In Major League Baseball, the Atlanta Braves are regarded as one of the best-run teams. The Braves, who have consistently been a contender for the World Series, are regarded as having one of the best clubhouses and the most consistency of any MLB team. Several trade acquisitions have signed below-market-rate extensions to stay with the organization, and numerous players have stated their desire to stay in Atlanta for the long run.
Kevin Pillar, a former Braves outfielder, is the most recent illustration of baseball’s affection for Atlanta’s clubhouse. He said he wanted to go back because the 2023 season in Atlanta was one of the best of his career in an interview with the YouTube program Foul Territory.
“I would have done everything to return there. Playing baseball has made me happier than it has ever been. I had the best time I’ve ever had. Everything about it was perfect—the players, the culture, the winning, the city. But since I didn’t have that option, it was time for me to move on.”
Baseball is a challenging sport. Atlanta traded for Seattle Mariners outfielder Jarred Kelenic in order to acquire an everyday starter, even though Pillar was a fantastic fit in the clubhouse and played a crucial role as the short side of a platoon with the now-departed Eddie Rosario. Atlanta’s appeal as a travel destination is demonstrated by, At the conclusion of spring training, they were able to re-sign veteran Adam Duvall for a single year so he could share time with Kelenic.
Shortly after the 2023 season concluded, Pillar shared a farewell message on social media. As spring training began, he later inked a non-guaranteed contract with the Chicago White Sox. After a sluggish start to his time in Chicago (4-25, home run included), he was designated for assignment after the White Sox signed veteran Tommy Pham to a one-year contract. Instead of going to AAA Charlotte, Pillar elected to use his free agency and signed a major league contract with the Los Angeles Angels, rejoining former Braves third base coach Ron Washington as the Angels manager. Superstar Mike Trout was placed on the disabled list due to a torn meniscus, which will require surgery and keep him out for two to three months. Pillar is likely to take Trout’s place on the roster.
