Braves Hire Walt Weiss as New Manager

Weiss brings a bold new philosophy to replace retiring Brian Snitker's approach

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:12am

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The Atlanta Braves have hired former bench coach Walt Weiss as their new manager, replacing the recently retired Brian Snitker. Weiss plans to implement a new philosophy that will involve more rest and rotation for the team's star players, aiming to keep them fresh for the long season ahead.

Why it matters

The Braves are hoping Weiss' fresh approach can help the team build on their recent success and make another deep playoff run. His willingness to deviate from Snitker's more traditional methods signals a shift in the team's strategy.

The details

Weiss says he will be strategic about resting key players more often, even if it means they play fewer than the typical 162 games in a season. His goal is to keep the team's top talent healthy and energized for the playoffs.

  • Snitker announced his retirement at the end of the 2025 season.
  • Weiss was promoted from bench coach to manager in November 2025.

The players

Walt Weiss

The new manager of the Atlanta Braves, previously serving as the team's bench coach.

Brian Snitker

The recently retired manager of the Atlanta Braves, who led the team for several successful seasons.

Alex Anthopoulos

The general manager of the Atlanta Braves, who made the decision to hire Weiss as the new manager.

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What they’re saying

“I'm going to pick spots to get these guys off their feet, and they're still going to play a lot. If they're healthy, 150+ games,”

— Walt Weiss, Atlanta Braves Manager

What’s next

Weiss will have to prove his new philosophy can work as the Braves prepare for the 2026 season.

The takeaway

Weiss' willingness to challenge the status quo and implement a bold new approach signals a shift in the Braves' strategy as they aim to build on their recent success and make another deep playoff run.