The Atlanta Braves announced Monday they will leave Turner Field and move into a 42,000-seat, $672 million stadium about 10 miles from downtown Atlanta in 2017.
Braves executives John Schuerholz, Mike Plant and Derek Schiller said the team decided not to seek another 20-year lease at Turner Field and began talks with the Cobb Marietta Coliseum and Exhibit Hall Authority in July.
The Braves released a statement to the fans on their website.
“The reason for moving is simple,” the team said. “The current location has certain issues that are insurmountable and will only become more problematic over the years. These fundamental issues involve how you, our fans, access Turner Field. There is a lack of consistent mass transportation, a lack of sufficient parking and a lack of direct access to interstates.”
“Furthermore, the Braves do not have control over the development of our immediate surroundings.”
The Mets may be thrilled by the news given their appalling lack of success at Turner Field. Since the ballpark opened in 1997, the Mets are 50-94 at Turner and are 0-3 in post season games.
The new park in Atlanta is scheduled to open in 2017.
