Episode 13

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Published on:

7th Feb 2025

Ep 13 2025 MLB Spring Training Preview with Braves' Manager Brian Snitker

Jim Powell and Tyler Flowers sit down with Brian Snitker, manager of the Atlanta Braves, to talk all things baseball, leadership, and the upcoming MLB season. From managing the off-season workload to navigating spring training, pitching rotations, and roster changes, Snitker gives an inside look at how the Braves prepare for success.

The discussion dives into player development, the challenges of keeping a team healthy, and the impact of offseason roster moves. Plus, Brian Snitker shares his thoughts and insights on what makes Alex Anthopoulos one of the top GMs in the game, as well as on Chris Sale’s role, Spencer Strider’s return, and Ronald Acuña Jr.'s recovery. But we don’t just stop there, we talk about the 2025 Hall of Fame class led by Ichiro, Sabathia, and former Brave Billy Wagner.

Timestamps:

  • [00:00] Introduction – Jim Powell & Tyler Flowers Welcome Brian Snitker
  • [02:00] What Does an MLB Manager Do in the Offseason? Snitker’s Routine & Calls with Alex Anthopoulos and what makes him one of the top GMs
  • [06:15] Travis d’Arnaud’s Departure & Murphy’s Opportunity as the Braves’ Primary Catcher
  • [09:30] Braves’ Offseason Moves – What Worked, What Didn’t & What to Expect
  • [15:45] Pitching Rotation Breakdown – Chris Sale’s Role, Strider’s Recovery & Ian Anderson’s Return
  • [22:00] Managing Player Development & The Next Generation of Braves Talent
  • [30:15] Leadership & Culture – How the Braves Stay Competitive in a Tough Division
  • [35:45] Flip the Switch Segment – Behind the Scenes with Alex Anthopoulos & Braves Front Office
  • [40:30] Get Off My Lawn Segment – The State of Modern Basketball

Key Takeaways:

  • Spring Training is Key to Success – The Braves are focusing on keeping players healthy, optimizing pitching rotations, and ensuring strong roster depth.
  • Sean Murphy is Ready to Lead – With Travis d’Arnaud gone, Murphy is expected to thrive as Atlanta’s starting catcher.
  • Chris Sale’s Performance Will Be a Game-Changer – If Sale stays healthy, he could be a dominant force in the Braves’ rotation.
  • Alex Anthopoulos’ Leadership is Crucial – The Braves’ GM involves players, coaches, and even clubhouse staff in major decisions, ensuring a winning culture.

Stay connected with us:

About Brian Snitker:

Brian Snitker is the manager of the Atlanta Braves, leading the team to a World Series Championship in 2021. With decades of experience in player development, coaching, and leadership, he remains one of MLB’s most respected managers. His insights on team culture, roster strategy, and game management provide a unique inside look at professional baseball.

MLB, Baseball, Atlanta Braves, Brian Snitker, Jim Powell, Tyler Flowers, MLB Offseason, Baseball Leadership, Braves Spring Training, Pitching Rotation, Player Development, Sports Podcast, Brian Snitker, Ronald Acuña Jr, Spencer Strider, Chris Sale, Ichiro, Sabathia, Billy Wagner,

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About the Podcast

Fans First a Sports Podcast
Welcome to "Fans First: A Sports Podcast," where your voice matters most! Hosted by the legendary Hall of Fame sportscaster Jim Powell, this show puts fans at the heart of the conversation. We believe sports are more than just games—they’re a way of life, a source of passion, and a community that brings people together. That’s why "Fans First" is here to celebrate your insights, opinions, and love for the game like never before. Whether you’re cheering in the stands, shouting at the TV, or debating trades with friends, "Fans First" is your go-to destination for all things sports.


Each episode features fan-driven discussions, expert analysis, and exclusive interviews with players, coaches, and insiders. Jim Powell brings his wealth of experience and storytelling prowess to every episode, guiding conversations that are as engaging as they are insightful. But this podcast isn’t just about the headlines—it’s about the stories that matter to you. From the thrill of victory to the agony of defeat, from blockbuster trades to unforgettable moments in sports history, "Fans First" covers it all. We’re here to give you a platform to share your thoughts, ask tough questions, and connect with a community of fellow sports enthusiasts.


Join us each week as we explore the stories behind the scores, the emotions behind the plays, and the fans who make it all possible. Plus, don’t miss our special segments—“Flip the Switch,” where we suddenly turn the conversation in an unexpected new direction, and “Get Off My Lawn,” where fans can offer their spirited opinions about the hottest current topics in sports before the host gets his chance to react. So, tune in, speak up, and be part of the sports conversation that celebrates what makes the game great—you, the fan!


Bio: Jim Powell is an American radio and television sportscaster, previously employed with Major League Baseball's Milwaukee Brewers (1996–2008) and Atlanta Braves (2009–2023). A native of Roswell, Georgia, Powell was educated at the University of Georgia. He began his baseball play-by-play career with the minor-league Columbia Mets (1987–89, 1993–94) and Charlotte Knights (1990–91, 1995), also calling games part-time for the Minnesota Twins in 1993–94 before being hired by the Brewers in 1996. Teaming with Bob Uecker, Powell called games for the Milwaukee Brewers Radio Network and was Uecker’s longest-tenured partner. Powell was named Wisconsin Sportscaster of the Year in 1998. In 2009, he began teaming with Don Sutton to call games on the Atlanta Braves Radio Network and continued his play-by-play role through 2023. In addition to his baseball work, Powell has called college football (for the University of South Carolina and CBS Radio) and college basketball (for Davidson College and South Carolina) at various points in his career. Powell was a National Merit Scholar and is MENSA-qualified. He was inducted into the Georgia Association of Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2020.


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LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-powell-38715a5/
Website: Fansfirstpodcast.com

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