The Braves’ home opener Monday was also a homecoming for one of the most beloved figures in recent team history.
Catcher Brian McCann made his third start in four games, managing left-hander Sean Newcomb against a deep Cubs lineup. Even though it’s mostly new faces and a new ballpark, the Georgia native and former Brave felt back where he belongs.
And it didn't take him long to get reacquainted: McCann singled in two runs in his first at-bat, helping the Braves to an early lead they wouldn't surrender in an 8-0 win.
“These are the moments I’ll think about when I’m done playing the game,” said McCann, who received a resounding ovation as he stepped to the plate. “To come back home and play in front of these fans, it’s very special to me. I was here for a long time. I’m homegrown. I’ve lived in Atlanta my whole life. This is my home. It meant a lot to me.”
McCann glanced over to his brother in the crowd right after the hit. Brad, Brian’s elder by a year, will be at all the games.
“Those are the things — a big reason I wanted to come back,” McCann said.
The ensuing inning, McCann reached and advanced on two Anthony Rizzo errors on the same play. McCann joked his speed isn’t to be trifled with.
It was an eventful return for an individual who’s spent his life loving the Braves. Once ushered in as a ‘Baby Brave’ himself, his new role is guiding the franchise’s next wave of prospects.
McCann played for the Braves from 2005-13. He hit .277/.350/.473 with 176 homers and 661 RBIs across 1,105 games with a tomahawk on his chest. McCann had stints with the Yankees and Astros before re-signing with his hometown club in November.
The 35-year-old went 1-for-6 with two walks in the Braves’ first series. He’ll split time with fellow backstop Tyler Flowers, though McCann will likely handle more of the catching duties.
“It’s just nice to be back home,” McCann said before the game. “It’s nice to be back in Atlanta and play in front of these fans. So that definitely gives you a shot of adrenaline, playing in front of your family for a season.”
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