Former Cincinnati Reds outfielder Skip Schumaker has officially agreed to become the next manager of the Texas Rangers, according to a report from Mark Feinsand of MLB Network. The hiring marks a new chapter for the defending 2023 World Series champions, who finished this past season with an even 81–81 record, falling short of a postseason berth after an up-and-down campaign.
Schumaker, now taking on his second full-time managerial role, brings both experience and a respected baseball pedigree to Texas. During his playing days, he suited up for 214 games with the Reds between 2014 and 2015, where he posted a .238/.297/.322 slash line and recorded 35 extra-base hits over two seasons. Prior to his stint in Cincinnati, Schumaker spent eight years with the St. Louis Cardinals, playing a key role on multiple playoff teams, and one season with the Los Angeles Dodgers, rounding out a solid 11-year Major League career known for his leadership and versatility.
Following his retirement, Schumaker transitioned seamlessly into coaching and management. He managed the Miami Marlins during the 2023 and 2024 seasons, quickly earning recognition for his strong leadership and player development skills. His efforts were rewarded in 2023 when he was named the National League Manager of the Year, guiding Miami to a surprising playoff appearance. However, Schumaker and the Marlins parted ways late in the 2024 season, and he did not manage in 2025 before accepting the Rangers’ offer.
Interestingly, Schumaker’s name had surfaced in rumors connected to the Cincinnati Reds’ managerial search last offseason before the club ultimately hired Terry Francona. Now, Schumaker finds himself returning to the dugout—this time in Arlington—tasked with restoring the Rangers to contention in a competitive American League landscape.
Meanwhile, the Reds enjoyed a modestly successful 2025 campaign, finishing 83–79 and reaching the postseason for the first time since 2020 before being swept 2–0 by the Dodgers in the Wild Card Series. As Schumaker takes over in Texas, both organizations appear to be trending upward—with the Rangers betting that his proven leadership and steady approach will spark another run toward October baseball.
