Rob Thomson, the Phillies manager, acknowledges that the Braves have the freedom to celebrate their home runs as they please.

Marcell Ozuna and Ronald Acuña Jr. may have caused some controversy in Philadelphia by flapping their arms during home run celebrations, symbolizing the ball’s flight, but the Phillies’ team did not seem bothered by it.

The Phillies, in the end, celebrate home runs by raising their bats and performing juggling gestures with their hands – as if they are implying that they have something impressive, you know what I mean, on every significant hit.

Manager Rob Thomson holds a traditional approach in his beliefs, expecting players to display a composed demeanor when celebrating. While he does not specifically mention the Braves’ enthusiastic home run hitters, the manager acknowledges that players may naturally feel excitement but should refrain from excessive showboating during their run around the bases.



Thomson made an appearance on a sports radio station in Philadelphia on Wednesday. During the interview, he expressed his preference for his team to behave as if they have previous experience in similar situations. This statement was interpreted by some as a criticism directed towards the Braves. Thomson clarified that he was simply sharing his personal belief before the Phillies and Braves concluded their four-game series.

Atlanta, please understand that there are no ill feelings.

“I have no control over the actions of the Atlanta Braves, Ronald, or Ozuna,” Thomson stated. “They are free to do as they please. My only intention was to express my preference for people to behave as if they have experienced similar situations before. I did not intend to initiate any controversy.”


PHOTOS: Phillies manager Rob Thomson says the Braves ‘can do what they want’ when celebrating homers


Thomson also observed that the era of a pitcher intentionally throwing a fastball at a batter’s ribs due to feeling disrespected is no longer present.

Thomson expressed that the game has changed significantly. He believes that many players, including himself, hold a great deal of respect for their fellow players, acknowledging the potential to negatively impact someone’s career.

With the assistance of Acuña and Ozuna, the Braves have soared to achieve the top record in baseball. If they win on Wednesday, Atlanta will secure their sixth consecutive NL East title.

Over the years, baseball celebrations have evolved into more creative and entertaining forms. The traditional forearm bumps of the Bash Brothers now seem outdated, much like complete games.

In Pittsburgh, people engage in sword fighting. In Minnesota, they engage in fishing activities. In Miami, they adorn themselves with flashy jewelry. In Seattle, they wear a customized Darth Vader helmet and wield a trident. In Washington, they go crazy in a literal sense. In Arizona, they dress themselves in leather attire.

In Atlanta, they flutter – whether you like it or not.

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