Call it “Growing up a Schuerholz.’’
It’s never easy trying to follow in the footsteps of a famous father who brought Atlanta its only world championship in sports, but the son of the Braves former general manager who now sits on top of the club as president has done just fine.
Still, along the way for Jonathan Schuerholz there were a few, let’s say, “What did Daddy do for you” moments.
The one he remembers most is when he was the second baseman at Single-A Rome in 2003 for a team that won the South Atlantic League.
“I heard a lot of things,’’ said the younger Schuerholz. “But when we were in Charleston some guy yells, ‘Hey Jon, don’t worry about it. My dad got me my job, too.’ But I learned at a young age to embrace it and not be combative. They were always trying to get a rise out of me.’’
For Jonathan, his father’s success certainly opened doors and he added, “Yes, I had access to more skills and instruction. Yes, there were times at spring training when a player after two hours of workouts would come down and take 30 minutes of infield with the GM’s son. But I don’t think it is any different than following in any other father’s footsteps. I feel I have achieved a lot on my own.’’
Since his minor league playing career ended after the 2008 season, Schuerholz had a successful minor league managing career and now is the assistant director of player development for the Braves.
“When I was playing I learned to even to have fun with it. and it was a friendly banter,’’ he said. “I always take my job seriously. I take being a husband seriously. I take being a dad seriously. But I don’t take myself too seriously. It never ruined my day.’’
About the Author
