Monday Film Review: Ron Washington and Frank de Boer

Braves 3B coach on self-improvement, and ATL UTD searches for answers

Let’s go to the tape after a weekend of sports actually happening in Atlanta.

First, the inspiring story of Braves third base coach Ron Washington.

Once the pandemic forced Atlanta to leave spring training in March, Washington took the opportunity to put down the cigarettes he so often smokes from a corner of the Braves’ dugout.

The idea of Ron Washington without a lit cigarette is like seeing Captain America without his shield.

That isn’t an insult - it’s just how I have so frequently seen Washington at Braves workouts and how I always envision him in my mind’s eye.

Obviously, it’s great news that Washington is doing everything he can to keep his lungs as clean as possible. He’s 68 years old and is therefore at a higher risk for Covid-19.

That’s an element he can’t control.

Smoking, while tough to quit, is something he can control.

I’ve said since the shutdowns began that our new reality is an important time to re-evaluate how we think and what we choose to do with our time. It’s powerful to see Washington live that out while also pursuing his career in baseball.

Here’s the full conversation with ‘Wash’:

Not so inspiring:

Atlanta United fired up its ‘MLS Is Back’ tournament campaign with a 1-0 loss to New York Red Bulls.

United dominated the possession, but couldn’t convert it into goals.

Is this all on Josef Martinez’ absence? Is it 100% about a lack of preparation because of the pandemic?

I’d say it’s a pretty unfortunate mix, with room to improve. United also looked lost defensively throughout the match, with tactical hiccups you might expect to see in preseason.

There’s no doubt that the Josef Martinez gap will be felt this season.

Even with Julio Jones and Trae Young in town, Martinez may be the single-most irreplaceable player for any of Atlanta’s pro sports teams.

Frank de Boer is going to earn every victory this season with his management of the club, and facilitation for players like Pity Martinez to step up and carry United on the pitch.

Here’s de Boer after the loss:

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