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40 years. That is how long Brian Snitker has been with the Braves organization. When it was announced that the club had elected to part ways with manager Fredi Gonzalez earlier this week, Snitker finally got his chance. He became the interim manager for the Atlanta Braves.
Nearly every club has a Brian Snitker-type guy, the coach who has been with the organization forever and has adapted to any role that has been thrown his way. The 60-year old played for various minor league affiliates of the Braves from 1977-1980, and got his first managing gig at the young age of 26 in 1982. Since, he has managed nine different minor league affiliates for the team and has had various roles with the big league club as well. He was the team’s third base coach from 2006-2013 and was also the team’s bullpen coach in 1985 and from 1988-1990.
Long story short, it’s clear Snitker is very loyal to the organization. While internal managerial candidates such as Terry Pendleton and Eddie Perez have waited their turn, there’s little doubt that nobody in the organization has served their dues like him. While Snitker has been named a candidate himself, it would take a vast improvement from the club for him to be considered. While there is young talent on the way, it’s unlikely the team’s personnel will work to Snitker’s favor. One thing is for sure, however. Snitker will be with the organization next year. He deserves this chance, and we with him the best.