An ode to Charlie Culberson, an Atlanta Braves cult hero

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A fan favorite of the Braves is no longer with the team. It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise given that Charlie Culberson was designated for assignment last September. However, there may have been some hope because the Braves released him in 2019 just to sign him again. Well, those hopes were quickly dashed before the new year when Charlie Culberson signed a minor-league deal with the Texas Rangers.

So, what better way to honor his time in Atlanta than to remind fans of his best moments?

Let’s begin on May 28th, 2018. The division-rival Mets were confident with their Cy Young winner starting the game, but the Braves were able to keep it close and get to New York’s bullpen. Seth Lugo is on the mound with a runner on in the ninth, and Charlie Clutch steps into the box, coming through with the third walk-off of his career.

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On June 4th of that same year, against the Nationals, Culberson steps up to the plate with Tanner Roark on the mound, and with one swing, he sends the Braves home winners.

But wait, there’s more, and we’re still in 2018.

July 7th, in the dead of summer, the Braves are up 4-3 against yet another division rival in the Marlins. Miami has the bases loaded with zero outs. Charlie, who traditionally is an infielder, is playing left field. Neil Walker hits a line drive, but Culberson’s natural instincts kick in, resulting in arguably the play of the 2018 season.

On September 14th, 2019, an unimaginably emotional moment happened. Charlie was hit in the face with a pitch, fracturing multiple bones and teeth. It was a terrible sight for everyone. Even Brian Snitker held back tears when updating the media on Culberson’s status. Fortunately, he recovered in time to be present when the Braves clinched the division, and he ran out to the field to celebrate with everyone, black eye and all.

Unfortunately, all good things come to an end. Culberson’s clutch mojo and overall offensive production began to fade after a scorching hot start to 2019. In his final 111 plate appearances that year, he hit a mere .194. Those struggles continued into 2020, which saw him eventually designated for assignment. However, that doesn’t take away from the team-first attitude and many heroic moments he provided Braves Country. He will always be a welcome face back at Truist Park.

Best of luck on the Rangers Charlie, we are all rooting for you!

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