Chipper: Braves need Heyward back on field
MIAMI – Jason Heyward was eligible to come off the 15-day disabled list and play Tuesday, but the Braves’ young slugger had not swung a bat in more than two weeks and was still probably a few days from even hitting off a tee.
Braves third baseman Chipper Jones said he understands that Heyward wanted his sore shoulder healthy before he plays again, but said the 21-year-old right fielder needs to realize how important he could be to the Braves right now.
Heyward recently said that he wouldn’t return before his shoulder was completely recovered, that he learned his lesson from trying to play through injury as a rookie in 2010. The quote got a lot of attention, not just from fans and media but other players.
“There’s not [pat answers]; it’s within each individual player,” said Jones, who has been plagued by injuries since his mid-30s, after averaging about 158 games played per season for nearly a decade.
“I think where Jason might have erred was the comment that he made, ‘I’m not coming back until it doesn’t hurt anymore.’ That has a tendency to rub people the wrong way,” Jones said. “And we understand where he’s coming from – he wants to be healthy when he plays, so he can go out and give himself the best opportunity to be successful. I get that.
“What Jason needs to realize is that Jason at 80 percent is a force, and Jason at 80 percent is better than a lot of people in this league. And that there are a bunch of his teammates that are out there playing with discomfort and not healthy, and still going at it.”
Heyward last played on May 21, and for the past week has been rehabbing at the Braves’ extended-spring training site in Lake Buena Vista, Fla. Utility players Eric Hinske and Joe Mather have split playing time in right field.
Braves right fielders ranked last in the National League with a .225 average and .302 on-base percentage before Tuesday.
Heyward hit .214 with seven homers, 14 RBIs and a .317 OBP in 45 games before going on the DL, including 4-for-41 with one double, no RBIs and 15 strikeouts in 17 games during May. He said his right (non-throwing) shoulder had bothered him since late in spring training, but worsened to being painful to swing by mid-May.
An MRI exam showed inflammation but no structural damage. He had cortisone shots in the front and back of the shoulder, rested for a few days, then returned to the lineup. A few days later, he said the pain returned. Heyward was placed on the DL and flown back to Atlanta from Anaheim on May 22 for another MRI.
The second MRI was a dye-contrast type that produces more detailed scans. It showed no structural damage, only inflammation of the labrum that the Braves characterized as “normal wear and tear.”
Manager Fredi Gonzalez had initially anticipated having Heyward back from the DL within a few days of the 15-day point, but Heyward continued to complain of soreness in the shoulder. Monday was the first day that he told team officials the shoulder felt significantly improved.
“He’s feeling a better, so that’s a good sign,” Gonzalez said. “Probably about three or four days away from swinging a bat. What I mean by that, probably hitting off a tee, soft-toss.”
If Heyward has no setbacks in a few days of hitting off a tee, then in batting practice or extended-spring training games, he would probably begin a short minor-league rehab stint of two or three games.
“By that point he’ll be [out] almost three weeks, right?” Gonzalez said. “So you hate to run him back in there and hurt his legs or something. So when he’s ready to go, I’m assuming three rehab games, maybe.”
Along with Dan Uggla’s season-long slump, Heyward’s diminished production has had a profound effect on the Braves’ offense. As a rookie, Heyward hit .277 with 18 homers, 72 RBIs and a .393 OBP that was one of the highest in history for a player so young.
“It’s just a situation where, I don’t think he really realizes how much of an impact he has on the game just by his presence,” Jones said. “And that’s something I had to learn, too. When I started going through my injuries early on, obviously I wanted to get healthy and whatnot. But I realize that, even now, my presence in the lineup means something. Whether I’m healthy or not.
“And he’s more of a benefit to us standing out there in right field than he is down here in Florida [at extended spring training].”
Jones was asked whether the Braves’ lagging offense was any more difficult to address via the trade market, given the uncertainty of Heyward’s return and the continued struggles by Uggla.
“All the more reason to go out and get somebody,” Jones said. “If you’re not certain, if you don’t know that you can count on him to come back, then you’ve got to do something. Obviously that’s not a decision for the players to make. That’s a decision that Frank {Wren, Braves general manager] going to have to weigh.
“Meanwhile, there are a lot of question marks right now with the ballclub. Time is going to have to bear out the answers.”
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250 comments Add your comment
chpatt
June 7th, 2011
7:37 pm
First!
By the way, I hope Jason sees this because Chipper is right. I think Jason is being somewhat selfish. But who am I to accuse? Go Braves.
Kat
June 7th, 2011
7:44 pm
I’m enjoy Chipper’s honesty about the situation. Heyward’s young and should take note from a veteran like Chipper…not only about how to go out there on the field pushing through uncomfortable aches but the importance of club cohesiveness.
JD
June 7th, 2011
7:47 pm
Bout time Chipper said something…jason you got to cowboy up dude…you and your old man disease gotta kick it in gear …it’s called PRO ball.
kwajbraves
June 7th, 2011
7:49 pm
Jones wants Jason back so he can take his place at DL. (lol)
Martin Elginbrod
June 7th, 2011
7:49 pm
Chipper, keep it out of the papers. Right or wrong, this sh** is unnecessary. Punk move.
RHR
June 7th, 2011
7:50 pm
Wow. You can always count on Hoss to tell it like it is. Hope Jason doesn’t take this the wrong way.
SB75
June 7th, 2011
7:51 pm
I agree with what Jason is doing. He played through pain last year and got ripped by us the fans ( Yes us the fans) for slumping. He watched Jordan get hurt the year before and try and play through it, guess what? We ripped him to. If it was just something minor, I’d say he should be playing. But if the pain is there every time he swings and it’s messing with his swing ( as it has), take the time and get healthy. Get healthy Jason, we do need you back!
TommyJack
June 7th, 2011
7:52 pm
If there’s any pushing done, it will be Chipper. Fredi won’t say squat. Way too passive.
KnightInATL
June 7th, 2011
7:52 pm
I love it. Call it like you see it, Chipper. Heyward needs to sack-up.
worm
June 7th, 2011
7:53 pm
How can D. Lowe refuse a breathalyzer and keep his license-It’s Ga. law that it’s a mandatory suspension…His attorney is Bubba Head-Surely you jest?
chpatt
June 7th, 2011
7:55 pm
Martin Elginbrod: Keep it out of the papers? He’s the only player who speaks the truth on this team. Tell Carlos Zambrano to keep his thoughts on his own team and accusations of his own pitcher Carlos Marmol. THAT needs to be kept in the locker room and not in the National news.
We need smarter fans.
Martin Elginbrod
June 7th, 2011
7:56 pm
“Martin Elginbrod: Keep it out of the papers? He’s the only player who speaks the truth on this team.”
One’s got nothing to do with the other. Tell the truth to the player’s face. Or pick up a phone. Dragging it in front of the public is Bush League.
“We need smarter fans.”
Then read a book.
jonathan Simeone
June 7th, 2011
8:00 pm
At this point, you really have to question if Heyward has the toughness and health profile needed to be a good player. I would be surprised if Jason reached the potential we all had for him a season ago. That’s sad.
i love it
June 7th, 2011
8:03 pm
Thats right chip. Hey J Hey chipper is 39 he has had 4 or 5 days off this entire season he is limping around cant run but he is still out there giving his all and hitting. Gata get tough kid 162 games is a long season we need you.
Are u sure he keeps his license
June 7th, 2011
8:07 pm
Seems he won the case fair & square- cop misidentifies car…other racer goes free…he is not knee-walkin drunk….That said – he may have still lost his lic-4 refusing breath tests.Experts & lawyers????
Dawgdad (The Original)
June 7th, 2011
8:08 pm
I am with Jason, I haven’t missed him because he was doing so poorly while trying to play through his injury. If you aren’t contributing, Chip, you need to give someone else a chance.
My frustration is that the Braves started out way to light in the outfield at the get go. So Heyward gets hurt and they haven’t done anything to remedy the situation. I would have brought up Wilkin and given him a fair shot at some consecutive AB’s. Mather and Hinske have done better than Jason was doing, but with them in the lineup we have no bench. Wren should have not let us get in this situation.
They only draft pitchers and Wren says it is great strategy because if we need a position player, we can always trade for one. Yet, he never does. He falls in love with every pitcher and says they have too much potential to trade.
Jipper Chones
June 7th, 2011
8:10 pm
Yeah Heyward has a big contract to look forward to, no need for him to play hurt and spoil his numbers. Its all about the money honey.
alex
June 7th, 2011
8:10 pm
If it’s all about the team, sure could use chipper’s money to buy another outfielder and an everyday 3rd basement who can move…….Hmmmmmm
Gonzo-HR,lovely to see
Chipper fly to right……
chpatt
June 7th, 2011
8:19 pm
Hey ALEX:
From 2005-2008 Chipper restructured his contract and saved the Braves 15 MILLION DOLLARS. This restructured contract has allowed the Braves to sign players/afford them through trade. How do you think we were able to afford the multiple millions of dollars we had to pay for Teixeira??
We need smarter fans.
alex
June 7th, 2011
8:26 pm
moron chpatt so how is he saving the braves THIS YEAR-wake up,it’s 2011,using teixeirra as an example proves your utter brilliance-idiot You need to restructure your thinking,if you have had any worthwhile thoughts in the last 3 years….
Another great at bat by uggla
Chipper: Braves need Heyward back on field | Raw Sports - Atlanta Braves
June 7th, 2011
8:28 pm
[...] Atlanta Braves [...]
farmer
June 7th, 2011
8:35 pm
good for Chipper. he needs to grab this situation and tell Heyward to man up. he is a being a little wimp for not going out there and being a gamer.. get off your butt and play dude. everyone else is.,
Grincheee
June 7th, 2011
8:37 pm
I completely agree with Heyward; there’s absolutely no reason to waste your entire season playing through an injury that keeps you from contributing anyway. I’d much rather have Jason at full speed for the 2nd half of the season than have him be worthless the entire time. Chipper needs to mind his own business; if he’d gotten his knee scoped back when they first found the tear he’d be coming back about now and playing at close to full strength instead of hobbling around at 60% until it finally tears all the way. He’s the LAST person who needs to be giving this kind of advice.
Anon21
June 7th, 2011
8:42 pm
Chipper has earned the right to speak out like this, but in this case, he is completely wrong. We saw what this injury does to Jason before he went to to the DL: it turns him into a garbage hitter. We don’t need that guy back in our lineup, we need the Jason who’s at 100% and killing the ball.
Jason: ignore Chipper. Stay out until you’re nice and healthy, then come back and play like we know you can.
chpatt
June 7th, 2011
8:43 pm
The point I was trying to make is that he saved money that the Braves we’re allowed to use on players that are currently on our team. That money was used to sign and trade for players and/or use on team/club options to keep players on the team. I didn’t even call you an idiot….anyways, hit me where it hurts…Teixeira was a good example bc that’s how we were able to trade for him. Then we traded him and STILL HAD THE MONEY LEFT OVER! (Angels willing to pay)
Here’s a list you Jackass (curent AND former):
Troy Glaus
Eric Hinske
Omar Infante
Using Alex Gonzalez’s option for this year
Billy Wagner
Nate McLouth
He took one for the team. That was his reason. To pave the way for the future. Whether it was 3 years ago or 3 years from now. It all adds up.
Rupert
June 7th, 2011
9:32 pm
I am 100% with Chipper. First, he is the man on this team. Folks need to understand he can say/do what he wants at this point. Chipper has earned the right to be the defacto captain of this club.
Secondly, what he is saying is right. Heyward HAS NO INJURY. For all the folks on here saying “get well J-Hey” “We love you buddy, see you in the second half” read the dang article. HE HAS NO INJURY BESIDES NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR. Read between the lines on Chipper’s comments and you can tell Heyward’s comments have rubbed the team the wrong way. When you have guys trying to grit it out, hearing someone essentially say he’s too good to grit it out for the good of the team is frustrating. So to you folks, you with Chipper and the whole team, or with Heyward?
Thirdly, there is a huge difference between playing hurt and playing injured. Heyward is not injured. He is maybe not even hurt. You play when you are hurt/discomforted, you shut it down normally when you’re injured.
Finally, I love Heyward. I love his tools. I think he’s the future of this franchise. But this is a learning moment. If he wants to take the helm, he has got to learn to play through the wear and tear of a season, and play well. He had similar issues in the minors. The real problem this year has been his approach at the plate, very pull happy. He didn’t get results, and seemed to take his toys and go home with this injury deal. He also has to learn to not say things that tick off his teamates and make him seem selfish, which I’m sure he’s not. And why does Chipper say this in the media? He’s already talked to Heyward and it did not ressonate. I guarantee you this didn’t just pop in his head and come out. This is a message. Maybe it will piss Jason off, maybe that’s what he needs, some motivation.
rAdnay
June 7th, 2011
9:33 pm
Once aginn, chippie opens his white trash mouth. Mather needs to be in right and chippie needs to retire. Don’t play on Sunday and mounes all the time. How do you spell BUM.
rbrave
June 7th, 2011
9:33 pm
What the heck do we need Heyward for ? he’s done nothing. At least Chippie has a history of years of excellent play with many offensive records and headed to the HOF. Heyward has been hurt from day one and uses these injuries as excuses! He’s a 6 ‘5” baby.
smallmouth6
June 7th, 2011
9:35 pm
Heyward needs a Mickey Mantle talk from his daddy. Good job, Chipper.
TS
June 7th, 2011
9:48 pm
Chipper is wrong. We’ve seen repeatedly that Jason at 80% is flat out terrible. Jason at 100% is a superstar waiting to happen. Here’s hoping it happens.
Nick Swisher's Poor Luck | Fantasy Baseball Hot Stove | Fantasy Baseball Hot Stove
June 7th, 2011
9:53 pm
[...] that are out there playing with discomfort and not healthy, and still going at it.” – Chipper Jones on Jason Heyward who was eligible to come off the DL today. Sounds to me like he is calling out a [...]
Deedle Nick
June 7th, 2011
9:57 pm
Unbelievable. Braves win on two hits and move into second place, three games out.
alex
June 7th, 2011
10:07 pm
So fast forward can we say that his cash for this year is screwing the team for the next few years. Chipper’s current play is an excellent example of why a player should not play at 80%.Chipper(LARRY) your hooters wings are waiting…
Anon21
June 7th, 2011
10:08 pm
Rupert: You’re a moron. Sorry, no nice way to put it. Your assertion that Heyward is not injured is not just utterly without support, it’s completely belied by 1) the information about the type and nature of the injury released by the team; 2) the way the team has handled the injury; and 3) Heyward’s self-reports. What on Earth makes you think you know better than doctors, sports trainers, and the man himself about whether or not Jason Heyward is currently injured is beyond me.
mark
June 7th, 2011
10:12 pm
Jeff Francoeur has more Home Runs and RBI’s than anybody on the Braves. Oh, and he plays everyday. Just saying…….
jw
June 7th, 2011
10:18 pm
This is ridiculous….Jason DID “grind it out” for a month with this injury and he was hitting just over .200. How long do you people propose that he hit .200 before he shuts it down, just so you can feel good about what a gamer he is??? And for people who are saying “he has no injury,” how do you presume to know? On what evidence are your presumptions based? How do you know how bad a shoulder injury hurts? Don’t be stupid…let the kid get healthy and then let him play. There is no sense in risking permanent injury by being a gamer. You don’t like when Schafer plays hurt, but then you expect Heyward to….figure it out people.
mark
June 7th, 2011
10:21 pm
Jason is thinking about Jason, not the Braves.
carlchamblee
June 7th, 2011
10:24 pm
Chipper sure didn’t like it when he thought Smoltz was questioning him not playing through an injury. Went crying and whining to the media then said later it all should have been kept in house.
Guess it’s ok for him to publicly call guys out but when the shoe is on the other foot…
Of course, hyposcrisy is what one expects with a guy who still hits on waitresses all the time while married
Jo-Bu
June 7th, 2011
10:25 pm
Major League Baseball history is littered with players who’s careers were cut short due to not being able to handle the rigors of a 162 game season. Hope Heyward does not profile that way. That’s a huge bat to count on in a lineup when he’s not in it. It’s my hunch that he is too injury-prone and could very well be one of those statistics.
ijudgenot
June 7th, 2011
10:26 pm
Martin Elginbrod
June 7th, 2011
7:49 pm
“Chipper, keep it out of the papers. Right or wrong, this sh** is unnecessary. Punk move.”
OK Chipper since you are telling it like you see it. Will you now tell the press that Uggla is killing this team with his “stepping in the bucket, whirlly bird swing” Will you say that Hoss? No you will keep your trap shut just like you should have done for Heyward. If Chipper does not retire after this year this kid may go elsewhere.
Mark Duncan
June 7th, 2011
10:27 pm
I agree with Chipper, especially in light of how awful this current offense his. I’m not trying to rip Heyward but we need him in right field unless he is totally unable to produce. Waiting until he feels totally pain free may mean waiting to play in March of 2012. Something has to give with this offense and Heyward’s return may spark something. Great game by Hanson and the pen, Uggla still brutal.
mark
June 7th, 2011
10:28 pm
carlchamblee………….When is the last time you dined with Chipper?
Daniel
June 7th, 2011
10:44 pm
Chipper is exactly right. It hurts Heyward, we get it, but if theres no structural damage isnt 15 days enough?
benchwarmer
June 7th, 2011
10:54 pm
Uggla can’t hit an away pitch. He has an awful stance which prevents him from doing so. Fix stance improve plate coverage. Real simple. I am beginning to believe he is simple minded. No one pitches to his inside anymore. The book has been written on ol’ Dan-o. Where is Larry Parrish. What is going on with this teams hitting?
Steve
June 7th, 2011
10:55 pm
Jason Bobblehead doll will break.
Powder Blue
June 7th, 2011
11:16 pm
Congrats to Heyward on becoming the first female to play in MLB.
well chipper
June 7th, 2011
11:20 pm
if you feel that way about heyward, then how ’bout letting him hit third?
NORRIS
June 7th, 2011
11:48 pm
at what point do you part with some young pitching and go get a sure fire outfielder that is consistent? im tired of having the worst outfield in the majors…
CRMAC300
June 7th, 2011
11:57 pm
Practically everyone plays at less than 100%. Heyward needs to start taking the outside pitch to left field, like he did early last year and pull only the inside pitch. That shoulder will feel a lot better when he remembers how to hit. Larry Parrish is invisible on this team. There is no excuse for letting Heyward get pull happy and for Uggla to continue to do what is not working. Might as well let Terry Pendleton take his old job back. Chipper has earned the right to say what he thinks. You Chipper haters can’t call yourselves Braves fans. Find another team to complain about. Chipper is the face of the Braves and has more guts in his little toe than Heyward has in his whole body. With this pitching staff, all we need to do is hit a little and we will win the division. Get Heyward off his pansy ass and back in the line up. Get Uggla in the batting cage until his hands bleed. This is a big boy game.
acbwcmm
June 8th, 2011
12:12 am
Heyward was hitting .214 before he went to the DL. I don’t think he’d be helping too much if he was back, especially not if he is still injured.
BOISESTATEBRONCO
June 8th, 2011
12:17 am
It’s Uggla that I am worried about… I mean, 5yr contract with this guy?!? Sure hope he finds the answer soon
BOISESTATEBRONCO
June 8th, 2011
12:19 am
80% of .214= a .171 batting average. This is better than half the league?? That’ll make Uggla happy!
GameCock Brave
June 8th, 2011
12:25 am
Do you really think Chipper sought of Dave O? Or was he simply providing a honest answer to a question by a beat writer? I will go with the later, I agree that Jason needs to be in the lineup and I suspect his DL assignment is very similar to Kelly Johnson’s “sore wrist” two years ago aka give them some time off to clear their heads and get their timing back with some “minor league” rehab. I wish we would do the same with Uggla, call up Wilken R and move Prado to 2nd base.
BravesfaninAugusta
June 8th, 2011
12:34 am
Chipper showing his leadersip there….I agree 100% the Braves can’t let a still unproven player dictate when he plays if the docs give him a clean bill of health. BUT I think Heyward will react negatively to this…. Bad situation all around
mathman
June 8th, 2011
12:56 am
This team certainly has problems: Chipper should have kept his opinion inside the clubhouse. Truth is, he is not hitting worthy of a 15mil contract either. McCann hits, but is not a good pitch caller or defensive player; Prado swings for the fence more this year, hits a lot more fly balls and hits into DP’s. Prado needs to go back to using the entire field.
Schafer is good defensively, can’t hit. McLouse is neither a good hitter or defensive player. Freeman is a rookie, but is actually our 3rd best hitter and one of top defensive players; Gonzalez swings for the fences, can’t hit 2nd, and will hit .250 with an attitude. Uggla is beyond help this year. Evidently, can’t or won’t seek help. Mather hit one series, now can’t hit. Severe uppercut and can’t hit the breaking pitch. Hinske is slumping as he did a year ago when playing fulltime. Folks, this team has problems.
Pitching is a strength and is even better when Ross is the catcher. It appeared Ross was looking to the bench tonight. Maybe, they were calling the pitches. Maybe, that would help McCann. Whoever was calling the pitches, mixed them up tonight, more than usual. We simply are with Hudson and Lowe throwing too many fastballs early in the count. The opponent simply takes the fastball the other way. Something, the Braves hitters might think of doing. It is amazing with this offense that we are only 3 games out. Amazing.
just saying...
June 8th, 2011
1:04 am
Agree with Rupert.
You can bet Chipper has already told him to his face.
If Heyward was anyone else on the team everyone in the media and fans would be giving him hell. What’s different about Heyward?
Linebrink For Cy
June 8th, 2011
1:17 am
Chipper, JHey stunk in May, which was apparently the result of his injury, and you want him to come back before it’s 100%? No, even if it means you have to take a few lickings here and there you gotta let his shoulder heal otherwise even if he is playing he’ll be about as useful as Uggla is right now.
It’s easy for Chipper “The Man of 1000 Injuries” to say “play through pain” but Jason is still a rookie. One guy has built of a sort of pain tolerance due to the amount of injuries he’s sustained over the years while the other guy doesn’t want to permanently damage his shoulder before he’s even gotten started in the majors.
Maybe try to get the guys already in the lineup to do a bit more first before talking to guys who are not.
Linebrink For Cy
June 8th, 2011
1:21 am
“What’s different about Heyward?”
Star future rookie?
rob from sc
June 8th, 2011
1:33 am
Hey Chipper. Maybe if Uggla didn’t suck Jason wouldn’t need to come back still injured
Chipper how did you feel when smoltz called you out
dilly
June 8th, 2011
2:17 am
Chipper is right. I suspect he has talked with Jason. I agree he was probably answering a question from one of the reporters and don’t believe it was anything bad that he said. He knows that Jason, even though he has not done much so far, can be a very valuable part of this lackluster offense. Chipper probably remembers when Smoltzie called him out and knows how it gave him the boost to try harder.
need4speed
June 8th, 2011
2:24 am
Has anybody considered trying Hayward at first? This would give his arm and back a rest, and at least get him back in the line-up.
bob
June 8th, 2011
3:52 am
Can we go ahead and trade J-Hey for Jay Bruce straight up?
Bobby Bobby
June 8th, 2011
5:13 am
Oh so Larry Wayne Jr plays a few games with a bad knee and decides to bash his fellow team mate for being hurt. Larry has killed this team for going on 10 years now. He should keep his mouth shut. BMac is a much better leader
Mike
June 8th, 2011
5:48 am
Selfish!!! What will you guys say if he comes back too early and tears that shoulder or has another injury trying to compensate for the current injury. Sure he is important, sure we need him out there, but we need him for the rest of the year. Patience my fellow bloggers and lets get him back when is mind and body are ready.
tim
June 8th, 2011
6:18 am
Chipper is correct Heyward is a wuss. But would you want this slug in the line up? Have we not suffered enough by watching Uggla in the lineup everyday,now you want another no hitting clown in there with him. Here is a better idea package the two of them together and ship them to a local little league team for a couple of 12 yr olds who at least would try every day. Thanks Wren
Furman Bitcher
June 8th, 2011
7:01 am
Read between the lines here guys this is Chipper’s last season and he wants to go back to the playoffs and w/o Heyward back in there and Uggla hitting that isnt going to happen. Chipper will not play in 2012.
Chipper Jones, MD
June 8th, 2011
7:03 am
I may not be a doctor but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express on my last fishing trip to Florida.
stew
June 8th, 2011
7:24 am
Hunter Pence.
pocaroba biff
June 8th, 2011
7:32 am
Last year sports illustrated did an article about the specialization of young athletes. for example baseball, where you can go to all star leagues and such all year long, playing only baseball, and how this is leading to junior high and high school kids getting injuries before only seen in major league baseball players, like rotator cuff.
Is this what is happening with Heyward? I read how his dad took him to baseball camps and leagues all year long, and in his two short years with the braves he has been injury prone.
Chipper Jones
June 8th, 2011
8:00 am
Playoffs? I gotta protect my career .300 average
This will be my last season
Tami
June 8th, 2011
8:13 am
Chipper is right. Shows his maturity & experience in his comments. I do remember his young playing days and his attitude then, so he’s come a long way. And he’s very likely the best Braves player to give such a comment. I would say, though, that if Jason would learn when and when not to slide, he might actually save his shoulder. He needs to learn to slide into base, for example, feet first rather than head first. Otherwise, he’ll have more problems with one crucial future slide than just his shoulder. We’re supportive of you, but buck up, Jason!
toby
June 8th, 2011
8:17 am
I agree with Chipper 100% some times you gotta suck it up and play,over the course of a six month long season,i doubt that anybody is going to feel %100,Heyward doesnt ant to go down that road and become another Kevin Mitchell,any of you long time baseball fans can remember some of the horror stories about him,ie… managers practically having to beg him to play!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Your 21 yrs old,get on the f*****g field and earn your pay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
vermont 39
June 8th, 2011
8:18 am
J-Hey reminds me of Sammie Smith of the Miami Dolphins…when everything was perfect…so was he…unfortunately, it wasn’t very often…
Other than occasional flashes, what has he really accomplished. We still have a hole in RF.
GO BRAVES!!!!!
alex
June 8th, 2011
8:23 am
Above comments support the conclusion that chipper’s(larry’s) comments are at best divisive for a struggling team….
Does Hooter’s serve breakfast?
bvillebaron
June 8th, 2011
8:29 am
Big time Chipper fan, but none of us would be commenting on this blog about this if he kept these comments in the clubhouse where they belong.
reckingball
June 8th, 2011
8:37 am
chpatt @8:19ppm…………..”Chipper restructured his contract from 2005 thru 2008, and saved the Braves $15million”.
As I understand it, the restructuring of his contract involved the deferral of payment, to a later date, and not less money.
If that is correct, how did that save the Braves $15million?
Or did the the reworked contract involve a lower pay out to Chipper?
warren
June 8th, 2011
8:41 am
for all those people hating on chipper just 2 years ago the guy won a batting title! and is still a very dangerous hitter. looks at too many pitches this year. needs to be more agressive. he is right to talk about heyward. if there is no injury to his shoulder he should not be on the disabled list. years ago, guys played through all these little things and still produced! players are babied and pined over now, this guy is 21 years old and bitchin about some shoulder soreness that according to all the tests is fine! premadonna players never pan out and let me say it now. jason heyward is never gonna be a 30 homer 100 rbi guy, cause he will always have a nagging injury of sorts to deal with during the seasons. sometimes cant miss prospects actually miss!!! i loved me some heyward but i think he is gonna have a very injury prone career. freddie freeman on the other hand is a gamer and in plays a longevity career position. he will work out nice.
reckingball
June 8th, 2011
8:43 am
If Heyward’s production is going to be a the level that it was while he was playing hurt, then how much does it benefit the team, for him to play hurt?
It looks like it would be of greater value to the team, for him to heal up to 100%, and then come back to play.
Dennis Reynolds
June 8th, 2011
8:59 am
And to think, we passed on Mike Stanton…..
Dr. Sanjay Gupta
June 8th, 2011
9:02 am
Highly unprofessional for Chipper to comment on a teammate, especially one that is injured.
Chipper, leave Jason’s issues to Braves’ management and the medical professionals that are treating him. I don’t recall any of your teammates questioning your inabilty to perform the countless times you’ve been unable to play.
Blaze
June 8th, 2011
9:05 am
I am with you Ruppert. I know that there is a difference between playing hurt and being injured. You injured…..you shut it down…..Martin Prado. You hurting…..you “man up” and play….there are many examples on the Braves right now. Just watch Hinske and McCann. They are great examples.
Ralph
June 8th, 2011
9:10 am
I am in no hurry to see Jason back in the lineup, I much prefer having Hinskies 300 ba in there and let Jason stay at AAA until he proves he can hit to all fields.
Damon Dingle Barryhill
June 8th, 2011
9:16 am
You’re right Chipper – they need to go out and GET SOMEBODY. 2 hits off a minor league pitcher? Seriously??? This offense is an absolute joke. Not sure that Hewyard’s “presence” is going to do anything to the lineup.. he looked completely confused before going on the DL. Somewhere this year, he’s developed an all or nothing attitude and tries to kill every pitch.
Freddie Freeman is going to be a better major league hitter than Hewyard – write that down.
Uggla and Minor for a bag of balls and 4 new bats. MAKE THE DEAL WREN!
MSBRAVESFAN
June 8th, 2011
9:20 am
IF we can keep pace with Jhay out, like we are doing, than let him stay out and get 100%.
ynot
June 8th, 2011
9:24 am
I sure JHey will be back before 100%. He just knows how he was feeling when he couldn’t hit. He needs to be healthier than that before coming back.
Joe
June 8th, 2011
9:30 am
I love that Chipper is calling him out but at the same time I want Heyward to be healthy and therefore comfortable at the plate. If he’s comfortable and swinging the bat the way he can it’ll dramatically change the lineup by alleviating the pressure on other players (Uggla). If I’m Freddi, once Jason comes back I slot him in the 6 spot until he gets his fee under him than I sandwich Uggla between Chipper (3) and Heyward (5) with McCann hitting 6th. Give Dan as much protection in the lineup as possible and hopefully he see some good pitches.
Dennis Reynolds
June 8th, 2011
9:31 am
EITHER FREE CONSTANZA OR TRADE SCHAFER FOR DENARD SPAN!!!!
Dennis Reynolds
June 8th, 2011
9:34 am
This organization may be classy, but they dont know how to win. Its kind of an embarrassment.
Lets see, we’ll call up a career .250 hitter to leadoff but we’ll leave a career .300 hitter who averages 40 stolen bases a year and who is currently hitting .328 in AAA. That makes a ton of sense.
alex
June 8th, 2011
9:44 am
HOOTERS!
And so what if he’s playing on one knee? He’s still selfish. He could be out there in a wheelchair for all I care. He’s just so selfish. He personally should go scout players, do Wren’s job and work out a trade, all while playing injured. If he doesn’t then he’s just selfish. So selfish.
Ralph
June 8th, 2011
9:48 am
@Joe
I’d sandwich Heyward between Uggla and Conrad, ON THE BENCH.
MS Braves Fan
June 8th, 2011
9:50 am
There was a game earlier this season when Alex Gonzalez left the game due to some kind of tweak or something, and the following game Jason was out of the lineup saying something was wrong with him. I remember this happening a time or two last year as well. He could very well have been legitimately hurt, but his timing looked suspicious to me.
MarylandBravesFan
June 8th, 2011
10:16 am
Heyward looked like he had regressed ( thanks Parrish) when he WAS playing this year. Hope the Braves aren’t banking on him to save the day.
Kentavo
June 8th, 2011
10:24 am
Actually, it was only one hit of minor league pitcher – Prado’s hit camee off the bullpen.
Chipper Jones says Jason Heyward needs to get back on the field | HardballTalk
June 8th, 2011
10:34 am
[...] not certain that I can recognize a true Braves “calling out” when I see it. But yeah, Chipper is pretty much calling Jason Heyward out here: “What Jason needs to realize is that Jason at 80 percent is a force, and Jason at 80 percent [...]
89Dawg
June 8th, 2011
10:38 am
This team needs a spark, and if this is what it takes to put a little fire in their bellies then so be it…The Chipper bashers on here absolutlely kill me…He’s a future hall of famer calling out a scared little (big) kid. Smoltz was right when he called out Chipper and Chipper is right this time. Heywards presence in the lineup changes the dynamics of the batting order and might spark the offense – it certainly can’t get much worse. I believe Heyward is feeling discomfort, but the Doctors and TWO MRI’s don’t lie – there is NO serious injury.
klmbbfan
June 8th, 2011
10:42 am
Jason-suck it up and play you big selfish baby- you are selfish and only thinking about you. Real ball players play through pain or I should say real men.
reckingball
June 8th, 2011
10:43 am
Chipper should play 3rd base, and try batting RH, fulltime. My opinion.
Felix Millan
June 8th, 2011
10:43 am
So, Gonzalez thinks he might hurt a leg if he comes back too soon? His shoulder “injury” shouldn’t prevent him from getting in a little RUNNING! I just finished rehabbing a torn tendon in my shoulder that required surgery. Didn’t stop me from going to the gym and running. And a MRI showed my injury. Heyward’s shows nothing. maybe he should go to a gynecologist to find the problem.
Braves Buff
June 8th, 2011
10:44 am
Jason Heyward…LOL….MR GLASS
DC Brave
June 8th, 2011
10:45 am
This won’t be popular and most will disagree…but for me, this is the kind of story that I wish the AJC would just put in its pocket, or save for the book about the championship 2011 season 10 years from now. Chipper is going to be Chipper…catch him at the right time and he’s got no filter…anyone who has followed this team knows that (remember Chipper and Smoltz). As it stands, this story divides the fans…and could even be detrimental to the team.
Speaking the Truth
June 8th, 2011
10:46 am
Who is Chipper to question some one’s toughness? After all the little bits and pieces he’s been through and still wants to take a spot on the DL. Haha.
It’s better for Heyward to be 100% than to be at 0% near the play offs! Let him rest. Heyward isn’t a life saver when in the line up anyways. Braves offense just stinks right now.
DC Brave
June 8th, 2011
10:46 am
This won’t be popular and most will disagree…but for me, this is the kind of story that I wish the AJC would just put in its pocket, or save for the book about the championship 2011 season 10 years from now. Chipper is going to be Chipper…catch him at the right time and he’s got no filter…anyone who has followed this team knows that (remember Chipper and Smoltz). As it stands, this story divides the fans…and could even be detrimental to the team.
Pat Bound
June 8th, 2011
10:49 am
This sounds a lot like the comments Smoltz made about Chipper in 07 or 08 when Chipper sat out for 3 weeks with bruised palms.
Chi Town
June 8th, 2011
10:52 am
Good for Chipper.
Heyward needs to be called out.
Ray Ray
June 8th, 2011
10:52 am
I’d love to defend Jason but haven’t the doctors confirmed that there is nothing wrong with him?
Tracy
June 8th, 2011
11:01 am
Chipper said Braves need Heyward on the field like Heyward’s making a fraction of what he, Uggla, & McLouth makes. Braves need moneyball offense. How about Chiiper, McLouth, and Uggla give up their contractsso we can pay better players or players in their prime. With More Money Comes More Responsibility. Take it chipper, don’t deflect it. Pretty sad of Chipper to call out Heyward befor ehe even call ut Uggla. Lol
pcb mike
June 8th, 2011
11:08 am
I won’t argue with Chipper, he has always had my total respect. But Heyward was hitting under .220 and that is not him. I would rather have a back up hitting .260 helping the team more until Jason is ready. We all know this is a star in waiting and hid numbers will be super when he is healthy.
RonnieFranchise
June 8th, 2011
11:08 am
The part I liked is when Chipper called out Wren – about “going out and getting somebody.”. That is the concern right now. I don’t believe Mclouth. Heyward, or Uggla will do anything the rest of the season.
No hitting
June 8th, 2011
11:11 am
Chipper needs to leave his comments in the clubhouse, with JH, or with mgt. Didn’t he called out by Smoltz for doing the same thing?
Kevin
June 8th, 2011
11:13 am
Chipper called out Heyward so he can go on the DL. I would laugh so hard if the day Heyward returns that Chipper goes on the DL.
Sid Slid
June 8th, 2011
11:16 am
DOB, what say you? Buster seems to think this has the chance to divide the locker room…
Brandon
June 8th, 2011
11:17 am
Everyone was killing Jason for not producing before DL and now are killing him b/c he is trying to get healthy and actually contribute. If he came back now, still not able to swing, and producing same results people would be killing him still…the kid can’t win. If he’s not able to produce at a high level I don’t want him back. I feel the same way about Chipper…I don’t care if he’s out there limping and being tough if he doesn’t produce. Craziness
Hinske Da Man
June 8th, 2011
11:17 am
I will only say that every player is different when it comes to playing with injuries. While a lot of players will play through much worse than what Heyward is going through, nobody knows the exact pain that Heyward is experiencing. All I know is that if Heyward continues down this course the rest of his career, he will be remembered as a BUST.
Jay Dubu
June 8th, 2011
11:24 am
When Heyward was in the lineup trying to play through the injury, he was criticized. Now he’s trying to get healthy and he’s being criticized.
You can’t have it both ways people. You have to pick one and stick to it.
Chipper, when John Smoltz called you out because of your ongoing hang nails, your didn’t like it, so why would you do it to a team mate?
Could it be, you want the focus off of you 0 fors, and looking your age at the plate?
Maybe when Jason gets to 80%, he’ll rejoin the team. Right now, maybe he’s less than 80%
Besides, the Jason that was on the field before being placed on the disable list, was 4 for 41 (.098) with 15 strikeouts in May. That is not going to help the Braves. They have enough of those performances in the lineup already!!!!
Get healthy Heyward.
nomorecolincowherd
June 8th, 2011
11:33 am
Let Heyward do a rehab stint in Gwinett and keep him there. Cat’s not ready. Maybe the toughness will come but he cannot hit big league pitching. DOB please don’t delete
Speaking the Truth
June 8th, 2011
11:36 am
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2914283&campaign=rss&source=ESPNHeadlines
Chipper and Smoltz done the same thing….
Jay Dubu
June 8th, 2011
11:39 am
@chpatt,
Chipper’s contract restructure benefitted him just as much or more than it helped the Braves. He essentially deferred money to a later date, and had his contract extended.
While an honorable move to restructure, it’s not like he lost any money doing it, so let’s not make it sound like he did. He lost, nor gave up any cash that was due him.
Brave New World
June 8th, 2011
11:42 am
Chipper has always been a media darling. His stats alone are Hall of Fame worthy, but Chipper has never taken any chances knowing the writers vote on who gets into the Hall. Still, Chipper needs to keep this one in the clubhouse. Bush league move by a future Hall of Famer.
chc4
June 8th, 2011
11:48 am
Chipper speaks the truth. If the MRI shows normal wear & tear then Jason needs to suck it up and play. If he can’t play thru soreness in May then he’s got no shot to stick around the majors for long.
Jay Dubu
June 8th, 2011
11:52 am
@mark,
So does Melky, tied in HR, but neither were able to do it for the Braves before being moved, so what does that tell you.
Is it the AL, the fact that they’re playing for KC with no expectations, or that they just got better as players?
What say you?
Fourbee
June 8th, 2011
12:08 pm
Chipper is right!
Chipper passed my long-time idol, Mickey Mantle, in RBIs recently. Mickey accumulated 15 fractures over the years, blew out his knees (both of them, twice), tore the labrum in his throwing shoulder and suffered from osteomyeletis. Yet, The Mick played over 142 games for 12 of his 18 years. He was taped from shoulder to ankle every game, toward the end, and every pitcher feared his at bats. He played with pain that most players would not. Yet, Mickey still played.
Heyward wants to be one of the best in the game, or so he says, but is unwilling to play with pain.
Chipper plays with pain and he is going to the Hall of Fame. Mickey Mantle played with pain and is in the Hall of Fame.
It seems Heyward may have the talent, but he doesn’t have the love of the game, or the cojones, to play through the pain. It’s a shame that he’ll never be remembered with Chipper or The Mick.
If you ask me, it’s a bad choice. Get off your duff, J Hey!
Henry D.
June 8th, 2011
12:10 pm
Here is my deal with Jayson. He hurt his thumb last year sliding head first and missed time with that as well as going long periods without producing. that’s what cost him the Rookie of the year. So what’s he doing again this year? Sliding head first which is probably how he hurt his shoulder in the first.Learn from your mistakes and quit showboating.
You are too valuable to this team.
tmc
June 8th, 2011
12:11 pm
it’s about time for Mr. Heyward to toughen up.
I find it very disturbing that someone his age is getting the injuries he has and not recovering quickly. It says a lot about the person when “bumps and bruises” linger to the point where it keeps them out of the lineup for so long.
Chipper is right, get healthy and back in the lineup and produce.
Stop concentrating on the pain and discomfort.
David O'Brien
June 8th, 2011
12:14 pm
DOB, what say you? Buster seems to think this has the chance to divide the locker room… — Sid Slid
That’s not what Buster said. He said that HEYWARD has a lot at stake with his teammates right now. Buster never wrote anything at all about teammates taking sides on this, or it dividing the clubhouse. Unless you saw something else that he wrote that I missed, in which case, please point it out. I’d like to see it.
Mark (another one)
June 8th, 2011
12:14 pm
I suspect that the point being made is don’t wait for 100%. Players and doctors can argue the various percentages but Heyward needs to get back soon, and the 100% comment doesn’t sit well. Forget Chipper playing through his injuries and think about McCann, Shafer, etc. They’re hurt and yet a decision is made to play.
No one wants Heyward to damage his shoulder. They just want him to be willing to play with some discomfort. That is the role of a major league player. Heyward has to find the balance point but its not 100%.
This is the entertainment business, and the show must go on. That is what justifies the huge salaries, and makes these guys into idols. Jason is new to it, and he said something he shouldn’t have said. I have no doubt he will play hurt because he has. It was the comment about 100% that caused the issue.
All of that said, I also respect Uggla for putting on the uniform and playing every day. No doubt he could fake an injury and avoid the press but he keeps trying to contribute to his team. That’s why I am confident he will work through his issues and start producing runs.
Austin
June 8th, 2011
12:19 pm
I agree with Chipper. And for those of you who say that he should not go to the papers and say it to his face, I’m pretty sure someone has said something. The way Chipper was talking about it in the article, this is not something that just came off the top of his head. If I am on that team I am asking myself why he won’t at least try. He should have been hitting off a tee at least at this point.
Stop trying to baby JHey. Dirk Nowitzki goes out against the Miami Heat last night with a tendon tear in his finger and a 102 degree fever. Also, anyone remember when Schilling had surgery on his ankle in the clubhouse at Yankee Stadium in the ALCS. “The bloody sock game.” He gutted it out for the team. Come on Heyward, this is getting ridiculous. Instead of tweeting during the game how about you try to get in there and do something. Let us do the tweeting.
Steve
June 8th, 2011
12:23 pm
I’ m glad Chipper stepped up because FG seems to be lost in his own little world.
bruce
June 8th, 2011
12:40 pm
why would Jason three rehab games for his legs… surely he has been running, working out his legs to stay in close to game shape? maybe it would be a test of the shoulder in game situations for three days to be sure he is ready to come off the DL rather than start a new clock in Atlanta
Braves Fan Since 1966
June 8th, 2011
12:40 pm
I’m for the Braves finding somebody who can hit a pitched ball hard consistently.
Larry "First Ballot" Jones
June 8th, 2011
12:45 pm
Larry first ballot jones can say what he wants. You ignorant fans who dont know squat m this is what you do a leader like chipper excuse me first ballot jones is telling the truth to a youngster who needs to hear it from someone like him, oh yah by the hes first ballot.
Larry "First Ballot" Jones
June 8th, 2011
12:46 pm
Ang Freddi G is the worst!
Joey
June 8th, 2011
12:49 pm
Pot, meet kettle.
Joey
June 8th, 2011
12:55 pm
The problem is, Larry, Chipper didn’t go tell Jason, he told the media, and guess who’s front page it it now on?
http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=6640173
Creaky
June 8th, 2011
12:58 pm
Can anyone say Prima Dona?
jm_baldwin
June 8th, 2011
1:00 pm
Hmm – didn’t seem too long ago when Smoltz called out Chipper for the same thing. I do think that if Heyward is 80%, get him out there, but not if it is going to make his injury worse. I guess it depends on the injury. I don’t think we have a JD Drew on our hands. Heyward is a gamer. Maybe Chipper should keep it in the clubhouse.
Allen Lord
June 8th, 2011
1:02 pm
Right on Chipper! Good to see that you still consider yourself the leader of this Braves team!
Now get rid of the “Mohawk” along with the rest of those trying to “make a statement”…..Uggla, et.al….and get back to some Bobby Cox discipline and PLAY BALL like all you guys are capable of doing! Fredi and Frank seem to think we are the Florida Marlins. We are not. We are the Atlanta Braves and PROUD OF IT. Now PLAY HARD and make us proud of you!!
tremaine
June 8th, 2011
1:02 pm
Wow, how is Chipper going to complain about someone playing threw injuries. For like the last five years the guy has stayed on the DL. Wasn’t it last year or the year before that he was complaining about playing to much during a playoff race?
Rally
June 8th, 2011
1:03 pm
The Braves never will win anything as long as Larry Wayne Jones is part of the team. He is a big reason for the failures since 1995. To many on this blog he is the Golden Man but I call him what he is full of, Golden Bull.
kerryb
June 8th, 2011
1:05 pm
Enter your comments here
kerryb
June 8th, 2011
1:09 pm
All of you people whining about Chipper calling him out in the media need to wise up. Heyward hasn’t earned anything in the major leagues and if Chipper feels like he needs to call him out to wake him up, good for him. Nothing impacts a young player ( and Heyward still is) like the leader of the team and a Hall of Famer calling him out. I don’t think Chipper cares one bit if he hurts his feelings or not. He’ll have to get over it. Chipper has more than earned the right. Apparently this guy is a great hitter but is made out of glass and is not tough enough to play through pain and be effective. Maybe he learns that as he matures.
SeaAtl
June 8th, 2011
1:10 pm
Heyward is a 6′-5″ baby. He was last year and he is again this year. Prado is banged up and hates to miss a game; Chipper has a torn meniscus and hates to miss a game; B Mac is a banged up catcher and is the best player on the team; the list goes on. Jason is one of the newer/younger generation of kids who are entitled to everything and it leads to him and his generation to being divas for the most part. The kid has unbelievable talent, but we will be discussing his propensity to sit out for minor “knick-knack” injuries his entire career.
Mark's for the Braves
June 8th, 2011
1:10 pm
Thanks for the update, Dave. I figured something was up with Jason. Is he pouting about something? Is that the reason he doesn’t want to return till he’s 100%?
kerryb
June 8th, 2011
1:17 pm
SeaAtl, good comments. You are right. This is the WHY generation of big babies and whiners.
nique
June 8th, 2011
1:20 pm
One would have to assume that Chipper had this conversation with Jason already but that it didn’t get through to Jason. If that was not the case, I don’t like Chipper calling Jason out like this in public. When Jason comes back, hopefully he’ll take a slightly different approach to his game – sliding headfirst, diving for balls in the outfield, etc. – seeing as how he seems to be somewhat injury prone.
reckingball
June 8th, 2011
1:30 pm
Again, why would anyone want a player, that is playing at “80%”, and producing at a rate of 20% of his capabilities, over a player that is playing at 100%, and producing 80 to 100% of what he is capable of doing, at the plate?
Heyward was not helping the team, when he was playing injured.
Illinois Brave
June 8th, 2011
1:33 pm
Chipper said what most YOUNG ADULTS need to hear. These kids have been coddled all of their lives and being an adult is still foreign to them.
Most of you that are fussing at Chipper for saying what he said are probably directly the reason we have kids growing up like Jason is. Parents are afraid to make their kids tough, because they are too concerned about their children’s self esteem.
You can’t protect your kids from pain, but what you do is to teach them to be strong enough to survive it.
Chipper did what he needed to do. He called Jason out and made him feel a little peer pressure. Of course Jason won’t like it, but it will make him a better person. For those of you who don’t like what Chipper said, then quit fussing every time an athlete whines.
reckingball
June 8th, 2011
1:35 pm
I am surprised that some of these ‘oldsters’ don’t finish their comments with, “back in my younger days, we had to walk ten miles to get to school, it was uphill both ways, and we had to fight the Indians coming and going”.
Elonbrave
June 8th, 2011
1:36 pm
I agree with Chipper…. but isn’t Heyward almost back already? He’d have to make a couple rehab starts anyway. Seems that this would have a lot more relevance if it were a week or more ago.
Should Heyward play?
June 8th, 2011
1:42 pm
[...] play until he is 100% percent. Chipper Jones has expressed frustration when he commented to Atlanta Journal-Constitution that Heyward needs to realize how important he is to the Braves, even if he isn’t 100 [...]
Reply to bonehead fans
June 8th, 2011
1:46 pm
Some people are so busy trying to be critical of players (Heyward) that they make themselves sound as stupid as they really are. The braves must have a medical staff to evaluate injuries but yet all the high school dropouts think they are more prepared to make a decision on whether Heyward is hurt or not. There are more serious problems on this team than Heyward’s injury. Last year it was T P’s fault for the lack of hitting and he was bashed daily. Well, where are the bashers now? The current lack of hitting coach barely get a mention when the subject of poor hitting is mentioned. Until they solve that problem I guess Heyward will be the player to bash, and oh yes please tell chipper that there are other players in the lineup that needs some of his leadership guidance if he is up to it.
Scott
June 8th, 2011
1:51 pm
Heyward lack the work ethic to become the great player everyone thought he would become .
JT Grace
June 8th, 2011
1:53 pm
jm_baldwin ” Heyward is a gamer.
Heyward is NOT a gamer. Tim Hudson is a gamer. Jordan Schafer is a gamer. Martin Prado is the definition of a gamer. A guy who is constantly injured and taking days off at age 21 is not a gamer.
I like Heyward but he needs to start hitting off a tee today, play in a couple of rehab games this weekend and return on Monday. The team needs him.
Erik from N.C.
June 8th, 2011
1:56 pm
Chipper is one of my favorite Braves of all time, but I think he messed up in this instance. First, he should not have “called out” Heyward publicly even if he felt that way (nence the old mantra, praise publicly, but criticize privately). Second, he should trust the medical advice that Heyward is receiving … if Heyward is going to risk aggravating the injury and having it be a lingering thing all year (or worse), then the extra week spent recovering now is well worth it and well advised. If on the other hand, it really is fully healed, then Heyward probably needs to accelerate his timetable for getting back out there as the team does need him and has missed him greatly.
BravesFan
June 8th, 2011
1:57 pm
I have been on Chipper from time to time throughout the years about the injuries but the dude is gutting it out this year with a bad knee and a hurt groin! I have absolutely no problem with Chipper calling Jason out.
Heyward is a great talent! So was Bob Horner. Now I am not saying that Heyward is Horner by any means but if I were the Braves I would fine Heyward every time he slides head first. Both injuries (thumb and shoulder) were caused or made worse by sliding head first.
JHey, you are one of the lucky few who get into pro baseball. Give off your butt and help this team win!!!!
Good Grief
June 8th, 2011
1:59 pm
What’s odd about this is prior to Heyward going on the DL everybody was saying that Jason should be DL’d until he could get healthy enough to play. It wasn’t just fans saying that it was guys in the media (writers, Chip, Joe, and other analyst) and I even remember some of the players saying it would be good for Jason to rest his shoulder and get back healthy.
So now the script has changed? Figures. I remember a few years back both Smoltz and Brian Jordan called Chipper out on some of his “injuries” and he b****ed about it. While I understand wanting to get Jason back out on the field sooner rather than later this team is still somehow winning games – now in 2nd place and only 3 games back of the Phillies? No need to rush him back! Get the rest of the team to hitting (DAN UGGLA) and maybe we wouldn’t be having this conversation.
I could understand it if the Braves had dropped 6 to 7 games back but come on… keep playing ball and get the guys that’s currently on the team back to hitting – that includes you Chipper.
Bob
June 8th, 2011
2:00 pm
Jason is finding out that there is a difference between high school and major league baseball.
I’m not sure that he wants to play at the professional level. His reasons are turning into excuses.
That is sad considering what he could become.
HeyHeyKid
June 8th, 2011
2:00 pm
Heyward is in a no win situation right now. If he comes back to early and he is not 100% and he sucks like he did in May then most fans will be all over him calling him a bust. And if he waits and heals until he comes back close to 100%, most fans call him soft and a bust. I am sure if it was September he would play thru it or if he thought he could help the team out. In my opinion Ski and Mather are better in rf than a 70% Heyward.
Sid Slid
June 8th, 2011
2:02 pm
That’s not what Buster said. He said that HEYWARD has a lot at stake with his teammates right now. Buster never wrote anything at all about teammates taking sides on this, or it dividing the clubhouse. Unless you saw something else that he wrote that I missed, in which case, please point it out. I’d like to see it. – DOB
Re Buster’s comments. He tweeted this morning: “I do think that the forthcoming weeks are going to be important in how Heyward is perceived by his teammates; there is frustration there.”
You’re right. Dividing the clubhouse may be a little strong. But I think you and Buster both pick up on a sense of frustration inside the clubhouse that Heyward can’t seem to stay in the lineup. Maybe it’s just Chipper who feels that way, although if it reached a point where he felt the need to speak out on it publicly, I would guess not. You would obviously know better. Personally, I think it’s just part of a process of discovering the difference between being hurt and not being able to play, and Heyward will be fine in the long term.
Janet
June 8th, 2011
2:07 pm
It sounds like a lot of people would like to see Heyward play with an inflamed labrum so he can tear it and be out for a few years. A month or so, or a year or more – how long would we rather have him out? Nobody can feel another person’s pain, and one person’s sore knee is not the same as another person’s sore shoulder ( or any other injured body part ). Chipper and every one else need to get off their high horses and stop preaching about something they know nothing about! Take care of your own body!
Serbok
June 8th, 2011
2:08 pm
I have to agree with Chipper~ I mean~ Think Mickey Mantle~ Aaron~ Gherig~
Mays etc…….. I seriously doubt Mantle would DL himself over something like this!
He finished with pretty good career numbers didnt he? Course~ Heyward is NO
Mantle!! Why? ………. because he’s hurting so badly?
guy
June 8th, 2011
2:08 pm
JH,If the shoe fits,wear it!
bball fan
June 8th, 2011
2:11 pm
Tell us Wren, is Heyward injured or just sore? There’s a big difference. If he’s just sore he needs to be out there. If he’s injured, tell us what is the injury.
Rupert
June 8th, 2011
2:11 pm
Anon21, if you have to resort to name calling, then that says all I need to know about you and whatever argument you have.
I wholeheartedly agree with an earlier post about if this wasn’t Heyward, a lot of folks would be acting differently. He is the next big thing, and people want him to be so good that they don’t want to hear anything negative. That’s fine, I am the same way, but don’t lose the forrest for the trees.
And that is my biggest point. Too many folks on here are reacting like it’s CHIPPER’S comments that will divide the team. No. It’s HEYWARD’S actions that led to something happening on the team, read between the lines. Which led to Chipper, feeling the need to express this publicly. HEYWARD is the one who can divide this team or unite it with how he responds to the TEAM’S apparent problem with his comments, and approach to injury. Don’t shoot the messenger, Chipper.
Mike Berry
June 8th, 2011
2:16 pm
Great article DOB…Top Job. Really enjoyed it…now let’s see if this will light a fire under Jason’s butt or not.
K.C. Frenchy
June 8th, 2011
2:18 pm
Hmmmm………. quick think fast, who’s the 1st Brave that comes to mind thats always taking the day off or is on the DL??? Chipper….. bingo! He is the LAST one to question if someone is hurt, what you think the dude doesnt want to be playing? Only Heyward knows for sure how he is feeling, so Larry just play out your part time role this year & please ride off to your ranch after this year, we need your 13 mill per to sign a STUD 3rd sacker that STILL has power & can play everyday, thanks for your years of service though, see ya!!!!!!!!!!
Bill Rea
June 8th, 2011
2:20 pm
Heyward is just another Braves has been or never was. Its in the fine print of everyone’s contract these days. When you come to the Braves, you must promise to forget how to hit. Its mandatory! Only Prado and Hinske cheat from time to time and that will catch up to them. Unbelievable how these major leaguers can become complete wastes at the plate. On paper, these guys look like a better club than Phila but they love striking out. Prado is terrific! Heyward should be trade bait. McLouth and Mather need GONE! Lance Parrish GONE! Chipper WAS great……GONE! This team is nothing but two giant question marks…….What Happened? What do we do from here? Hitless wonders can make any pitcher look terrific. Where are LaRoche, Infante, Frenchy and Andrue when you need them?
Marcus
June 8th, 2011
2:23 pm
What if Jason goes out there not 100%, and further worsens the injury, making him out for an even longer time, then what? Chipper gets hurts feilding a ground ball, so he needs to worry about himself. Its a long season people, let the man get 100%. Chipper just needs to step his game up while Heyward is out. Nobody aint hittin except Prado anyway. Chipper worry about yourself. Jason, come back when you are healthy
chris
June 8th, 2011
2:23 pm
Dob,
all the medical doctors say its normal wear and tear,so if you go by the doctors he is not really hurt ,now is he?i think mlb should be looking into this,as this sounds like someone is covering up for heyward.
Art Vandelay
June 8th, 2011
2:26 pm
“As it stands, this story divides the fans”
Who cares? Are the divided fans not going to watch the game?
Also my guess is Chipper isn’t the only one feeling this way about Jason, just the only one who will say something…
chris
June 8th, 2011
2:27 pm
Marcus
June 8th, 2011
2:23 pm
What if Jason goes out there not 100%, and further worsens the injury, making him out for an even longer time, then what
WHAT F INJURY DO YOU THINK THIS PERSON HAS?THE DOC IN CA,AND ATL.TWICE TOLD HIM ITS NORMAL WEAR AND TEAR.TELL ME WHERE YOU SEE THAT JASON HEYWARD IS OUT WITH A SHOULDER INJURY,WTF?????FUNNY HOW HEYWARD BEEN TWEETING ALL THE TIME,AND PLAYING BBALL IN FLA.,HE COMES BACK WHEN THE HEAT SERIES IS OVER NOT UNTIL THEN.
NickGranite
June 8th, 2011
2:29 pm
Heyward is 21. Chipper is 39. The difference in baseball and life experience is enormous. Anyone who has ever worked with people that young knows you have to cuff them once in a while to get their attention. That’s all it is.
Plate Appearance
June 8th, 2011
2:32 pm
NECESSARY WORDS
What Chipper said needed to be said — on some level.
But hopefully Chipper said these same things to Jason first privately before taking them public.
Letting other players or management say similar things to Jason in private would have been the next step.
Going public would then be the final step. So perhaps this was indeed Chipper’s final and needed step with Jason, according to Chipper’s perspective.
I’ll say this about Chipper to his credit; he does deeply care about winning — and is definitely in the “Bobby Cox baseball mold” in this respect!
Moreover, I’ve never seen Chipper to speak in a careless fashion. He always seems careful and thoughtful with the words he speaks.
bill
June 8th, 2011
2:34 pm
Damn people Chipper is an HOFer and we should be proud he stood with us for 20 years. I know I am. He is older and not in his prime but he hit 300 last year. Chipper has never spoken bad about the fans like Tom Glavine and Smoltz. Larry is sort of an everyman player and since my 28 year old daughter could cheer she has yelled for Chipper. These guys on here would talk bad about Warren Spahn if they had half a chance. Get those damn fish again tonight. I am going to see my daughter in Pittsburgh Saturday and I will be at PNC park Sunday to BEAT THE METS>
Braves Insider
June 8th, 2011
2:36 pm
There is new information that his so called injury is a recurrence from minor leagues,and this has been a ongoing problem
Earl
June 8th, 2011
2:39 pm
My shoulder is sometimes sore when I get out of bed in the morning. Should I just stay home, hmmm.
bias
June 8th, 2011
2:41 pm
so why has fw,and fg not extended the dl then?this is against mlb rules and hope some gets fired over this.if he is off the dl ,someone is called down,but since he is not mkb is suppose to be notified.
the fan
June 8th, 2011
2:43 pm
Enter your comments here
BehindEnemyLines
June 8th, 2011
2:46 pm
We’ve saw what injured Heyward looks like last season & it ain’t pretty. Meanwhile, the sooner I never hear anything from the constantly crippled 3B, the last person on earth who ought to comment on anyone’s health, the happier I’ll be. Easily the most unlikable Brave since Justice & at this point he’s getting pretty close to that.
Rev. Jesse Jackson
June 8th, 2011
2:47 pm
With young Jason Heyward being the only African-American on a team in the chocolate city of Atlanta, there’s a lot of unnecessary pressure being placed on him.
The likes of a cracker Floridian like Chipper Jones calling him out in the news media is very telling, and further indicative of the racial unrest in the Braves’ organization. Not one African-American was interviewed for Bobby Cox’s job.
Keep hope alive, Atlanta !
the fan
June 8th, 2011
2:49 pm
Coghlan CF, Infante 2B, Dobbs 3B, Sanchez 1B, Morrison LF, Buck C, Bonifacio SS, Cousins RF, Nolasco P
Jun 08, 2011 / 2:38 pm et
Stanton is benched on his 1 year aniversary with fla.
the fan
June 8th, 2011
2:54 pm
Rev. Jesse Jackson
June 8th, 2011
2:47 pm
With young Jason Heyward being the only African-American on a team in the chocolate city of Atlanta, there’s a lot of unnecessary pressure being placed on him.
The likes of a cracker Floridian like Chipper Jones calling him out in the news media is very telling, and further indicative of the racial unrest in the Braves’ organization. Not one African-American was interviewed for Bobby Cox’s job.
Keep hope alive, Atlanta
Name a single one from the mets
Go call out the NAACP Who gives a chit?This is not the NFL,NO GO NOW,THE COTTON IN THE FIELDS IS READY TO BE PICKIN
PS.Don’t forget to stop by the kfc on the way,and also stop and get a watermelon also.
Fog Horn
June 8th, 2011
3:01 pm
Comon Jason your shoulder will be fine,get ready to come back,rub a little dirt on it!
Jessee James NY HERO
June 8th, 2011
3:02 pm
Rev. Jesse Jackson
June 8th, 2011
2:47 pm
WONDER HOW DAVID PRICE IS HANDLING BEING THE ONLY AFRICAN AMERICAN STARTING PITCHER WITH TAMPA BAY?dON’T WORRY OBAMA WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU.
PS.HOW IS THAT HOPE AND CHANGE WORKING OUT FOR YOU?
k26dp
June 8th, 2011
3:28 pm
Chipper Jones before his meniscus tear: .275/.366/.465
Chipper Jones after his meniscus tear: .211/.318/.316
So how is Chipper Jones helping the team “grinding it out” playing on one leg? Wouldn’t it be better if Jones got he knee taken care of, came back in 4-to-6 weeks, and let someone else hit? Because I’m pretty sure whomever they called up from AAA could do at least .211/.318/.316.
This team gets bitten again and again by players concealing injuries to “help the team”. Shaffer. Jurrjens. Heyward last season. I’m glad Heyward has the smarts to learn from last season and make sure that when he comes back, he’s actually healthy enought to contribute.
As for Chipper, he’ll always be a favorite, but he’s way off base on this one.
Rev. Jesse Jackson
June 8th, 2011
3:28 pm
Judging by the comments to my statement of fact, perhaps a peaceful, but loud demonstration at Turner Field would be productive. My friend Al Sharpton and Georgia-favorite Carlos Santana would add some credibility to such an event.
The Scout
June 8th, 2011
3:29 pm
I’d like to Chipper, Uggla & Schafer grind it out elswhere.
Fast Eddie Perez
June 8th, 2011
3:35 pm
Lets check the Bravos DL stats for the last 5 years: the undisputed leader is??? Yes, Larry Wayne Jones, any questions? Any you morons who think Heyward is soft, you wanna tell him that personally? I didnt think so!!!
Tyler
June 8th, 2011
3:38 pm
Maybe if Chipper hadn’t played through injuries, he wouldn’t be at the end of his career. What short sighted comments.
joel
June 8th, 2011
3:39 pm
For you folks that keep saying “he shouldn’t play with an injury” blah blah……… he does not have an INJURY!!! Tests prove it. He has “discomfort”. Baby JHey needs to MAN UP and quit milking the gravy train.
AtlSportsfan
June 8th, 2011
3:46 pm
I love Chipper and glad he has some fire in him and speaking out..but he is WRONG when it comes to Heyward.The guy needs to come back 100%, not 10%, not even 90% or he is risking his entire career…why do you think Tiger isnt playing in the us open…He is thinking long term. Same with J-Hey
Would This Come Up if Bobby Cox Were Around? | Shagging Flies
June 8th, 2011
4:07 pm
[...] s1);})(); 0Chipper Jones recently made comments that Jason Heyward needs to get back on field and should be playing through pain. According to the [...]
Chipper: Heyward needs to play with pain
June 8th, 2011
4:16 pm
[...] Heyward has pronounced he did not wish to lapse until he’s totally healthy. Jones, 39, told a Atlanta Journal-Constitution that a second-year slugger needs to comprehend how critical he is to a Braves, even if he [...]
LakeDawg
June 8th, 2011
4:34 pm
Hayward can take his time. I would rather have Hinske in right.
shaggingflies
June 8th, 2011
4:41 pm
http://www.shaggingflies.com had a good write up about it.
1991Braves
June 8th, 2011
4:44 pm
LMAO!! Larry Jones calling someone out about not playing when he is hurt. This crybaby has missed more games the past 3 or 4 years than any player in the N.L. He goes on the D.L if he has a belly ache. He is no leader, because a leader leads by example, which means a leader plays hurt, this big crybaby has never played hurt a day in his life. So don’t call someone else out Larry, when he is doing exactly what the so-called leader of the team does, and that is sit out when he is hurt. Larry Jones needs to take his big salary and back stabbing comments with him right out of town. If the braves had his salary, uggla’s salary, and Lowe’s salary, they could buy a couple of big bats and win the National League. Wishful hoping for braves fans!
rev jessie jackson
June 8th, 2011
4:50 pm
what we have here is an abreviation and utter attemps to destroy my brother… i comes before you to file an injunction against the haters of my people and we shall overcome this attempted destruction of my only black brother on the braves…..if this does not cease we shall have a march on turner field
Optimism in November Doesn't Win Championships
June 8th, 2011
4:53 pm
Chipper is a fraud. Go back and read his comments when John Smoltz said the same things about him when he was a 10 year vet not a 2nd year player. If the Braves need a 2nd year player that is not one of the top paid players, so badly, that sounds like an organizational problem to me.
Braves Homer
June 8th, 2011
4:54 pm
What an idiotic statement by Crapper. Jason was helping us about as much as Dan Uggla.. He was 4 for 41 in May. Now he will be healthy with us only 1 game back in the wild card.
braves fan forever
June 8th, 2011
5:03 pm
Now the future of the braves is at first base.So idiot said they should put Heyward at first.Do you really think he will stretch out to field a throw.Not a chance.Heyward is a wimp and so is the manager.They both need to grow a set and quit sharing a set.Uggla needs someone to take the bat away from him he needs to Voluntary go down to the minors and find his stroke.Wilkin Ramariez is highly overated and as much as I like hinskie I can see why he is a bench player he gives out too quickly.Chipper is a future HOF and he has the right to speak his mind.He took less to stay here and has helped the braves win many many games and is valuable even when he is not playing.I agree that maybe he should help with the hitting Coach because we don’t have much there.Our problem is Leadership in Management including Fredi.Hey Fredi grow some and show some fire get thrown out of a game kick some dirt throw a base destroy a water cooler, but get off your A…… and show some fire.
Rusty
June 8th, 2011
5:15 pm
Just what we need, another double play hitter back in the line up. But at least he can make contact.
UGASlobberknocker
June 8th, 2011
5:27 pm
Good to see Chipper taking a leadership role and saying what has needed to be said. Its time for J Hey to man up.
JoeMac
June 8th, 2011
5:30 pm
Chipper Jones saying anything about playing through pain is like the pot calling the kettle black. If he gets a hangnail, Chipper has to sit out a game or two. How do you think he held off Albert Pujols to win his only batting title?? He sat while Albert was beating the cover off the ball while playing with numbness in his hands that required off season surgery. Chipper giving advice…..WHAT A FREAKIN’ JOKE!!
Bob
June 8th, 2011
5:37 pm
As a Braves fan, and a Chipper fan, I agree with what he is saying, but I wish he had not made it public. As DC Brave stated “this story divides the fans… and could even be detrimental to the team”. Right now, the only thing that is keeping this team in the race is good pitching and pretty good defence. Since I don’t know the whole story, I can’t say that it will cause problems in the clubhouse. They seem like a close knit team, I hope it stay’s that way.
BravesLover
June 8th, 2011
5:57 pm
I seems to remember Mr. Smoltz calling out Mr. Jones for counting splinters on the bench for various nefarious pseudo injuries. Chipper is Jason’s daddy and he’s just like papa.
Optimism in November Doesn't Win Championships
June 8th, 2011
5:58 pm
Chipper is a fraud. Read this…http://es.pn/inVQ11
Optimism in November Doesn't Win Championships
June 8th, 2011
6:07 pm
Chipper is still a fraud. Why do it in public? Sorry about the link. Here is correct one….http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2914283
Bert
June 8th, 2011
6:08 pm
Chipper you need to practice what you preach. Chipper has been out more in the last 4 years than anybody on the team. Maybe he needs to look at the man in the mirror and MAN UP.
CONservative Johnson
June 8th, 2011
6:22 pm
Heyward should probably punch Chipper in his fast . . .
CONservative Johnson
June 8th, 2011
6:28 pm
In his face too! lol
CONservative Johnson
June 8th, 2011
6:30 pm
Optimism in November Doesn’t Win Championships…
Wow… What a friggin hypocrite Chipper is! Heyward should definitely bitch slap him a few times . . .
ted
June 8th, 2011
6:35 pm
I think that Heyward’s main problem is between his ears
Powder Blue
June 8th, 2011
6:56 pm
I miss Dale Murphy. David Justice, too.
Ivan....
June 8th, 2011
6:58 pm
.
Ivan....
June 8th, 2011
7:02 pm
IMO , Crapper needs to play ball and let Fredi decide if enough is enough…..
My thoughts are too bad EVERY player doesn’t have the passion Martin Prado has when he gets to the park………….
Time will tell if this helps or hurts……………..
GO BRAVES……………………….Enter your comments here
Ivan....
June 8th, 2011
7:04 pm
A. GON., B-Mac, included with Marteeeeeen!
Lori Levy
June 8th, 2011
7:06 pm
What is 80 percent of last? As in Chippers thoughts…”Jason at 80 percent is better than a lot of people in this league”….and the other fact… “Braves right fielders are last in the NL” …
jed
June 8th, 2011
7:13 pm
nothing chipper said bothers me. i dont think there was ill intent behind it. but i cant say i agree with him. i think we’re better off letting heyward heal up entirely before he comes back. we’re in decent position in the East, and we’re only in june. it’s a long season and a healthy heyward helps us in the long run.
Bobby Bobby
June 8th, 2011
7:17 pm
The problem with Larry is 3 fold. 1: he is under educated like a lot of baseball players. 2: he likes himself to much. He forgets all his time on DL, all his time sitting out. He is playing hurt this year and thus thinks he is special. #3 Chipper is not smart enough to understand what JHey is going through is partly about $$$$. Chipper made his money. If JHey does further damage it could cost him tons of money.
Optimism in November Doesn't Win Championships
June 8th, 2011
7:51 pm
Chipper reminds me of when Brett Farve tried to tell Javon Walker in the press, he should come back play and he did and got hurt, then lost his bargaining power. Tell Chipper to talk to Uggla, Gonzales, Schaefer and the others that are playing.
TheAntiMe
June 8th, 2011
8:16 pm
Like Fredi said, at this point Heyward has already missed so much time that it would not make sense to bring him back until he is given every chance to rehab.
I have been very frustrated with Jason being so very injury prone over the past two seasons but I disagree somewhat with Chipper. I believe that Jason Heyward at 100% over the last 3 months of the season will help the Braves much more than Jason Heyward at 80% over the last 4 months of the season.
william in pasadena
June 8th, 2011
8:29 pm
Rupert and all you other dipsticks, what school did you guys get your medical degrees? And Chipper should have retired years ago so his money could have been used to get a good hitter. How many times has he been out of the lineup with injuries? How many years has he been in the league and showed no fire? How upset was he when Smoltz called him out publicly? How many HR’s and RBI’s does he have? Why won’t he let someone else bat 3rd? Is he the manager, or the GM? Why isn’t he calling out Uggla? (Uggla’s hitting, or lack thereof, is hurting worse than Jason’s absence) Why didn’t he call himself out with his stupid baserunning blunders and bad defense? If Chipper was a good leader, he would have kept this out of the papers. You guys on this blog slay me. Take a tip from the Phillies last year. They had injuries but they kept their players out til they were healed for the 2nd half. What happened?…they got healthy in Aug and Sept, went on a roll, and shot past the Braves. What happened to Chipper? He went on the DL and missed the playoffs. Real smart. Conclusion: Chipper needs to zip his lips and retire. He’s the poster child for missed games.
Old Dawg Fan
June 8th, 2011
8:48 pm
Heyward is acting like a “new version” of Bob Horner except Horner had a “great swing” and could hit a ball farther than Heyward.
If he is not going to play then trade him while they can get something for him. Why not trade him and Uggla for a couple of good “triple a” players that want to play the game-it might cost Wren a little money to get good “triple a” players but so be it.
Chipper: Heyward needs to play with pain
June 8th, 2011
9:11 pm
[...] Heyward has said he did not want to return until he’s completely healthy. Jones, 39, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the second-year slugger needs to realize how important he is to the Braves, even if he [...]
John Mayberry
June 8th, 2011
10:49 pm
This reminds me of the time Whitey benched Hal McRae and Cookie Rojas got all over him in the press and everything.
Next year, both Cookie and Patek were on the next bus outta KC.
David Snyder
June 8th, 2011
11:03 pm
I can understandHeywood desire to being able and I agree with chipper you have play sometime in pain,sometime just being ther help the lineup.I admire concern with Ugga.You could afford to get a least a couple people who wants to play with his salary.Give a youngster a chance until Ugga gets back in the groove.You need to think of speed and not everyone trying to hit a home run
flbravesfan
June 8th, 2011
11:29 pm
Let’s give the kid a break on this one. If situation continues then it’s time to call him out. Seems Braves have a history of drafting talented but selfish players. See Francouer & Escobar. Let’s hope Heyward does not follow in their footsteps. Enough of Heyward. Everyone is right . The time has come to pick up an outfielder that can hit & hit with some pop in their bat. Yeah the pitching is great but this team needs to score more than 2 runs a game. If nothing else it gets damn boring watching 3 hop ground balls. At this point it is hard to believe the Braves are where they are . Don’t think it will last without some hitting.
rugburn
June 8th, 2011
11:49 pm
chipper should hush..he is on borrowed time…this may be his longest stretch on the field in years. when he gets embarassed at the plate and does his “i pulled something dance” he will deserve to be called out..think how many injuries chipper would have had if he played as hard as j-hey. you really shouldn’t hurt anything trotting to first on grounders.
Paul
June 9th, 2011
12:33 am
I think that most of us would prefer that Jason be in the lineup simply because his talent provides opportunities to change the results of a game, however, if that comes at the risk of permanent injury then nobody gains. If Dan Uggla were hitting we wouldnt be pressing to have Jason in the lineup. He’s still a young player and the Braves need him for the next 10 years not just for the next 3 months. The big question for Jason is going to be whether or not he feels that the game can only be played when he is feeling 100%. He may not be playing many games if that is where his head is at.
Freddie G
June 9th, 2011
1:11 am
Chipper may not have meant any harm by his comments, but he should know by now that several folks on here were going to take it and start bashing Jason and likewise bashing him. However his comments about Wren getting someone is distasteful and lacks class. It would have been better to keep his mouth shut, but then again we should remember he is not the sharpest knife in the Drawer. It is always bad for a player to question another who is on the DL, because what that player is feeling when he swings is known only to him. It is very, very, distasteful to many sports fans, not just Braves Fans that Chipper is the one commenting on Jason’s time on the DL, considering that Chipper has spent more time on the DL more than any other player in MLB over the last six (6) years. I would like someone in MLB to provide that Statistics and before we get an answer I bet Chipper is number 1 by a huge margin. I think it is in the Best interest of the team to have Jason back healthy and it can only hurt the team and Jason if he is rushed back before he is ready. The Phillies gave Utley two months to heal before coming back, and they should benefit greatly if he is now properly healed.
Freddie G
June 9th, 2011
1:50 am
It is sad that we are spending so much time debating a stupid comment by stupid ball player albeit a good player. Chipper is not the team doctor neither does he work in the front office. Jordan Schafer is a prime example of why you should not play in pain if you have to over compensate because of that pain. When Jordan first came up, two years ago, he tried to play hurt, instead of telling the team the pain he was in, and that has set him back for two years. Although there is no structural damage to Jason’s shoulder, the MRI did reveal that there is inflamation, which can cause quite a bit of discomfort and affects even a player of Jason’s strength and ability to maintain his swing. It is time Chipper start hit at a level to match his salary. Is he not the highest paid player on the team? then he should start playing at the level of other high paying stars like Pujols, Howard, Tulo, Beltran, to name a few.
Peer pressure: Chipper Jones advises Jason Heyward on injury | Popular Events
June 9th, 2011
2:37 am
[...] that’s not good enough for Jones, whose comments as reported in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution go to show that you don’t have to be in high school in order to get pressure from your peers: [...]
Boatdoc
June 9th, 2011
3:18 am
DOB: Congrats on your story that is now splashed all over the national coverage. VERY curious as to the nature of the response from Mr. Heyward, both in the short run, AND the long run. So much in the coverage of his huge rookie splash was made of what a “great kid” he is, from the Atlanta reporters all the way up to Hall of Famer Peter Gammons. We know some guys would pout – ESPN Headlines read “Chipper Jones calls out Jason Heyward”. But all the coverage seems to agree with Chipper: no big-leaguer can expect to play only when “100%”. If Jason steps up and gets back in the line-up (and especially if he can hit at least .280, with an OBP close to last year) it will only add to his growing legend.
I am cringing – hoping that the NEXT story is NOT “Jason Heyward says Chipper should shut his mouth!”
Pinball34
June 9th, 2011
5:33 am
Heyward=SOFT
Beer Me
June 9th, 2011
5:46 am
Chipper Jones has a right to talk about someone NOT playing? How many times has he played 100 games in a season?
TP
June 9th, 2011
7:27 am
Chipper of all the shouldn’t be the one talking about who should be on the field. His whole time with the Braves where have he been. Jason take your time coming back when you are good and heathy. That what happen to Andruw Jones trying to play hurt and look what happen.
TP
June 9th, 2011
7:31 am
This is the very reason Y. Escobar is not here MVP ONE year and gone the next
Jonny V. for Closer!
June 9th, 2011
7:57 am
Fredi G., how long before you wake up and make Jonny V. the closer? “A foolish consistency is the hobgoblin of little minds.” (Emerson)
John
June 9th, 2011
8:11 am
Dave O’Brien.
Re: Comment awaiting moderation
For what it’s worth, if I had it to do over again, I would not send my first comment (posted@ June 8 at 8:04 PM).
Feel free to moderate it out of existence. Your blog. Just saying.
Thanks.
John30456
June 9th, 2011
9:29 am
It would appear to be a reading comprehension thing here. Heyward is not injured just normal wear and tear that hurts. Two MRIs and no damage. To all of you Chipper bashers, you know nothing about baseball and what he has meant to the club for 19 years.
Learning to play with pain no easy lesson for Heyward | Jeff Schultz
June 9th, 2011
9:46 am
[...] Jones did not necessarily call out his Braves teammate the other day when he said that Heyward “needs to realize [that] at 80 percent [he’s] a force,” and that, “There are a [...]
Blackberry Cobbler
June 9th, 2011
9:55 am
Lest we all forget……………
A few years ago, it was John Smoltz that basically told Chipper to man up. Remember?
Now Chipper think he can tell Jason to man up.
Last time I saw, I think Chipper’s BA is now down to something like .248?
Hey Chipper, here’s a idea…… why don’t you volunteer to sit the bench, let’s bring Prado to 3rd, and play Hinske in LF. THAT would be what’s best for the team!
WPB Brave
June 9th, 2011
10:31 am
People get upset when players speak the truth and I just don’t get it…I guess the fans want nothing but atheletes speaking in cliches and repeating the same old boring lines to read over and over and over…I guess the fans who say ‘keep it out of the papers’ would rather hear Chipper say “we need to give it 100%” or “play smart baseball” or “have better at bats” blah blah blah…bottom line is what Chipper said was TRUE and this team is hanging on by a thread and J-Hey being out there makes the Braves better – not worse. Listen – if it’s not a serious injury then he can’t do more harm…Would you rather have an 80% J-Hey 4 times a week or an 80% J-Hey on the DL?? THINK about it. Our pitching staff is incredible right now – we win games 1-0, 3-2, all the time – just imagine our record if we were to score just 1 more run a game…If J-Hey’s in too much pain to swing as he normally does than he needs to do something different (ie get on base with a BB, move a runner over, make the pitcher throw 8 – 12 pitches, take an extra base on a throw) all those things impact the game and J-Hey as he is now can do ALL of those things…
WPB Brave
June 9th, 2011
10:41 am
And one last thing – make no mistake about it – Chipper is the leader on this team. Do you really think he is saying that because only HE thinks it? Or is the CLUBHOUSE saying these things on the bus, at the hotel – as they fight, scratch and claw for every run they can get…Prado isn’t the leader but do you really think Prado would not be taking swings right now????? Prado wouldn’t even be on the DL! Chipper is taking shots in his knee and grinding. Bottom line – Chipper is the leader and that means he commands respect – and I promise you a lot of other players feel the EXACT same way as Chipper – but you won’t hear them say anything because they aren’t the leader.
Playing Through Pain | Brotherly Glove
June 9th, 2011
10:57 am
[...] David O’Brien of the Atlanta Journal Constitution has these quotes: I think where Jason might have erred was the comment that he made, ‘I’m not coming back until it doesn’t hurt anymore.’ That has a tendency to rub people the wrong way,” Jones said. “And we understand where he’s coming from – he wants to be healthy when he plays, so he can go out and give himself the best opportunity to be successful. I get that. [...]
Dale Murphy
June 9th, 2011
11:18 am
Heyward isn’t the Braves problem. And no, he should not come back until he is 100% ready to go. Chipper is wrong – why go back in before he’s ready and then lose him again, maybe for 2-3 months next time, maybe for the season?
Obviously, the biggest most glaring problem on the Braves is Dan Uggla. Send him down to the minor leagues so he can take in-game batting practice in meaningless games. Here, he is a worse hitter than most pitchers. If he refuses to be sent down for whatever reason, cut your losses and release him. He sucks.
Basic Math
June 9th, 2011
11:20 am
Chipper Jones is an idiot. He needs to go back to the education he skipped and take remedial math. Jason Heyward’s batting average is a pathetic .214. 80% of .214 is .172. Tell me how having basically another Uggla on the team hitting .172 is better than “most players in this league” or how that would help the team? Another .172 hitter wouldn’t help; it would hurt.
Heyward’s brain at 1% is better than Chipper’s brain at 100%.
Billy
June 9th, 2011
11:43 am
Chipper is right!!! It will be interesting to see if Fredi puts Mccloud back in Center Field. Jordan is doing a good job!!
Baseball news - Chipper: Heyward needs to play with pain | Central Sports News
June 9th, 2011
6:38 pm
[...] Heyward has said he did not want to return until he’s completely healthy. Jones, 39, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the second-year slugger needs to realize how important he is to the Braves, even if he [...]
Peer pressure: Chipper Jones advises Jason Heyward on injury | MLB Blitz
June 14th, 2011
9:00 am
[...] that’s not good enough for Jones, whose comments as reported in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution go to show that you don’t have to be in high school in order to get pressure from your peers: [...]
Chipper: Heyward needs to play with pain | DJ VENOM - THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE
June 15th, 2011
5:26 pm
[...] Heyward has said he did not want to return until he’s completely healthy. Jones, 39, told the Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the second-year slugger needs to realize how important he is to the Braves, even if he [...]