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DEL.ICIO.USNo slowing down for Chipper
The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
Mark Bradley
Lake Buena Vista, Fla. - At a time when much of the baseball-watching world believed Chipper Jones had nothing left to show us, he showed us he’s still Chipper Jones. At 35 he had one of his greatest years, hitting .337 with 29 homers, driving in 102 runs and scoring 108. And where, he is asked, would he rank 2007 among his 14 big-league seasons on the scale of purely personal satisfaction?
“Fourteenth,” he says.
He’s kidding. Spring training 2008 has dawned with Chipper Jones feeling … well, chipper. Apart from the bruised thumbs suffered when he tripped over the opposing third baseman (more about that later), last season was free of the injuries that limited him to 109 games in 2005 and 110 in 2006.
A year ago we all were wondering if this demonstrably great player was near an end. Today, Jones says, “I want to play until I’m 40.”
About last season: “It was awfully gratifying for me to prove I could still play the game at a high level when a lot of people were writing me off and saying they should get rid of my salary.”
Some athletes pretend they don’t read and hear criticism. Jones admits he sees and hears everything. “I read y’all’s paper and go online and check out the rumor mill,” he says. (Indeed, he even participated, without being solicited, in David O’Brien’s AJC Braves blog two weeks ago. He logged in as “U Kno Who.”)
Does U Kno Who get mad when he sees someone post something less than positive?
“No,” Jones says. “I use it as positive motivation sometimes.”
The creeping consensus in spring 2007 was that Jones’ body was beginning to fail. Something was always going wrong - a hamstring, an oblique, a foot. What prevented him from believing he’d become decrepit was that it wasn’t always the same injury. “Those last two years were really fluky [injuries]. It hasn’t been my body breaking down.”
Here he smiles in that wry Chipper way. “If Frenchy [Jeff Francoeur] takes a pitch and lets me steal third base [instead Francoeur grounded to third and Jones, running on the play, flipped over Pittsburgh’s Jose Bautista], I probably would’ve played 150 games last year.”
He played 134, his most since 2004, and he finished sixth in the Most Valuable Player voting, his best showing since he won the award in 1999. “Last year could have been my best all-around year. I was in the running for a Gold Glove -my errors were way down, and my fielding percentage was up -and I challenged for a batting title. And I hit .300 and drove in 100 and scored 100 just like I did when I was a younger cat.”
Sometimes it takes an outside observer to bring a familiar sight into sharper relief. Steve Phillips, once the Mets’ general manager and now an ESPN commentator, called Jones “the Derek Jeter of the National League” a couple of years ago, and Jeter is the most respected player in the sport. To be likened to him is the ultimate compliment. Jones took it as such.
“Jeter and I are good buddies,” he says. “We’ve squared off in a couple of World Series, and I think he’ll challenge 4,000 hits before he’s through. He’s a winner. I daresay I don’t think he’ll have any problem going into the Hall of Fame on the first ballot.”
And his own Hall prospects? “I’m one of the guys who, if I quit right now, I wouldn’t make it. I’m on the cusp. The next five or six years will tell the tale.”
Until July 2007, Mark Teixeira was one of those outside observers. Today he hits behind Jones and says, “He’s the most underappreciated player in the game … No doubt Alex [Rodriguez] is the most talented player I’ve played with, but Chipper is right behind him.”
And then: “Chipper could get a lot more attention in New York or L.A., but he’s a country boy who likes to hunt and fish.”
If Jones indeed plays until he’s 40, he wants it to be in the only place he has ever played. “I’ve always wanted to finish here,” he says. “Atlanta is a laid-back town, and I’m not a big-city guy. I know I could probably garner more attention and accumulate more accolades in New York, but that’s not me.”
There was a time when the young Chipper was as beloved by Braves fans as Francoeur is now, but the inevitable familiarity (and a messy divorce) took some luster off the golden boy. Still, Jones says, “I think I have a really good rapport with fans. They certainly make me feel that way when I’m out in public. You can’t go to dinner or to a movie without people showering you with praise. You’ve never going to please everybody, and I’m not going to try. But I think I’m good enough for the majority.”
So here he stands: Larry Wayne Jones Jr., age 35, about to go to work on another February morning, feeling rather better this February than he did a year ago. “Last year I was putting a little pressure on myself after what had happened. This year I’m a little more relaxed.”
But not fully content. If he has learned nothing else, Chipper Jones has learned that baseball is about today and tomorrow, not yesterday.
“At the end of the day,” he says, “I’ve still got to keep putting up numbers to hold everybody at bay. At my age, if you have one bad year everybody thinks you’re washed up. And I don’t want to hear it.”
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By bravesfanbob
February 22, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this
If Chipper can stay healthy this year, with Yunel batting in front of him, and Yunel’s great baserunning, (a trait that Renteria didn’t have), and Tex hitting behind him, he will get at least 15 hit-and-run basehits, and that could win him a batting title. Mark my words, he will appreciate Yunel much more than Edgar, and Edgar was a great hitter.
By danny cardwell
February 22, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
good article. i hope chipper retires here. its well deserved. when the tickets are there my grand kids love sitting as close to chipper as possible and giving mets fans the same greif they try to give chipper. this could be a special year.
By BrandonC
February 22, 2008 11:48 AM | Link to this
I’ll take Chipper for another 5 years, he’s one of the best switch hitters of all time. It’s good to hear that he’s not talking retirement just yet.
By bobby
February 22, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
Can’t understand why the so called experts on here are always beating up on Chipper. Name a better third baseman over the time he has been playing.
By 30Yr BravesFan
February 22, 2008 11:54 AM | Link to this
First?
By Gator73082
February 22, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this
My first ever post on this blog and I’m first?!
By TBraveFan
February 22, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this
Chipper - the epitome of what a baseball player should be - which is why every little boy aspires to be him one day….
By Gator73082
February 22, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this
I get warm and fuzzy feelings when I think back of what Chipper has done for us. In my eyes, he’s one of the best to ever don the Braves uniform, along the likes of Hank Aaron, Dale Murphy, Greg Maddux, and John Smoltz.
By David
February 22, 2008 12:03 PM | Link to this
I actually continue to be MORE of a Chipper Jones fan each year, not less. In the beginning, though I knew he was a great player & appreciated that, I perceived him to be overly cocky and I personally don’t usually gravitate towards those types of players. As I’ve “gotten to know him”, at least as a fan, he has become one of my favorite players.
By stamper
February 22, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this
Great story. Hoss is the man. I think his numbers are already Hall of Fame worthy.
By AdirondackDave
February 22, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
If there were one guy I could clone for my baseball team it would be Chipper Jones. Jeez, what more could you ask of a player than what Chipper’s give us over the last 14 years?
By RedandBlack
February 22, 2008 12:08 PM | Link to this
The only REAL folks criticizing Chipper Jones has been the media. No other Atlanta Brave player has been so destructive to the opposition than Chipper Jones. Chipper is fantastic for the Braves when he plays 100 games or 162 plus the playoffs. Stop criticizing and start appreciating a true Hall of Fame Ball Player here in our town. Go Braves!!!
By Gator73082
February 22, 2008 12:13 PM | Link to this
David, I second that, especially during this injury ridden years. It amazes me how he can still sustain great stats even when hes hurt. He could lose a leg and an arm to a mutant killer deer on a hunting trip, and he would still hit over .300!
By Gene
February 22, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this
I have not been a great Chipper Jones fan in the past. He is probably the best hitter in baseball, but I sometimes question his effort in the field. After that discussion last year with Smoltz, Chipper came on strong. He is absolutely critical to the success of the Braves this year. I hope that Chipper, Smoltz, and Glavin have at least one more World Series in their future.
By Steve
February 22, 2008 12:23 PM | Link to this
What’s most overlooked about Chipper is that fact that he has always been the ultimate team player. He moved to left field when he was asked to help out. Name me another Gold Glove winner that would have had no problems making that move? Other than A-Rod. Or how about the time he restructered his contract to free up for money for the Braves to persue free agents. I hope I never have to see the day the Chipper wears another uniform but if it were to happen I would still cheer him on!
Thanks Chipper!
By Jeff R
February 22, 2008 12:37 PM | Link to this
Chipper put up great numbers in 2007, and although the 134 games he played represents a step up from the previous three seasons, he’s got to go better than that in 2008. He’s an integral part of the offense and defense. The Braves need a full time third sacker.
I hope Chipper stays healthy in the coming years and makes the Hall, but I’m more interested in the Braves winning another World Series.
By WNC Braves fan
February 22, 2008 12:47 PM | Link to this
Steve is right. Chipper’s move to left field cost him “perennial All-Star” status, but it was done to help the team. And restructuring his salary helped the Braves sign Hudson to an extension. A team player all around.
By SteelCav
February 22, 2008 12:56 PM | Link to this
Chipper has been a favorite of mine since I sent him a ball in the mail back in ‘95 - which he quickly signed and returned to me with a personal note. Now I have tons of Chipper stuff in my “Braves” man cave downstairs, and both of my boys don the #10 jersey during the spring and summer months…they’re my little chips off the ol’ block! Best of luck, Chip…keep it up and you’re a lock for the HOF.
By rlinaug
February 22, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this
If he’d have been healthy last year, he would have a monster year. He didn’t miss much of anything last year. And he’s a much better defensvie third baseman than he used to be. I think his numbers are worthy of the Hall of Fame already.
By braves fan
February 22, 2008 1:05 PM | Link to this
I have never understood why Chipper has never got the credit from braves fans. I guarantee when he retires he will be a lot more appreciated just because braves fans will realize how steady and how great a player he really is and that’s sad. He has absolutely been one of the top couple hitters in the national league over the last 14 years and I’ve always thought he was underrated as a fielder. Absolutely got robbed last year by not gettin the gold glove. All braves fans should stop and realize how great of a player Chip has been and hopefully we’ll have him around for while longer. Thanks Chip
By ChopFan
February 22, 2008 1:07 PM | Link to this
Great article. I am so glad to see appreciation for Chipper. As an Atlanta native and life long Braves fan, he is one of the most consistent players ever to wear a Braves uniform. I agree that I hope he plays here until he decides to hang it up. My season tix were right behind him the year he played LF - he was awesome with the fans. And, the fact that he’s a Met killer makes him even better! I hope 08 is his best yet.
By Leads36
February 22, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this
Chipper will remembered as of the all time great Braves, along with Hank, Dale and Smoltz. Injuries aside, he continues to play at the highest level. In addtion, its refreshing to hear that he does not care about others who have written him off.
As a Braves fan living in New York City, I take great pleasure in watching Chipper beat up on the Mets year after year. I have to imagine that he will upset to see Shea Stadium turned into a parking lot.
Lastly, altough he says he wants to play unitl he’s 40, this Braves fan just hope that Chipper, Bobby, John and the rest have one more wold series in them.
By Ed Glennon
February 22, 2008 2:01 PM | Link to this
Chipper is a class guy. He reminds me of Eddie Mathews. I hope the Braves extend his contract so he can forget about all that vested stuff.
By U Kno Who
February 22, 2008 2:06 PM | Link to this
That Mark Bradley is an excellent writer. And Chipper is a great player. Just don’t call him Hoss.
By Singindablues
February 22, 2008 2:18 PM | Link to this
Besides being one the great hitters and a very under rated defensive player let’s not forget that he inflicted a lot of grief on those nasty Mets over the years. He’s always been the one Brave’s player that met fans have hated to see coming to the plate in a tight game.
By Chris
February 22, 2008 2:27 PM | Link to this
Twenty-fourth!
By MaryS910
February 22, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Chipper, What do you have against being called Hoss? Just wondering…
By MaryS910
February 22, 2008 2:54 PM | Link to this
Chipper, What do you have against being called Hoss? Just wondering…
By SAMMY THE HEAD MILLER
February 22, 2008 2:56 PM | Link to this
Hoss you are the man! We appreciate all you and Smoltzy have done for the Braves Nation and Atlanta! Go Braves!
By Charlotte Dawg
February 22, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Chipper will make it to the Hall and if Atlanta doesn’t keep him as long as he wants to ply, they need to fold the operation!!!!
By Charlotte Dawg
February 22, 2008 2:58 PM | Link to this
Chipper will make it to the Hall and if Atlanta doesn’t keep him as long as he wants to play, they need to fold the operation!!!!
By Charlotte Dawg
February 22, 2008 2:59 PM | Link to this
Chipper will make it to the Hall and if Atlanta doesn’t keep him as long as he wants to play, they need to fold the operation!!!!
By The Wizard
February 22, 2008 3:25 PM | Link to this
Larry has been a very good player for years and will go to the HOF when his career is finished. He’s now slipped to be the second best 3rd baseman in the NL, but it’s no shame to be second to 2005&6 starting All Star and still only 25 yr. old David Wright of the Metropolitans.
By Double Deuce
February 22, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this
Too many people are looking back to last year when Smoltz made his comments as a turning point for Chipper and his efforts to play a full season. Players of Chippers caliber are self motivated and while a comment from a teammate may serve as a reminder, you don’t play at the level that Chipper has for all these years being motivated by others comments. That is why is is the greatest switch hitter in the game and one of those players who we could hold up to our kids to emulate. He was cocky when he was younger, and he’s cocky now, and when he loses that he’ll be ready to retire. Let’s hope not for a few more years because players of his caliber come along only so often and its fun to watch.
By Double Deuce
February 22, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Chipper There seems to be a lot optimism in camp early this year, but there always seems to be in Spring Training. Is it just us fans, or is there a different feel to this years team?
By The Wizard
February 22, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this
Did I say 2005&06? I meant ‘06 and ‘07.
By Faked you out
February 22, 2008 3:51 PM | Link to this
The U Kno Who who posted earlier was me, Roger Dawson. Thought it might thrill and fool some of you.
By Gang Greene
February 22, 2008 3:53 PM | Link to this
First post here, although I read it all the time. I am 36 like Chip. I have always had a great appreciation for him, but the perception of people on the guy can be strage. I live in California, and go see the Braves at various venues when they are out here. I have heard some BS like if the Braves just got rid of Chip, they would be better off. No idea how that is possible. I remember when the dude came up in 94, he was so hyped. Had the foot injury, then came back in 95, and man it was sweet. He has always been a perennial favorite of mine to watch. I mean, what else does the guy have to do to be appreciated as much as he deserves as a ball player? And on the HOF thing, I think when this era shakes out, Chipper will make it in for sure (with Mad Dog- God, I miss him- Smoltzie, Glav all wearing the Braves unis. Chipper will get the big boost he deserves because he is obviously clean of the crap everyone else is dealing with. Just think how much more him and these other guys would be appreciated in the context of performing at the high level they do legitimately.
By Ramblin Wrecker
February 22, 2008 4:10 PM | Link to this
I agree that Chipper is one of the more underappreciated players in the league. Or at least it seems that way. He rarely gets mentioned among the best of the best, but if you examine his stats you’ll rarely find a better hitter. I think he’s suffered a bit by comparison because he’s never drove in 130+ rbi’s. But outside of that stat he fills up the stat columns as well as any hitter in the game. He led the national league in OPS and finished second in the batting title race last season, proof that at 35 he’s just as elite a hitter as he’s ever been. He has a lifetime .307 batting average (a big deal for a player with 12 seasons under his belt) and more career walks than strikeouts (another big deal for a slugger). Oh and he’s a switch hitter too boot. I think people gloss over that detail. I used to play baseball as a younger man and have goofed around with my brother hitting from both sides of the plate. Honing one side of the plate well enough to be a major leaguer is a monumental task. Honing two. A super accomplishment. And that’s just what it takes to GET to the bigs, not to mention doing what Chipper has been able to do. Alex Rodriguez can go into a cage and hit 100 balls a day (or whatever he does to keep sharp). But what must Chipper Jones do to keep sharp from both sides? Hard work and immense talent is what. Amazing.
I think Chipper is not as fringe hall of fame as he might hedge at this point, but I do think he doesn’t get as automatic a look among baseball writers as he should. He’s not just the national league Derek Jeter, he’s better.
By richbrave
February 22, 2008 5:02 PM | Link to this
I became a Braves fan because of Eddie Mathews. T.V. was in its infancy, and newspapers were the only real source of personal information on players in that era, I admired the personna sold by baseball’s information outlets, but sadly, I never really knew the individual that Eddie Mathews was.
Today, I admire Chip Jones. Not worship, as I did Mathews because 1) I’m not a child anymore and 2)because I feel as though I know something of the REAL Jones.
When he posts on-line and responds to fans comments about himself and other related baseball topics, there’s an intimacy, a rapport if you will that transcends the hyperbole spewed out by the baseball industrial machinery. You’ve behind the sell,sell,sell of fake genre manufactured for today’s consuming public.
This sensibility amongst those that constantly post here is wonderful for the Braves community. As a Richmond Braves Fan, I will be losing the old information sources one relied upon to lionize players like Eddie Mathews.
A new and far better medium has emerged to replace that of news, and T.V. Hats off to the cyber medium that brings players like Chip Jones into sharper focus for Braves and all baseball fans alike. And thanks to those cyber-news types and organizations who provide it.
GO BRAVES!!!
By Paul In Richmond
February 22, 2008 5:11 PM | Link to this
No Question that he is a talent - despite the constant attention he requires over his dad fixing his slump, his special socks and shoes, his back his wrist, his knee etc. etc. etc.
If he could become the rallying point for what is often a very dull and unemotional group perhaps we could fight our way to another WS win. The influx of the youngsters and Tex seems to have added to the enthusiasm but the top figures of the past (Smoltz excepted) seem to be lethargic or even bland. That includes jones, jones, glavine, and most of the veterans of the past.
How bout changing that this year Larry?
By Orlando
February 22, 2008 5:20 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones is extremely underrated. He has been consistent for years, and I’m surprised no one gives him the attention given the media’s affection for good ol’ country boys (re: Favre and Clemens but oh yeah they’re media wh*res) but much like Bobby Cox he won’t be appreciated until he’s gone.
By Slim
February 22, 2008 6:55 PM | Link to this
Chipper is an amazing athlete, a great team mate, and an overall good guy. I could never watch him play baseball in a different uniform. A Jones is going to be hard enough, but Cjones.. Id have to look the other way
By Coach (Lets Go Braves in 2008)
February 22, 2008 7:07 PM | Link to this
Chipper Jones ? Only the best switch hitter playing today. He ranks in the top five all time , right up there with Mantle , Rose , Murray and Frankie Frisch. Anybody notice that the other four names are all Hall Of Fame caliber.
I can only hope that Chipper plays until he is 40. I don’t share the opinion that his injuries have all been flukes. The vast majority of which have been from the waist down.
The man has bad wheels and it’s not his fault , nobody is to blame.
He lost an entire season (1994) to reconstructive knee surgery. His myriad of leg injuries consist of Hamstrings , bunions , Arches , Ankles and Knees.
Basically it’s been a cascade effect leading to Chipper spending time on the D.L. during the past three seasons.
No one is questioning the man’s desire , talent or ability , least of all me.
Chipper is still at the top of his game talent wise , it’s just that looking back over the past three seasons and hearing him say that he wants to play until the age of 40 , I have to take that statement with a grain of salt.
And yes , I hope I’m wrong , I WANT TO BE WRONG. But , Chipper has more in common with Mickey Mantle than just being one of the best switch hitters of all time.
Leg injuries ended the Commerce Comets career , I fear that father time will not be any kinder to Chipper.
By udog52
February 22, 2008 8:23 PM | Link to this
Chipper is definitely the heart and soul of the Braves, along with Smoltzie. Even more noteworthy, in this age of primadonna athletes who refuse to take the time to spend with fans, Chipper is the exception to the rule. Two years ago at a spring training game against the Blue Jays, I watched Chipper spend the better part of two hours talking with fans and signing anything that was put in front of him. He spent several minutes talking with my son, which was and still might be, one of the top three highlights of his life. When he made it to where I was standing, I shook his hand and told him that I was impressed that he would take the time to spend with the fans, and that it showed a tremendous amount of class for him to give back to the fans in that way. I still feel that way. I’ve been a Braves fan since 66, used to walk down Georgia Ave. from Ormewood Park (east of Grant Park) to go to the games. I moved to MN 12 years ago, but I still live and die with every game. To me ,Chipper will go down with the same legacy as Aaron, Matthews, Murph, and Smoltz; all-time Braves, all-time greats!
By MV7
February 22, 2008 10:21 PM | Link to this
Chipper is a real ballplayer and anyone who thinks otherwise is clueless. He needs to retire a Brave and have #10 retired. He should go to HOF with a few more yrs like last.
By Scott
February 22, 2008 11:37 PM | Link to this
How great is it to be a Braves fan? Two of the best 3rd basemen of all time played in the jersey we love, Eddie Mathews and Chipper Jones.
And I think Chipper is a hall of famer right now. Look at his OPS it’s higher than Hank Aaron.
By might mike
February 22, 2008 11:49 PM | Link to this
If I have to pick a hitter to send to the plate in a clutch situation, I’m putting my money of Chipper Jones, or Larry if the game is in New York. Love to watch the guy hit. I think we started to take him for granted after a while, but last year he proved, once again, how important he is to this team.
By Josh
February 23, 2008 12:26 AM | Link to this
All I have to say is, I remember watching Chipper play at AA Greenville when he was 20 on a daily basis (that included Klesko, Lopez, Castilla, and Torasco, what a fireworks show). I am truly amazed.
By Avery
February 23, 2008 12:38 AM | Link to this
Chipper Jones is one of the smartest hitters in the history of the game. He also has one of the sweetest swings (left-handed) of all-time. He has taken a few hits by the media, but he has handled it all with class. Hopefully he will retire as a Brave. The difference between Chipper and David Wright is that Chipper would never sell himself out and appear on some idiotic ‘Apprentice’ reality show. Wright is such a New York cheeseball. He fits that city well.
By UGA75
February 23, 2008 1:23 AM | Link to this
It is sort of amazing that the players Bobby Cox has been around the most are among the classiest players in the Majors. Chipper was and remains one of my all time favorites, he has more guts than any player I can remember, and has played injured to his and sometime the Braves regret.
This year has a feel about it. Without injuries, this may be one of the all time best Braves teams. We have at least 2 semi-power pitchers, and possibly the best daily line-up in years. We all miss Andruw, but a healthy Kotsay brings other assets to the game. Nothing but losing will surprise me about this team.
By gotigers72
February 23, 2008 4:09 AM | Link to this
One of the elite players in the major leagues. Plays hard and rakes like a mutha. If he isn’t a Hall of Famer when all is said and done, then something’s wrong. I saw him play a lot at Greenville in AA, and you could just tell the guy was gonna be a player.
So much fun to watch hit. Makes the pitcher throw him a good pitch. One of those guys that when he gets a good pitch, knows what to do with it. It’s gonna be a lot of fun this year watching he and Teixeira hit back to back [with Yunel in front and McCann and Francoeur in back. Yikes! What a lineup!]
By gamelover
February 23, 2008 4:52 AM | Link to this
When I was 7 years old I became a Braves fan, i am now 48. I am still a Braves fan. I have suffered through many a losing season and proud to have been a part of the 14 season run. I have seen and met a lot of Braves players over the years, and was there when hammering Hank hit his last homer in Atlanta Fulton County Stadium. Chipper Jones (has has been said in earlier post) is one of the best 3rd baseman to EVER play the game and in the top 2 from Atlanta {Mathews}. HOF is a shoe in. Chipper has natural raw talent and never would have to use any HGH to better himself, he is a natural! Few teams have ever had a long timer to brag about. We do. Thanks Chipper, play until you feel you would no longer be a service to the team…then stick around and teach what you know to the younger ones!
By William
February 23, 2008 6:02 AM | Link to this
If Chipper’s numbers were compared to the pre-steroids era he’d be a hall of famer no doubt!!!
By BravesAC
February 23, 2008 7:56 AM | Link to this
If Jeff Francouer “grows” into Chipper Jones category what a success he will be for I believe Jones has demonstrated ultimate, clutch competitor traits all wrapped in on field leadership and “do it for the team” character (his many moves to a new position). I was pulling for the Braves to get the fireballing pitcher who didn’t want to be drafted by the Braves, and I was disappointed when the Braves passed him up, especially when Chipper hit very low 200s in rookie ball. But how wrong that first impression was. Having watched his whole major league career, it’s been a real pleasure to watch as a Braves fan (especially how he kills the Larry-taunting Mets). Mr Jones, every time you come up with the game on the line, us Braves fans are glad it’s you with the bat in your hands. That draft really was a blessing in disguise…I really hope you retire a Brave…becuase it means you stayed, and your loyalty was rewarded…it’s the least the Braves org can do for such a class act.
By monty
February 23, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this
Laat night on Sports South they interviewed Leo Mazzone who said that Chipper jones is the greatest player to play for the Atlanta Braves. As much as I love Hank Aaron, about half of his great years were with the Milwaukie Braves. So, in that since I agree with Leo. Dale Murphy is perhaps more beloved by the fans. But by the time Chipper has finished his career he will be recognized as perhaps the greatest hitting thirdbaseman of all time.
By Rayman
February 23, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this
I don’t think we can fully understand how fortunate we have been to have such a great player stay his whole career. Both Smoltz and Chipper have made me proud to be a Braves fan and I hope they both retire here………..Just not yet.
By BravesAC
February 23, 2008 1:59 PM | Link to this
Rayman… I like that “Gladiator” reference to an inevitable Smoltz and Jones retirement…”Just Not Yet”. I second that!
By chris
February 23, 2008 2:29 PM | Link to this
If Chipper can stay healthy and play until he is Forty, he will reach the 500 homer list and be a lock for the HOF. Thanks Chipper, for all of the great years, by the way my son wears the #10 from March thru Oct. on his travel team, we Luv Ya
By chris k
February 23, 2008 3:13 PM | Link to this
Maybe Bobby can stay until Chipper retires, then Chipper can be skipper and go to the HOF as a player and manager
By Cliff B.
February 24, 2008 12:10 AM | Link to this
I have watched Chipper play from Bolles up to the Majors and I agree that he is the Derek Jeter of the National League. Granted unlike Jeter, which has never been married. Chipper made a personal mistake. But that should have nothing to do with the game of baseball and how he has been there for the braves organization and the fans of Atlanta. He has grown into a well polished professional baseball player and as a Braves fan I would like nothing else but to see Mr. Jones retire in a Braves Uniform and be the 3rd player in major league history to hit 500 home runs as a switch hitter. You go Chip and be the best you can be. I think without a doubt you are a HOFer on the first ballot.
By Derek kauffman
February 24, 2008 1:56 AM | Link to this
I have always liked Chipper. What can i say. He shows more class and respect than anyone out there. He will always be my favorite player, i dont want to even think about not seeing him in a uniform in the future….so i guess i am just going to set back and enjoy every memory of this tremendous athletes final coutdown. If i could just tell him 1 thing it would be…”thanks for setting a great example for my life, as well as others. you really did change my life and for the better and kept me on the right path. You kept me on that straight path of doing whats right…no matter what. Things u did… i did, things u didnt…i didnt!” Because i knew the game Chipper Jones played would be the right way. Thanks man your My Hero chip(also cuz you hunt and fish!!) Thanks!