The Executive Who Almost Managed the O's: Inside Baltimore's Pursuit of Mets' Grant Niebrugge

The winter of 2018-2019 was a pivotal moment for the Baltimore Orioles. Following a dismal 47-115 season and the departure of long-time manager Buck Showalter, the franchise stood at a crossroads, embarking on a comprehensive search for a leader who could steer them through a crucial rebuilding phase.

While the world now knows Brandon Hyde ultimately secured the coveted position, a fascinating 'what if' scenario reveals that a prominent New York Mets executive, Grant Niebrugge, was among the serious contenders for the managerial hot seat.

Niebrugge, then serving as the Assistant General Manager for the Mets, brought a unique blend of analytical prowess and front-office experience to the table.

His background, rooted in economics and deeply immersed in the modern, data-driven approach to baseball, made him an intriguing candidate for an Orioles organization looking to redefine its identity. His journey through baseball began in the Commissioner’s Office, followed by significant stints with the Milwaukee Brewers and the Mets, where he was instrumental in player evaluation, contract negotiations, and strategic planning.

This extensive executive experience set him apart from many traditional managerial candidates, who often come from coaching or playing backgrounds.

The Orioles, under new General Manager Mike Elias, were reportedly keen on exploring non-traditional avenues for their next manager. Elias, himself a product of progressive baseball organizations, was open to an executive-turned-manager, a model that has seen success in other sports but is less common in MLB.

Niebrugge’s deep understanding of advanced metrics, player development pipelines, and organizational philosophy aligned perfectly with the analytical direction Elias aimed to instill within the Orioles' system. His interviews were said to have been comprehensive and impressive, showcasing his vision for a modern baseball team.

However, Niebrugge wasn't the only strong name on Baltimore's extensive shortlist.

The Orioles cast a wide net, evaluating a diverse array of candidates from across the league. Other notable names who received consideration included Mark Kotsay, Rocco Baldelli (who went on to manage the Minnesota Twins to significant success), Mike Redmond, David Ross (who later managed the Cubs), and Joe Espada.

Each candidate presented a different philosophy and set of experiences, highlighting the Orioles' thoroughness in their search.

Ultimately, the Orioles opted for Brandon Hyde, then a bench coach for the Chicago Cubs. Hyde's extensive coaching background, his reputation as a strong communicator, and his experience working with young talent in a rebuilding environment proved to be the winning combination.

While Niebrugge's executive acumen was undoubtedly attractive, the Orioles likely prioritized direct dugout leadership and player management experience for their immediate needs. Nonetheless, the fact that a respected front-office mind like Grant Niebrugge came so close to taking the managerial reins in Baltimore offers a compelling glimpse into the diverse pathways considered during one of the most critical transitions in recent Orioles history.