The Atlanta Braves made a significant move in 1966, relocating from Milwaukee to their new home in Atlanta, Georgia. This transition marked a new chapter for the franchise, which had a long history dating back to 1871. The team settled into Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium, a multi-purpose venue that would serve as their home field for three decades, from 1966 until 1996. The initial years in Atlanta saw the team establish its presence in the National
League, navigating the challenges of a new city and striving for on-field success.
Establishing a New Home and Early Performance
Upon their arrival in Atlanta, the Braves quickly became a focal point for local sports fans. Their first manager in Atlanta was Bobby Bragan, who had previously managed the team for three seasons during its time in Milwaukee. The team's performance in its inaugural years in Atlanta was respectable, posting an 85–77 record in 1966, followed by a 77–85 record in 1967, and an 81–81 record in 1968. The 1967 season marked the club's first losing campaign since 1952, which was its final year in Boston.
Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium was built to attract a Major League Baseball team, and its completion facilitated the Braves' move. The stadium was shared with the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League for 26 years. Construction of the stadium was completed on April 9, 1965, at a cost of $18 million. The Braves signed a 25-year agreement to play there, beginning in 1966. The stadium's name was later changed to Atlanta–Fulton County Stadium on February 11, 1975, after the county threatened to withdraw financial support.
The 1969 Pennant and Hank Aaron's Historic Pursuit
A significant milestone for the Atlanta Braves came in 1969 with the introduction of divisional play in Major League Baseball. Under manager Lum Harris, the Braves won the first-ever National League West pennant. This achievement was a testament to the team's growing strength in its new city. However, their postseason run was cut short as they were swept in three games by the "Miracle Mets" in the inaugural National League Championship Series. Despite the loss, winning the pennant in their fourth season in Atlanta was a notable accomplishment.
During this period, Hank Aaron continued to be a dominant force for the Braves. He thrived in the relatively hitter-friendly environment of Atlanta Stadium, which was nicknamed "The Launching Pad." By the end of the 1973 season, Aaron had amassed 713 career home runs, just one shy of Babe Ruth's long-standing record. The following season, on April 4, 1974, Aaron hit his 714th home run in Cincinnati, tying Ruth's record. Just four days later, on April 8, in front of his home fans in Atlanta, he broke the record by hitting his 715th home run off Al Downing of the Los Angeles Dodgers. Aaron would eventually conclude his career with 755 home runs, with all but 22 of them hit in a Braves uniform. The team also saw other batting champions during this era, including Rico Carty in 1970 and Ralph Garr in 1974.
