Pressure Builds for Managers as MLB Teams Look Towards 2025 Season

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ICARO Media Group
News
18/09/2024 22h27

With just under two weeks remaining in the 2024 MLB season, all 30 organizations are already contemplating their plans for the 2025 campaign. As the playoffs approach for some and the offseason looms for others, attention has turned to the managers who fill out the lineup cards every day. The impact of a good manager may not always be evident in the box score, but their leadership can make all the difference on the field. However, for a select few managers, the pressure is mounting as they find themselves on the hot seat heading into the upcoming managerial carousel.

In alphabetical order, let's take a closer look at five managers who could be facing scrutiny in the offseason. First on the list is David Bell of the Cincinnati Reds. After an offseason of high hopes and significant signings, the Reds have unfortunately fallen short with a disappointing 74-78 record. Despite standout performances from shortstop Elly De La Cruz and pitcher Hunter Greene, the team has failed to live up to expectations. With injuries taking a toll, Cincinnati fans are rightfully expecting better results from a team that was once seen as a rising force in the league.

Next, we shift our gaze to Bud Black of the Colorado Rockies. While the team's struggles cannot be solely attributed to Black, the perpetual underachievement of the Rockies has left many questioning the impact of their manager. Colorado's pitching woes have been particularly glaring, with the team experiencing consecutive seasons with a team WHIP over 1.50 for the first time since 2003 to '05. The Rockies are poised to finish with a sixth straight losing campaign, and it may be time for a fresh voice in the clubhouse to steer this team in a new direction.

Terry Francona and Aaron Boone, managers of the Cleveland Guardians and New York Yankees respectively, share a common trait: they have built up their reputation through successful seasons in the past. Francona, however, has faced challenges in recent years with the Guardians, while Boone's Yankees are still in pursuit of their first pennant in 15 years. The pressure is on for both managers to deliver in postseason play and satisfy fans and ownership alike.

Lastly, John Schneider of the Toronto Blue Jays finds himself under scrutiny as his team struggles to find success. Despite being known for their well-regarded rebuild, the Blue Jays have hit a rough patch this season, currently sporting a .477 winning percentage. The clock is ticking for Schneider, especially with superstar Vladimir Guerrero Jr.'s impending free agency after the 2025 season. Toronto's front office will have to evaluate whether Schneider is the right manager to maximize Guerrero's potential and lead this team back to playoff success.

As the 2024 season nears its end, these five managers will face increased scrutiny and the possibility of change. The decision-makers within each organization will carefully assess the managerial performance, determining whether a fresh approach is needed to guide their teams to future success. Only time will tell who will remain at the helm and who will find themselves on the outside looking in when the 2025 season begins.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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