The Unexpected Hockey Heritage of the Atlanta Braves
Atlanta’s duality as a sports city is not limited to the diamond; it extends to the ice as well. The Atlanta Braves, while primarily known for their storied baseball history, share a surprising connection with hockey that speaks to the diverse athleticism found in the region. With a rich history of ice sports, Atlanta has hosted two NHL teams over the past five decades, and the ECHL’s Atlanta Gladiators continue to represent the city during the winter months. This unique intersection of hockey and baseball brings to light the athletic journeys of current and former Braves players who once skated on frozen ponds.
Drake Baldwin’s Hockey Roots
Among the Braves’ current roster, catcher Drake Baldwin stands out as a player with significant hockey experience. His journey began at Madison West High, where he emerged as a star on the ice. Baldwin’s impressive scoring ability caught the attention of local media, including the Wisconsin State Journal, showcasing his talent as a formidable hockey player.
In his final two seasons at Madison West, Baldwin averaged over 40 goals per season—an extraordinary feat that highlights his offensive prowess. He amassed 69 and 70 points in those respective years, averaging nearly three points per game. His skillful play earned him a position on Team Wisconsin’s 15U and 16U squads, solidifying his reputation as a promising athlete.
Tom Glavine: A Hall of Famer’s Hockey Path
The connection between hockey and the Braves runs even deeper with Hall of Fame pitcher Tom Glavine. Many fans recall the 1990s images of Glavine donning a Braves jersey while showcasing his skating abilities. In a remarkable twist of fate, he was selected in both the MLB and NHL drafts in 1984, being picked by the Atlanta Braves and the Los Angeles Kings, respectively.
Glavine’s high school career at Billerica High in Massachusetts further illustrates his hockey talent. During his senior season, he scored an astonishing 47 goals and tallied 94 points in just 23 games, averaging over four points per game. While it’s tempting to wonder what might have been had he pursued a career in the NHL, Glavine’s decision to focus on baseball paid off, leading to two Cy Young Awards and a World Series title.
Interestingly, Glavine’s hockey journey did not end entirely when he chose baseball. In a unique twist, he participated in a single game with the Gwinnett Gladiators during the 2009-10 season, taking the opening faceoff and engaging in pregame warm-ups—a moment that underscored his connection to both sports.
Ted Turner and the Atlanta Sports Landscape
No discussion of Atlanta sports is complete without mentioning Ted Turner, the media mogul who founded the Atlanta Thrashers in 1999. Turner’s ownership of the Thrashers until 2004, though not directly overlapping with his role as owner of the Braves, exemplifies the interconnectedness of Atlanta’s sports culture. His influence raises intriguing questions about the potential trajectory of hockey in Atlanta had he remained involved longer.
As the NHL explores opportunities for expansion, the possibility of a third team in the Atlanta market is on the horizon. Should this dream materialize, it’s easy to envision Baldwin and Glavine participating in ceremonial puck drops or pregame warm-ups, celebrating their unique heritage in a city that embraces both sports.
The intertwining stories of the Braves and hockey reflect a broader narrative about the athletic diversity in Atlanta, reminding fans that the passion for sports transcends the boundaries of individual games. As the hockey season approaches, this rich history adds an exciting dimension to the ongoing legacy of the Atlanta Braves.
