The rivalry between the Atlanta Braves and the Miami Marlins in Major League Baseball (MLB) has been marked by intense competition and iconic moments on the diamond.
With both teams competing in the National League East division, their matchups have captivated baseball fans and sparked passionate rivalries.
The Braves, boasting a rich and storied history, have won multiple division titles and World Series championships, solidifying their position as a perennial contender.
Meanwhile, the Marlins, a younger franchise, have etched their own legacy with two World Series titles. As these teams clash on the field, the stage is set for thrilling showdowns and memorable battles in this enduring rivalry.
History: Atlanta Braves Vs Miami Marlins
Franchise History
Atlanta Braves: The franchise’s history dates back to 1871 as the Boston Red Stockings, making them one of the oldest professional baseball teams. They later moved to Milwaukee and then to Atlanta in 1966. The Braves have won multiple NL East titles and NL pennants and have claimed three World Series championships (1914, 1957, 1995).
Miami Marlins: The Marlins were established in 1993 as an expansion team and are one of the younger franchises in MLB. Despite their relatively short history, they have made a significant impact.
The Marlins have won two World Series titles (1997, 2003), both times as the NL Wild Card team. Their success in the postseason has been notable, even with fewer overall playoff appearances compared to the Braves.
Success and Playoff Appearances
Atlanta Braves: The Braves have been consistent contenders throughout their history. During the 1990s, they were one of the dominant teams in baseball, winning 14 consecutive division titles from 1991 to 2005.
This period included the 1995 World Series victory. While they experienced postseason success, they also faced some heartbreak, including losing five World Series appearances (in 1948, 1957, 1991, 1992, and 1996).Miami Marlins: The Marlins’ success has been more sporadic due to their shorter history. However, they have a remarkable postseason track record. Despite having only made the playoffs a few times, they have managed to capture two World Series championships (1997 and 2003).
Their World Series wins came as Wild Card teams, showcasing their ability to perform well under pressure during the playoffs.
Notable Players and Legacies
Atlanta Braves: The Braves have been home to several baseball legends throughout their long history. Players like Hank Aaron, Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz have had iconic careers with the Braves and are enshrined in the Baseball Hall of Fame.
Miami Marlins: Despite their shorter existence, the Marlins have also seen some remarkable talents don their uniform. Notable players include Jeff Conine, Gary Sheffield, Josh Beckett, Miguel Cabrera, Giancarlo Stanton (Giancarlo Cruz), and Jose Fernandez (may he rest in peace).
These players have left lasting impressions on the franchise and have had significant impacts on the game of baseball.
Fanbase: Atlanta Braves Vs Miami Marlins
Atlanta Braves
The Atlanta Braves have one of the most passionate and dedicated fanbases in Major League Baseball. Their roots trace back to the franchise’s beginnings in Boston, where the team built a loyal following.
When the Braves moved to Milwaukee in 1953 and then to Atlanta in 1966, they retained and expanded their fanbase.
The Braves’ success during the 1990s, with their prolonged run of division titles and playoff appearances, further solidified their fanbase and attracted new supporters.
During this era, the team’s dominance garnered widespread attention and attracted fans from across the nation.
The Braves’ fanbase is also bolstered by their strong presence in the southeastern United States. Atlanta, being a major metropolitan city, serves as a hub for fans from Georgia and neighboring states, including Alabama, Tennessee, and the Carolinas.
Miami Marlins
The Miami Marlins have a more regionalized and comparatively smaller fanbase, primarily centered around the Miami metropolitan area and South Florida.
As a relatively young franchise, established in 1993, the Marlins are still developing their fanbase compared to older teams like the Braves.
The Marlins’ fanbase has had its challenges due to various factors. Despite their early success with World Series championships in 1997 and 2003, the team has experienced periods of rebuilding and roster turnover, leading to fluctuations in fan engagement and attendance.
Iconic Moments: Atlanta Braves Vs Miami Marlins Rivalry
The Atlanta Braves and the Miami Marlins has produced several iconic moments over the years. These moments have often come in crucial games and have left a lasting impact on both teams’ histories.
Here are some of the notable iconic moments from their rivalry
1997 Nlcs – Game 6
In the 1997 National League Championship Series (NLCS), the Braves and the Marlins faced off in a highly contested battle. The Marlins, led by their star pitcher Kevin Brown, managed to defeat the Braves 7-4 in Game 6.
This victory propelled the Marlins to their first-ever NL pennant and a spot in the World Series, where they ultimately won the championship.
2003 Nlds – Extra-inning Thriller
During the 2003 National League Division Series (NLDS), the Braves and the Marlins delivered an unforgettable extra-inning showdown in Game 2. The game was a pitching duel between Greg Maddux for the Braves and Josh Beckett for the Marlins.
In the bottom of the 11th inning, with the score tied 1-1, Marlins’ catcher Ivan Rodriguez hit a walk-off home run to give the Marlins a 2-0 series lead.
Chipper Jones’ Farewell at Marlins Park
In 2012, legendary Braves third baseman Chipper Jones played his final regular-season game at Marlins Park in Miami. Jones had been a nemesis of the Marlins throughout his illustrious career.
In his last at-bat at Marlins Park, Chipper received a standing ovation from both Braves and Marlins fans, acknowledging his greatness and the respect he earned from opponents.
Giancarlo Stanton’s Record-breaking Season
Giancarlo Stanton, formerly known as Giancarlo Cruz, had a remarkable 2017 season with the Marlins. On August 13, 2017, he hit his 43rd home run of the season against the Braves, setting a new Marlins single-season home run record.
Stanton’s incredible power display made him a formidable force in the rivalry and earned him the NL MVP award that season.
Marlins’ 20-inning Marathon Victory
In April 2018, the Braves and the Marlins engaged in a marathon 20-inning game, the longest in Marlins history. The game lasted over six hours, with the Marlins finally securing a 1-0 victory.
The contest showcased both teams’ determination and highlighted the competitiveness of their rivalry.
Future Outlook: Atlanta Braves Vs Miami Marlins
Atlanta Braves
The Braves have built a strong foundation with a talented core of players like Ronald Acuña Jr., Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, and Austin Riley. These players have consistently delivered exceptional performances both offensively and defensively.
Additionally, the Braves’ pitching staff, led by Charlie Morton and Max Fried, has showcased great potential. With a mix of veteran experience and emerging young talent, the Braves have the ingredients for continued success in the NL East.
Miami Marlins
The Marlins have been focused on developing their young talent, and players like Jazz Chisholm Jr., Jesús Aguilar, and Trevor Rogers have shown tremendous potential.
Their pitching rotation, led by Sandy Alcantara and Pablo López, has been a bright spot for the team. As their prospects continue to mature, the Marlins have the opportunity to be more competitive in the NL East and make significant strides in the coming years.
Recent Performance: Atlanta Braves Vs Miami Marlins
Atlanta Braves
Win-Loss Record: 18 wins, 9 losses (.667 winning percentage).
Runs Scored: 142.
Runs Allowed: 105.
Run Differential: +37.
Home Runs 38.
Stolen Bases: 23.
Isolated Power: .197.
Team ERA: 3.51.
Team WHIP: 1.23.
OPS above .900: Freddie Freeman (.978), Ronald Acuña Jr. (.973), Ozzie Albies (.922), Austin Riley (.915).
Players with more than 10 home runs: Ronald Acuña Jr. (15), Austin Riley (11).
Players with more than 10 stolen bases: Ronald Acuña Jr. (16), Ozzie Albies (11).
Pitchers with more than 50 strikeouts: Charlie Morton (68), Max Fried (57), Ian Anderson (53).
Miami Marlins
Win-Loss Record: 15 wins, 12 losses (.556 winning percentage).
Runs Scored: 121.
Runs Allowed: 113.
Run Differential: +8.
Home Runs 31.
Stolen Bases: 18.
Isolated Power: .168.
Team ERA: 3.79.
Team WHIP: 1.28.
OPS above .900: Jesús Aguilar (.931), Jazz Chisholm Jr. (.907).
Players with more than 10 home runs: Jesús Aguilar (12).
Players with more than 10 stolen bases: Jazz Chisholm Jr. (12).
Pitchers with more than 50 strikeouts: Sandy Alcantara (74), Pablo López (66), Trevor Rogers (64), Elieser Hernández (51).
Atlanta Braves Vs Miami Marlins Rivalry
| Season | Date | Venue | Winner | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1997 | NLCS Game 6 | Miami | Marlins | 7-4 |
| 2003 | NLDS Game 2 | Miami | Marlins | 2-1 (11) |
| 2012 | Sep 26 | Marlins Park | Braves | 3-0 |
| 2017 | Jul 20 | SunTrust Park | Braves | 4-3 |
| 2018 | Apr 15 | SunTrust Park | Braves | 4-3 |
| 2018 | Apr 16 | SunTrust Park | Braves | 5-4 (10) |
| 2018 | Apr 29 | Marlins Park | Marlins | 3-2 (10) |
| 2018 | May 9 | Marlins Park | Marlins | 6-3 |
| 2019 | Apr 6 | SunTrust Park | Braves | 4-0 |
| 2019 | Apr 7 | SunTrust Park | Braves | 4-3 |
| 2019 | Jul 6 | Marlins Park | Marlins | 5-4 |
| 2019 | Jul 7 | Marlins Park | Marlins | 5-4 (10) |
| 2020 | Sep 8 | Truist Park | Braves | 29-9 |
| 2020 | Sep 9 | Truist Park | Braves | 2-1 (10) |
| 2021 | May 2 | Truist Park | Braves | 7-6 |
| 2021 | May 3 | Truist Park | Braves | 12-2 |
| 2021 | Sep 12 | LoanDepot Park | Braves | 5-3 |
| 2021 | Sep 13 | LoanDepot Park | Braves | 6-2 |
FAQs
When did the rivalry between the Atlanta Braves and the Miami Marlins begin?
The rivalry started in 1993 when the Marlins joined Major League Baseball as an expansion team and became divisional rivals with the Braves in the NL East.
What are the iconic moments in the Braves vs. Marlins rivalry?
Some iconic moments include the Marlins’ NLCS victory over the Braves in 1997, Chipper Jones’ farewell game at Marlins Park in 2012, and Giancarlo Stanton’s record-breaking season with the Marlins in 2017.
Which team has historically been more successful in the rivalry?
The Atlanta Braves have had more consistent success throughout their long history, with multiple division titles and World Series championships. However, the Marlins have won two World Series titles (1997, 2003) as Wild Card teams, making their postseason performances notable.
How often do the Braves and Marlins play each other during the regular season?
As divisional rivals, the Braves and Marlins face each other frequently during the regular season. They typically play 19 games against each other each year, with series occurring both at home and away for each team.
How do the fanbases of the Braves and Marlins differ?
The Atlanta Braves have a larger and more devoted fanbase, owing to their long history, success, and strong regional support in the southeastern United States. The Miami Marlins, being a younger franchise, have a smaller but dedicated fanbase centered mainly around the Miami metropolitan area.
To Recap
The rivalry between the Atlanta Braves and the Miami Marlins has produced unforgettable moments and fierce competition on the baseball field.
With a rich history, the Braves have built a passionate and widespread fanbase, anchored by their multiple division titles and World Series championships.
On the other hand, the Marlins, despite being a younger franchise, have made their mark with two World Series titles and a devoted local fanbase.
As divisional rivals, their matchups continue to captivate audiences, creating lasting memories for fans and players alike.
This enduring rivalry showcases the essence of baseball’s competitive spirit and highlights the enduring allure of America’s favorite pastime.
