An underrated subplot of Brian McCann’s return to Atlanta was his uniform No. 16.

Charlie Culberson, another Georgia-boy-turned-Brave, donned McCann’s number during his first season in the uniform. McCann wore the number through his entire Braves career (2005-13).

The question was answered quickly: McCann and Culberson spoke, and the former got his old number back. He wore the No. 16 during his (re-)introductory news conference Monday.

“I’ll have to buy him something nice,” McCann said. “It (the number) is special.”

Culberson’s new number hasn’t been revealed. His past numbers - 6, 23, 37 - are unavailable.

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Atlanta Braves shortstop Ha-Seong Kim throws to first for the groundout hit by Chicago Cubs third base Matt Shaw during the seventh inning of a baseball game at Truist Park, Tuesday, Sept. 9, 2025, in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / AJC)

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