The Atlanta Braves, one of the most successful Major League Baseball teams in recent memory, have a long history of superstition and tradition. From their signature tomahawk chop to their signature chant, they have made their fan base proud and enthusiastic. But there is one tradition that has been around since the team’s inception in 1966 that may surprise some people: the tradition of a Braves player wearing pearls during games.
The Tradition of Wearing Pearls
The tradition of a Braves player wearing pearls during games started with the team’s first manager, Chuck Tanner. When Tanner was hired in 1966, he decided to bring a bit of luck to the team by encouraging one of his players to wear a string of pearls during games. The player who was chosen was Hank Aaron, who was then the team’s star outfielder. Aaron accepted the challenge and began wearing pearls during games, believing that it would bring luck and good fortune to the team.
The Meaning of the Pearls
The pearls that Aaron wore during games had a very specific meaning for him and for the team. For Aaron, the pearls represented his strength and courage, as well as his determination to succeed. They were also a reminder of his humble beginnings and his commitment to taking the team to the top. For the team, the pearls were a symbol of unity and team spirit, as well as a reminder of the team’s commitment to excellence.
Other Braves Players Who Wear Pearls
Since Aaron’s tenure with the Braves, other players have taken up the tradition of wearing pearls during games. These players have done so for the same reasons that Aaron did: to bring luck and unity to the team. Some of the players who have worn pearls during games include Chipper Jones, John Smoltz, Andruw Jones, and Brian McCann.
The Legacy of the Pearls
The legacy of the pearls that Aaron started with the Braves is still going strong today. It is a tradition that has been passed down from generation to generation and is a reminder of the team’s commitment to excellence and unity. The pearls are a symbol of the team’s dedication to its fans and its commitment to winning.
Conclusion
The tradition of a Braves player wearing pearls during games is one that has been around since the team’s inception in 1966. It started with Hank Aaron and has since been passed down to other players who believe it brings luck and unity to the team. The pearls are a reminder of the team’s commitment to excellence and its dedication to its fans. They are a symbol of the team’s legacy and its ongoing success.