Managerial Hot Seat: Assessing the Status of MLB Managers in 2025
In the evolving landscape of Major League Baseball, the role of managers has increasingly been intertwined with front-office dynamics. The emphasis on collaboration—often involving statistical analysts and executives—has shifted the perception of managerial changes. Managers are less frequently dismissed mid-season, largely due to the shared accountability for decision-making and roster construction.
Since 2018, only three managers have been relieved of their duties before the All-Star break, all occurring in 2022. However, only one of those teams, the Toronto Blue Jays, was able to reach the postseason post-dismissal, showcasing how emotional biases are being actively removed from front-office decisions. While some clubs opted for change during the offseason, establishing a lengthy manager tenure has become increasingly essential, especially for teams with playoff aspirations.
Managers on the 2025 Radar
As the current season progresses, several managers may find their positions scrutinized. Below is an overview of nine managers whose futures could be in jeopardy as the season unfolds.
Rocco Baldelli – Minnesota Twins
Rocco Baldelli enters his seventh season as the Twins’ manager under a backdrop of unmet playoff expectations. After a dismal 12-27 finish in the previous season, optimism has been siphoned as the Twins find themselves at the bottom of the standings with a 5-11 record early in 2025. Frequent injuries among key players could provide some leeway, but a strong start will be crucial for his survival given the franchise’s ownership situation. His future hinges on turning the season around.
Oli Marmol – St. Louis Cardinals
Transitioning leadership from John Mozeliak to Chaim Bloom, Marmol is now in a precarious position. Despite being under contract through 2026, the opportunity for Bloom to select his own managerial candidate looms. With former player Yadier Molina and others expressing interest in managerial roles, the Cardinals may be poised for a change if performance issues persist.
Derek Shelton – Pittsburgh Pirates
In his sixth season, Derek Shelton has yet to elevate the Pirates, who are heading towards a possible seventh consecutive losing season. While he received an extension in 2023, the lack of offensive development and the constraints of a tight budget under owner Bob Nutting may pressure upper management towards a coaching change if no substantial improvement is seen.
Bud Black – Colorado Rockies
Holding a respected position within the organization, Black nevertheless faces questions about his role as the franchise transitions toward a younger lineup. Despite previous playoff success, the Rockies are heading towards a seventh straight losing season. As Black’s contract approaches its end, the organization may need to consider a new direction to align with their youth movement.
Dave Martinez – Washington Nationals
After the franchise’s title in 2019, the Nationals have struggled significantly. Martinez, currently in the final year of his contract, has a sympathetic locker room but faces a rebuild alongside an uncertain ownership future. With the team off the market, a focus on developing young talent will be essential for his longevity as manager.
John Schneider – Toronto Blue Jays
With a modest 9-7 start to the season, Schneider’s role with the Blue Jays becomes increasingly significant as the front office’s future may hinge on reaching the postseason. Due for an update on his contract commitments, Schneider’s success appears vital for the survival of his superiors, adding pressure to deliver results in 2025.
Ron Washington – Los Angeles Angels
At 73 years old, Washington’s vibrant presence masks the turmoil surrounding the Angels. After a rough 99-loss season, Washington has inherited a team making strides with newly acquired veterans. However, with an option year ahead, his future remains uncertain, particularly if early-season performance does not improve.
Brandon Hyde – Baltimore Orioles
Despite recent challenges and injuries, Hyde has been a stable presence for the Orioles throughout the ups and downs of the organization’s rebuilding effort. His close relationship with GM Mike Elias may protect him from immediate dismissal. However, continued sluggish beginning in the standings could still raise discussions about his position.
Brian Snitker – Atlanta Braves
Brian Snitker has served as a cornerstone for the Braves, leading the team to multiple postseason appearances. With his longstanding tenure, he is unlikely to face any pressing risks to his position; however, his future could depend on his own desires, as he weighs retirement options amid his successes.
As the season advances, the managerial landscape in MLB will be one to watch, particularly for those under scrutiny. Each manager’s performance will play a pivotal role in shaping the immediate future of their teams.
