Blake Butera Appointed as Nationals Manager
The Washington Nationals are set to hire Blake Butera as their new manager, according to ESPN’s Jeff Passan. Butera, who has served as the Senior Director of Player Development for the Tampa Bay Rays, has an impressive background in baseball management.
Blake Butera’s Coaching Journey
At just 33 years old, Blake Butera will be the youngest manager in Major League Baseball since Frank Quilici in 1972. His coaching career began after a brief playing stint as an infielder in the minor leagues. In 2018, he took the helm of High-A Hudson Valley, where he made headlines as the youngest manager in organized baseball at 25.
Achievements and Experience
- Managed High-A Hudson Valley (2018-2019)
- Served as the manager for Single-A Charleston (2020-2021)
- Won a league title and named Low-A East Manager of the Year in 2021
- Promoted to Minor League Assistant Field Coordinator in 2023
In addition to his work in North America, Butera has international coaching experience. He was involved with the Perth Heat in the Australian Baseball League and served as a quality control coach for Leones del Escogido in the Dominican League. Most recently, he was a bench coach for Italy in the 2023 World Baseball Classic.
Recent Changes in the Nationals’ Organization
The Nationals made significant changes earlier this season, firing long-time manager Davey Martinez in July. Martinez led the team to a World Series victory in 2019 but faced challenges in subsequent seasons. The team struggled with over 90 losses in four consecutive years.
After Martinez’s dismissal, bench coach Miguel Cairo temporarily took over managerial duties. Although he was a candidate for the permanent role in 2026, his name has since been removed from consideration. Other candidates included Brandon Hyde and Craig Albernaz, with Albernaz being hired by Baltimore for their managerial position.
New Leadership in the Organization
The Nationals also parted ways with Mike Rizzo, their longtime president of baseball operations. Assistant General Manager Mike DeBartolo stepped in as interim GM, while Paul Toboni was recruited as the new president of baseball operations in late September. Toboni, at age 35, now holds the title of the youngest head of baseball operations in the league.
Once Blake Butera’s appointment is finalized, the Nationals will have filled their managerial vacancy. Three other teams, including Colorado, San Diego, and Atlanta, still seek managerial candidates.
