The annual ranking of MLB managers is here, and it's a tradition that sparks debates and fuels the passion of baseball fans everywhere. But this year, there's a twist that has everyone talking.
The Elite Managers:
Dave Roberts of the Dodgers and Terry Francona of the Reds are legends in the dugout. Roberts boasts three World Series rings, a feat achieved by only six managers in history. Despite the Dodgers' financial dominance, managing such a star-studded roster is no easy task. Francona, with his two titles from the Red Sox, knows this well. He's just eight wins away from passing Walter Alston on the all-time list, and his recent success with the Reds is impressive.
The Perfect Fits:
Kevin Cash (Rays), Alex Cora (Red Sox), A.J. Hinch (Tigers), Pat Murphy (Brewers), Stephen Vogt (Guardians), and Torey Lovullo (Diamondbacks) are all in the right places. Cash's longevity with the Rays is remarkable, and Cora's strategic prowess in Boston is undeniable. The Tigers' recent success under Hinch and Scott Harris is notable, while Murphy and Vogt have led their teams to impressive win totals despite modest payrolls.
Feeling the Heat:
Aaron Boone (Yankees), Craig Counsell (Cubs), Carlos Mendoza (Mets), and Rob Thomson (Phillies) are under pressure. Boone's composure is admirable, but the Yankees' recent lack of World Series success is a concern. Counsell's move to the Cubs hasn't paid off yet, and the Phillies' recent playoff struggles are a talking point. The Mets' inconsistent results add to the intrigue.
The Next Steps:
Joe Espada (Astros), John Schneider (Blue Jays), and Dan Wilson (Mariners) are at a crossroads. Espada's regular-season success hasn't translated to the postseason, and the Astros' recent free agency loss of Framber Valdez is a challenge. Schneider's Blue Jays fell just short in the World Series, and Wilson's Mariners are looking to build on their recent success.
Building for the Future:
Mark Kotsay (Athletics), Oli Marmol (Cardinals), Clayton McCullough (Marlins), Matt Quatraro (Royals), and Will Venable (White Sox) are in various stages of team development. The Royals could be a wildcard contender, but the Cardinals face a tough situation with a new boss and a dismantled roster. The White Sox's offseason additions are promising, while the Marlins aim to build on their strong finish last season.
Second Chances:
Skip Schumaker (Rangers), Don Kelly (Pirates), Warren Schaeffer (Rockies), Derek Shelton (Twins), and Walt Weiss (Braves) are looking to prove themselves again. Schumaker's departure from Miami after a 100-loss season led him to the Rangers. Kelly's retention by the Pirates after a promising interim stint is notable. Schaeffer and Shelton face challenges with their new teams, while Weiss returns to managing after a long stint as a bench coach.
The Rookies:
Craig Albernaz (Orioles), Blake Butera (Nationals), Craig Stammen (Padres), Kurt Suzuki (Angels), and Tony Vitello (Giants) are new to the managerial scene. Albernaz's task of reviving the Orioles is daunting. Butera's Nationals are rebuilding with a Boston influence. Stammen's surprise appointment as manager is intriguing, while Suzuki's one-year contract adds pressure. Vitello's move from college to the Giants is a bold step, and the Giants' recent playoff drought adds to the stakes.
Controversial Moves:
The Red Sox's roster situation is a hot topic. Their need for a right-handed hitter is clear, but the free agency market doesn't seem to offer a perfect fit. The recent trade to remove Jordan Hicks from the roster and the subsequent signing of Isiah Kiner-Falefa raise questions. The team's outfield surplus and infield shortage are issues that need addressing.
The Tigers' Gamble:
The Tigers' record-breaking luxury tax payroll is a bold move, but it comes with risks. If the season doesn't go as planned, Tarik Skubal and Framber Valdez could become valuable trade assets. With the financial might of the Dodgers, Mets, and Yankees, the Tigers might have to consider trading Skubal if they fall out of contention.
The WBC and Beyond:
Rafael Devers' decision to skip the World Baseball Classic for the Dominican Republic was understandable, given his previous experience. The lack of coverage for the Nationals is concerning, and the WBC's youngest player, Joseph Contreras, has an intriguing backstory involving a bidding war between the Red Sox and Yankees. Mark McGwire's return to the Athletics and the Hall of Fame voting trends are also noteworthy.
What do you think of this year's rankings? Do you agree with the top spots? Who do you think will surprise us this season? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
