The Honorable Mentions: Warren Spahn and Phil Niekro
Warren Spahn – SP – (1942-1964)
Phil Niekro – SP – (1964-1983)
While the Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore features four players, it’s essential to acknowledge the incredible careers of Warren Spahn and Phil Niekro. These two legendary pitchers left an indelible mark on the Braves’ franchise and deserve honorable mentions for their contributions.
Spahn, a dominant left-handed pitcher, spent the majority of his career with the Braves and became a symbol of excellence on the mound. Despite missing three seasons due to military service, Spahn’s career ERA of 3.09 and 363 wins highlight his remarkable achievements. His longevity and consistency solidify his status as one of the best pitchers in franchise history.
Niekro, renowned for his mastery of the knuckleball, mesmerized hitters with his unpredictable pitches. With a career spanning almost two decades with the Braves, Niekro amassed an impressive 3.20 ERA and 2,912 strikeouts with the franchise. His unique pitching style and ability to deceive batters made him a perennial threat on the mound.
While Spahn and Niekro narrowly missed the Atlanta Braves’ Mount Rushmore, their contributions to the franchise’s history cannot be overlooked. Their skill, dedication, and impact on the game deserve recognition and appreciation.