Atlanta Braves make right move with extending Brian Snitker

Back when the Atlanta Braves initially hired Brian Snitker, he was viewed as a placeholder. His ascension to the majors, and his being named as the Braves’ interim manager was a reward for an organizational lifer who had spent over 40 years in the minors. The expectation was that he would finish out the year, then head back to the minors where he would continue to develop the next wave of prospects as he had for so long.

But the Braves responded to Snitker. While it may not have reflected in their record, one could see progress was being made. He was handed the reigns on a full time basis, the interim tag being removed. That faith has been rewarded as Atlanta has won three consecutive divisional titles and came within a game of reaching the 2020 World Series.

Atlanta Braves keeping Brian Snitker around

Snitker’s steady presence at the helm has certainly been noticed by the Braves’ front office. He has the full support of his players, who would run through a wall for him. His relationship with his players, built from his days when he coached them in the minors, has led to a unique bond that cannot be explained by any metric.

That relationship with his players, and their respect for Snitker, continues to reward both sides. On Friday, the Braves announced that they extended their manager through the 2023 season with a team option for 2024.

While his first full season may have disappointed, Snitker has been the perfect person for the job. He holds a lifetime 353-317 record as the Braves manager, winning three NL East titles. Snitker was named the 2018 NL Manager of the Year as he guided the team to a 90-72 record, and won 97 games in 2019.

Snitker’s extension also provides a great deal of continuity. He was part of Bobby Cox‘ staff back in the day, providing a link to the glory days of the organization and their Hall of Fame manager. Snitker was also part of Fredi Gonzalez‘s staff as a third base coach, providing another link. He learned from the master, and he knows the players. In reality, there was no better option.

Brian Snitker is staying with the Atlanta Braves. This is the right move for both sides.