Atlanta celebrates a World Series title – and the legacy and influence of Hank Aaron

A fan holds a sign remembering Hank Aaron as the Braves departed for Houston to start the 2021 World Series.

Emil Moffatt/WABE News

After a brief playing career as a catcher in the minor leagues, Brian Snitker was hired to work for the Braves.

The person who gave him that job as an instructor in the minor leagues was team executive Hank Aaron. Snitker says the Hall of Fame slugger eventually became a trusted mentor.

“He’d call every now and then,” said Snitker. “I was on the phone with a buddy of mine and it came through and I said ‘I think I’m going to put you on hold here, Hank Aaron’s calling me’.”