Atlanta Braves unveil a bold coaching shakeup for the 2026 season
The Atlanta Braves have made headlines with a significant overhaul of their coaching staff as they gear up for the 2026 season. Manager Walt Weiss will spearhead a revamped group of ten coaches, introducing an impressive eight newcomers to the organization. This evolution marks a clear shift as the franchise seeks to reinvigorate its approach following a disappointing previous season.
Returnees in key roles
Among those retained are Tim Hyers and Eddie Perez. Hyers will continue as the hitting coach for his second consecutive season with the Braves, focusing on enhancing the team’s offensive output. Meanwhile, Perez, a veteran presence who has been part of the coaching staff since the Bobby Cox era, will hold his position as a Major League coach, providing continuity and experience to the newly assembled team.
Shifts in coaching responsibilities
In a notable twist, Tony Mansolino, who was originally slated to be the third-base coach, will now assume Weiss’s former role as bench coach. This strategic move reflects the Braves’ desire to leverage Mansolino’s strengths in a more pivotal position. The new third-base coach will be Tommy Watkins, who joins from the Minnesota Twins organization, bringing fresh perspectives and strategies to the Braves’ base-running game.
Dustin Garneau has been appointed as the bullpen coach, tasked with managing the critical late-game situations that can often define a season. Darnell Coles will step in as the assistant hitting coach, while Tony Diaz joins the staff as a Major League coach. Jeremy Hefner, another former member of the Mets coaching staff, takes on the role of pitching coach, and Antoan Richardson will serve as the first base coach. Additionally, JP Martinez will be the Major League bullpen coach, rounding out a diverse and dynamic coaching lineup.
A new chapter after Snitker’s departure
Walt Weiss’s promotion from bullpen coach to manager comes in the wake of Brian Snitker’s retirement last month. With Weiss and Perez as the last two remnants of the 2021 World Series-winning staff, the Braves are clearly signaling a fresh start. The recent changes have seen several familiar faces, including Rick Kranitz, depart from the organization as the team embraces a new era.
The Braves finished the previous season with a record of 76-86, falling seven games short of a postseason berth. This marked the first time since 2017 that the team finished below .500 and failed to reach the playoffs. The franchise is clearly eager to turn the page and restore its competitive edge.
Roster changes on the horizon
As the Braves revamp their coaching staff, roster alterations may also be on the horizon. Key players Marcell Ozuna and Raisel Iglesias are set to become unrestricted free agents due to expiring contracts. Meanwhile, the team has declined options for Pierce Johnson and Tyler Kinley, with Johnson being the more notable long-term contributor. On a more positive note, Chris Sale and Ozzie Albies have had their options exercised, suggesting they will remain integral parts of the squad moving forward.
Anticipation is building as the Braves look to increase their payroll this offseason, potentially providing the new coaching staff with enhanced resources to work with. With these changes, the team is poised for a transformative season ahead as they aim to reclaim their status as a postseason contender.
