The Atlanta Braves, a professional baseball team based in the Atlanta metropolitan area, compete in MLB's National League East division. Founded in 1871 as the Boston Red Stockings, they are one of the two oldest NL charter franchises and the oldest continuously operating professional sports franchise in North America. The team went through several name changes before adopting "Boston Braves" in 1912.
1900: Beaneaters' Struggles Begin
Starting in 1900, the Boston Beaneaters entered a period of struggles, experiencing limited success over the next several seasons.
1901: American League's Impact on Beaneaters
The emergence of the American League in 1901 had a significant impact on the Boston Beaneaters, as several key players, including star athletes like Duffy and Jimmy Collins, departed to join teams in the rival league.
1907: Beaneaters Drop Red from Stockings
In 1907, due to concerns about infection, the Boston Beaneaters temporarily removed the red color from their stockings, reflecting a unique historical detail about the team's uniform.
1912: Braves Name Officially Adopted
In 1912, the Boston baseball club formally adopted the name "Braves," marking an important moment in the franchise's history.
1912: Boston Braves Adopt New Name
In 1912, the Boston baseball club officially adopted the name "Braves," chosen by team president John M. Ward in reference to owner James Gaffney's association with New York City's Tammany Hall political machine, which used a Native American chief as its symbol.
1913: Beaneaters' Continued Struggles
The Boston Beaneaters' challenges continued until 1913, marking a prolonged period of difficulty for the franchise.
1914: Braves Win World Series
In 1914, the Boston Braves achieved a remarkable feat by winning the World Series, solidifying their place in baseball history.
1914: Braves Seek Larger Venue
In 1914, the Boston Braves realized the South End Grounds was insufficient for growing crowds, leading them to play some games at Fenway Park.
1914: Braves' Historic Turnaround and World Series Win
The 1914 season witnessed a remarkable turnaround for the Boston Braves. Despite a poor start and being in last place by a significant margin, the team rallied to win the National League pennant and then swept the Philadelphia Athletics in the World Series, achieving an improbable and historic championship victory.
August 1915: Braves Field Opens
In August 1915, Braves Field, a state-of-the-art ballpark and the largest in the major leagues at the time, opened its doors to fans, marking a significant development for the Boston Braves franchise.
1915: Construction of Braves Field
Braves Field was constructed in 1915 to provide a more spacious venue for the team.
1917: Start of Braves' Struggles
The period from 1917 to 1933 marked a period of struggles for the Boston Braves, as the team faced various challenges both on and off the field.
1923: Emil Fuchs Buys Braves
In 1923, Emil Fuchs purchased the Boston Braves, bringing a new era of ownership to the franchise.
1925: Christy Mathewson's Death
The death of pitching legend Christy Mathewson in 1925 marked a significant loss for the Boston Braves and the baseball world.
1933: Braves Show Signs of Improvement
In 1933, under the leadership of manager Bill McKechnie, the Boston Braves began to show signs of improvement after years of struggles, offering a glimmer of hope for the future.
1934: Braves Continue to Improve
In 1934, the Boston Braves sustained their improvement under manager Bill McKechnie, further demonstrating their potential for future success.
August 1935: Fuchs Loses Control, Braves Rebranded as Bees
In August 1935, Emil Fuchs lost control of the Boston Braves, and the team was rebranded as the Boston Bees in an attempt to revitalize the struggling franchise.
1945: Braves Logo Evolution Begins
In 1945, the first Braves logo featuring a Native American warrior was introduced.
1946: Braves' Resurgence Under Perini
In 1946, under the ownership of Lou Perini and led by pitcher Warren Spahn, the Boston Braves enjoyed a successful season, marking a resurgence for the team.
1947: Braves' Continued Success
The Boston Braves continued their successful run in 1947, further solidifying their resurgence under Lou Perini's ownership.
1948: Braves Win Pennant
In 1948, the Boston Braves, led by the strong pitching duo of Warren Spahn and Johnny Sain, captured the National League pennant, marking a significant achievement for the franchise.
1948: Braves' Last Hurrah in Boston
The 1948 World Series, which the Braves lost to the Cleveland Indians, proved to be the team's final appearance in a World Series while based in Boston.
1950: Milwaukee County Stadium Built
Milwaukee County Stadium was built in 1950 with the intention of attracting a Major League Baseball team.
1953: Successful Move to Milwaukee
The Milwaukee Braves' relocation to Wisconsin in 1953 proved to be an immediate success, as the team set a National League attendance record and finished second in the league standings. Manager Charlie Grimm also earned NL Manager of the Year honors.
1955: End of First Braves Logo Era
1955 marked the end of the initial Braves logo depicting a Native American warrior.
1956: New Braves Logo with Mohawk
A new Braves logo was revealed in 1956, featuring a laughing Native American with a mohawk and a feather.
1956: Braves' Emergence as NL Powerhouse
Beginning in 1956, the Milwaukee Braves, fueled by the hitting prowess of Eddie Mathews and Hank Aaron, established themselves as a dominant force in the National League, consistently contending for pennants and championships throughout the decade.
1957: Braves Win World Series
The 1957 season was a highlight for the Milwaukee Braves, as Hank Aaron's MVP performance led the team to a National League pennant and a World Series victory against the New York Yankees.
1957: Milwaukee Braves Win World Series
The Milwaukee Braves achieved a major triumph in 1957, winning the World Series with a star-studded roster featuring players like Hank Aaron, Eddie Mathews, and Warren Spahn.
1959: Braves Tie for NL Pennant, Lose Playoff
In 1959, the Milwaukee Braves finished the regular season tied with the Los Angeles Dodgers for the National League pennant, but they lost to the Dodgers in a playoff series to determine the league champion.
1962: Braves Ownership Change
In 1962, the Atlanta Braves were sold by Louis Perini to a group led by William Bartholomay, marking a significant shift in the team's ownership.
1963: Braves Finish Fifth in NL
In 1963, the Milwaukee Braves finished fifth in the National League, their first time in the "second division," marking a setback for the team after several years of contention.
1965: End of Mohawk Logo
The Braves logo featuring the laughing Native American with a mohawk was retired in 1965.
1966: Arrival in Atlanta
The Braves officially moved to Atlanta in 1966, marking a new chapter in the franchise's history.
1969: First NL West Title
In 1969, the Braves won their first National League West Division title, a significant achievement in their early years in Atlanta.
1969: Braves vs. Mets Rivalry Begins
The Braves and Mets had their first major clash in the 1969 NLCS, marking the start of their rivalry.
1969: Previous Divisional Title
The Braves' 1982 divisional title was their first since 1969, indicating a period of rebuilding and renewed success.
1970: Period of Struggle Begins
Between 1970 and 1981, the Braves experienced a period of limited success, posting only two winning seasons.
1973: Hank Aaron Approaches Ruth's Record
By the end of 1973, Hank Aaron was just one home run shy of Babe Ruth's record, creating significant anticipation for the following season.
November 2, 1974: Hank Aaron Traded
On November 2, 1974, Hank Aaron, after achieving his historic 714th home run, was traded from the Atlanta Braves to the Milwaukee Brewers.
1974: Hank Aaron Era Uniform Inspiration
The 1974 Braves uniform served as the inspiration for the 2023 City Connect uniform, paying homage to Hank Aaron's era.
1976: Ted Turner Purchases Braves
In 1976, Ted Turner purchased the Atlanta Braves, using the team to boost his new cable network, WTBS.
May 11, 1977: Ted Turner's Managerial Stint
On May 11, 1977, Ted Turner briefly appointed himself manager of the Braves, a move that lasted only one game due to MLB rules.
1978: Start of Another Challenging Period
The year 1978 marked the start of a period of limited success for the Braves, lasting until 1990.
1981: End of a Challenging Period
The year 1981 marked the end of a challenging period for the Braves, characterized by a lack of consistent winning seasons.
1982: Divisional Title and Murphy's MVP
In 1982, the Braves won another divisional title under manager Joe Torre, and Dale Murphy won the National League MVP award.
1982: Dale Murphy Wins MVP
Dale Murphy won the MVP award in 1982.
1983: Murphy's Second MVP
Dale Murphy won his second consecutive National League MVP award in 1983, solidifying his status as a key player for the Braves.
1983: Dale Murphy Wins Second Consecutive MVP
Dale Murphy won his second consecutive MVP award in 1983.
1987: Modern Braves Logo and Uniform Change
In 1987, the Braves introduced their modern logo featuring the cursive "Braves" wordmark and a tomahawk. They also adopted uniforms inspired by their 1950s look.
1990: Bobby Cox Returns
Bobby Cox returned as manager in 1990, setting the stage for the team's resurgence.
1990: End of a Challenging Period
The year 1990 marked the end of a period of limited success for the Braves.
1991: Bobby Cox Named Manager of the Year
Bobby Cox received the Manager of the Year award in 1991.
1991: Start of the Braves Dynasty
In 1991, the Atlanta Braves began an era of unprecedented success, marked by consecutive division titles and a World Series victory in 1995.
1991: "Tomahawk Chop" Popularized
The "tomahawk chop" became popular among Braves fans in 1991.
1991: Worst to First Season
The Braves' 1991 season became known as the "Worst to First" season, marking a dramatic turnaround and the start of their dominant run.
1991: Start of Braves' Golden Era
The year 1991 marked the beginning of a remarkably successful period for the Atlanta Braves, during which they dominated Major League Baseball for 14 consecutive seasons, winning division titles and consistently contending for championships.
1993: Greg Maddux Wins Cy Young Award
Greg Maddux secured the Cy Young Award in 1993.
1993: Maddux Joins the Braves
In 1993, the Braves added Greg Maddux to their pitching staff, strengthening their roster.
1994: Braves-Mets Rivalry Intensifies
The Braves-Mets rivalry became particularly intense in 1994 when both teams were placed in the National League East.
1994: Greg Maddux Wins Second Consecutive Cy Young
Greg Maddux won his second consecutive Cy Young Award in 1994.
1994: Move to the Eastern Division
In 1994, the Braves moved to the Eastern Division, initiating a rivalry with the New York Mets.
1994: Player's Strike
In 1994, a player's strike disrupted the baseball season, impacting the Braves' momentum.
1995: Greg Maddux Wins Third Consecutive Cy Young
Greg Maddux achieved his third straight Cy Young Award in 1995.
1995: World Series Victory
In 1995, the Atlanta Braves won the World Series, solidifying their place as one of baseball's most dominant teams.
1995: World Series Triumph
The Braves achieved a significant victory in the 1995 World Series, marking a pinnacle of their successful period.
1996: Centennial Olympic Stadium Built
Centennial Olympic Stadium, later repurposed as Turner Field, was built for the 1996 Summer Olympics.
1996: Time Warner Acquisition
In 1996, Time Warner acquired Ted Turner's Turner Broadcasting System, including the Atlanta Braves.
1996: World Series Rematch
The Braves played against the New York Yankees in the 1996 World Series, but were defeated.
1997: Braves Relocate to Turner Field
In 1997, the Braves moved from Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium to Turner Field, which was originally built for the 1996 Summer Olympics.
1999: Another World Series Matchup
In 1999, the Braves once again faced the New York Yankees in the World Series, marking another chapter in their rivalry.
1999: Braves Win NLCS against Mets
The Braves overcame the Mets in the 1999 NLCS, winning their 5th National League pennant of the decade.
1999: Previous NL Pennant
The Braves' 2021 NL pennant was their first since 1999, marking a significant achievement in their quest for another World Series title.
2000: Ninth Consecutive Division Title
In 2000, the Braves won their ninth consecutive division title, demonstrating continued dominance.
2002: Start of Playoff Disappointments
From 2002 to 2004, the Braves experienced early exits in the NLDS despite winning division titles.
2004: Continued Playoff Disappointments
The Braves continued to face playoff disappointments in 2004, highlighting the challenges of maintaining consistent postseason success.
2004: Bobby Cox's Second Manager of the Year Award
Bobby Cox was named Manager of the Year for the second time in 2004.
December 2005: Braves Put Up for Sale
In December 2005, Time Warner put the Atlanta Braves up for sale, marking a potential shift in ownership.
2005: Bobby Cox's Third Manager of the Year Award
Bobby Cox earned his third Manager of the Year Award in 2005.
2005: End of Braves' Dominant Run
In 2005, the Atlanta Braves' streak of 14 consecutive division titles came to an end, concluding a period of exceptional success and dominance in Major League Baseball.
2005: Previous Playoff Appearance
The Braves' 2010 playoff appearance was their first since 2005, ending a period of postseason absence.
2005: End of an Era
The year 2005 marked the end of the Braves' remarkable run of 14 consecutive division titles, signifying a turning point in the team's history.
February 2007: Liberty Media Acquisition
In February 2007, Liberty Media acquired the Atlanta Braves after a period of negotiations.
2007: End of National Braves Broadcasts on TBS
Until 2007, Braves games were broadcast nationally on TBS, leading to a nationwide fan base and the moniker "America's Team".
2010: Bobby Cox's Final Season
The year 2010 marked Bobby Cox's final season as manager of the Braves, concluding a long and successful tenure.
2012: Chipper Jones' Final Season
The 2012 season marked Chipper Jones' final year with the Braves, concluding a distinguished career.
2016: Braves' Last Season at Turner Field
2016 marked the final season the Braves played at Turner Field.
April 14, 2017: Truist Park Opening
The Braves inaugurated Truist Park on April 14, 2017, with a four-game sweep against the San Diego Padres, marking the start of their tenure at the new stadium.
2017: Move to Truist Park and New GM
In 2017, the Braves moved to Truist Park and appointed Alex Anthopoulos as general manager after a scandal led to John Coppolella's resignation.
March 24, 2019: CoolToday Park Opens
On March 24, 2019, CoolToday Park, the Braves' new spring training facility and year-round rehabilitation center, opened with a Braves win over the Tampa Bay Rays.
2019: Tomahawk Chop Controversy Resurfaces
The tomahawk chop controversy was renewed in 2019 after criticism from St. Louis Cardinals pitcher Ryan Helsley.
2020: Empty Stadiums Due to COVID-19
In 2020, MLB stadiums were devoid of fans due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
2020: Braves Address Tomahawk Chop Concerns
In 2020, amidst calls to change their name, the Braves initiated discussions regarding the tomahawk chop while stating their team name would remain.
2020: NLCS Appearance
In 2020, the Braves reached the National League Championship Series but lost to the Dodgers after leading 3-1.
2021: World Series Champions
In 2021, the Braves won the World Series, their first since 1995.
2021: Ongoing Tomahawk Chop Debate and Cultural Initiatives
In 2021, the debate surrounding the tomahawk chop continued, with some Native American leaders expressing different viewpoints. The Braves collaborated with the Eastern Cherokee Band of Indians to incorporate Cherokee language and culture into team activities and merchandise.
2022: Braves Secure NL East Title over Mets
In 2022, the Braves clinched the NL East title and a first-round bye after sweeping a pivotal series against the Mets.
2023: Andruw Jones' Number Retired
Andruw Jones' number 25 was retired by the Braves in 2023.
2023: Braves' Uniform Combinations
During the 2023 season, the Braves sported four uniform combinations: the classic white home, gray road, navy blue alternate road, a Friday night red, and a Saturday City Connect uniform honoring Hank Aaron. The City Connect uniform features "The A" and 1974 uniform colors.
December 20, 2024: Roster Update
On December 20, 2024, the Atlanta Braves updated their roster, including coaches and non-roster invitees. The depth chart was also updated, reflecting changes to the active roster, injured list, suspended list, and other player statuses.
2024: Braves' Overall Record Update
By the end of the 2024 season, the Atlanta Braves had compiled an overall win-loss record of 11,114-10,949-154 (.504), reflecting the franchise's long and storied history. Since moving to Atlanta in 1966, the Braves' win-loss record is 4,850-4,461-8 (.521).