MLB Rumors: Five replacements for Braves’ Fredi Gonzalez

4. Bo Porter

Another in-house option for Atlanta’s next manager until they are ready to contend, and potentially longer, is current third base coach Bo Porter. Porter has experience managing a rebuilding team, as he managed the Houston Astros from 2013 to 2014. While the Astros made the playoffs in 2015, the year after Porter was fired, it’s hard to argue that his influence didn’t help guys like Jose Altuve and Dallas Keuchel become star players. He had a 110-190 record with the Astros, though they were a rebuilding team that was basically tanking.

Porter also has experience as a third base coach and as a manager in the Arizona Fall League. He deserves another shot after the Astros unfairly fired him despite the front office never giving the talent he needed around him to win. Nobody could have won with the Astros rosters in 2013 and 2014. His resume might not be impressive, but he never had talent in Houston.

The Braves ought to give him another chance to prove himself as a manager. They have nothing to lose. Porter could be a great influence on their young players and help keep the seat warm until the Braves are once again ready to contend.

Next: 3. Ryne Sandberg