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Atlanta Braves are now ”assessing their managerial situation” for 2018

By Jeff Schafer

ANAHEIM, CA - MAY 31: Manager Brian Snitker of the Atlanta Braves argues a call with first base umpire Ted Barrett and is ejected during the fifth inning of a game against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 31, 2017 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images)
ANAHEIM, CA - MAY 31: Manager Brian Snitker of the Atlanta Braves argues a call with first base umpire Ted Barrett and is ejected during the fifth inning of a game against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim at Angel Stadium of Anaheim on May 31, 2017 in Anaheim, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /
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What’s the future hold for Braves manager Brian Snitker?

Something that everyone can see coming after an MLB — or any coach in professional sports — signs a one-year deal with a struggling team…will they return for the season after?  The Atlanta Braves look to be in that position once again.

Braves current manager, Brian Snitker, took over the managerial role following the firing of Fredi Gonzalez on May 17, 2016.  Snitker has been within the organization since playing minor league ball in 1977.  After his playing days ended, he began coaching…with the Braves.

After going 59-65 to complete the 2016 season and getting the respect of his players, the Braves rewarded him with a one-year deal.  The Braves hold a team option on that contract for the 2018 season, so it’s up to the front office the path they choose.

The 61-year-old has led the Braves to a 67-80 record in 2017 and his future is now in jeopardy once again.

Jon Heyman of FanRag sports is saying that the Braves are “assessing their managerial situation” and it’s possible Snitker won’t return.

We’ve seen a few names already popping up to replace Snitker…Ron Washington, Eddie Perez, Terry Pendleton and Bo Porter.

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Charlie Wilmoth of MLB Trade Rumors has reported that “Braves special assistant Bo Porter would have the edge over coach Ron Washington.”

This news comes at a strange part of the road to the future for the Braves as there has been lots of talk about the organization within the front office.  The rumors about the three John’s — Schuerholz, Hart and Coppolella — potentially not seeing eye to eye and it’s getting strange about who’s actually in charge.

Snitker and Schuerholz are close.  The players — especially Freddie Freeman — have spoken out about how much they enjoy playing for Snitker and that they’d like him back.

Snitker has been a solid manager during these rough years, but it could be time to move on.  He’s a great guy and would love to see him stay within the organization, but I’d like to see someone else in this role.

This offseason could be the best time for the move.  We’ve struggled in the second half of the season, but we’re on the incline with these young kids.  The decision must be made within the next few months if we believe Snitker is the man to take us to the promise land once we start turning the page in the rebuild.

Bo Porter could be a great fit for the Braves.  He managed the Astros during their rebuild, but didn’t get a fair deal.  The team wasn’t good and probably tanking, but he did improve the team by 20 games the following season.  He was kinda in the same boat Snitker is currently in.

Ron Washington has been great in his short time with the Braves.  He’s helping the young kids improve their game and loves getting on the field early to do so.  Wash took the Rangers to the World Series twice

Eddie Perez and Terry Pendleton have been in the mix for this job for a few years now and many believe either would be terrific at it…but they’ve never been in the role.  Perez has managed teams in the Venezuelan Winter League.

Next: Free agents for the Atlanta Braves to target this off-season

The John’s will have to decide…do they go with experience (Washington or Porter), go with great coach and personalities within the organization (Pendleton and Perez), go outside the Braves organization, or stick with Brian Snitker.

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