Walt Weiss Named Braves Manager, Promoted from Bench Coach

The Atlanta Braves have ushered in a new era by naming former player and longtime coach Walt Weiss as their next manager. He’s stepping in for the retiring Brian Snitker.

This move brings both continuity and change to a franchise that’s been one of Major League Baseball’s most consistent winners for the past decade. Weiss, now 61, has tons of on-field and dugout experience, plus a real grasp of the Braves’ championship culture.

His appointment comes during a flurry of managerial changes across MLB. Atlanta’s choice has definitely turned some heads in a busy offseason.

Walt Weiss: From Diamond to Dugout

Weiss’s baseball journey has always been about durability, leadership, and adaptability. He played 14 years in the big leagues, suiting up for the Oakland Athletics, Florida Marlins, Colorado Rockies, and the Braves.

While with Atlanta, he played a crucial role in the 1999 National League Championship Series. His .286 batting average helped the team snag a pennant and reach the World Series.

Early Career and Playing Highlights

Weiss came out of the University of North Carolina and was a first-round pick by the Oakland Athletics in 1985. He made an immediate impact, grabbing American League Rookie of the Year honors in 1988.

The very next year, he played a big part in Oakland’s 1989 World Series win. He also made the All-Star team in 1998 while with Atlanta, adding another highlight to his career.

Managing Experience Before Atlanta

After retiring as a player, Weiss moved into managing. He led the Colorado Rockies from 2013 to 2016.

Though the Rockies didn’t make the playoffs during his time, Weiss picked up valuable leadership experience. He guided a roster through the tough National League West and learned plenty along the way.

Record with the Rockies

In four seasons, Weiss posted a 283–365 managerial record. He focused on developing young talent and working through the challenges of a rebuilding franchise—skills that later paid off in Atlanta.

Eight Seasons as Braves Bench Coach

Weiss joined the Braves’ coaching staff in 2017. Since then, he’s been Brian Snitker’s trusted right-hand man.

During that stretch, Atlanta became a model of consistency and success in MLB. Weiss played a big role in in-game decisions, player development, and keeping the team’s winning mindset strong.

Achievements as Bench Coach

With Weiss in the dugout, the Braves:

  • Won six consecutive NL East titles
  • Earned a wild-card berth
  • Recorded two 100-win seasons
  • Captured the 2021 World Series championship

Why Weiss is the Perfect Fit

For the Braves, promoting Weiss keeps things steady and helps continue their winning ways. He already knows the roster, the coaching staff, and the front office inside and out.

That means he can hit the ground running in 2025, skipping the usual adjustment period that comes with a new hire. It just makes sense for a team that doesn’t want to lose momentum.

Leadership and Culture

Weiss really embodies what the Braves stand for: steady leadership, a player-first approach, and a commitment to long-term success. He’s been through the highs of a championship and the grind of division races, so he gets what it takes to win in both April and October.

Managerial Changes Around MLB

The Braves’ choice to go with Weiss comes during one of the busiest offseasons for managerial moves in recent memory. Nine teams have already made changes at the top, and only the Colorado Rockies and San Diego Padres are still searching for their new skipper as of his hiring.

Atlanta’s Stability Amid League-Wide Upheaval

Other teams are scrambling for direction, but Atlanta’s move shows real confidence. By elevating Weiss, the Braves sidestep the chaos that usually comes with changing managers.

They’re leaning on a foundation that’s already brought them success. With decades of experience as a player, manager, and bench coach, Weiss is in a rare position to steer Atlanta into whatever’s next.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Braves name Walt Weiss as new manager: Atlanta bench coach promoted to top dugout job

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