Sports

Braves extend contracts for Snitker and coaching staff, promote Anthopoulos

Manager Brian Snitker looks on as the Braves take batting practice prior to the start of Game Four of the National League Division Series against the Los Angeles Dodgers on October 8, 2018 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Scott Cunningham/Getty Images)

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves announced significant contract extensions Monday for the coaching staff and its front office.

Contracts for manager Brian Snitker and his coaching staff have been extended through the 2021 season. General manager Alex Anthopoulos’ contract has also been extended through 2024.

The extension comes with a promotion for Anthopoulos. The Braves announced he will now be president of baseball operations along with his GM title.

The Braves hired Anthopoulos as general manager in 2017 on an initial four-year contract.

“I am very pleased that Alex will be leading the Atlanta Braves’ baseball operations for years to come,” chairman Terry McGuirk said in a statement. “Since he joined the organization, Alex has continued the winning tradition that Braves fans have come to expect.”

Sports Director Zach Klein will bring live coverage of Braves spring training from Florida all week on Channel 2 Action News.

Snitker took over as manager for the Braves in 2016 and has led the team to back-to-back NL East titles the last two seasons.

“Winning consecutive division titles illustrates the leadership and impact of Brian and his staff,” Anthopoulos said. “We are happy to know they will be leading the Braves through the 2021 season.”

The contract extensions are also for Snitker’s staff, which includes:

Sal Fasano (catching coach), Rick Kranitz (pitching coach), Marty Reed (bullpen coach), Kevin Seitzer (hitting coach), Ron Washington (third base coach), Walt Weiss (bench coach), Eric Young Sr. (first base/outfield coach), and José Castro (assistant hitting coach).