MLB revealed the finalists for the 2025 Manager of the Year Award, and the list has a little bit of everything: comeback stories, first-time winners, and a few guys who simply got the most out of their rosters when it mattered most. Let’s take a look at all six from the two leagues.
American leagueJohn Schneider, Toronto Blue Jays
Nov 1, 2025; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Blue Jays manager John Schneider (14) reacts after the benches clear in the fourth inning against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game seven of the 2025 MLB World Series at Rogers Centre. Credit: John E. Sokolowski-Imagn Images
What a turnaround in Toronto. John Schneider guided the Blue Jays from the cellar to the summit, leading the American League in wins and capturing their first AL East title since 2016. Even without factoring in the postseason, ballots were cast before the playoffs, and Schneider’s work speaks for itself. After finishing last in 2024, the Jays became one of baseball’s most complete teams, and their manager deserves plenty of credit for that transformation.
Stephen Vogt, Cleveland Guardians
If you’re looking for the most dramatic comeback of the year, look no further than Stephen Vogt and the Guardians. Down by 15½ games in the AL Central and 11 games with just 23 left to play, Cleveland caught fire down the stretch, finishing 19-4 to steal the division title. Vogt’s steady leadership and belief in his young roster sparked one of the most memorable surges in recent history, and may have earned him some hardware to go with it.
Dan Wilson, Seattle Mariners
Oct 17, 2025; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Mariners manager Dan Wilson (6) speaks to the media after game five of the ALCS round against the Toronto Blue Jays for the 2025 MLB playoffs at T-Mobile Park. Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
For the first time since 2001, the Seattle Mariners are AL West champions, and Dan Wilson is the driving force behind that achievement. His team ripped off 17 wins in an 18-game stretch to clinch the division before the final series of the year, coming back from 3½ games out to do it. Wilson’s calm presence and ability to rally his club when it mattered most make him a well-deserving finalist.
National LeagueTerry Francona, Cincinnati Reds
Terry Francona took a year off, changed leagues, and didn’t miss a beat. In his first season with the Cincinnati Reds, he guided the club to its first full-season playoff berth since 2013. Francona’s experience and steady touch helped a young, energetic Reds team find consistency in a tough NL Central. After everything he’s accomplished, this may be one of his most satisfying managerial performances yet.
Pat Murphy, Milwaukee Brewers
Oct 16, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Milwaukee Brewers manager Pat Murphy (49) speaks to media on the field before game three against the Los Angeles Dodgers in the NLCS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images
Pat Murphy is looking to make history. Only two managers, Bobby Cox and Kevin Cash, have ever won this award in back-to-back years, and Murphy has a real shot to join that short list. The Brewers led all of baseball with 97 wins, thriving behind a strong pitching staff and balanced lineup. Milwaukee’s consistency, effort, and edge all reflect Murphy’s leadership from the top step.
Rob Thomson, Philadelphia Phillies
Rob Thomson’s steady hand continues to guide the Phillies to new heights. Under his watch, Philadelphia captured its second straight NL East title, finishing 96-66, its best record since 2011. His players trust him, his decisions rarely backfire, and his clubhouse culture has become one of the strongest in the sport. Thomson has turned the Phillies into a perennial powerhouse, and this nomination is proof of that.
Oct 8, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Philadelphia Phillies manager Rob Thomson (49) looks on before the game against the Los Angeles Dodgers during game three of the NLDS round for the 2025 MLB playoffs at Dodger Stadium. Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn ImagesWhat Lies Ahead
Whether it was Schneider lifting Toronto out of last place, Vogt sparking a record-breaking comeback, or Francona rejuvenating the Reds, each finalist showed what it means to inspire a team over 162 games.
The winners will be announced on Tuesday, Nov. 11, but no matter who takes home the trophy. So, which two are your pick?