In the dugout, strategy meets instinct. Leadership inspires greatness. Tonight, Major League Baseball recognizes the masterminds behind the game’s most remarkable turnarounds, thrilling comebacks, and championship seasons. The 2024 Manager of the Year Award celebrates the exceptional tacticians and motivators who elevated their teams to unprecedented heights. Stephen Vogt of the Cleveland Guardians and Pat Murphy of the Milwaukee Brewers took home American and National League Manager of the Year for 2024.

American League: Stephen Vogt, Cleveland Guardians

The former player-turned-manager Vogt guided the Guardians to a division title and the American League’s second-best record. This impressive feat was all the more notable given the loss of ace right-hander Shane Bieber in the first week of the season. A key factor in the Guardians’ success was Vogt’s adept management of the bullpen, anchored by the dominant Emanuel Clase. By leveraging his relievers effectively, Vogt ensured they remained fresh and impactful throughout the season.

Vogt’s stellar debut bodes well for a bright future in Cleveland. Moreover, his Manager of the Year award sets a new record for the fastest transition from player to award winner. Vogt eclipses Joe Girardi‘s mark, set in 2006 after retiring in 2003. The Guardians are now tied with the Chicago White Sox for most Manager of the Year wins with five. Vogt joins three-time winner Terry Francona (2013, 2016, 2022) and Eric Wedge (2007).

National League: Pat Murphy, Milwaukee Brewers

As Craig Counsell‘s former right-hand man, Murphy’s transition to the top spot was seamless. He inherited a team with a strong track record, having made the postseason five times in six years. But with Corbin Burnes traded away and closer Devin Williams sidelined by a back injury, the odds were against them. Murphy proved the doubters wrong. Under his watch, the Brewers played sharp, detail-driven baseball, clinching their third National League Central title in four years. It took a team effort that included 17 different starters, 12 different pitchers earning a save and young players up and down the roster.

The Sporting News’ Manager of the Year award, voted on by fellow managers, adds to the prestige of Murphy’s achievement. Murphy is the Brewers’ first Manager of the Year. He is the 10th winner who did not play in the major leagues. The others: four-time winner Buck Showalter, three-time winners Jim Leyland and Joe Maddon, two-winner Jack McKeon along with Jim Frey, John McNamara, Brian Snitker, Mike Shildt and Brandon Hyde.