Nationals Pursuing Young MLB Managers for 2026 Role

The Washington Nationals are actively searching for a new manager for the 2026 season after deciding not to retain interim manager Miguel Cairo. They have interviewed candidates including former Baltimore Orioles manager Brandon Hyde and Cleveland Guardians bench coach Craig Albernaz, who has since been hired by the Orioles. The Nationals are also considering former Minnesota Twins manager Rocco Baldelli, the 2019 AL Manager of the Year, and Los Angeles Dodgers bench coach Danny Lehmann, both of whom have drawn organizational interest. Additionally, the Nationals have interviewed Chad Epperson, the Boston Red Sox's Double-A manager with extensive minor league experience but no Major League managerial background, reflecting a potential focus on rebuilding with youth. Washington’s recent hires from Boston's system, including president of baseball operations Paul Toboni, suggest the team is attempting to emulate Boston’s successful rebuild. Overall, the Nationals are looking to bring fresh perspectives and leadership to turn around their rebuilding franchise, which has experienced six consecutive losing seasons.