Atlanta Braves next MLB team in line for a name change

PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 25: Ozzie Albies #1 of the Atlanta Braves enters the dugout with his bats before a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on July 25, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, PA - JULY 25: Ozzie Albies #1 of the Atlanta Braves enters the dugout with his bats before a game against the Philadelphia Phillies at Citizens Bank Park on July 25, 2021 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)

The Atlanta Braves have a storied franchise history that stretches all across the United States. The team began in Boston, before moving to Milwaukee, before ultimately settling down in Atlanta. But some more change could be coming.

The Braves just got a new stadium so there is no fear of relocation or anything drastic like that. However, the fact the Cleveland Indians just changed their name to the Guardians could put the Braves on the clock for a new name.

A new name could be coming in Atlanta

This post is not being written to advocate for a new name. It is just a fact that teams with Native American-themed names are beginning to make changes. First came the Washington Football Team, followed by the soon-to-be Cleveland Guardians.

The main issue for those with the Braves name is the tomahawk logo and “chop” done at games. One fun solution being floated around is to call the team the “Hammers,” after the great Hank Aaron. The logo can be a quick switch to an actual hammer and the team’s new name would honor one of the best players of all time.

A potential name change in Atlanta is not shocking news and a quick Google search reveals petitions and articles calling for a new name. Before the Indians decided to change, the Braves did not have as much pressure on them. But MLB could now be calling ownership in Atlanta telling them to start thinking about a rebrand.

Fans are allowed to think whatever they want about such a matter. Ultimately, change is coming at some point and the Indians proved that with the switch to Guardians. If the Braves are forced to change, honoring Aaron in the process would be a way to cool off the angriest fans out there.