The past few days have brought a flurry of activity for Braves fans, and while major developments have taken center stage, smaller updates may have gone unnoticed.
Here’s a roundup that covers everything from Andruw Jones’ Hall of Fame candidacy to intriguing roster updates.
Andruw Jones and His Hall of Fame Journey
This week marked the release of the Hall of Fame ballot, which features 26 candidates, including newcomers Adrian Beltre, Joe Mauer, and Chase Utley. Former Braves star Andruw Jones remains on the ballot as well.
Voters can select up to ten candidates, and players who fail to secure 75% of the vote within ten years are left to the “Era Committee,” which evaluates key contributors from specific periods.
This committee, for example, inducted former Braves first baseman Fred McGriff for his post-1980 accomplishments.
Jones now appears on his seventh ballot, earning 58.1% of the vote in 2023—an encouraging 17% increase over the previous year.
He is nearing the 75% threshold needed for induction. Joining the ballot for the first time this year are former Braves Bartolo Colon (2017) and Brandon Phillips (2017), while Billy Wagner, another ex-Brave, is in his ninth year of eligibility after receiving 68.1% in 2023.
Tyler Matzek’s Number Change
Reliever Tyler Matzek, remembered for his heroics in the 2021 postseason, has been sidelined since undergoing Tommy John surgery in early 2022. He’s expected to return during 2024 spring training and may wear a new number.
The Braves’ online roster initially listed Matzek with #21, a number previously retired in 1965 to honor Hall of Famer Warren Spahn.
Spahn, who wore #21 after his military service, achieved 363 career wins, a 3.09 ERA, and an impressive 100 WAR. A 17-time All-Star, he secured the 1957 Cy Young Award and left an enduring legacy.
However, no formal announcement has been made about reactivating #21, and it may have been an error. The roster now shows Matzek as #68, suggesting the earlier listing was incorrect.
Kyle Wright Bids Farewell to Atlanta
Starting pitcher Kyle Wright, recently traded to the Kansas City Royals for Jackson Kowar, expressed his gratitude to Atlanta through a heartfelt Instagram post.
In his message, Wright thanked the Braves for the chance to play for his childhood favorite team, reflecting on cherished memories and lifelong friendships.
He also acknowledged the support of fans and the faith of those who believed in him, even during his struggles. Looking ahead, he pledged to give his all to the Royals organization and contribute to its success.
Wright, recovering from shoulder surgery, is expected to miss the entire 2024 season. In 2022, his last full year, he led the league with 21 wins, made 30 starts, and recorded a 3.19 ERA.
He enters arbitration in 2024 and is on track to become a free agent in 2027. Stay tuned for ongoing coverage of all things Braves, from offseason trades to the Winter Meetings and free agency updates.
