The Atlanta Braves and a few of their players looked quite good in a recent poll conducted by The Athletic among over 100 players on a range of subjects. The players were mostly asked which team, absent roster restrictions and state taxes, they would most like to play for. The Atlanta Braves, who were placed top by a considerable margin, were mentioned by 12.7% of the players. The Boston Red Sox, with 9.3% of the vote, came in second.
Given that the players were instructed not to consider the roster’s current situation, it is a little shocking. One could assume that the Yankees, Dodgers, or Red Sox would place first. Teams with a long history that are frequently shown on national television. But in this poll, none of them really put up a fight against the Braves, which says two things.
Above all, it demonstrates the kind of national brand the Braves have, which is largely a result of their tenure on TBS under Ted Turner’s ownership. Because Braves baseball was televised across the country, they had a fan base that few other teams can match. There’s a reason why every player who visits Atlanta appears to talk about how they grew up as a Braves fan.
It also bears witness to the successful culture Atlanta has fostered over many years. From Terry Pendleton, to Chipper Jones, to Freddie Freeman, and now to players like Austin Riley and Ronald Acuña Jr., it started in the early 1990s.
The Atlanta Braves have a particular style of play. It’s a more laid-back hangout with a persistent penchant for winning baseball games. Everyone is pulling in the same direction from the top down, and ownership has done a fantastic job providing Alex Anthopoulos with all he needs to create a successful, long-lasting company.
It’s hard to be an Atlanta Braves fan and not be frustrated, even when the team is now experiencing a very tough baseball season.
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