• MLB experts find it difficult to definitively name the best manager due to the importance of behind-the-scenes contributions that are hard to evaluate.
• AJ Hinch, Kevin Cash, and Dave Roberts are consistently mentioned as top candidates based on their recent success and strategic acumen.
• Historical achievements and the ability to win championships give Bruce Bochy and Terry Francona a strong legacy in the discussion.

CBS Sports MLB experts engaged in a roundtable discussion to determine the best manager in baseball. The discussion highlighted the difficulty in evaluating managers due to the significant impact of behind-the-scenes interactions, player management, and front-office relationships. While record and exceeding expectations are considered, the experts emphasized the importance of maximizing player potential and building a winning culture. Current candidates like AJ Hinch, Kevin Cash, and Dave Roberts are weighed against the historical achievements of Bruce Bochy and Terry Francona.

• What: MLB experts debate who the best manager in baseball is, considering various factors beyond just win-loss records.
• Who: Key individuals mentioned include AJ Hinch, Kevin Cash, Dave Roberts, Bruce Bochy, Terry Francona, Craig Counsell, Pat Murphy, Stephen Vogt, and Bob Melvin.
• When: The discussion took place on May 8, 2025.
• Where: The discussion is focused on Major League Baseball.

The debate highlights the complexities of evaluating managerial performance in baseball. While objective metrics like win-loss record and playoff appearances are important, the experts emphasize the less tangible aspects of the job, such as player management, clubhouse culture, and communication with the front office. The repeated mentions of Hinch, Cash, and Roberts suggest a consensus around their current standing, while the inclusion of Bochy and Francona acknowledges the enduring value of experience and championship pedigree. The article acknowledges the limitations of external evaluation, emphasizing the importance of factors unseen by the public.

Determining the best manager in baseball remains a subjective and challenging task. While names like Hinch, Cash, and Roberts consistently appear in the discussion, the experts acknowledge the difficulty in fully assessing the impact of a manager's decisions. The debate underscores the multifaceted nature of the role, highlighting the importance of both strategic acumen and interpersonal skills. The legacy of managers like Bochy and Francona serves as a reminder of the enduring value of championship-winning experience.