Originally aired on WTBS in parts on March 28-29, 1983.
Braves owner, media mogul, Ted Turner wanted a comprehensive television special about his major league team.
With Turner’s pledge of full access and with the full resources of WTBS, the documentary would use the Braves to tell the story of a year in the life of a typical major league baseball team, offering a deep look at some of the usually hidden aspects of big-league life.
“I think we oughta have a special on the Braves,” Turner said. “We own the team. We can have full access. What do you guys think?”
‘“One of the first things I said is, ‘What is my budget?’ Asked Turner Sports Executive Terry Hanson. And Ted says, ‘Well, whatever it takes,’ so we never felt that we had to cut corners.”
Producer Glenn Diamond led a crew that recorded over 400 hours of footage. First year Braves Manager Joe Torre agreed to be mic’d up for about 50 games during the 1982 season.
The crew recorded players goofing around in the clubhouse. It shadowed players on road trips and got to attend and film a private team awards banquet in Montreal.
Just so you’re aware, Don Henley will NOT allow his song “Dirty Laundry” on YouTube without the video creator paying for the rights. Since his song appeared in the documentary, it had to be muted out.
