New Braves Infielder Reflects on Childhood Watching Team on TBS

Mauricio Dubon cites Chipper Jones and Andruw Jones as inspirations after being traded to Atlanta

Published on Feb. 15, 2026

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Atlanta Braves utility player Mauricio Dubon, a new addition to the team, opened up about the emotional significance of joining the organization he grew up watching on TBS in Honduras. Dubon cited Braves legends Chipper Jones and Andruw Jones as childhood inspirations, creating a meaningful connection between the franchise's past and present.

Why it matters

Dubon's personal connection to the Braves through their iconic TBS broadcasts highlights how the team's rich history and global reach have shaped generations of fans abroad. As the Braves look to build on their success, Dubon's passion and familiarity with the organization's identity could be an asset on the field.

The details

Dubon was acquired by the Braves in November 2025 from the Houston Astros, and with Ha-Seong Kim recovering from injury, Dubon is projected to be the team's Opening Day shortstop. The 31-year-old utility player described the trade as an emotional experience, rather than just a transaction, due to his childhood connection to the Braves through watching their games on TBS.

  • Dubon was acquired by the Braves on November 19, 2025.
  • Andruw Jones was elected to the Hall of Fame in January 2026.

The players

Mauricio Dubon

A 31-year-old utility player who was recently traded to the Atlanta Braves and is expected to be their Opening Day shortstop.

Chipper Jones

A Hall of Fame third baseman who played his entire 19-year career with the Atlanta Braves and was a childhood inspiration for Dubon.

Andruw Jones

A former Braves center fielder who was recently elected to the Hall of Fame, and was another childhood icon for Dubon growing up watching the team on TBS.

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What they’re saying

“Mauricio Dubon is another new addition that says he grew up watching the Braves on TBS in Honduras. Said it was emotional getting traded here. Said he met Chipper Jones in 23 and is excited to put on the same jersey”

— Reggie Chatman Jr., 11Alive News Reporter (X (formerly Twitter)

What’s next

With Ha-Seong Kim recovering from injury, Dubon is expected to be the Braves' starting shortstop on Opening Day, providing the team with infield versatility and a player who has a deep personal connection to the franchise.

The takeaway

Dubon's emotional connection to the Braves, stemming from his childhood watching the team on TBS in Honduras, underscores how the franchise's rich history and global reach have resonated with fans around the world. As the Braves look to build on their success, Dubon's passion and familiarity with the organization's identity could be a valuable asset.