Braves Ron Washington interested in Astros managerial opening

As I wrote about last week, the Braves have several coaches that could be interviewed for current managerial openings. Perhaps the most notable is 71-year-old Ron Washington, who reportedly is interested in the Astros job.

He also played briefly for the Astros (1989).

Its not known if the Astros have mutual interest, but Washington and Astros general manager Dana Brown were, of course, both working for Atlanta Braves at same time.

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— Jason Bristol (@JBristolKHOU) October 30, 2023

Washington’s interest should come as no surprise. He’s been considered for several managerial openings over the last couple of years and has made it known he would like another opportunity to be the lead dog in the clubhouse again. Beyond that, what better place for him to land than in Houston, who have been to seven straight American League Championship Series.

Washington has become a beloved part of Braves Country since joining the club as the team’s third base coach back when Brian Snitker was named the full-time manager in 2017. He’s been integral to the club’s relentless success, resulting in six straight division titles and a World Series in 2021.

Washington last served as a manager for the Texas Rangers from 2007-2014, in which he led the club to back-to-back World Series in 2010 and 2011. He left Texas on his own terms, citing personal reasons, before returning to the game with the Braves.

There are few candidates more deserving than Ron Washington. Who knows if there is mutual interest from the Astros side of things, but Houston general manager Dana Brown should be very familiar with Washington. He was Alex Anthopoulos’ right hand hand with the Braves before being hired as the Astros general manager.

At 71 years old, the time for Washington to get another shot at managing a club is running out. It’s become much more popular to hire younger, as it is in most fields. But even though losing Ron Washington would be a blow to the Braves, I’m hopeful someone will eventually give him another shot as a manager.