhire, the son of former Twins manager Ron Gardenhire, spent seven years in the organization as a minor league infielder before returning as a coach in 2016. He has played a part in the development of the Twins' homegrown talent and has spent a large portion of his life around the organization.