Fans Call for Snitker's Job After Controversial Decision Sinks Braves
Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker is under heavy fire after a ninth-inning decision that left fans stunned and frustrated during Wednesday night's 4-3 loss to the Cincinnati Reds. With two outs and the tying run on first, Snitker pulled red-hot Eli White in favor of veteran Eddie Rosario. Rosario promptly struck out on five pitches against Reds right-hander Emilio Pagán to end the game.
The move left many scratching their heads—and others outright calling for Snitker's departure.
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'Yeah, this guy's got better numbers off right-handed hitters. Way better,' Snitker said postgame. 'I thought maybe Eddie could recreate some old magic.'
The 'magic' he referenced is Rosario's historic 2021 NLCS performance, where he earned MVP honors and helped carry Atlanta to a World Series title. But that version of Rosario hasn't shown up in 2025. He's struggled at the plate all year, regardless of the pitcher's handedness.
Atlanta Braves manager Brian Snitker (43) looks on prior to the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers at Dodger Stadium.Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
White, on the other hand, has arguably been the team's most consistent player during an otherwise dismal start to the season. He's batting .300 with a .920 OPS against righties and has been a spark for an offense desperately needing production. To make matters worse, fans also pointed out that Sean Murphy was available—a proven power bat with postseason experience—and was passed over as well.
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The backlash wasn't limited to social media noise. Some fans and analysts are openly questioning Snitker's grasp of in-game management, citing recurring issues with bullpen decisions and a pattern of questionable substitutions. There's also growing skepticism about his long-term fit as the team struggles out of the gate in 2025.
With Snitker's contract up after this season, the call for change is becoming louder.
One fan summed up the sentiment: 'Snitker should be fired immediately for trying to give Eddie a chance. Eli White is the best player in baseball. This was ridiculous.'
Snitker has long earned respect for guiding the Braves to a championship, but that goodwill is beginning to fade. Unless the Braves turn things around quickly, the push for new leadership in 2026 may become unavoidable.
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Related: Fans Are Urging Braves to Make Big Eli White Decision When Ronald Acuña Jr. Returns
Related: ESPN Warns Braves Must Change Fast After Ronald Acuña Jr. News and Slumping Stars
Related: Matt Olson's Inside-The-Park Homer Sparks Debate After Scary Injury
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