Atlanta Braves remove ‘Chop On’ sign outside of Truist Park

The Atlanta Braves have removed the wooden “Chop On” sign that has stood outside Truist Field near the third-base entrance.

On Sunday morning, Jeff Schultz of The Athletic shared an updated picture of the spot where the “Chop On” sign used to sit. He also shared that he reached out to the Braves about the sign, but noted the team has chosen not to respond to requests for comment at this time.

Atlanta Braves won’t change name, but are reviewing ‘chop’ celebration

The franchise is currently involved in reviewing the “chop” celebration that fans have been doing at the stadium for years. This, amid a growing chorus of calls for the team to change its name, much like the NFL’s Washington franchise is in the process of doing right now.

However, the Braves have made it clear they will not be changing the name at this time. That was made clear in a letter sent to season-ticket holders, per ESPN.

“The Atlanta Braves honors, respects and values the Native American community,” the letter says in part. “As an organization, we have always drawn strength from our diversity and respect for everyone. That will never change.

“We have had an active and supportive relationship with the Native American community for many years. Last fall, we furthered this relationship and pledged to meet and listen to Native American and tribal leaders from many areas, including the Eastern Band of the Cherokees [EBCI] in North Carolina. As a result, we formed a cultural working relationship with the EBCI and have also formed a Native American Working Group with a diverse collection of other tribal leaders to collaborate on matters related to culture, education, outreach, and recognition on an on-going basis.

“Through our conversations, changing the name of the Braves is not under consideration or deemed necessary. We have great respect and reverence for our name and the Native American communities that have held meaningful relationships with us do as well. We will always be the Atlanta Braves.

“As it relates to the fan experience, including the chop, it is one of the many issues that we are working through with the advisory group. The chop was popularized by our fans when Deion Sanders joined our team and it continues to inspire our players on the field. With that in mind, we are continuing to listen to the Native American community, as well as our fans, players, and alumni to ensure we are making an informed decision on this part of our fan experience.”

While there has been no official announcement about the “chop” celebration, one could surmise that removing the “Chop On” sign outside Truist Park indicates that could be coming soon.