Atlanta Braves
History
The Atlanta Braves are a professional baseball team based in Atlanta, Georgia. The franchise was established in 1871 as the Boston Red Stockings and is one of the oldest continuously operating professional sports franchises in the United States. The team underwent several name changes and relocations before settling in Atlanta in 1966.
Early Years in Boston
The team was originally known as the Boston Red Stockings and was a charter member of the National Association of Professional Base Ball Players, the first professional baseball league. In 1876, the team joined the newly formed National League. Over the years, the team was known by various names, including the Boston Beaneaters, Boston Doves, and Boston Rustlers. In 1912, the team adopted the name Boston Braves.
Move to Milwaukee
In 1953, the franchise relocated to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, becoming the Milwaukee Braves. The move was a response to declining attendance and financial difficulties in Boston. The Braves found immediate success in Milwaukee, winning the World Series in 1957 and the National League pennant in 1958.
Relocation to Atlanta
The team moved to Atlanta in 1966, becoming the first Major League Baseball team in the southeastern United States. The move was part of a broader strategy to expand the league's geographic reach. The Braves played their home games at Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium until 1996, when they moved to Turner Field. In 2017, the team relocated to Truist Park in Cobb County, a suburb of Atlanta.
Team Identity
Team Colors and Mascot
The Braves' team colors are navy blue, scarlet red, and white. The team's mascot is a character named "Blooper," introduced in 2018. The mascot is a large, furry creature designed to entertain fans and engage with the community.
Logos and Uniforms
The Braves' primary logo features a tomahawk, a symbol that has been associated with the team since the 1940s. The team's uniforms have undergone several changes over the years, but they have consistently featured the tomahawk logo and the team's distinctive color scheme.
Performance and Achievements
World Series Titles
The Braves have won the World Series four times: in 1914, 1957, 1995, and 2021. The 1995 World Series victory was particularly significant as it marked the team's first championship since relocating to Atlanta.
National League Pennants
The Braves have won a total of 18 National League pennants, with the most recent coming in 2021. The team has also won numerous division titles, particularly during the 1990s and early 2000s, when they dominated the National League East.
Notable Players
The Braves have been home to many Hall of Fame players, including Hank Aaron, Chipper Jones, and Greg Maddux. Hank Aaron, in particular, is celebrated for breaking Babe Ruth's career home run record in 1974.
Management and Ownership
Ownership History
The Braves have had several owners throughout their history. The team was owned by Ted Turner from 1976 to 1996, during which time it became one of the most successful franchises in baseball. The team is currently owned by Liberty Media, which acquired the franchise in 2007.
General Managers and Managers
The Braves have had numerous general managers and field managers over the years. Notable general managers include John Schuerholz, who played a key role in building the team's successful rosters in the 1990s. Bobby Cox, who managed the team from 1978 to 1981 and again from 1990 to 2010, is one of the most respected managers in baseball history.
Ballparks
Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium
The Braves played at Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium from 1966 to 1996. The stadium was known for its circular design and was one of the first multi-purpose stadiums in the United States.
Turner Field
In 1997, the Braves moved to Turner Field, which was originally built as the main stadium for the 1996 Summer Olympics. Turner Field was known for its fan-friendly amenities and modern design.
Truist Park
The Braves moved to Truist Park in 2017. The stadium is located in Cobb County and is part of a larger mixed-use development known as The Battery Atlanta. Truist Park features state-of-the-art facilities and has been praised for its fan experience.
Community Engagement
Braves Foundation
The Braves Foundation is the team's charitable arm, focused on supporting youth programs, education, and community development. The foundation organizes various events and initiatives throughout the year to engage with the community and support local causes.
Fan Base
The Braves have a large and dedicated fan base, particularly in the southeastern United States. The team's success in the 1990s and early 2000s helped to build a strong following, and the team continues to enjoy robust support from fans.