An underrated subplot of Brian McCann’s return to Atlanta was his uniform No. 16.

Charlie Culberson, another Georgia-boy-turned-Brave, donned McCann’s number during his first season in the uniform. McCann wore the number through his entire Braves career (2005-13).

The question was answered quickly: McCann and Culberson spoke, and the former got his old number back. He wore the No. 16 during his (re-)introductory news conference Monday.

“I’ll have to buy him something nice,” McCann said. “It (the number) is special.”

Culberson’s new number hasn’t been revealed. His past numbers - 6, 23, 37 - are unavailable.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Atlanta Braves outfielder Jurickson Profar (right) smiles during the first full-squad spring training workouts at CoolToday Park, Tuesday, February 18, 2025, North Port, Florida. (Hyosub Shin / AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Featured

State Rep. Matt Reeves, R-Duluth, introduces himself while attending an AAPI mental health event at Norcross High School on Sunday, Aug. 11, 2024. (Ben Gray for the AJC)

Credit: Ben Gray