Read on Twitter
An awful day for Braves Country and those that knew Don Sutton. I’m forever grateful to Don for his unwavering loyalty and generosity. I’m grateful for the many meals we shared. I’ll never forget one of my first big league trips. We had an off day in New York...
Don told me to meet him in the lobby of the hotel at 6:30 and to come hungry. Don had a limo drive us to dinner. On the limo ride there, he told me: “you know you’re here because you’ve earned it deserve to be here.”
Don loved showing up to the ballpark every day, often times being the first person to arrive to the booth. A lot of the time, he was the last to leave, too. He loved the Braves and always made it about the players. He genuinely wanted every Brave to succeed on a nightly basis.
Later in Don’s broadcasting career, he loved to talk shop with Sal Fasano, often times going out of his way to find him in the clubhouse. He was also so happy to see Brian Snitker’s success after enduring so many seasons in the minor leagues.
And like every one else, he really enjoyed watching Freddie Freeman play these last few seasons.
Don came to work on time and was as prepared as anyone. His work ethic - unmatched. His love for the Braves - top notch. A golf shirt under a sweater vest - guaranteed. Don cared so much about the broadcast I know that showed.
I imagine Don’s having a dirty martini with Chopin vodka or a nice glass of Silver Oak about now and he should. To celebrate a life well lived, a hall of fame career as a player and a broadcasting career that put him in the Braves Hall of Fame.
Thanks for every little thing, Don. Everything we do in 2021 will be for you and with you on our mind.
Don’s last phone call came less than a week ago. I’m so happy we were about to connect for a short time. He told me he loved me and thanked me for being a great friend. It felt different, but I know it was his way of saying goodbye.
The funny thing is, if Don were still around, he’d want to know how many games he’d be working this year. As stubborn as they come. No matter how bad things got, he was determined to get back to the ballpark.
This was the last game Don ever worked. I’d imagine his view is a little better now, but I’m going to miss staring at those white curls.
