The Major League Baseball world is deeply saddened by the passing of a cherished fan and humanitarian – the former U.S. President Jimmy Carter. Passed away at the age of 100 years, Carter was a well-known Atlanta Braves supporter. He made a lasting impact on the sport with his passion for baseball and his close bond with the legendary Hank Aaron.

Carter’s love for the Braves extended far beyond casual fandom. He was born and raised in Georgia and saw the team as a representation of his state’s identity. He showed his love for baseball in 1974 when he witnessed Hank Aaron making history by breaking Babe Ruth’s all-time homerun record. At that time, Carter was Georgia’s governor. Joining the crowd in celebrating Aaron’s 715th home run, the moment went beyond sports in civil rights and representation. Carter’s presence reflected his admiration for Aaron’s courage and perseverance, qualities he championed throughout his own life.

Carter’s legacy of service and compassion

The Atlanta Braves, in a heartfelt statement, recognized the late Jimmy Carter as a testament to Georgia’s best, blending leadership, humility, and passion. MLB announced these sentiments, emphasizing his legacy as a humanitarian and dedicated supporter of the game, “We join the nation in mourning the passing of Jimmy Carter, the 39th President of The United States.”

Carter’s association with baseball made a huge impact on the sport. His involvement and affection extended to shaping the overarching cultural storyline of the game. Carter reinforced the role baseball plays in uniting communities and advancing social progress.

During his presidency, Jimmy Carter linked sports and diplomacy. He initiated the tradition of inviting championship teams to the White House, further intertwining politics with baseball. As a fan, he remained steadfast, celebrating the Braves’ 1995 World Series triumph and attending games well into his later years. As a part of the audience, he was often accompanied by his wife, Rosalynn, at both Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium and Truist Park, blending seamlessly into the crowd despite their stature.

MLB supporters, as well as many famous entities, poured their hearts out on social media, highlighting not only Carter’s political legacy but also his undying support for the Braves. Tributes praised his humility and his role in making the sport a touchstone for shared values of perseverance and unity, reflecting his broader humanitarian mission.

MLB and fans remembering Jimmy Carter

Jim Koenigsberger, a master coach of USA Baseball, shared a story remembering his play with Jimmy Carter when someone hit a pop fly in his direction. As per Jim, the ball was way out of his range, but he still ran. When returned to 3rd base, Carter appreciated his efforts and said, “You should have had that one, Curtis.” He never knew if Carter was serious or not.

Former President Biden also offered his condolences, saying when he looks at Jimmy Carter, he sees a man who represents not just the present but all of humanity’s values. Acknowledging that we may never see someone like Carter again, his post intended to encourage people to be more like him, penning a heartfelt tribute.

The Atlanta Braves, heartbroken by the loss, shared their tribute, stating Jimmy Carter as a true embodiment of the best qualities of America and Georgia. He dedicated his life to serving his country and state with honor. They wrote while people saw him as an outstanding humanitarian and an appeaser, the Braves remember him as a loyal fan and will miss seeing him support the team from the stands.

Renowned Delta Airline gave a tribute to the man by posting a video of him saying that whenever Carter flew Delta, he made a point to shake hands with every person on the plane. That was simply who he was. Someone who treated others with respect and dignity, always seeing people as equals.

Barack Obama, remembering Jimmy Carter’s legacy as the 54th President of the United States and sending prayers for his family, wrote: President Carter showed us the means of living with grace, justice, and dignity while serving. He, with his wife Michelle, extends their wishes and prayers to the Carter family and to all those who knew him and were inspired by this extraordinary man.

The Braves organization plans to honor Carter with a tribute during the upcoming season, including a commemorative patch and a moment of silence on Opening Day. Fans are already planning gatherings outside Truist Park to celebrate his life and legacy.

In the end, we can say, Jimmy Carter’s impact transcended borders, yet he remained rooted in the simple joy of being a fan. As one Braves supporter poignantly noted, “He taught us to love the game, but more importantly, to love one another. Farewell, Mr. President.”