Skip Schumaker Emerges as Favorite for Rangers Manager Position

ARLINGTON, Texas — Skip Schumaker is the leading candidate to become the next manager of the Texas Rangers, following the departure of Bruce Bochy. Rangers president of baseball operations Chris Young confirmed at a season-end news conference that the organization is focusing on Schumaker and has not spoken to any external candidates.

Schumaker, 45, previously managed the Miami Marlins for two seasons, earning National League Manager of the Year honors in 2023 after leading the Marlins to an 84-78 record and a playoff appearance. He left the Marlins after the 2024 season to serve as a senior advisor in the Rangers front office, working closely with Young.

Young stated that Schumaker is “the focus” for the club right now, especially after the Rangers finished the 2025 season with an 81-81 record, missing the playoffs. The team faced numerous challenges, including injuries to key players like Corey Seager, Marcus Semien, and Nathan Eovaldi.

Moreover, Schumaker’s recent tenure in Miami ended amidst a front office overhaul, which likely influenced his departure. He requested the removal of a 2025 team option from his contract, signaling a shift in his career plans.

Before managing the Marlins, Schumaker gained coaching experience with the San Diego Padres and the St. Louis Cardinals. He played for 11 seasons in the MLB, primarily with the Cardinals, and was part of their 2011 World Series championship team.

His son, Brody, is committed to play baseball at Texas Christian University in 2026, which could play a role in Schumaker’s decision-making process regarding the Rangers job.

The team announced Bochy’s exit earlier this week, establishing that they want a fresh start. Schumaker, regarded highly in baseball circles, is viewed as a promising candidate to lead the Rangers into a new era.