This is a story worth keeping an eye on—Team USA’s World Baseball Classic squad isn’t just bringing heat on the field; they’re bringing a little piece of the Atlanta Braves into the dugout.
And by “little piece,” I mean basically the whole alumni directory from the Braves clubhouse between the early 2000s and mid-2010s. Let’s break down this good old-fashioned reunion tour—and why this might be the most intriguingly nostalgic coaching staff assembled in international baseball.
The Braves Are Back, Baby
It starts at the top with Mark DeRosa. He’s got the clipboard, the headset, and the keys to the dugout. The former Braves utility man (and MLB Network fixture) is steering the ship. But right behind him? Familiar faces galore.
Fredi González, the man who took the baton from Bobby Cox and managed the Braves through some rollercoaster seasons, is back in a big way—as assistant manager. He’s joined by Brian McCann, the All-Star catcher who was practically raised behind home plate at Turner Field, and they’re joined by David Ross, the backup catcher who turned into a fan-favorite and, eventually, a big-league manager himself.
McCann and Ross—both catchers under González—are stepping into coaching roles now, and even though McCann’s yet to log a day as an MLB coach, his baseball IQ and clubhouse pedigree are unquestionable. Ross, meanwhile, brings managerial experience from his time with the Cubs, and he’ll be handling bullpen duties.
And wait—there’s more. George Lombard, a local Atlanta kid turned Braves outfielder turned respected MLB coach, is sliding into first base coaching duties. He has years of big-league coaching experience and rounds out this brain trust of Braves bloodlines.
This Is More Than Nostalgia
It’s fun to look at the roster and play “Remember when,” but there’s more to this than just sentimental value. These guys know each other. They’ve shared dugouts, postseason runs, and the grind of a 162-game season in one of baseball’s most storied franchises.
That chemistry? It doesn’t just fade—it becomes a secret weapon when managing high-pressure tournament play like the World Baseball Classic.
And get this: all of them—McCann, Ross, Lombard, even DeRosa—either played or coached under Fredi González. That kind of built-in trust and communication? Invaluable.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Mark your calendar: March 5–17, 2026. Team USA kicks things off in Houston in Pool B against Mexico, Italy, Great Britain, and Brazil. It was a favorable draw, but was no walk in the park.
The stage is set for DeRosa and his Braves-laced crew to not just coach—they’re about to bring a culture with them. A culture forged in Atlanta carried into the Classic.
So when you see that dugout filled with familiar faces, remember: this isn’t just Team USA. It’s Team ATL. And they’re gunnin’ for gold.
