As the 2024 season comes to an end, Charlie Culberson, a Braves folk legend, has formally declared his retirement from baseball.
Despite never being more than a replacement-level player, Charlie Culberson carved out an 11-year major-league career for himself, thanks in large part to his popularity among teammates and his ability to do it all.
Culberson spent parts of four seasons with the Braves, starting with a career year in 2018 when he appeared in 113 games and had an OPS of.792. He was then known as Charlie Clutch in Braves Country for his late-game heroics at the plate and on the field.
Culberson’s versatility helped him stay in the game for a long period.
This is a prime example of that. He played at least one game in every position except catcher and centerfield. He also pitched and was extremely successful, turning heads with his mid-90s heater.
That is exactly how his career will conclude as well. During the offseason, Charlie Culberson decided to give it one more shot, this time as a pitcher alone. Given his experience with the Braves, Alex Anthopoulos reasoned, “Why not?” and signed him to a minor league contract. However, he did not make the team out of Spring Training and is now officially retiring from the game.
It was one helluva career. Enjoy your retirement, Charlie Culberson!
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