MLB Rumors: Red Sox World Series Standout Among Top Manager Candidates

Former Boston Red Sox catcher David Ross remains among the top candidates on the managerial merry-go-round.

ESPN identified the leading candidates for the open job in Atlanta and listed Ross among four potential finalists, along with former Braves infielder Mark DeRosa, former Toronto Blue Jays manager John Gibbons and current Braves bench coach Walt Weiss.

The report noted Ross played for the Braves from 2009-2012.

The New York Post’s Jon Heyman reported Ross is among the managerial talent pool this offseason, which also includes Chicago Cubs bench coach Ryan Flaherty, Orioles interim manager Tony Mansolino, former San Diego Padres manager Mike Shildt and ex-Baltimore skipper Brandon Hyde.

Right now there are eight MLB clubs looking for new managers.

• San Diego Padres (Mike Shildt)
• Los Angeles Angels (Ron Washington)
• San Francisco Giants (Bob Melvin)
• Atlanta Braves (Brian Snitker)
• Colorado Rockies (Bud Black)
• Washington Nationals (Dave Martinez)
• Minnesota Twins (Rocco Baldelli)
• Baltimore Orioles (Brandon Hyde)

Earlier this month, Ross admitted he wants to be considered for the Braves job.

“I’d love to manage again,” Ross said, according to ESPN. “Obviously, Atlanta would be amazing, but there’s nothing to really elaborate on. I don’t want to talk about something that doesn’t have any legs yet. Hopefully, my name pops up, but we will wait and see on that.”

Ross’ first and last manager gig came with the Cubs from 2020 to 2023. He led Chicago to just one postseason appearance during his four seasons in the dugout. Ross’ 15-year MLB career ended in a Cubs uniform in 2016, helping Chicago win its first World Series title in 108 years.

Among Ross’ previous stops was Boston, first in 2008 then again in 2013 and 2014. His leadership and clubhouse presence were among the many factors contributing to the Red Sox winning the World Series in 2013.