Jim Powell and Tyler Flowers sit down with Brian Snitker, manager of the Atlanta Braves, to talk all things baseball, leadership, and the upcoming MLB season. From managing the off-season workload to navigating spring training, pitching rotations, and roster changes, Snitker gives an inside look at how the Braves prepare for success.

The discussion dives into player development, the challenges of keeping a team healthy, and the impact of offseason roster moves. Plus, Brian Snitker shares his thoughts and insights on what makes Alex Anthopoulos one of the top GMs in the game, as well as on Chris Sale’s role, Spencer Strider’s return, and Ronald Acuña Jr.'s recovery. But we don’t just stop there, we talk about the 2025 Hall of Fame class led by Ichiro, Sabathia, and former Brave Billy Wagner.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Introduction – Jim Powell & Tyler Flowers Welcome Brian Snitker
• [02:00] What Does an MLB Manager Do in the Offseason? Snitker’s Routine & Calls with Alex Anthopoulos and what makes him one of the top GMs
• [06:15] Travis d’Arnaud’s Departure & Murphy’s Opportunity as the Braves’ Primary Catcher
• [09:30] Braves’ Offseason Moves – What Worked, What Didn’t & What to Expect
• [15:45] Pitching Rotation Breakdown – Chris Sale’s Role, Strider’s Recovery & Ian Anderson’s Return
• [22:00] Managing Player Development & The Next Generation of Braves Talent
• [30:15] Leadership & Culture – How the Braves Stay Competitive in a Tough Division
• [35:45] Flip the Switch Segment – Behind the Scenes with Alex Anthopoulos & Braves Front Office
• [40:30] Get Off My Lawn Segment – The State of Modern Basketball

Key Takeaways:

• Spring Training is Key to Success – The Braves are focusing on keeping players healthy, optimizing pitching rotations, and ensuring strong roster depth.
• Sean Murphy is Ready to Lead – With Travis d’Arnaud gone, Murphy is expected to thrive as Atlanta’s starting catcher.
• Chris Sale’s Performance Will Be a Game-Changer – If Sale stays healthy, he could be a dominant force in the Braves’ rotation.
• Alex Anthopoulos’ Leadership is Crucial – The Braves’ GM involves players, coaches, and even clubhouse staff in major decisions, ensuring a winning culture.

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• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
• Website: http://fansfirstpodcast.com/ 

About Brian Snitker:

Brian Snitker is the manager of the Atlanta Braves, leading the team to a World Series Championship in 2021. With decades of experience in player development, coaching, and leadership, he remains one of MLB’s most respected managers. His insights on team culture, roster strategy, and game management provide a unique inside look at professional baseball.

MLB, Baseball, Atlanta Braves, Brian Snitker, Jim Powell, Tyler Flowers, MLB Offseason, Baseball Leadership, Braves Spring Training, Pitching Rotation, Player Development, Sports Podcast, Brian Snitker, Ronald Acuña Jr, Spencer Strider, Chris Sale, Ichiro, Sabathia, Billy Wagner,