Most of the intrigue to start the Braves’ offseason has surrounded their search for a manager. The debate has had more intrigue than many of us thought given the success that interim manager Brian Snitker had with the team, in particular during the second half and, more specifically, during the last month of the season.
Once the season ended, Snitker’s name emerged as the clear frontrunner among internal candidates (for good reason). However, the Braves continued their search for candidates outside of the organization with Bud Black and Ron Washington also garnering significant interest.
It appears as though the Braves could be nearing an end to their search and, at least according to the Braves’ beat writers, one name remains the favorite to get the job.
The Braves are nearing the end of their managerial search. Playoff games could influence when announcement is made. My guess remains Snitker
— Mark Bowman (@mlbbowman) October 10, 2016
Let's put it this way: I won;'t be surprised if it's today. And I still think it'll be Snitker. https://t.co/pq1I2ITjCj
— David O'Brien (@DOBrienAJC) October 10, 2016
As Bowman and DOB stated, it still appears that Snitker is the favorite to win the job. While some don’t see him as a particularly great tactician, the players love playing for him and its hard to argue with the results that the Braves have put up on the field with Snitker at the helm.
Bowman’s point about the timing of an announcement is worth noting given that the playoffs are ongoing. With games scheduled today at 4 pm, 6 pm, and 9:30 pm, its possible that an announcement regarding the managerial situation could either be imminent to get it out there before coverage of the games becomes omnipresent this afternoon/evening or they could wait for a day with less games on the docket.
(Updated)
Source confirms: Snitker front-runner for #Braves’ job. Process moving into final stages. @Jcrasnick, @DOBrienAJC, @mlbbowman on this.
— Ken Rosenthal (@Ken_Rosenthal) October 10, 2016