We're one-quarter through the 2026 MLB season, and it's time to check in on the eight new managers making their debuts. From seasoned retreads to fresh faces making unprecedented jumps from college baseball, this rookie class has brought plenty of drama and surprises. Here's how they stack up so far, based not just on win-loss records, but on how they're exceeding—or falling short of—reasonable expectations.

At the top of our list is Walt Weiss, who took over the Atlanta Braves after eight years as Brian Snitker's bench coach. The transition was seamless, right down to the familiar goateed bald guy aesthetic. But the results are anything but routine: Atlanta is 25-11, already holding an 8.5-game lead in the NL East. Coming off an 86-loss season in 2025, the Braves were expected to bounce back with improved health—but no one predicted this dominance. Weiss and his charges aren't just contending; they're running away with the division.

Meanwhile, in San Diego, Craig Stammen is proving that a reliever can succeed as a manager. Hired as something of a surprise choice, Stammen has guided the Padres to a 20-14 start. San Diego looks like a reliable contender, and Stammen's steady hand has passed muster so far. It's still early, but the Padres are playing with confidence and purpose.

On the other end of the spectrum, Tony Vitello's jump from the college ranks to the Giants has been an awkward fit. The transition is never easy, and San Francisco's struggles reflect that. While it's too soon to write him off, Vitello is still searching for his footing in a league that demands a different kind of management style.

As for the rest of the new skippers, they fall somewhere in between—some exceeding low expectations, others struggling to find consistency. But with 75% of the season still ahead, there's plenty of time for these rankings to shift. For now, Weiss is the clear standout, and the Braves look like they're on a mission.