The 2024 Major League Baseball regular season is approaching its end, and it has been nothing short of dramatic, especially in the managerial ranks. This season has seen three managers dismissed due to their teams' underperformance, highlighting the unforgiving nature of professional sports when results don't meet expectations.
Dismissals and Interim Managers: A Turbulent Season
Pedro Grifol, Scott Servais, and David Bell were all relieved of their managerial duties as their respective teams — the Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners, and Cincinnati Reds — struggled throughout the season. Grifol's departure from the White Sox paved the way for Grady Sizemore to step in as the interim manager. However, Sizemore has faced his own challenges, managing only an 8-31 record since assuming the role.
Similarly, Freddie Benavides took over the Reds' managerial responsibilities after Bell's departure. As interim managers, both Sizemore and Benavides inherited teams in tumultuous states, making it difficult to turn the tide immediately.
Marlins and Rockies' Struggles
The Miami Marlins made headlines early in the season by removing the 2025 club option from Skip Schumaker's contract. Schumaker, who was the reigning National League Manager of the Year, faced an uncertain future with the club despite his accolades. Additionally, the Marlins saw a significant change in their front office with the departure of former general manager Kim Ng, signaling potential shifts in the organization's strategy moving forward.
In Colorado, Bud Black's eighth season as the Rockies' manager has been marred by struggles. The Rockies are on the brink of their second consecutive 100-loss season, underscoring the team's ongoing challenges. Black's overall record with the Rockies stands at 536-652, a reflection of the tough times the team has endured. The Rockies have not seen playoff action since 2018, which calls into question the future direction of the team under Black's leadership.
Blue Jays' Disappointing Season
John Schneider's tenure as the Blue Jays' manager has not gone as planned. The team finds itself at the bottom of the AL East, a far cry from the expectations set by fans and analysts alike. As a result, the Blue Jays became deadline sellers, signaling a shift in focus towards future seasons rather than aiming for immediate success. Schneider's stint has been a tough pill to swallow for Blue Jays supporters hoping for a resurgence.
Cardinals' Resurgence
In contrast to the disheartening stories from other teams, the St. Louis Cardinals have managed to engineer a turnaround. Following a disastrous 91-loss season in 2023, the Cardinals aimed to return to postseason contention in 2024. Led by Oliver Marmol, who signed a contract extension through 2026 in the spring, the Cardinals have put together a winning campaign. This resurgence has reinvigorated the fan base and sets a promising tone for the future under Marmol’s guidance.
Continuity Amidst Change
Amidst the managerial upheavals, some teams have chosen to stick with their current leaders. Dave Roberts continues to lead the Dodgers, while Aaron Boone remains at the helm for the Yankees. In Baltimore, Brandon Hyde is still managing the Orioles. These decisions reflect an element of stability in a season otherwise characterized by significant managerial changes.
As the regular season winds down, the movements in team leadership underscore the high stakes and pressures inherent in Major League Baseball. With several teams looking to the future and others doubling down on their current strategies, the landscape of MLB management is as dynamic as ever. The final stretch of the season promises to be compelling as teams either fight for a postseason berth or begin laying the groundwork for better fortunes next year.