5 Baseball Players who Played for Braves and Cubs
There is a good chance that if you’ve found this page then you’re playing the Immaculate Grid.
That also means that today’s grid has asked for players that have played for both the Atlanta Braves and Chicago Cubs.
And, it also means that you’re probably stuck on this particular box and you’re looking for a little help. Sound about right so far?
Well, good news, you’re in the right place.
I’ve done some research and have found players who played for both the Braves and the Cubs.
Greg Maddux
Greg Maddux, who pitched from 1986 to 2008, is renowned for his time with the Chicago Cubs and Atlanta Braves. Known as “The Professor” for his strategic approach to the game, Maddux compiled 355 wins, a 3.16 ERA, and struck out 3,371 batters over his career.
He was an eight-time All-Star (Cubs, Braves) and won an unprecedented four consecutive Cy Young Awards from 1992 to 1995. In addition, he won a remarkable 18 Gold Gloves (Cubs, Braves, Padres), demonstrating his excellent fielding abilities as a pitcher. Maddux was a key part of the Braves’ 1995 World Series win.
His consistent excellence, control, and tactical approach to pitching earned him a spot in the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014.
*Maddux was the most popular player for this square in a previous grid (Grid 145)
Fred McGriff
Fred McGriff was a powerhouse over his 19-year career in majors. Over that time he played for 6 different teams including the Rays, Braves, Blue Jays, Padres, Cubs and Dodgers.
Earning the nickname “Crime Dog” from Chris Berman, McGriff smashed over 490 home runs (career high of 36 in 1989 with the Blue Jays) and 1500 RBIs.
He was a key player in the Braves’ 1995 World Series win and made the All-Star team five times. McGriff was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2023.
Craig Kimbrel
Craig Kimbrel made his MLB debut with the Atlanta Braves in 2010, quickly earning the closer role. In his rookie season, he recorded 46 saves, a 2.10 ERA, and was named the NL Rookie of the Year. He went on to lead the National League in saves for four consecutive seasons from 2011 to 2014, earning All-Star honors in each of those years.
After his time with the Braves, Kimbrel played for the San Diego Padres before being traded to the Boston Red Sox. He continued to be one of the league’s best closers, helping the Red Sox win the World Series in 2018 with some crucial postseason performances.
Kimbrel’s later career has included stints with the Cubs, White Sox, Dodgers and Phillies. His ability to strike out batters at a high rate and close out games with efficiency has been a hallmark of his career.
Kimbrel Key Stats
- All-Star (Braves, Red Sox, Cubs, Phillies)
- World Series Champ (Red Sox)
- 300+ Career Saves (Braves, Red Sox, Cubs, Phillies, Dodgers, Padres, White Sox)
- 40+ Save Season (Braves, Red Sox)
Jorge Soler
Jorge Soler is an outfielder known for his power-hitting ability. He made his MLB debut in 2014 with the Chicago Cubs and was part of the team that ended the Cubs’ 108-year World Series drought in 2016.
His breakout season came after a trade to the Kansas City Royals. In 2019, he led the American League in home runs with 48, setting a new Royals single-season record. However, Soler’s first All-Star appearance wasn’t until this season with the Marlins.
Soler also has displayed his power in the postseason, earning the World Series MVP award in 2021 as a member of the Atlanta Braves.
Soler Key Stats
- All-Star (Marlins)
- 40+ Home Run Season (Royals)
- 100+ RBI Season (Royals)
Jeff Blauser
Jeff Blauser was a solid player through the 90s, most remembered for his time as a shortstop with the Braves (spent his last two years with the Cubs) and as one half of the Blauser-Lemke double-play combo.
Blauser was known for his solid hitting and decent speed, notching almost 1,200 hits and nearly 500 RBIs during his 12-year career. He was a key player during the Braves’ dominance in the 90s and made the All-Star team twice.
