Oli Marmol Set to Lead the Cardinals as Manager in 2026 The Athletic Reports
St. Louis Cardinals Retain Manager Oli Marmol for 2026 Season
Cardinals Focus on Player Development Amid Front Office Changes
The St. Louis Cardinals have announced that manager Oli Marmol will stay on for the 2026 season, completing the final year of his contract. This decision, confirmed by Chaim Bloom, the new president of baseball operations, was revealed after his introductory press conference on Tuesday. Despite posting a 78-84 record in his fourth year, Marmol’s retention aligns with the Cardinals’ strategic shift towards prioritizing player development over immediate wins.
Performance and Front Office Decisions Influence Marmol’s Retention
Marmol’s future with the Cardinals was uncertain due to recent changes within the front office, including the departure of former president of baseball operations John Mozeliak. However, Bloom’s affirmation of Marmol’s role reflects a commitment to long-term development rather than short-term results. Throughout the season, the Cardinals exceeded expectations, maintaining a competitive stance until the final series, despite limited offseason acquisitions and trade deadline decisions.
Major League Baseball Sees Managerial Shifts Across Teams
In the past two days, several MLB teams have made managerial moves. The San Francisco Giants, Minnesota Twins, and Texas Rangers have parted ways with their managers. Bob Melvin, Rocco Baldelli, and Bruce Bochy are now free agents, with Bochy and the Rangers agreeing to a mutual separation. Meanwhile, Don Kelly has secured an extension as the Pittsburgh Pirates’ manager following Derek Shelton’s dismissal in May.
Stability and Change in Team Leadership
- Carlos Mendoza remains with the New York Mets despite a challenging season.
- Interim managers in Baltimore, Washington, and Colorado — Tony Mansolino, Miguel Cairo, and Warren Schaeffer, respectively — conclude the season awaiting future decisions.
- Brian Snitker is undecided about his future with the Atlanta Braves, while Ron Washington expresses interest in returning to the Los Angeles Angels post-surgery recovery.
As the season ended, Bochy’s departure from the Rangers opens possibilities for a reunion with Buster Posey back in San Francisco. Meanwhile, the former Miami Marlins manager Skip Schumaker, now a senior adviser for the Rangers, emerges as a leading candidate for various managerial vacancies.
Looking Ahead: Completing the Coaching Staff
The Cardinals are expected to finalize their coaching staff for the 2026 season soon, reinforcing their focus on player development and team growth under Marmol’s leadership.
