The dark years start (1917)

In George Stallings 5th year as manager of the Braves, they plunged from third place the year before to sixth in 1917. They were 72-81 and 25 1/2 games behind. World War I began that year and it was a bleak year for the team. This was the start of series of VERY bad years going to World War II and 1945.

Perhaps this should be known as the dark years for the Braves. For 29 years, the Braves only had six years of .500 plus ball. Eight times they won fewer than 40 percent of their games. Twelve times they finished 35 or more games out of the lead.

Amazing and dark years for sure.