Introduction

As the 2026 MLB season approaches its conclusion, the whispers around managerial tenures grow louder. Following the New York Mets' decision to part ways with Carlos Mendoza, the spotlight turns to other managers across the league. We’re conducting a comprehensive temperature check on every manager’s seat, categorizing them from those who are safe to those who may be on their way out.

Not Going Anywhere

Some managers are secure in their roles, boasting impressive track records and contract extensions that safeguard their positions for the foreseeable future.

Dave Roberts, Los Angeles Dodgers

Once seen as a manager on the hot seat, Dave Roberts has steered the Dodgers towards back-to-back World Series victories and is closing in on an astounding 10 NL West titles in 11 seasons. With a contract extending through 2029, Roberts is clearly not on anyone's radar for dismissal.

Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays

Kevin Cash has solidified his reputation with a remarkable performance that has led the Rays to the top of the American League. A two-time AL Manager of the Year, he is currently signed through 2030, reflecting the team’s confidence in his leadership.

Craig Counsell, Chicago Cubs

Under Craig Counsell, the Cubs are once again playoff contenders, overcoming challenges with one of the league's weakest pitching staffs. His contract through 2028 suggests that management has full faith in his capabilities.

Pat Murphy, Milwaukee Brewers

Inheriting a strong legacy from Counsell, Pat Murphy has successfully led the Brewers to three consecutive NL Central titles, backed by a contract through 2028 with an option for 2029.

Stephen Vogt, Cleveland Guardians

Stephen Vogt continues to adapt and make the best out of less-than-ideal rosters, making significant strides in performance despite a decline in outcomes since his debut.

Managers Making a Name for Themselves

The following coaches are establishing their reputations and proving their worth, making strides despite facing challenges.

Will Venable, Chicago White Sox

In his second season with the White Sox, Will Venable has transformed the team, steering them from worst to a promising position in the AL Central against a backdrop of mediocre pitching.

Walt Weiss, Atlanta Braves

Walt Weiss has revitalized the Braves after stepping in for a stagnant Brian Snitker, leading them to the forefront of the NL East amid a slew of pitching injuries.

Craig Stammen, San Diego Padres

Craig Stammen has managed to keep the Padres competitive, despite them falling short of previous season performances, a testament to his coaching abilities.

Managers Needing More Time

While the following managers have shown potential, they need more time to establish their impact amidst transitional phases.

Skip Schumaker, Texas Rangers

Skip Schumaker isn’t producing the desired results yet, but the organization recognizes the challenges of our mixed team and has extended his contract through 2029.

Blake Butera, Washington Nationals

Blake Butera has injected youthful energy into a young Nationals team, showing promise despite a second-half slump. His contract reflects a focus on progress rather than immediate results.

Don Kelly, Pittsburgh Pirates

For Don Kelly, expectations to exceed .500 for the first time since 2018 have made this season a potential turning point for the franchise.

Derek Shelton, Minnesota Twins

Transitioning from a disastrous 2025, Derek Shelton has lifted the Twins from last to third in the AL Central, but he remains a placeholder needing demonstrable success to secure his role.

Managers Struggling Under Difficult Circumstances

Some managers face tough situations with little blame attributed to them.

Terry Francona, Cincinnati Reds

As a future Hall of Fame manager, Terry Francona managed to guide the Reds to the playoffs in 2025 despite a disappointing projected performance this year. He should remain until 2027.

Oli Marmol, St. Louis Cardinals

Inheriting an altered roster, Oli Marmol managed to create a semblance of competitive baseball, leading to a surprising extension instead of dismissal.

Clayton McCullough, Miami Marlins

Clayton McCullough’s mediocrity has warranted scrutiny but perhaps not enough to warrant his ousting amidst potential rebuilding efforts.

Warren Schaeffer, Colorado Rockies

Warren Schaeffer has improved upon a dismal 2025, but questions linger regarding sustainability and the future direction of the franchise.

Mark Kotsay, Oakland Athletics

Despite the challenges of a thankless job, Mark Kotsay's future remains uncertain until the franchise relocates in 2028.

Interim Managers Auditioning for Full-Time Roles

Several managers are showcasing their capabilities in interim positions, positioning themselves for permanent roles with their performances.

Chad Tracy, Boston Red Sox

Leading the team with a commendable record since taking over, Chad Tracy has reinvigorated the Red Sox's competitive spirit.

Don Mattingly, Philadelphia Phillies

Don Mattingly has quickly adapted to his new role, propelling the Phillies towards the playoffs with his tactical management.

Andy Green, New York Mets

Given the Mets' resources, Andy Green finds himself as a temporary solution but has performed admirably thus far.

Aaron Boone, New York Yankees

Aaron Boone has seen his pressure subside somewhat, but with championship aspirations still expected, any further underachievement could exacerbate concerns about his role.

Torey Lovullo, Arizona Diamondbacks

Torey Lovullo remains under the spotlight, particularly with certain controversies and unresolved roster issues adding scrutiny to his leadership.

Managers with High Expectations

Some managers find themselves on unsteady ground despite previous successes.

John Schneider, Toronto Blue Jays

After a historic season just a year ago, John Schneider's tenure may hinge upon the Blue Jays’ ability to recover and secure a postseason berth.

Tony Vitello, San Francisco Giants

As a new hire, Tony Vitello's early struggles may raise questions about his long-term viability, necessitating a turnaround soon.

Joe Espada, Houston Astros

The Astros' performance under Joe Espada could determine his future, highlighting the pressure to turn around a middling season.

Managers Facing Certain Downfalls

Finally, some managers appear to be on the brink of termination.

Dan Wilson, Seattle Mariners

Recent struggles following an ALCS appearance have put Dan Wilson in jeopardy, highlighting the disconnect between expectations and results.

Kurt Suzuki, Los Angeles Angels

With a franchise-worst performance, Kurt Suzuki is a likely candidate for dismissal amidst anticipated organizational changes.

Conclusion

This managerial temperature check highlights the precarious nature of leadership roles in Major League Baseball as the season winds down. Factors ranging from performance metrics to contract lengths will shape the future of many key figures in the league. As teams seek improvement, the fire on certain seats may get even hotter in the days ahead.