Atlanta Braves: The 4 players who are on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore

The Atlanta Braves, a storied franchise with a rich history spanning more than 150 years, have seen numerous baseball legends grace their roster. From iconic home run hitters to dominant pitchers, these players have left an indelible mark on the team and its fans.

Just as Mount Rushmore commemorates the most important figures in American history, it’s only fitting to create an Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore to honor the four greatest players in the team’s history.

The Braves’ history goes beyond the friendly confines of Turner Field and Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium, but within those hallowed walls, we find the careers of the four players who make up what we believe to be the team’s Mount Rushmore. From Boston to Atlanta, with a stopover in Milwaukee, from the Red Stockings, Beaneaters, Doves and Rustlers to the Braves, they have had some fantastic players. It’s not easy to narrow it down to just four, but there are the players who we believe should be on the franchise’s Mount Rushmore.

The Greatest of All Time: Hank Aaron

Position: Outfielder & First Baseman

Career: 1954-1974

Years with Braves: 1954-1974

Primary Stats: .310 batting average, 3,600 hits, 733 home runs

Accolades: 25-time All-Star, 1-time MVP, 3-time Gold Glove, 2-time batting champion

When discussing the Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore, one name immediately comes to mind: Hank Aaron. Revered as one of the greatest players in baseball history, Aaron’s impact on the Braves and the sport as a whole is immeasurable. Over his illustrious career, he amassed remarkable statistics, including a .305 batting average, 3,771 hits, and a jaw-dropping 755 home runs. Aaron’s ability to consistently deliver powerful hits and his unwavering dedication to the game made him a standout player.

Beyond his statistical achievements, Aaron’s legacy extends far beyond the baseball diamond. As a symbol of resilience and perseverance, he faced racial adversity with grace and courage. Breaking Babe Ruth’s home run record in 1974, Aaron became an inspiration for generations of players and fans alike.

His contributions to the Braves and the sport as a whole make him an undeniable choice for the Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore.

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The face of the Atlanta Braves: Chipper Jones

Position: Third Baseman

Career: 1993-2012

Years with Braves: 1993-2012

Primary Stats: .303 batting average, 2,726 hits, 468 home runs

Accolades: 8-time All-Star, 1-time MVP, 2-time Silver Slugger, 2-time batting champion

Chipper Jones, the beloved third baseman who spent his entire career with the Atlanta Braves, holds a special place in the hearts of fans. Known for his smooth swing and impeccable fielding skills, Jones became the face of the franchise during his 19 seasons in Atlanta. With a career batting average of .303, 2,726 hits, and 468 home runs, he consistently displayed his prowess at the plate.

Jones’ impact on the Braves extended beyond his on-field performance. His leadership and mentorship of younger players earned him the respect of his teammates and the admiration of fans. The accolades he accumulated, including an MVP award and multiple All-Star selections, further solidify his place in Braves history.

Chipper Jones’ dedication to the team and his remarkable skills make him an undeniable choice for the Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore.

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The Legendary Trio: John Smoltz, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine

John Smoltz – SP/RP – (1988-2008)

Greg Maddux – SP – (1993-2003)

Tom Glavine – SP – (1987-2002, 2008)

The Atlanta Braves’ success in the 1990s can be attributed, in large part, to the trio of pitchers named John Smoltz, Greg Maddux, and Tom Glavine. These three legendary hurlers formed the backbone of one of the most dominant pitching staffs in baseball history, collectively earning multiple Cy Young awards and leading the Braves to multiple World Series appearances.

Smoltz, known for his versatility as both a starter and a closer, showcased his skills on the mound throughout his 21-year career. With an ERA of 3.26 and 3,011 strikeouts during his 20-year career with Atlanta, Smoltz played a crucial role in the Braves’ success. His ability to consistently deliver under pressure and his fierce competitiveness made him a fan favorite.

Maddux, renowned for his pinpoint control and exceptional command, mesmerized hitters with his precise pitching. With an impressive career ERA of 3.16 and 355 wins, Maddux exemplified excellence on the mound. His ability to manipulate the ball’s movement and location was unparalleled, earning him four Cy Young awards and a reputation as one of the greatest pitchers of all time.

Glavine, a crafty left-hander, complemented his fellow pitching counterparts with his own brand of finesse. With a career ERA of 3.54 and two Cy Young awards, Glavine consistently performed at a high level. His ability to navigate through lineups with his deceptive changeup and strategic pitch selection made him a formidable force on the mound.

Although it’s challenging to choose just one of these three remarkable pitchers for the Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore, we must narrow it down to just two. In this case, Maddux’s unparalleled command and dominance on the mound make him the ideal choice. Lastly, Smoltz edges out Glavine due to his dominance as a starter and a closer.