It hasn't taken long for Atlanta Braves manager Walt Weiss to win over fans this season. He's already proven to be the perfect choice to lead Atlanta after Brian Snitker's retirement. A lot of fans were unsure at first if hiring Weiss was the right decision, and were probably hoping the Braves would hire someone outside of the organization. However, it is clear to see why everyone inside the clubhouse was excited about the decision.
Weiss has seemingly made almost all the right decisions during games and won everyone over during the tussle between Reynaldo Lopez and Jorge Soler. It's safe to say the team knows how great a leader they have.
Walt Weiss' great decision-making as well as Braves success has him as an early favorite for NL MOY
Every player has glowing things to say about their skipper, and it's made a difference in the results on the field. The offense is performing at 2023 levels and shows no signs of slowing. Atlanta's pitching staff also has the second-best ERA in baseball (3.12).
Weiss has made some really smart decisions during games, and it has allowed fans to feel more confident in close games. He is willing to put in a pinch runner when the situation calls for it. He will pull a pitcher early, as he did with Grant Holmes recently, if he notices it's an off day. All of these factors have him pegged as an early favorite for NL Manager of the Year.
Being a new manager certainly helps his case, but the team has a completely different energy since he took over the reins. Weiss hasn't been afraid to move the lineup around and sit guys if they need a reset. The only new manager competition out there for Weiss is Craig Stammen, who is in his first season with the Padres. Atlanta's front office did an excellent job of letting Weiss take over, while giving him an incredible support staff.
There is a lot of season left, and mistakes are bound to happen. However, if things continue at their current pace, it's almost guaranteed that Weiss will be named NL Manager of the Year at season's end.