Chipper Jones gets hit in return and takes a swing at critics

NYBuffaloBravesFan

February 27th, 2011
4:25 pm

MY fiance cried when Chippper was hurt; and then was enraged when people said he only played for the money. She never grew up a baseball fan, but when she started watching games and reading about the team she really liked Chipper and his work ethic. She realized that for some one of his caliber player to stick with the same team for so long when he could have been pulled away for more money shows that his dedication is too the organization, not his pay check… Luckily for me because of that dedication, i can pull off trips from Buffalo to Atlanta every year to see some games. Good luck Chipper, i hope the knee holds on, and you have a great season!!

TheDorkBaller

February 27th, 2011
4:31 pm

Chipper, you’re the man.

I hope you can continue to contribute for many years to come, and when retirement finally arrives, I look forward to seeing the number 10 hanging at The Ted.

Mom's Basement Dweller

February 27th, 2011
4:33 pm

I’d like to point out to Chipper that I’m typing on my own brand spankin’ new computer!

1eyedJack

February 27th, 2011
4:37 pm

HOF’er.

HPSP

February 27th, 2011
4:37 pm

Yay! I get a big hug!

Anthony

February 27th, 2011
4:37 pm

I don’t blame you Chipper. If i could make a living doing something I love I would do it as long as I could. Especially playing a game cause doing something you love isn’t work, it’s called fun. We all like having fun. I live in Rome and have enjoyed watching you a long time. Keep up the great work,or should I say, fun!! Go Braves!!!

Steve

February 27th, 2011
4:37 pm

Nicely done Jeffrey. Any highlights from today’s game?

LongWayHomeBrave

February 27th, 2011
4:38 pm

Go get ‘em Chip. No matter what those basement dwellers say, you are a main cog in this team. With Bobby gone you are our last link to our great 90s run. Keep puttn in work and show these idiots why you are a future hall of famer

Ozzy

February 27th, 2011
4:41 pm

I wouldn’t pattern my personal life after the guy, but on the field, he’s a gamer. And that’s all that really matters for fans right?

He’s delivered a lot of great memories for Brave’s fans. Hopefully he can retire on his own terms and not have it dictated by a career ending injury.

Chop It Up All-Star

February 27th, 2011
4:43 pm

Good for you Chip…and I don’t know why, but it’s still funny to see the word “ass” in a newspaper article.

justin1

February 27th, 2011
4:43 pm

1st ballot HOF

JOE

February 27th, 2011
4:44 pm

NY Buffalo Braves Fan: Where in Buffalo are you from? I’m from upstate NY as well. I went to school at Geneseo so I was in Buffalo frequently. As to your comments: very well said i agree completely. Chipper has taken many a pay cut throughout his career and has shown a loyalty to his team that you just don’t see anymore in this game. There will be no questioning what hat he wears in the hall of fame. He’s a brave through and through.

Rupert

February 27th, 2011
4:44 pm

Chipper Jones is a ballplayer. He can get out of bed and walk into the box and get a hit. He still has a presence about him, which his teamates understand, that will help this team. Nothing was really the same after he went down last year. He will not hit 35+ homers or drive in 100 rbi’s but he will play ball and grind out good ab’s. As someone who is usually quite cynical, I can say that it will be a privilege to watch #10 play one more year. He has been the heart and soul of the this team, and given everything he could to the Braves. It hasn’t always been perfect, but he’s the best ATLANTA Brave there has ever been. Folks need to sit back and enjoy this year.

Jonathan

February 27th, 2011
4:48 pm

Chipper has given homewtown discounts, restructured his contract to free up money to sign other players, moved positions three times, plus all of the amazing things he’s done on the baseball field. He is a true of a Brave as they come, he may even be buried with a tomahawk across his chest. I’ve grown up with this team, from the horrific days of the eighties to the glory days of the ninetees. Chipper is the lone holdover from our dynasty. He loves this orginization and his team more now than I think he ever has. I wouldn’t want anyone else at the hot corner and in the three hole Chip. Kick some ass this year, can’t wait to see you all April 8th.

TampaGator

February 27th, 2011
4:50 pm

Hey, Chip, what about the retirees that sit on his balcony on the beach and think you have hurt your ” little pinky” once too many times in the last five years while earning 15 mil a year. For those sitting in such places, we really don’t care what Chipper Jones thinks. I respect your past accomplishments….but the last three years….well…you should have been DHing in the AL.

BehindEnemyLines

February 27th, 2011
4:51 pm

That’s okay Larry, you’ve been cordially invited to KMA for years now, we’re just even. He’s become too brittle to be a consistent contributor, his work ethic vis a vis conditioning has been questioned & with rather obvious good reason, he’s an financial albatross, and he’s a slimeball off the field. The sooner this arrogant p.o.s. is out of uniform for good the more enjoyable watching the Braves will be.

TampaGator

February 27th, 2011
4:51 pm

Should have been….”sit on a balcony on the beach and think”

Remarkable

February 27th, 2011
4:54 pm

When Chipper does retire, they will put a statue of him beside Hanks and it will be well deserved. He could have gone other places for more money but he chose to stay with Atlanta and we thank him for that!

Remarkable

February 27th, 2011
4:57 pm

P.S. Who cares what a Gator from Florida thinks about Braves Baseball? Watch the Rays.

Steve

February 27th, 2011
5:00 pm

Thanks Jeff!

"Chef" Tim Dix

February 27th, 2011
5:07 pm

“and the cynical fan can really kiss my ass.”

The Georgia Peach would be proud.

To hell with them Chipper, they couldn’t afford bus fare to Cooperstown.

Las Vegas Brave

February 27th, 2011
5:07 pm

Leave it to a Gaturd to take a shot at a Georgia icon. The guy is simply class. Glad to have him as long as he wants to be here. Great mix of guys. Gonna be a great year.

StayCRagsLuvsChip

February 27th, 2011
5:11 pm

I say the haters can kiss my country, Braves cheering, Chipper lovin’ ass! Been a Braves fan for almost 34 years and a Chipper fan for 18 years. I support you with or w/o cash! Maybe all of these cynics need a couple of broken fingers and torn ACL’s… maybe then they couldn’t work momma’s computer! LOVE YA CHIP… GO GET EM!!!!!!!

Maggie Brockhouse

February 27th, 2011
5:15 pm

“I still feel like I have something to offer, and the cynical fan can really kiss my ass. I really don’t care. There’s a bunch of true fans and the people who actually want to take the time to get to know me know who I am. The guy who sits in his mom’s basement and types on his mom’s computer, I couldn’t really care less about.”

I wonder what he means by true fans? Perhaps the ones that gloss over his child out of wedlock and 20+ errors? Right. Why don’t you just retire with your bank account and open a strip club… adulterer!

Also, these so called teammates that want you back are just keeping in your good graces.. In case they need a job bouncing at “Chippers.”

Hillbilly Deluxe

February 27th, 2011
5:17 pm

Any Major Leaguer who’s played as long as Chipper has, has all the money he needs, if has any financial sense at all. Guys who play this long, play for pride and/or love of the game.

DawginOH

February 27th, 2011
5:18 pm

Forget the haters, Chipper! We real Braves fans love you and appreciate all you have done for the organization. We got your back all the way, man. Go get ‘em!

ATL FAN

February 27th, 2011
5:25 pm

Why is everyone on Chipper’s jock? The guy would do much better to this team if he were to reconstruct his contract as he should if he’s not playing for money, or to simply retire and do his team better. Please Chipper, money HAS to be a reason, if he had 1 season left last season for $1 million dollars, he would easily have retired…

Rolly

February 27th, 2011
5:25 pm

Maggot Brockhouse, go spread your hatred elsewhere. What Chipper means by true fans, is just that, fans that know and appreciate what a great baseball player he is and the sacrifices he has made for the Braves. He is a future Hall of Famer and you are just a typical run-of-the mill loser who tries to make herself feel superior by belittling others. You’re so full of yourself, you even have the audacity to speak for the entire team. Get some help.

Rolly

February 27th, 2011
5:29 pm

Why should Chipper (or any player) restructure his contract or retire, ATL FAN? I don’t remember anyone twisting Frank Wren’s arm to sign him to his current contract. It is what both sides agreed to and Chipper has every right to play until it expires if he wishes to do so.

Maggie Brockhouse

February 27th, 2011
5:30 pm

Maggot Brockhouse, go spread your hatred elsewhere. What Chipper means by true fans, is just that, fans that know and appreciate what a great baseball player he is and the sacrifices he has made for the Braves.

Chipper only continues to play because of his ego. How many HOF’ers have amassed multiple seasons with 20+ errors? My guess is not many or none. That being said, he should be disqualified from the HOF for all his errors and sticking around well past his prime.

Finally, if he really wanted what’s best for the team and doesn’t care about money.. (Funny he’s not living in a trailer or anything.) He’d schedule a presser and say its over.

Rolly

February 27th, 2011
5:32 pm

That’s your opinion, Maggot, and we’ve already established that you’re not a “true fan”. Chipper says you can kiss his ass.

JL Burke

February 27th, 2011
5:48 pm

My 10-year old son wrote to Chipper and received an autographed picture in return. He gained 2 life-long fans in the process. I hope his knee holds out and he finishes his career on his own terms. I wish we could have more stars who spend their career with one team. Here’s hoping we have at least a couple more guys in McCann and Heyward that do the same thing.

Larry

February 27th, 2011
5:48 pm

“This accusation generally comes from the short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio and posts comments on blogs, all behind the comfort of anonymity.”

Jeff,

I assume you realize you are referencing the AJC readers (you know, customers that are the foundation of your’s and Chipper’s employment?) correct?

Secondly, what if they are right?

TM923

February 27th, 2011
5:49 pm

I just don’t get people sometimes.
To those who hate on Chipper, what does a player have to do to earn your respect?

He is the best position player in franchise history since… ?
He has been loyal to the Braves in an era where everyone jumps ship.
He makes a lot of money, but who doesn’t in MLB?
And, no one on this blog pays his salary… so what do you care.

The guys is going in the HOF as a Brave and is near the end of his career.
If you can’t root for Chipper, you are not a Braves fan.
And most likely will never root for anyone who has “earned” it.

H

February 27th, 2011
5:49 pm

Can’t wait to get to the stadium to see Chipper again!! I brought my 3 year old to see him last season for his first ever Braves game. So psyched that we will get to see him again this year. First thought that came to my mind when he go hurt was that at least my son got to see Chipper Jones play. You don’t get to see guys like Chipper that much anymore…take advantage of it.

Maggie Brockhouse

February 27th, 2011
5:50 pm

Rolly – How do ya know when its time to close a tab? When the jock sniffers start acting like only the so called “true fans” buy tickets and merchandise.

Let me tell you something: True fans want what’s best for the team and Chipper at 3B or even on the 25 man at that rate is not a good deal.

Greene Hornet

February 27th, 2011
5:56 pm

I support the Braves and Chipper as a part of the Braves. I hope they all have a great and productive season and remain healthy, playing as a team. The one thing I admire from Chipper and the Braves organization during the run and now is that we have really not had the ego and the “me first” types of players. Yes, players make alot of money in all professional sports. The fact remains until the system changes or the government makes it illegal, then there is nothing any of us can say about it which would make any sense.

Folks can attack Chipper’s personal life, but yet they hide in the safety of their homes behind a computer screen not revealing the problems, bad decisions, sinful ways, and otherwise predicaments they have gotten themselves into in their lives. Chipper and everyone else is a human being. If he slept with someone, etc- it doesn’t matter. I have my problems, he has had his bad decisions and problems. I guess I have always looked at it by the fact that I have not led a perfect life, then why should I point out the errors in other’s lives. I’m sure of the people complaining about Chipper’s past, they wouldn’t want someone digging down too much in their life and complaining about it here or elsewhere.

Chipper, I wish you good luck and most of all I hope the Braves have a great season. They are my team. I have never wanted to root for a particular player with the transient nature baseball and all professional sports are nowadays. I’m glad he’s been Brave his whole career. As a Braves fan, I say thank you, Chipper.

beone

February 27th, 2011
5:58 pm

I don’t think the real issue is whether Chipper still has anything to offer. I suspect he does. However, I also believe that the Braves could be a better team if the money that Chipper is being paid were allocated to another player in their prime. Those $ are not small and they should be used to pay another star. If Chipper were willing to accept a salary more in line with his contribution then everyone would be a winner. But for a guy with mediocre power and likely able to play no more than 60 – 75% of the season, he is overpaid. And the Braves don’t owe him anything, he has been paid $141M. Geez.

Stevo

February 27th, 2011
6:03 pm

NYBuffaloBravesFan, we need more comments like that. Truly awesome

CECIL UPSHAW

February 27th, 2011
6:04 pm

YOU KNOW WHAT “HANG NAIL LARRY”………….BACK AT CHA’ PUNK!!!!!!!!!!! DAY IN & DAY OUT I HAVE TO BE IN PISS POOR CONDITION TO NOT SHOW UP FOR MY “EVERYDAY” JOB!!! IF YOU’D GET YOUR FANNY IN PLAYIN’ SHAPE IN THE OFF SEASON INSTEAD OF HUNTIN’ YOU WOULD HAVE ALREADY OVERTAKEN ALL OF THOSE BEFORE YOU WHO’VE PLAYED 3RD!!! BOTTOM LINE IS ..YOU GET YOUR MONEY!!!!!

Rolly

February 27th, 2011
6:08 pm

Maggot Brockhouse – Let me tell you something: True fans want what’s best for the team and Chipper at 3B or even on the 25 man at that rate is not a good deal.
______________

That statement alone tells me you know nothing about baseball. Chipper is still the face of the franchise, is still the player who gets the loudest applause when he comes up to bat, is still a name that any American would recognize even if they aren’t baseball fans, and is still a valuable player on the team for his OBP alone. That doesn’t even begin to address his leadership, his mentorship of younger players, or his value as a Braves spokesperson.

What I’m trying to say is that no matter how much you hate him, he’s not some piece of garbage that the Braves can just throw away.

Rolly

February 27th, 2011
6:10 pm

beone, the Braves owe him whatever is left on his contract, period.

Mark

February 27th, 2011
6:14 pm

NYBuffaloBravesFan good job

Bravefan and we need the money

February 27th, 2011
6:16 pm

Staying past your prime is not disqualification for the HOF. If it were, Unitas, Namath, Willie Mays, etc..would not have made it in their respective sports. Saying that, Chipper is not in any way, shape or form the player he was 5 years ago, or even three years ago, and is no longer a 14 mil a year player. If his name were John Jones, not Chipper, he would have been released after the season. I’ve watched Chipper and his on field heroics for almost two decades, and have thoroughly enjoyed them. I hope he is able to come back, not to his form of the last two years, as that will not help the Braves, but hurt them. So, is it unreasonable to hope that he returns to the form of 3 years ago? Is it likely that it happens? He was great, he will be a well deserved HOFer. He has taken home town discounts in the past to stay here, now it is evening out. He’s making 14m a year, and putting up numbers more deserving of league minimum pay.

Mike Lum

February 27th, 2011
6:16 pm

I’m a huge Chipper fan BUT given the fixed payroll of the Braves I do agree that his contract hamstrings them because unlike the Yankees, Phillies, Mets, etc…..Time Warner will not bust their budget to bring in the big name free agents. That’s the only reason I struggle with Chipper’s $14M, because the Braves are paying for his past performance and don’t have the budget to go out and get someone to complement his diminishing numbers.
I guess we could argue that’s a Braves/Time Warner problem and not a Chipper problem.

Let's Go Larry!

February 27th, 2011
6:16 pm

I think it’s funny when people say he’s playing for the money when back in the day he took less money in order to help the Braves stay strong

brofatley

February 27th, 2011
6:17 pm

I will be a Chipper fan forever. I wanted to name my son Shea 13yrs. ago ’cause he use to light it up when he used to play the Mets there. His mother wouldn’t have it, but to my suprise he named his son Shea. A couple of years ago my son son meet Chipper and told him that and he looked suprised and gave my son his towel, super cool.

The Dude Abides

February 27th, 2011
6:17 pm

Chipper Jones in 2011: .300+ BA, 20+ HR and as always .400+ OBP

Bank on it.

Rolly

February 27th, 2011
6:19 pm

Oh, and one last thing, Maggot, there are a lot more of us fans who love Chipper Jones than there are of you haters.

Chip Shot

February 27th, 2011
6:20 pm

Chipper will prove you wrong, see 2004.

RHR

February 27th, 2011
6:25 pm

Love it. Go Chipper!!!

Gravy Train

February 27th, 2011
6:25 pm

I think Chipper just needs to spend a little less time hunting and a little more time in the weight room, during the off season. Lifting weights regularly and core strength is essentail for aging athletes. Maybe he should ditch the Mizzuno cleats too. Seems to always have feet issues, Mizzunos are some of the least supportive cleats on the market.

I love Chipper as a Brave. He’s the last connection of the magical baseball period of my childhood. If Chip does well, it’s great for the team. But that’s a big price tag to pay if he can’t stay off the DL.

AdirondackDave

February 27th, 2011
6:26 pm

I’m not even from Georgia and I think Chipper’s great. I don’t blame him for being ticked at cynics, they can take a hike. When he’s elected to the Hall of Fame in 6-8 years my wife and I will be down the road in Cooperstown cheering for the best hitter in Atlanta’s history.

SouthwestGA Chipper Fan

February 27th, 2011
6:26 pm

Been a Chipper fan his entire career and will be til the day I die. I find it so funny, the number of people whose lives suck so bad they have to talk trash about an athlete.

@ Maggie Brockhouse—People make mistakes, I am sure you have.

Every other hater, can kiss every true Braves fans’ ass……

Ralph

February 27th, 2011
6:27 pm

BS Chipper, when you give back most of that 15 mil and play just for the love of your team mates then I will beleive you, then we can go and get a real center fielder and have a chance of making you a winner again. PS I have no intention of kissing your ass.

Chip Shot

February 27th, 2011
6:29 pm

Keep the pants rolled up Chip.

beone

February 27th, 2011
6:29 pm

rolly,

Agree, they owe him what his contract states. I believe (and I think that is still my right) that he is overpaid NOW. And I think that Wren made a bad deal. But I am only saying that the Braves would be better if the money were spent on someone else assuming it was spent wisely. I am not saying Chipper should volunteer to give up salary or to retire. He is not doing anything wrong. But I do believe the Braves would be better if the money were spent wisely on someone else. That can also be said about many others on the Braves and other teams as well.

Tifton Braves Fan

February 27th, 2011
6:29 pm

Chipper IS Mr. Atlanta Braves!

May he have a GREAT and productive season to shut up the wannabe fans.

TNT

February 27th, 2011
6:30 pm

Keep the pant legs rolled up Chip.

Younger Than That Now

February 27th, 2011
6:32 pm

I don’t care what anyone says… Chipper IS a team player and his presence in the lineup does make a difference… a big difference. And that’s whether he goes 0 for 5 or 5 for 5!

Chipper has shown many, many times that he cares about the Atlanta Braves and his priority is to win. He’s been bashed for staying out of the lineup when he wasn’t as hurt as some think he was. By doing that he was simply saying “somebody else in the lineup at 100% is better than me in the lineup at 50%”. While I didn’t always agree with that at the time, as it turned out he was right.

Sure, he enjoys the paycheck just like anybody else would, but to say that he does what he does for the paycheck is out of touch with reality. If that were the case he wouldn’t have gone thru the grueling rehab that this injury requires. If nothing else, he’s gonna come back and show the critics what he’s made of and tell all those bashers to STFU!!

Younger Than That Now

February 27th, 2011
6:36 pm

Maggie Brickhouse… we can presume that you’re sinless since you cast the first stone!!

Chipper Fan

February 27th, 2011
6:39 pm

Way to go Chipper! You’re the man and glad to see you stand up to the cynical people. You will always be the best! Will be nice to see you on third base again!!

GIVE ME A BREAK

February 27th, 2011
6:40 pm

Not a Chipper fan . Heard enough about Mr. Wonderful. Retire already.

Reality Bites

February 27th, 2011
6:40 pm

Chipper gets a hit and GSU fires Rod, clearing the way for CPH to take over with a buyout. GOOD NEWS in the ATL…..WOOOO. Go Braves and Go Jackets!

Najeh Davenpoop

February 27th, 2011
6:42 pm

It’s nice that he still wants to try to bust his ass and play at age 39. But the Braves would be smart to limit the number of games he plays this season, so that hopefully he is healthy when the postseason rolls around. Hopefully they have the infield depth that will allow them to do so.

AlanFalcon

February 27th, 2011
6:44 pm

Schultz, here you go again, can’t you write an article without trying to stir up trouble.

JHey's Better

February 27th, 2011
6:49 pm

Once again by reading some of these posts you can tell who has actually followed the Braves all these years I remember when Chipper was willing to restructure his contract so the Team could resign Hudson and some other players. All he has done since 91 is lay it all on the line for the team! Do People really think he wanted to move to left field when Castilla got picked up HELL NO the wear and tear out there killed his feet/knees but he did it for the team to make the TEAM better Sure Fire HOF player and he still commands respect when he is in the batters box. 5 to 8 yrs from now he will walk in to Turner Field A HOF player that Loved his Teammates his manager Bobby Cox and MOST INPORTANTLY PEOPLE LOVED THE GAME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

JHey's Better

February 27th, 2011
6:53 pm

SOME BLOGGERS OUT HERE SHOULD HAVE KNOWN BY NOW TALKING ABOUT CHIPPER JONES OR BOBBY COX WILL GET YOU BLASTED BY THE REAL BRAVES FANS!!

JHey's Better

February 27th, 2011
6:55 pm

Trust me I know the contract money he is getting is somewhat of a hinder to the time Ive told many people the same myself but I couldnt turn my back on the ONE Brave that really WANTED to be a brave his whole career he is only 2 yrs removed from a batting title people he STILL Commands respect from the pitchers around the league

Bobby Hill

February 27th, 2011
6:55 pm

There was of course that comment Chipper made a year or so ago about being able to make absurd amounts of money, and they money making it hard to walk away.

Its easy for him to say its not about the money when he’s getting paid $13 million a year. I know when he was talking about retiring last year he was talking of reaching a settlement with the Braves in order to retire. He wasn’t just going to walk away. Maybe its not about money, maybe its about ego and not wanting to end his career on such a sour note. In the end it doesn’t really matter.

I think Chipper will be able to come back and contribute this year. But there very little chance that he’ll be worth $26 million or the next two seasons.

Legend of Len Barker

February 27th, 2011
6:55 pm

When John Smoltz calls you out for your lack of leadership, there’s a problem.

Chipper’s a liability at this point and he has been for years. His heart may really be in the game, but he does no one favors with his constant tweaks and soreness and minor injuries that eat up games at the time. Jones seems to revel in the attention, too. There have been constant announcements over the past few seasons over the state of Chipper’s health, most of them from Chipper himself.

And to the individual who got a Chipper Jones autograph in the mail? Did the autograph have a blue-ish/purple-ish tint? If you didn’t get a stamped autograph, you likely got one signed with an autopen. They have a tendency to look alike and it has a different shine than one signed with a Sharpie. There’s no problem with that as the autopen has been a staple of baseball autographs for 20+ years, even for benchwarmers. But please don’t think Chipper actually put forth any effort.

Larry

February 27th, 2011
6:55 pm

Jeff,

This sucking up to Chipper and the Braves for special privileges while you’re in Orlando is one thing. But, to turn on some of your readers is taking it to a whole new level, and just doesn’t sound like the courageous and somewhat maverick AJC reporter I have come to know.

Never, ever compromise your standards just to be popular!

Mike Lum

February 27th, 2011
6:57 pm

So what if back in November, Chipper wasn’t under contract and the Braves had $14M to fill 3B(or other positions). Would the Braves have signed him for $14M? Maybe the sentimental choice but would he give us the best chance to win? That’s the only part of the discussion that’s interesting to me. And I realize that’s purely hypothetical but just trying to look strictly at statistical value. I’ll admit, It is hard to account for the leadership and mentoring factor.

eric the elder

February 27th, 2011
6:58 pm

Why does concern and skepticism equate to “hate”?

Chipper getting a little thin-skinned lately? Telling us how wealthy he is and how we should kiss his a**? Did he just graduate from the Terrell Owens School of Public Relations?

Part of the problem is the competition among AJC writers in getting the first long interview of the day with Chipper. Chipper this, Chipper that. Chipper evaluating all the players, some who performed better than he did last year. Chipper’s views on everything except Libya and credit swaps. I suppose my head would swell up a little, too.

BravesFan79

February 27th, 2011
6:59 pm

Missing Chipper in the lineup in the playoffs really hurt. Anyone who thinks wed be a better team in 2011 without Chipper is a moron. I see this lineup as a high walk/ singles doubles lineup. Hitting in the clutch is going to count for alot this year. Not 2 many have been more clutch in their career than Chip.

take it from me

February 27th, 2011
6:59 pm

An Ass kissing contest will get the braves nowere! its not about one player,its about winning a world series

steve brown

February 27th, 2011
7:01 pm

What has been 6-7 years since he came close to playin’ a full season of baseball. Bet he hasn’t ever missed a full season of huntin.’ He can kiss my ass-never mind I’d rather keep his red neck away from any part of my body.

flagger

February 27th, 2011
7:01 pm

Chipper, i wouldn’t let those maggots kiss my donkey.. they would give him optical rectitis
thats the medical condition when ure eyes get crossed with ure rectum and gives u a crappy
outlook on life….go braves…

Bill in VA

February 27th, 2011
7:05 pm

Chipper was one of the best Braves I’ve seen, from Boston to the present. I emphasize the was. If he TALKS ABOUT PLAYING for the love of the game and not the money, IMO then he should man up and do just that!!

Nobody made him say that!! Faded stars often let their mouths overload their brains.

lowelldearman

February 27th, 2011
7:06 pm

Chipper is the best, i am 38 and i am close to his age, i grew up always liking Chipper, my favorite player of the modern Atlanta Braves.

Chipperfan

February 27th, 2011
7:08 pm

Good for Chipper. Dave from East Point get off your Mom’s computer and get a job.

Bill in VA

February 27th, 2011
7:09 pm

BravesFan79: “not 2 many have been more clutch….”
That’s my point, we all cheered Chipper and rejoiced when he did his thing against the Mets, etc., etc.
Those days are gone!

Larry

February 27th, 2011
7:09 pm

flagger,

Your grade on your attempt at fooling everyone into thinking you’re intelligent: D-

Were it not for those same people who think you in fact are intelligent, and whom also think that Chipper is still an asset hitting 3rd, you’d have been awarded a flat F!

the real Old Gold

February 27th, 2011
7:10 pm

Worst beard ever by a grown man! Can’t out run Bobby Cox! Would be flipping burgers if he had no baseball skills!

Smiling Jack

February 27th, 2011
7:16 pm

Cecil Upshaw you ought to change your name….The real Cecil Upshaw, who I knew personally, would take eception to your opinions that disgrace his name.

Headley Lamar

February 27th, 2011
7:21 pm

Bottom line whatever the Braves paid Chipper over the years they made a heckuva lot more off him.

Also you just happen to be talking about possibly the third best positional player all time for one of the oldest franchises in baseball. Have only Aaron and Matthews ahead of him.

J Clay

February 27th, 2011
7:24 pm

I don’t think he is in it for the money…but I am ready to see him go…He has served the Braves well but don’t think he helps the team any longer. Also, it would be nice for one article about the Braves this year include a quote from a player other than Larry.

JoeFan

February 27th, 2011
7:25 pm

It’s easy to prove that Chipper is playing for the love of the game and not for money. he just needs to play for $1 million a season and let the Braves use the rest to restructure the team.

5150 UOAD

February 27th, 2011
7:26 pm

CHIPPER trying out to be the new Notre Dame Mascot? Put him a green suit and he is in.

Coop

February 27th, 2011
7:27 pm

So how do you really feel Chipper? Hope you won’t mince words with your teammates either this year if you feel they’re not playing up to their capabilities. The true fans are pulling for you dude.

5150 UOAD

February 27th, 2011
7:27 pm

Headley
Business had made a lot off the $3/ hr worker too.

Lowcountry Bulldawg

February 27th, 2011
7:28 pm

This accusation generally comes from the short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio and posts comments on blogs, all behind the comfort of anonymity.

Larry @5:48,

I honestly believe Jeff could give a rats arse what the readers of his blog think. He essentially gave Chipper a reach around on this article. No mention of the past THREE seasons of decline. Lets bring out the lone year he won a batting title, thank god, he actually showed he could be a SINGLES hitter. The man would rather take a damn walk, rather than swing the bat. Great for a #3 hitter. So projected lineups have Heyward hitting 6th, but Chipper in the 3 hole? Yeah and ego has ZERO to do with his return.

Lets acknowedge he was a HOF calibur player. He has the 3rd most HR by a switcher hitter, that is what he hangs his hat on. Also how admiralable it is he spent his whole career as a Brave? Really? the Braves where winning 15 straight Division Titles at his peak, he would have been a damn fool to walk for something over money. Lets not romantasize him now. He is what he is. A OVER-PAID 39 year old athlete on the downside of his career and the Braves are paying for what he did on the field 6-7 years ago. See why Pujols isn’t going to get a 10 year contract?

To think that this article was written and Chipper thinks he can take a shot at the fanbase of Atlanta and Schultz allow it and condone it to me is laughable. I think more people should have looked a little more into Chippers peak seasons when he won that MVP for links to Steroids honestly. Could be a reason why his body has betrayed him the past 5 years. He got off the JUICE.

Now lets introduce the Rose Colored glasses fans critical of that last post. How Chipper was never linked or mentioned, how he never could possibly do such a thing. Well I dare say 50-75 names have not publicly came out that would shock us all during that time span. Also if the man is going to cheat on his wife and knock up a Hooter waitress he is not up for sainthood here, so anything might just be possible.

The fans can keep adoring Chipper Jones all they like, hell my son has a Chipper Jones T-Shirt, I am not going to crush his young innocent ideals of baseball, but for me he can kiss my ass.

ChipperFan

February 27th, 2011
7:34 pm

Chipper is what true baseball is all about. A classy guy
that plays the game the right way and has always played
for the right reasons. I am glad he has always been brave.
a sure HOF’er….

Boobi and Chipper Hater

February 27th, 2011
7:34 pm

chipper is a boobi cox boy, and needs to go!

Headley Lamar

February 27th, 2011
7:35 pm

Headley
Business had made a lot off the $3/ hr worker too.

Yes they do. What does that have to do with Chipper? If the Braves are paying him 15 million he is making them 30 million with the butts he puts in seats and people watching on TV.

Only the idiotic Atlanta sports fans would treat a guy who has been loyal to the Braves, taken far less money than he could have made elsewhere, changed positions to help the team, and is a sure fire first ballot HOFer and run him down

Only in Atlanta.

Big Earl

February 27th, 2011
7:38 pm

I would take a year from Chipper @ 39 like Hank Aaron’s @39: 120 games, 40 HR, 96 RBI’s, .301 Avg…….think POSITIVE dude, it can happen!

5150 UOAD

February 27th, 2011
7:38 pm

If Chipper was that Hooters waitress(he knocked up) he wouldn’t be getting rich off tips for his great play over the years

Gwinnett Fred

February 27th, 2011
7:39 pm

Why didn’t Chipper include the cynical eolumnists in his K.M.A. statement?????

LTBF

February 27th, 2011
7:39 pm

Some real bad Chipper haters on Jeff’s blog. Chipper haters LIVE WITH IT Chipper is right up there with Hank Aaron as the greatest non-pitcher to ever play with the Braves

Headley Lamar

February 27th, 2011
7:40 pm

This accusation generally comes from the short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio and posts comments on blogs, all behind the comfort of anonymity.

Best line of the article Jeff.

I go to Spring Training every year and have seen Chipper many times up close. I always get a chuckle out of those who. anonymously of course, call him fragile and this and that knowing full well they wouldn’t say that to his face.

It would be Yes Sir Mr Jones real quick.

5150 UOAD

February 27th, 2011
7:40 pm

Big Earl
I could wake in the morning not having to Pee but I wouldn’t bet on it.

Headley Lamar

February 27th, 2011
7:43 pm

If Chipper was that Hooters waitress(he knocked up) he wouldn’t be getting rich off tips for his great play over the years

He did knock her up. He also was a man about it and admitted it and adopted the child as his own. That child lives with him and is treated no different.

Thats the difference. Chipper is a man and you’re not.

usskittyhawk63

February 27th, 2011
7:47 pm

LOL Chip Fires Back Glad to see you finally got enough of the anti chipper remarks on here way to go buddy glad to see you back good luck this year chip i got your back.

ChrisfromSacramento,CA

February 27th, 2011
7:47 pm

Thank you Chipper for all the memories I have of you and the Braves while I have grown into a young adult. Thank you Chipper for being a role model for my young boy. Shove it up the critics ass and help the Braves win it all.

Haters go play soccer because you could never hit or throw and get out of your moms basement.

"Chef" Tim Dix

February 27th, 2011
7:50 pm

If Schultzie wanted Chipper gone, he could make it happen. He wrote a column last week about former Governor Roy Barnes and now he’s been fired.

What? Not Roy?…Rod?…

Nevermind.

Sonny Clusters

February 27th, 2011
7:50 pm

What is a “true fan” . . . one that idolizes Chipper? Is a true fan and a casual fan the same thing? How about a radiator fan? This is laughable. We was hoping the AJC will find someone new to interview this season.

Ken Stallings

February 27th, 2011
7:53 pm

Beyond the entertaining answer, which was nice, the truth is that only a very few openly said Chipper was doing it to cash in on his contract. Frankly, those few are meaningless trolls.

More people are concerned about Chipper’s ability to hold up over the course of the season, especially given the number of games already missed. But, that is true of most 39 year old players because there are not but a few of them anyway!

One hopes Chipper is able to leave on his terms after this season and not on a bitter injury, which no one wanted to see happen.

81Dawg

February 27th, 2011
7:58 pm

Tell them Chipper. I can’t wait to see you back on the field. Good luck in ‘11. Go Braves.

5150 UOAD

February 27th, 2011
7:59 pm

Headley
So Chipper is a MAN because he did what he was supposed to do and be a DADDY to his child? HAHHAHA. Yea that makes him a MAN. So does standing up to urinate but it ain’t nothing to write home about.
Chipper is a nice guy and a good ball player, but he would never be in my top 20 3rd basemen. Sorry that is just how I feel. He is a Great guy to hunt and fish with.

LakeDawg

February 27th, 2011
8:05 pm

Who said Chipper was just playing for the money? I missed that. Stirring the pot again?

kurula

February 27th, 2011
8:12 pm

if chipper really loved money, he would trademark the phrase ”in this day and age”. but seriously, dude’s a hall of famer and has done a lot to make the braves the franchise they have become. the guy should be allowed to go out whenever he wants. on his terms. when he was winning his MVP award and taking the braves to the playoffs…again….no one wanted him to quit or accused him of being overpaid. he was a bargain (an MVP on that salary is unheard of ”in this day and age”) and will never try to ”jeter” this organization. play ’til the wheels fall off, hoss. you’ve earned it.

Boobi and Chipper Hater

February 27th, 2011
8:13 pm

These folks that gaggle over chipper are like MV7 fans… Too funny!

Braves Win

February 27th, 2011
8:14 pm

“I wonder what he means by true fans? Perhaps the ones that gloss over his child out of wedlock and 20+ errors? Right. Why don’t you just retire with your bank account and open a strip club… adulterer!”

Oh Maggie! I guess your the one who never made a mistake, or your sure sound that way. Your judgemental self and words only set you up for a big fall from the high pinnacle that you have set yourself upon.

Yes Chipper made mistakes. Yes he confessed that he committed adultery. But then he got up from the mess he made and went on not to make the same mistakes again.

That is something I personally can relate to. I have made many mistakes but I am forgiven never intending to make the same errors again.

Since you can point out other peoples mistakes so well, how did you not notice your own failures? Or maybe your just not as smart as you think you are becuase we are taught:

Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted. Go Chip! We love ya! We all forgive ya! Well, except for Maggie.

dawg4u

February 27th, 2011
8:14 pm

I have been a Braves fan since they came to Atlanta from Milwaukee in ‘66. I have seen all the greats here and want to wish Chipper a great season in ‘11. I remember the first time he had that injury and we were all on pins and needles even though Chipper was only 21. I can understand the apprehension of feeling your career could be over at that young age. I know that you have been one of the only “one team guys” in this day and age and am glad that you have stuck with the Bravos for such a long time. Thanks for your service Chipper and kick some butt this year.

Thomas

February 27th, 2011
8:15 pm

Will they (Organization) treat Chipper to the same royal treatment they bestowed on Glavine and Smoltz at their time of departure?

5150 UOAD

February 27th, 2011
8:18 pm

But Chipper is no BOB HORNER. LOL

NCBravesFan

February 27th, 2011
8:23 pm

He said that? Wow – that is simply awesome! And so very refreshing. Good for you, Chipper.

Good luck on the comeback – the real fans of the Braves have your back!

Dawg Whisperer

February 27th, 2011
8:24 pm

I’m a part-time, fair-weather, hard to please baseball fan. I want championship baseball all the time from players that respect the game, their teammates and opponents, and the $30,000.00 year fan who helps to fund the million dollar players (that’s pretty much all of them) whether the player agrees with the fan’s perspective or not. It’s hard to identify with the regular working stiff when you make millions. I do, however, believe that Chipper would play this game for little or nothing.

Dr. Phil

February 27th, 2011
8:29 pm

I think that Chipper is more motivated for another WS ring than the big pay check. I hope that he gets it.

K2

February 27th, 2011
8:32 pm

That shot that Chipper took was completely uncalled for. I’ll have you know that we folks in our Mom’s basements are huge Chipper fans and who recognize that his superior wOBA skills greatly enhance the lineup!

It’s the all-caps, think-necked, hunt-and-peck computer users that are the cynical ones.

Playoffs!?!?

February 27th, 2011
8:36 pm

Here’s a good headline—-Chipper to critics: “Kiss my a**”

danny

February 27th, 2011
8:38 pm

just retire money goblin! he will be hurt by june with a sprained eyelash and continue with his one week on two week off method he used the entire past decade.

cdog

February 27th, 2011
8:41 pm

its just a matter of time.when the season starts, watch the mysterious injuries start to pile up.he need to give a younger, dependable player a chance to play. he’s only wasting his time and the braves also.he’ll be injured more that the games he will try and play

Karin Fulford a.k.a The First Mrs. Jones

February 27th, 2011
8:45 pm

I’ve seen that Bank Account Dear. All the way to the Bank !

jack bauer

February 27th, 2011
8:49 pm

Come on Chipper, you have been stealing money for the last few years. I’m not in it for the money………..really?

jack bauer

February 27th, 2011
8:52 pm

Hey Dawg Whisperer, ask Chipper to if hey will play this year for free.

bostonbravo

February 27th, 2011
8:55 pm

I agree with CECIL et al…go have a few 6 packs & a Jack or 3….just don’t do it so much when the season starts….you aren’t the Mick. (Turns out, “The Mick” wasn’t the “Mick” either.)

A-Ville Ranger

February 27th, 2011
9:09 pm

I’ll take a pass on kissing Larry’s ass but there’s little doubt in my mind the team would have been better off if he’d retired and freed that wad of cash to bring in another free agent. He’s tying up 15 million and odds are he’ll be effective in fewer than 60 games. He also took advantage of a weak manager to stay at 3rd when he should have moved to 1st base 4 years ago.

Chernoff

February 27th, 2011
9:14 pm

“disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio ” That includes you, Chuck Oliver.

Scott Anderson

February 27th, 2011
9:23 pm

Larry can say whatever he wants.

what ball players starts spring training talking about water on his knee.

Your supposed to have worked that out the last 3 months and get ready to start the season. This crybaby needs to retire. He is just collecting a paycheck at this point. I thought when Bobby Cox let the molly coddling of Jones would stop.

Guess we dont have to worry as Larry will pull a hammy running to first base in spring training, talk about himeself in the third person, and collect his millions for hitting .250 with 20 home runs.

Go Braves !

Brett Favre was once a Falcon

February 27th, 2011
9:24 pm

Sonny Clusters is back! We was hopin’ you was okay.

TampaGator

February 27th, 2011
9:27 pm

Remarkable….

I have been a Braves fan probably longer than you have been alive…for many years in Atlanta (including going to games when there were only 2,000 or so (many times less) loyal fans at the old stadium and when such great names as Marty Perez was playing SS and Rowland Office was playing CF and Mike Lum was playing 1B….and Mickey Mahler was throwing one HR ball after another….and then experiencing the thrills of ‘91 and ‘95….and I still am a Braves fan now that I am retired in Tampa Bay…..not a Ray. So I think I have earned my right to express opinions on the Braves…and Mr. Jones….no matter what Chipper thinks about them.

I will take what David Justice and Tom Glavine did for Atlanta over what Chipper Jones has done for Altanta any day.

southern bell

February 27th, 2011
9:27 pm

Go get em Chip! Hope you prove all the haters wrong!

Eddie

February 27th, 2011
9:27 pm

Slimeball? Take that crap out of here. Probably written by one whose face looks like a plate of snails.

TampaGator

February 27th, 2011
9:30 pm

P.S…….I am excited that the Braves now have a manager who can “manage” during a game….and not just in the clubhouse. So far, it seems the new manager can do both. Maybe the Braves will have a shot at winning another WS title….now that “Mr. Prevention”…..that being Mr. Bobby Cox…is not “managing” the Braves anymore.

Scott Anderson

February 27th, 2011
9:31 pm

ps – he aint playing for the money as he has 100 million socked away.

Look at his bank account. That money was stolen.

So what is he playing for then ?

He is playing for nothing. For something to do. Get hurt quickly and watch the games from the bench.

How have the Braves carried this guy so long.

I been watching the Braves since the 70s . Nothing ever changes with them and their player selection. Especially holding on too long to has been players that cant run or jump anymore. Leave him at third. Thats a laugher.

Eddie

February 27th, 2011
9:37 pm

Tampa Gator? Go back to work. The onset of Alzeimer’s has obviously already begun. And don’t brag about Perez and Office. I watched the M-Braves of Aaron, Mathews and Spahn, as well as the ABraves since inception, buying season tickets for 15 years. How many years did you purchase season tix? Chipper is the greatest Atlanta Brave!
You give Tampa and the Gators a bad name.

Oregon Brave

February 27th, 2011
9:44 pm

Chipper will always be the Man on this team as long as he can put on the uni. My wife and I came down to Atlanta to watch the last two games of 2009. Around the 5th inning of the Sunday game the catcher was slow in getting his gear on so Chipper went behind the plate to warm up the pitcher. He sure as heck didn’t have to do that. How many players anywhere with his stature, his credentials volunteers to do labor that might be defined as “beneath” him? I like rooting for Chipper. But then, as often as not, I’ll scream at the TV when he matadors a hot grounder coming at him. I’m just happy he’s a Brave and not a . . . . Go Braves.

dap01

February 27th, 2011
9:49 pm

Chipper is not above critism. I am his biggest fan but he has been very average for a couple of years and not healthy for many years.

Have some class, Chipper, we pay your dumb A_ _ salary!

Scott Anderson

February 27th, 2011
9:54 pm

My wife and I came down to Atlanta to watch the last two games of 2009. Around the 5th inning of the Sunday game the catcher was slow in getting his gear on so Chipper went behind the plate to warm up the pitcher. He sure as heck didn’t have to do that. How many players anywhere with his stature, his credentials volunteers to do labor that might be defined as “beneath” him?
…………………………………………………….

Yeh it was the least he could do to play catch with the pitcher. Thats about the dumbest thing I have ever heard.

I am surprised he didnt pull a groin muscle while warming up the pitcher and go on the disabled list for a month. Well the groin on Larry is feeling better, I think I can play like maybe Sunday.

I love the way he tells everyone when he will play and takes it out of the Managers hands. Double groin pull running to first base is in the cards.

BravesfanCT

February 27th, 2011
10:02 pm

Oh baby, nice to have Chipper back and in a fighting mood. Chipper, if you are still checking out this blog, know that TONS of loyal fans are out there. Ignore the haters and critics, if they don’t understand and appreciate you by now, they never will. Thanks for your loyalty to the team and for pulling it out so that I can watch my favorite player for (at least) one more summer. See ya when you come to NYC vs. Mets.

REALLY???

February 27th, 2011
10:12 pm

REALLY, Chocolate Chipper?? For 14 years I have watched you lope down the first base line on routine grounders. I have watched you do a little “pirouette” on a ground ball down the third base line (I am suprised that the knee has lasted this long) I have watched other third basemen play and even young children in little league are coached to plant his base foot to throw to first or second. I have listen to Bobby Cox call you “sweet pea” from the dugout urging you to “hit one” only because he couldn’t manufacture a run. And all the while running good ballplayers out on a rail because they didn’t hustle. I guess you have to play pool with him to get away with that kind of lackluster performance day in and day out you give your fans.. I remember when you got your 15m a year contract and you compared it to eating chocolate chip cookies. (The guy in the stands who calls you “Chocolate Chipper” is me by the way) One or two million more the cookies loses its tastiness. These true fans you talk about are the ones that get the crap haressed out of them at true baseball parks. I wished you would finish out you career at Philly or New York or Boston to see how easy you have had it here in a city where people don’t know anything about sports except how to jump on a bandwagon. Don’t believe me? Listen any “sports station in Atl and you will see that it is a sad state. Chocolate Chipper, try living on a median income, now that is pressure and gives you the right to tell me to kiss your ass. With that said I hope you have a great season because I am a Braves fan. I buy shirts,hats and tickets. And I come to one of the most crime ridden parts of Atlanta to see My Braves play baseball. Professionals who I hope play good fundimental baseball. You are not one of those guys and you haven’t been your whole career. When I see a number 10 on a Braves shirt in stores I fart in its general direction and I do that because “I can kiss your ass”

Gwinnett Fred

February 27th, 2011
10:29 pm

Pretty easy to say you aren’t playing for the money when you already have the money!

I am a big Braves fan and have always appreciated Chippers huge contributions to all the Championship teams.

But again, it’s SO easy to say you aren’t playing for something you already have.

That said: He’s be lying thru his teeth if he says the HOF isn’t at least in the back of his mind – and notice how many milestones he should get playing this season:

10 hits for 2500
14 homers for 450
9 RBI for 1500
7 doubles for 500

And he could hit .200 this season in 500 at bats and STILL have a caraeer .300 average.

He may not admit playinf for money, but please don’t anoint him as a saint just yet – there are a few reasons he came back besides his teammates!

Bill

February 27th, 2011
10:30 pm

Thats what I like about Hose..He tells it like it is “kiss my A@@.” He is Mr. BRAVE ! A damn good player, A good person (he is human), Loves his job, teammates and his fans. Will make a great Coach are Mgr one day….Long live Chipper Jones. He will always be a Brave.

senorw64

February 27th, 2011
10:33 pm

Brockhouse wrote: Chipper only continues to play because of his ego. How many HOF’ers have amassed multiple seasons with 20+ errors? My guess is not many or none. That being said, he should be disqualified from the HOF for all his errors and sticking around well past his prime.

Michael Jack Schmidt 7 20 error seasons,
Wade Boggs 3 20 error seasons
Chipper 3 20 error seasons
ARod 2 20 error seasons
I didn’t take the time to look more.

JSS

February 27th, 2011
10:33 pm

“Braves vet still loves the game, says “the cynical fan can kiss my” (you know).”

He’d pull his gluteus maximus or his oblique either loosening his belt or bending over! Is there a DL for that too?

“To those who hate on Chipper, what does a player have to do to earn your respect?”

Move to first base, actually work at it instead of courting disaster and trying to pretend he’s 25 and his long forays on the disabled list don’t literally suck the life out of this team…

When he moved to left, I lauded him for finally seeing the light… Then he start his nagging and moaning about moving in the batting order to protect Sheffield… That is when I gave up on him… How many left fielders and first basemen have we run out there since Castilla, Galarraga, and Sheffield left town?

Please build your statue to Chipper. Make sure it has an ice pack and elastic wraps in the appropriate areas!!!

Topdog34

February 27th, 2011
10:40 pm

Chipper has never got his due in Atlanta. He is one of the best hitters in the game and a Future Hall of Famer. He can carry the Braves to another title

Trey

February 27th, 2011
10:55 pm

That’s what I’m talkin’ about Chipper!

Trey

February 27th, 2011
10:58 pm

Jeff, thank you so much for the great article about Chipper. He is one hell of a player.

JSS

February 27th, 2011
11:09 pm

@ Senor…
By the way, go back and look at the huge disparity in chances that Mike Schimdt had compared to Chipper Jones… He should have 20+ errors, it is astonishing! Chipper has only gone over 400 chances twice in his whole career. Schimdt had over 500 chances 4 times, over 400 chances 7 times, over 300 4 times! Chipper over 300 only 6 times… Go look at Brooks Robinson’s numbers, he did not fall off defensively until he was 38 and had 6 450+ chance seasons and 5-500+ chance seasons between age 27-38… Chipper will in the Hall in Cooperstown for hitting, not fielding… Give me lite hitting Clete Boyer any day!

JSS

February 27th, 2011
11:27 pm

Oh Eddie Mathews did average of 20+ errors a season. However, he had 400+ chances per season 12 times in his career… He hit 512 homers in 17 seasons and 2 World Series championships in 4 tries…

bgvt

February 27th, 2011
11:46 pm

Add Cal Ripkin to the HOFers with 20+ errors in a season — 6 times.
Harmon Killebrew had several 20+ error seasons, including one with 30 errors.
Before Tony Perez moved to 1B, he butchered 3B with seasons with 25, 32 and 35 errors.
George Brett: 6 seasons with 20+ errors.
Phil Rizzuto? 7 seasons with 20+ errors.
Eddie Mathews? 6 seasons with 20+ errors.

Had enough examples, Maggie? Granted, Chipper’s time in the OF and his injury-shortened seasons cut down on his error totals in some years — but I don’t think his defense keeps him from making the HOF.

Dave da Dog

February 27th, 2011
11:49 pm

Oh, wah Chippy. Are those mean old fans saying bad things about your lazy ass? Kissing your ass would be easy cause it’s usually planted on the bench getting over the latest knuckle sprain. All those people who say he ain’t doing it for the money are loopy. I mean he get’s an additional 30 million if he waddles his fat, out of shape ass, out there? He put in zero time rehabbing this knee over the winter and even made a call to Fredi to make sure he would be able to keep his “special routine(no work for veterans)” during ST. Give me a break. That dog won’t hunt.

Lamont

February 27th, 2011
11:50 pm

I would kiss his ass, but he would probably turn an ankle bending over.

Columbus

February 27th, 2011
11:53 pm

Way to go Chipper. Thanks for coming back and thanks for telling the naysayers and ignorant posters to kiss your ass. Most are the same ones who want Richt fired at UGA. Kiss our asses!

Michael

February 27th, 2011
11:55 pm

born in ‘85 and fan since ‘90. I have always loved the braves and especially jones. I am soo glad to hear him finally blast those lame people who bash him. Since ‘95, i have always bragged to people that me and him have the same birthday and how lucky we are to have a player who could have taken more money and hit the road but chose to stay in a place he loves. NOT TO MANY OTHER TEAMS HAVE A PLAYER LIKE THAT!! i think he can do it and even if he cant, he will tell management and bow out b/c he is a team player, a great guy and loves the braves. i’d still rather have a washed-up chipper than most other people in the league. no pitcher wants to make a mistake to him. VETERAN!

aaa

February 27th, 2011
11:56 pm

If he didn’t care about the money, he would’ve retired and then come back at the league minimum, allowing the Braves to pick up another good player, if he could do that with the contract. Appreciate Chipper’s contributions in the past but at this point, we all know he can’t play over 100 games a year and for his salary, that’s not enough.

Katherine

February 28th, 2011
12:01 am

I’m glad you are back Chipper…I didn’t want to see you go out that way last season. I hope you have a great comeback!

Chop Chop

February 28th, 2011
12:05 am

I don’t think Chipper’s a greedy sumb**ch. I just think he’s getting paid too much for what he provides the team at this point in his career. I would have taken the contract extension he got, too. Wren’s the idiot here. Chipper can play as long as somebody will pay him to play ball.

chem

February 28th, 2011
12:46 am

The biggest criticism of chipper is not his contract – that’s the GM’s doing. The issue is that he fails to address his biggest weaknesses despite his salary. Chipper has had a great career, but how much better would it had been if he trained to prevent oblique, hamstring, quad, and other core related injuries? P.S. Schultz is a tool. With dob and Jeff, there’s a line to kiss chippers ass.

dawg149

February 28th, 2011
12:51 am

Hey Chipper, renewed my season tix solely on u returning…………u play the way everyone should play…….because u want to and your love of the game exceeds your willingness to retire. Go out there and show these nay-sayers what a PLAYER u are!!!!!!!! cya n the Ted……

Bobby-less Braves

February 28th, 2011
12:53 am

Chipper is awesome. As a kid, I remember going to a dare basketball game with Avery, Smoltz, Blauser, Nixon, McMichael, Lemke, Jerome Walton, and a very young Chipper. He was sitting on the court floor and let me sit beside him. He took my hat and tried it on, putting it back on my head backwards. Had a few encouraging words that were specifically for me. I later went to college in south Georgia and one of his neighbors and good friends to this day enrolled in the same college after completing his time in the army. I’ve heard stories of his personal life and don’t blame the guy for his past regarding his first wife. No one is perfect and this glass house refrains from throwing stones. From the days of his rookie years sitting on a basketball court with fans all around to the day he retires, he’s been a brave dedicated to Atlanta and its fans. The man can play. I completely encourage those who want to doubt, to doubt. It’s just going to fuel his fire.

TB

February 28th, 2011
1:14 am

Chipper has never given his all. As I predicted when he was a rookie, he was over-rated and would never see a gold glove. He is still over-rated. He was never a hustle player. I look forward to the day he is gone. I’m not a guy living in mom’s basement, I’m a woman, long time season ticket holder and a baseball fan. Chipper has never appreciated his fans, seemed to forget his big bank account came from the fans.

scottbravesfan

February 28th, 2011
1:18 am

Chipper is the man.

scottbravesfan

February 28th, 2011
1:19 am

TB,

Chipper is overrated? He is going into the hall of fame on the first ballot. What the hell have you ever done in your life?

Mitchell

February 28th, 2011
1:22 am

Why does Chipper get so worked up about what Braves fans on a Braves blog have to say about him if it happens to not be entirely favorable on occasion?

He’s not Mike Schmidt. He’s never been booed in his own stadium and he never will be.

All he’s ever gotten are the loudest cheers of any player on the team.

It seems like a lot of manufactured antagonism between him and whatever faction or fraction, as the case may be, of the fan base that allegedly doesn’t support him.

At least if someone’s being critical it shows they’re passionate about the team.

Or maybe not. Who knows?

Less talky. More hitty of the baseball.

Michael

February 28th, 2011
1:23 am

TB, he should have won the gold glove several times. Think back to 2008 when he had 8 errors and David Wright had 22. David won b/c he played in New York. It all depends on what city you play in you ignorant fool. Look and do research before you speak. Go away and stop talking please.

scottbravesfan

February 28th, 2011
1:25 am

JSS,

Eddie Mathews had nothing to do with the Tigers winning the world series in 68. He didn’t start and rarely played. The Braves should have won the world series in 1958 and 1959 but failed to do so. That the mid to late 1950s Braves teams only won one World Series is almost as astonishing as the early to mid 90s Braves teams only winning one World Series.

Michael

February 28th, 2011
1:25 am

I hate how so many people are fair-weather fans… Just shut up. All of you are pathetic and know nothing about baseball. Never played and can’t tell the difference between the pitches. Just shut up and go away

scottbravesfan

February 28th, 2011
1:27 am

Mitchel,

There are a ridiculous loud minority of Braves fans that try to run Chipper out of town. Even before he went on his tear in 2007 and 2008 and won the batting title and finished runner up for the batting title there were people saying that Chipper was washed up and should retire. Chipper reads these boards, he’s even posted on DOB’s blog before, and I’m sure it’s motivation for him to shut them up. He obviously knows that he is a god to most Braves fans but the minority that dislikes him for some reason should give him motivation.

Mitchell

February 28th, 2011
1:40 am

I’m not a guy living in mom’s basement, I’m a woman…

Oo, take that Chipper.

Hear her roar.

gtkenz

February 28th, 2011
1:51 am

C’Mon, they all play for the money. Where else in this entire world can Chipper or any ball player make 10+ million dollars a year? The answer is simple, nowhere. Chippers is a Brave, a true Brave, and a future HOF’er, but let’s not get this confused with reality. The guy runs a farm in Texas. Or better yet, the guy lives on a farm in Texas that costs millions annually to maintain.

His bank account may very well be fat, but he cannot maintain his current lifestyle for the next 30+ years without millions annually in salary. And last time I checked, charging 5K or so a weekend to hunt deer with Chipper Jones on his farm is not equal to the millions required to sustain the farm.

Chipper’s a country boy from Florida. He’s done well for himself. His future is bright. He may very well be the most well known and loved Brave in team history. But Chipper IS playing for the money. And if Chipper pulls off an injury free and productive season in 2011, he’ll be back again in 2012. Maybe not to the highest bidder, but he’ll be back at a substantial salary, and it might not be the Braves, ala Tom Glavine, Greg Maddox, John Smoltz, Dale Murphy, Fred McGriff, Javy Lopez, etc., etc.

MaggieShouldRead

February 28th, 2011
2:01 am

Maggie…Please save true fans from your flawed rhetoric.

Also, as someone else mentioned, there have been countless HOFers with numerous 20+ seasons including Mike Schmidt and Eddie Mathews. Furhtermore, Chipper has had ONE 20+ season in the last 10 years and only THREE in his career.

Pleasegtkenz

February 28th, 2011
2:05 am

@gtkenz

Unless Chipper squandered his earnings, which is unlikely, he has more than enough to sustain his current lifestyle. His money is not sitting under a mattress rotting away; there are things called investments.

His primary reason for playing is not money, however, he obviously is not going to play for free…so he will be paid what the team is willing to pay him.

braves fan 41

February 28th, 2011
2:18 am

Chipper s a for sure first ballot hofer.. However, he is vastly overpaid or his current accomplishments! My hpe is, hat he retires, and becomes a roving hitting instructor, such s Luke Appling was for years! This would help the bravos far more than anything he will do on he field in 2011.

Falcon from Rockdale

February 28th, 2011
4:13 am

The fans who pay money and attend games have a right to voice their opinions and Jones also has a right to speak out. So let it be and hope he is able to play reasonably well since he is still here.

legionaire

February 28th, 2011
5:06 am

Chipper has to love the game to do what he does to stay on the field. I hope he has a good year. For him to say playing has never been about the money is laughable. All pro athletes do it for the money. Is he not in the union? He has made adjustments to help the salary cap that others would never have done because of sheer greed, i.e. Tom Glavine. He has been a good face for the Braves over the years. Sure money is on the knee not holding up under game conditions.

guest

February 28th, 2011
5:38 am

Maggie Brockhouse
February 27th, 2011
5:30 pm

Maggot Brockhouse, go spread your hatred elsewhere. What Chipper means by true fans, is just that, fans that know and appreciate what a great baseball player he is and the sacrifices he has made for the Braves.

Chipper only continues to play because of his ego. How many HOF’ers have amassed multiple seasons with 20+ errors? My guess is not many or none. That being said, he should be disqualified from the HOF for all his errors and sticking around well past his prime.

Finally, if he really wanted what’s best for the team and doesn’t care about money.. (Funny he’s not living in a trailer or anything.) He’d schedule a presser and say its over.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

Mike Schmidt, George Brett, Eddie Mathews, Wade Boggs, Pie Traynor, Home Run Baker, Freddie Lindstrom, Brooks Robinson, George Kell and Jimmy Collins are all Hall of Fame 3rd basemen who had AT LEAST one season with 20 or more errors.

Adrian Beltre (who most consider to be one of the best defensive 3rd basemen playing today) had 19 in 2010 and has 3 seasons where he had at least 20 or more errors.

“Better to remain silent and be thought a fool than to speak out and remove all doubt.”

Tracy

February 28th, 2011
5:56 am

Chipper has been a great player and a face to the Braves, but I think people are letting their “fan” side come out when I keep seeing “1st round HOF’er”.

He won’t get 3k hits or 500HR. He won 1 MVP, 1 batting title and has never won a gold glove. I think the lack of gold gloves is going to hurt his HOF chances bad. Players who got in with his career stats, 2500 hits, sub-500HR had awesome defense on there side..ie..Andre Dawson.

He might sneak in, might, but if he does it certainly won’t be on the first couple of tries. Sorry, just being realistic.

raymond

February 28th, 2011
6:11 am

Chipper is too selfish to recognize he is hurting the team. His mindset is I’m chipper Jones and will go out the way I want. the end will not be pretty but it will be his own fault.

davidinvirginia

February 28th, 2011
6:36 am

This cynical fan will wait until Chipper makes it thru a season playing enough (and well enough) to make his ridiculous salary justified…and for him to go thru a season without any Hooter’s related injuries.

To quote an old politician (from back when some of them used to be worth something): “Whenever they tell you it’s not about that money, it’s about the money.”

Mickey Lolich

February 28th, 2011
6:52 am

I applaud Chipper for never cheating, injuries take their toll when you aren’t a juiced up Roid Monster, give the man his due. His body wore down, that should happen by the time you are 39 in a pro sport with the wear and tear, he didn’t cheat and that’s something to cheer for these days. People are quick to worship Manny Ramirez when they should appreciate what Chipper has done.

Tech Sucks

February 28th, 2011
6:53 am

Chipper rules. Screw the cynics.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
7:20 am

scottbravesfan
February 28th, 2011
1:25 am
JSS,
“Eddie Mathews had nothing to do with the Tigers winning the world series in 68. He didn’t start and rarely played.”

Did he play in 1968 series? Was he on the post season roster? Did he get a World Series share (of the Championship winnings)? The answer to all three was yes!!! He started Game 4 of the Series at third base! He pinch hit in Game 1.

So do think that Tiger fans somehow think less of Mathews, Gates Brown, or Ray Oyler? I can tell you having gone to college in SE Michigan, the answer is “NO!”

Who sits in larger in Atlanta lore? Francesco Cabrera or Greg Olsen? You picked the wrong bone to gnaw on!

On the Braves teams of the late 50’s, that is the history of the franchise since its inception. They always came up short when they were front runners. They had the 58 title won and took their foot off the peddle (again)… In 1959, they tried, the back end of the rotation was in shambles… They sealed their coffin when they traded Billy Bruton (1960). He was the glue of the outfield and the batting order…

AF

February 28th, 2011
7:25 am

who wouldn’t want to play a game all their life. Most people grow up though and look at contributing to society. His “play” has absolutly zero impact on my life.

cango247

February 28th, 2011
7:27 am

i LOVE having his bat back on our line-up, but honestly would like to see him hitting 5th in the line-up McClouth/Schafer(L), Prado(R), Heyward(L), Uggla(R), Jones(S), McCann(L),Gonzalez(R), Freeman(L)….looks like a more potent line up than Prado, Heyward, Jones, Uggla, McCann… to me

phil

February 28th, 2011
7:32 am

Where do you keep hearing people say it’s about the money? As you say, only a moron would think that. But to lump a bunch of people together and cast them into a collective mother’s basement isn’t really being fair. It’s possible that people are merely expressing an honest opinion, wrong though it obviously is.

I’m thrilled that Chipper’s going to play again, Lord willing. But I’m also glad that he’s sacrificing his salary this year since, after all, it’s about the team. It takes a big multi-millionaire to do that, and I’m proud of him.

Buckeye

February 28th, 2011
7:33 am

With $141M you’d think he could afford a razor. Looks like a damn redneck and/or switched at birth with the lead singer from metallica.

He’s kinda like Roethlisberger and the backwards hat…..

Grow up, Dude and lose the chew while you’re at it.

Unloyal, short-sighted, ignorant, disturbed Braves fan

February 28th, 2011
7:44 am

So if the money doesn’t matter, and he’s playing because he loves his teammates, why doesn’t he play this season for, say, $2M and let Wren spend the other $12M on a top-line outfielder?

JSS

February 28th, 2011
7:45 am

@ Guest…
The only person who “might” be comparable with Jones might be Freddie Lindstrom… But even Lindstrom put up multiple (4) 400+ chance seasons and 1-500+ chance season…

Sorry, Chipper Jones has the least chances of any Hall of Fame candidate defensively at Third Base… That switch hitting batting prowless will be his road to Copperstown…

cooper

February 28th, 2011
7:47 am

As much as I have enjoyed Chipper over the year it look’s like he is going to be one of those that will be forced out eventually. As much as I hate it I hope Atlanta will have the guts to do what need’s to be done when the time comes.
The truth of the matter is Chipper looked very slow at third even when he was not hurt last year. He could not get to some ball’s in the hole that he had alway’s had no trouble getting to in the past. Also I was a very good shortstop in my youth and I can tell you beyond any doubt Chipper was slow in reacting to the ball last year.Meaning he react’s to a ball hit to the left side probably a half second more than he has in past year’s. I would rate Chipper no better than a 5 out of 10 as far as defense after last year.

Escaped from Email Purgatory

February 28th, 2011
7:47 am

“This accusation generally comes from the short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio and posts comments on blogs, all behind the comfort of anonymity.”

Schutz, you gushing missive about Chipper neglected to point out how you pander to we short-sighted, we disturbed, we ignorant who you apparently despise. Now that you’re getting it all off your chest, how about coming clean on your true feelings for the folks who make up the “First!” contingent?

Whatever his motivation, it’ nice to see Chipper Jones motivated about SOMETHING besides looking for ways to take games off for piddling little injuries. This trait has been the hallmark of his career the past four or five years. That and the fact he rarely comes through in the clutch in the playoffs. Somebody called him the extension of Bobby Cox on the field. There’s a dig and a complement if ever I’ve heard one.

I’m not a big fan of Chipper’s, but I’ve always stayed away from his personal life with my comments about him. But I can tell you, Larry Chipper’s “exclusive” words to a fawning Jeff Schultz are consistent with the character of the man who’s made his share of mistakes.

Seems the words of we basement dwellers stung a little bit too. The mighty Chipper deemed it necessary to respond in kind. “Kiss my ass” he says. “Look at my bank account” he brags. Classy indeed.

Well for all the good and bad posted about Chipper, I don’t think I ever heard anybody claim he was particularly bright.

In Fredi I Trust

February 28th, 2011
8:03 am

For those fans that said Chipper was doing this for the money, they should be ashamed of themselves. How many players past or present would restructure their own contract, or even offer to restructure their own contract so the team could go out and sing another player that would make his team a true contender? Chipper did just that, so obviously he is about the game as well as securing a great life for his family.

When its all said and done, Chipper Jones will retire wearing only a Braves uni in his career. That can’t be said much in this era of professional baseball. All I can say is that I truly hope that Chipper has one hell of a season and proves everyone wrong.

Shug

February 28th, 2011
8:11 am

Seems those ‘roids are making the Chipster a little aggressive.

Tami

February 28th, 2011
8:12 am

I know Chipper isn’t playing for the money….he’s playing for his fans and his team. He’s set for life, and can retire any time he feels like it. But the competitor in him wouldn’t/couldn’t/shouldn’t go out on an ACL injury if he can at all avoid it. I for one am glad he’s back, and hope to see him play through his contract that ends with the 2012 season. Then, he is offered a job in the organization as the Braves will definitely still need him! I hope Chipper has a fantastic season!

bye richt

February 28th, 2011
8:17 am

yea you cynical bastards , kiss his ass !

go chipper go

February 28th, 2011
8:18 am

yea , kiss his ass !

HereComesBream

February 28th, 2011
8:22 am

Lets go Chip! I am so ready for the season to get started!

Dawg4life

February 28th, 2011
8:26 am

Chipper is done…. has been for 2 seasons now. He is the Braves’ version of Keith Brooking. So we are going to have to sit through another season of him playing in 30 games and sitting out the rest with a bent back pinky nail? No thanks. Take your spot on the bench as the hitting coach buddy. And you can kiss my a$$, Oh wait, I would hate for you to sprain your oblique….

Reggie

February 28th, 2011
8:29 am

“short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio and posts comments on blogs, all behind the comfort of anonymity”

Thanks for calling it like it is. Have a great year, Chipper.

redeye

February 28th, 2011
8:42 am

Chipper, I hope you have a great year and wish you all the best. GO BRAVES!!

dean

February 28th, 2011
8:44 am

Quote: “The guy who sits in his mom’s basement and types on his mom’s computer, I couldn’t really care less about.”

That pretty much sums it up.

Good luck this season.

guest

February 28th, 2011
8:46 am

JSS
February 28th, 2011
7:45 am

@ Guest…
The only person who “might” be comparable with Jones might be Freddie Lindstrom… But even Lindstrom put up multiple (4) 400+ chance seasons and 1-500+ chance season…

Sorry, Chipper Jones has the least chances of any Hall of Fame candidate defensively at Third Base… That switch hitting batting prowless will be his road to Copperstown…

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^

I wasn’t arguing his HOF worthiness (although I do believe he will get in). I was disputing the point that HOF 3rd basemen (or for that matter good defensive 3rd basemen) don’t have seasons with 20 or more errors. Errors are not the end all stat for determining a players defensive worth.

Hooters Waitress

February 28th, 2011
8:47 am

Chipper, honey, it ain’t your knee I’m worried about.

Rain or Shine

February 28th, 2011
8:55 am

For a few years now, the most exercise I got was drying off after a shower. Yesterday, I got in shape; did some pushups and walked a half hour or so. Today, I cannot move as I am sore where my muscles used to be. Playing 140 games + year after year is a damned big deal. Do it Bwoy!!! Kick Bootay this year.

PMC

February 28th, 2011
9:04 am

I like Chipper, but why make comments like… “I don’t play this game for money.”

Um. Dude, YES YOU DO! You’re a professional. There’s nothing wrong with that. It’s fun, it’s a game and you get paid extremely well for it. No need to apologize for it.

We need him to play and play well this year. The guy is one of the best Braves ever. His defense is not what it once was but when he’s on he can freaking rake, and the play he tore up his knee on was spectacular.

We need Chipper to play and play well, but you wouldn’t play the game for free at this level and no one should expect you to.

Marilyn

February 28th, 2011
9:05 am

Chipper, I am a true friend and honest being, but cannot understand why the people will voice their opinions of you when it sounds like their schooling is second grade and they still stay behind the coal heater when company comes. I think I would not show my ignorance to the world unless I could say something positive about someone. You are very special to God and your many friends. We can’t hardly wait until April 8th. Thanks again for being you!

PMC

February 28th, 2011
9:08 am

I think the fact that they added some help for him in the lineup should help. I really hope everything holds together for him this year. I’m not worried about home runs, I’m hoping that he can hit well over .300 and be up with a lot of guys on base.

papadawg

February 28th, 2011
9:10 am

Chipper you can kiss mine too, you’re the one who goes down with a injury every year and you’re the one who has gotten older and lost quickness at third so don’t pull a Vick on the fans.

cooper3271

February 28th, 2011
9:11 am

We all hope that Chipper has a great year , but in reality he was too slow last year and coming off knee surgery want help him get back to playing speed. The braves are showing class in letting Chipper try but I hope that one of the braves young fast infielders will play most of the year at 3rd.
I don’t think a lot of the bloggers on here really know what it takes to be able to play an infield position at the major league level and I can tell you now that Chipper doesn’t have the speed to play at 3rd any longer. He may be able to be a designating hitter in the American League but because you need healthy knee’s to be able to swing with power I doubt he could get an American League team to sign him for more than 500K or 1 Million. I hope he will accept reality and before any hard feeling’s are generated between him and the braves he will discuss staying with the braves as a coach or hitting instructor or whatever they can decide that will use his vast knowledge of baseball.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
9:15 am

guest
February 28th, 2011
8:46 am
“Errors are not the end all stat for determining a players defensive worth.”

If you’re getting that many errors in that few chances… You’re a less than adequate… He is just a fair third basemen… Go and really look at Chipper’s numbers, he gets less chances than any of the historical benchmarks of Hall of Famers at the position. I mean it is not even close (75-100 less chances) per season in comparison… The other handled many more chances therefore I can see why they had 20+ errors. Chipper on the other hand, while not a butcher or a monster, he was just mysteriously erratic…

Dave

February 28th, 2011
9:19 am

Chipper has had a bad two years that was before tearing his ACL. Odds say a player coming off an ACL injury won’t do better his first year back than he did the last two years. If you are 39 years old those odds go down even more in you having a great year. Just as many fans couldn’t admit it was time for Glavine and Smoltz to hang it up these fans and Chipper will repeat that mistake again. I guess some will wait for strike three to admit that and there will be some who will even want a strike four as well. Sorry I am 61 years old sooner or later you have to look at the odds his having a Chipper year are very slim. Chipper has been injury prone even before this injury and every year he becomes even more so..

Pierson Brave

February 28th, 2011
9:19 am

For those of you who may have forgotten. Chipper is a Florida Native, through and through. He loves the Gators not the Bulldogs. You Georgians (some of you) seem to think that he is a Georgia boy who can’t be ridiculed by a Florida citizen.

Jim Pierce

February 28th, 2011
9:21 am

I absolutely hate the thought of the Braves starting a game without Chipper in the lineup. For you folks that think Chipper isn’t a threat at the plate, try asking opposing pitchers what they think with 2 men on and C. Jones standing at the plate lol

RaleighDawg

February 28th, 2011
9:21 am

“If they think I’m doing this for the money, they obviously haven’t seen my bank account,” he said. “I’ve never played this game for money. Nor will I. My mind doesn’t work that way.”

What do you say then Chipper – how about dropping $12M from this year’s contract so we can pick up another bat ?

Geez….does this even Chipper believe the stuff that comes out of his own mouth ?

Cincinnati

February 28th, 2011
9:24 am

Chipper Jones and first aid in 2011

Don

February 28th, 2011
9:27 am

Writers and fans keep talking about the question – can Chipper “come back” from the injury.
“COME BACK” to WHAT — The implication is that he was in the prime of his career – and can he come back to it.
But he had not had a really good offensive season in two years and his defensive range was already poor and he was able to play only part time at best. Even if he “comes all the way back” to where he was before the injury, the Braves still do not have a really productive player. And aside from the injury, he is going to be another year older on the downhill age slide. And the pressure is going to be to play him no matter what. And regardless of production, he is probably going to continue to take up a significat part of the salary budget for the next two years. Talk of retirement is probably just that “talk” – he will probably not walk away from these millions no matter what – few players would – and that is not to be critical – the Braves gave him the contract and the money is his. None of this takes anything away from how great a hitter he was in the past – far greater than he received credit for being – hitting great against the best pitchers, and in close games, and in late innings of close games and in game determining situations.

Don

February 28th, 2011
9:33 am

Pressure is going to be on the Manager to play Chipper no matter what – if he is productive at all — The team administration will not want to look even more foolish for having given Chipper the big bucks long contract – if they have a 14 million per year player sitting on the bench for two years.

papadawg

February 28th, 2011
9:38 am

I was a big Chipper fan in his prime but we all go past our prime and he is way past his. It’s time to judge him with our heads and not our hearts.

Lance H.

February 28th, 2011
9:40 am

I was in college in Macon, GA when Chipper came through A-ball there. Thirsty Thursdays and Chipper hitting bombs onto the RR tracks in right. I’ve always been a huge Braves fan, memories beggining with Willie Montanez and Jeff Burroughs, and when I moved to Atlanta in 2000 I was fortunate enough to attend about 30 home games a year until about 2006. My wife and two you boys are huge Chipper fans too. Now we reside in Houston and I make sure I’m there for the Braves 3 games each year, as I was for game 2 last year. I thought it might be the last for #10 but I’m really pumped that it wasn’t. And pumped for Chipper too because I think this team could be something special.

Others who were the “heart and soul” of this franchise have left and worn other uniforms – some with a thumb to the nose or a pat to the wallet while doing so. Chipper could have got more money from another team, actually Chipper could have got more money from the Braves. But he didn’t and he stayed. I know it’s a two way street but Chipper did his part. As long as Chipper wants to play, I’ll be there supporting him. In this day and age, my kids will probably never have a “Chipper” – an athlete that spends an entire, lengthy, dominate career with their favorite team.

And for the nay-sayers, leave it at home. I think there are a whole lot more of US that won’t take kindly to hearing it at the park. Just saying.

DDog10

February 28th, 2011
9:40 am

Chiper, I’m 57 year old and I still love the game. But I realized a long time ago I could not still play. I’ll be glad when you realize this too because you are done. Your bat has slowed down to much to hit major league pitching. You have to start you switch to early and hope you swinging at a strike. Be real, you are only out there for the money now.

jfreak13713

February 28th, 2011
9:40 am

Good for you Chipper! I’ve been critical of Chipper at times only because I expect so much of him but that isn’t his fault. He has meant an awful lot to this team over the years and deserves to play as long as he desires! I don’t know that I would bat him third but he should have a place on this team. A hall of fame player deserves our respect.

timthebrave

February 28th, 2011
9:42 am

I hope CHipper has a big year. If we are going to go anywhere(especially in the playoffs) we will need him to produce. I don’t care about the hr but he needs to get some rbi’s. Go Braves

travelqueen

February 28th, 2011
9:44 am

I won’t say anything at all. Some of those comment are right and some are wrong. He was only pay for money and he just don’t want to say anything to disrespect him but he already knew that everyone was going to be upset or angry. Speaking of how much he get does really make some of us mad, as for me I am kind don’t like for Sport people get in people wallet make us pay too much for see them for only 2 hours. I can’t do anything, the only question is stop going to the game and let them be the way worry with nothing in their pocket

Tucker

February 28th, 2011
9:47 am

Chipper is a completely deserved favorite in uniform. Let’s leave it at that.

reason

February 28th, 2011
9:49 am

Chipper, choose your words carefully, if the fans when to hell, there would be no one to watch you play, while making the millions of dollars you make every year, even if you only play a few games and for the rest of the season you’re hurt. So, don’t get on your high horse with the fans even with those that don’t like you. You’re always out when it counts, and most likely you won’t play very long this years.

Billmelater

February 28th, 2011
9:51 am

Love Chipper..but lets wait and see how the season turns out before the hanging.

Sitting In My Mom's Basement

February 28th, 2011
9:53 am

In my underwear looking at your wife’s picture on the Hooters Calendar.

Andy in Blairsville

February 28th, 2011
9:55 am

I’m thinking Hooters

Just Sayin'

February 28th, 2011
9:55 am

Chipper is trailer trash as is his Hooters trophy wife.

Just Sayin'

February 28th, 2011
9:56 am

Chippy Wippy will have a major hang nail that will keep him out of the lineup for at least a month. Bank on it.

reason

February 28th, 2011
9:58 am

It’s not a point of liking of disliking the man, is that Chipper is not dependable, he not there when the team needs him the most. I hope he hits 50 homers and plays the whole year long, without pulling something or breaking somethng else.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
9:58 am

Seems to me the criticism of Chipper comes from those who don’t understand that on-base percentage is a lot more telling of a hitter’s value than batting average, don’t understand that on-base percentage is basically out-avoidance percentage and don’t understand that on-base percentage and not batting average is the fundamental measure of success versus failure of a hitter.

Call this arrogance, but the criticism of Chipper comes from unenlightened fans or from ignorant fans.

papadawg

February 28th, 2011
10:01 am

You know it’s kinda dumb to make a comment that he’s in it for the money. I own a business for, yep that’s right, the Money so stop with the money comments. The Braves took a chance and signed him and they owe him for what they signed him for. At least we got more out of him than we did from Hampton

guest

February 28th, 2011
10:03 am

JSS
February 28th, 2011
9:15 am

guest
February 28th, 2011
8:46 am
“Errors are not the end all stat for determining a players defensive worth.”

If you’re getting that many errors in that few chances… You’re a less than adequate… He is just a fair third basemen… Go and really look at Chipper’s numbers, he gets less chances than any of the historical benchmarks of Hall of Famers at the position. I mean it is not even close (75-100 less chances) per season in comparison… The other handled many more chances therefore I can see why they had 20+ errors. Chipper on the other hand, while not a butcher or a monster, he was just mysteriously erratic…

^^^^^^^^^^^^^

My friend, we are not disagreeing. I simply was trying to point out that the original poster’s comment about making 20 errors in a season does not necessarily make a bad defensive 3rd baseman. That’s all. Not saying he’s great . . . not saying he’s bad . . . just disagreeing with the original comment that made it sound like his 20 errors makes him the worst 3rd baseman to ever play the game.

Timbo

February 28th, 2011
10:04 am

I don’t know.. I’m a fan of Chipper’s and have always supported him, but those comments is what one would expect from a 20 something not a professional pushing 40. It doesn’t come off very well IMO. As far as him not playing for money, give me a break. Even if he was genuine in this regard, the fact is 15 million dollars a year has a profound affect on the Braves payroll and the Braves are not getting the production that one would expect from a 15 million dollar player. Whether he likes it or not, it does affect the team and it has taken away from other areas of need. His words may come back to haunt him if he can’t stay healthy or if he can’t hit anymore. I wish him well, but he doesn’t help himself with inflammatory comments. Also, there are a lot of hard working, educated people who are struggling in this economy. He shouldn’t make references to his bank account being so large. It shows how out of touch he is with the fanbase. Again, I am a fan but I’m not going to pretend that I believe this is the best way to represent himself or the Atlanta Braves.

Ouch. . .My Oblique!!!

February 28th, 2011
10:05 am

His knee will probably be fine this season. He will, however, miss 30 to 40 games because of a pulled oblique. What critics criticize is that CJ’s salary is such a large portion of the budget for what he delivers at this point. It keeps the Braves from acquiring servicable free agents who can help the team win.

BG

February 28th, 2011
10:07 am

Chipper needs to hang it up!

Gatorman

February 28th, 2011
10:07 am

Way to go Mr. Cool!! Since you have never showed up for the playoffs by leading your team, we fans should not criticize you. Do you really think you’re going to the hall of fame?? There is nothing in your history to make you a candidate.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
10:14 am

If you don’t think Chipper is valuable and don’t think he is a top-of-the-order hitter (top 3 spots), you simply don’t understand that outs are a key part of baseball.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
10:16 am

You folks act like Chipper at 38 is the same as Hank Aaron at 38 as a hitter. Sorry to tell you this, but he is not… Not for power, maybe for average, and not for run production!

Even defensively, the Old Bad Henry could be shifted to 1st base and had over 1,000 chances in the field… Chipper’s insistence that he MUST play third base and he MUST bat third are just crazy…

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
10:21 am

JSS, so you recommend batting someone who makes outs more often batting higher in the order and costing the Braves outs more frequently? You want your best on-base guys coming up most often. This is why Chipper should bat in one of the top three spots in the order. Otherwise, someone who makes outs more often than Chipper is going to bat more often than Chipper, therefore costing the team more outs. So, again, if you want the team to kill more rallies than they otherwise would, support batting guys like Chipper and Heyward lower than 3rd in the order.

DC from Conyers

February 28th, 2011
10:22 am

Chipper is one heck of a ball player. Automatic HOF. I for one is very glad we have him. He may be more valuble this year, than in years past. He has to step up and be the leader he is. He will be a Great asset to Freddie. I really like what he said in the paper. He is right about his fans, and he should not give a durn what people think, because is right. He will go down in history as one of the Greatest switch hitters in mordern era. Ya’ll just keep dishing on him we true fans will keep pulling for him and the Braves. Good luck to the Team go get them guys.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
10:25 am

Apparently some of you need an education. On-base percentage is the same as out-avoidance percentage. Your team gets three outs, that’s it, so you want to prolong your team making outs. The higher a hitter is in the order, the more he’s going to come to the plate. So if you put guys who make outs more often than others at the top of the order, you are costing the team more outs.

Only those who don’t care about how often a player or the Braves make outs think Chipper is not extremely valuable at the plate and think the Braves should bat him lower than third. Simply put, you either are uninformed, ignorant or careless.

One For The Chipper

February 28th, 2011
10:27 am

That’s the Chipper we want to hear from!Instead of telling those Whiffers to Kiss your as..Why don’t I help You Kick Their As….Go Getem Man!

True Fact

February 28th, 2011
10:31 am

Chipper has been telling the fans to kiss his fanny for years now. Hearing him say it out loud is actually kind of a relief. His “restructuring” is way overblown. His contracts have been FAT. He runs his mouth and it never means jack. Oh, I’mma retire if I stink it up. Oops, never thought I’d really stink it up. What I meant was I’mma albatross this team with my broken, OUT OF SHAPE, deer-hunting, creeky limbs for the next few years.

Just one more in a long, long line of pro athletes who stick their heads in the sand once the hair begins to gray. And he will be broken and ineffective this year. And rather than kiss your behind, Chipper, I will laugh. And I know you read these blogs; another sign of your megahumungogiantantic ego.

Not about the money… haven’t seen your bank account… what a punk you are. The Braves will be better when you’re outta here.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
10:33 am

I would hope Chipper understands the nature of fandom. Fans aren’t professionals. Many of them don’t understand the value of players like a front office would, for instance. Only the most intellectually curious fans truly “get it” and view the game moderately close to how a front office views the game. When the front office or the intelligent fans start to criticize, that’s when Chipper should take offense.

Leon A. Daniels

February 28th, 2011
10:37 am

Everyone has the right to an opinion and those of you that takes this thing personally, by cheep shotting those that don’t agree with you should suffer a torn ACL. You act like these professional athletes are your family members. Get a life. You don’t have a clue why Chipper continues to play. I do know that he hasn’t played much in the last five and his production continues to drop. How many of you would keep your job if you missed this much work and your production droppe? Stop idolyzing these guys. My 11y/o son wants to know why Mr. Jones wants someone to kiss that part of his boby. What was decent about that? Our values are in the gutter.

Retired First Sergeant
Leon A. Daniels

Bubba

February 28th, 2011
10:46 am

Just shut up and play Chipper. Let your play on the field do the talking.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
10:49 am

Leon Daniels, I don’t think it’s idolizing to point out that Chipper was the 5th-most valuable Brave in 2010, behind McCann, Heyward, Hudson and Prado, according to FanGraphs.com. This according to Wins Above Replacement, which is objective and not subject to idolizing, etc.

Yes, Chipper’s production has dropped but that’s not the issue. Is he still one of the more valuable and productive members of the Braves? If you are objective and cut through all the fandom and the BS, the answer is clearly yes.

As far as keeping your job if your production dropped, if you were the 5th most productive member of your company instead of the most productive, my guess is that you would keep your job, if there were something like 25-40 members of the company.

Reasonable people who think Chipper is still one of the more valuable members of the Braves aren’t idolizing him. They are simply stating a fact. Chipper should not be concerned about fans who don’t care about facts. The intellectually curious fans who think more like front office personnel understand Chipper’s value. Those who are merely fans who want to sit around and watch the game without being intellectually curious and objective about it, shouldn’t be taken too seriously as far as criticism goes.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
10:50 am

Fans criticizing Chipper are the same ones who turned on Francoeur when he remained the sub par hitter he always was but suddenly stopped driving in 100 runs. Basically these are the same folks who don’t know the difference between RBI total and actually performing well at the plate.

Tiny Tom

February 28th, 2011
10:51 am

“Just shut up and play Chipper. Let your play on the field do the talking”

This is exactly right.

He won’t, though. The guy feeds of these hordes of fans who give him the ol’ “that’s tellin’ like it is, shucks by golly!” every time he takes the trouble to admit he’s got the bruised ego of a junior high schooler.

How about if you say something, it’s like this, Chipper:

“I can see where the fans might feel that way, but all I can do is go out and earn my money and prove them wrong.”

But no, you feel all insulted and say something crude to the folks that put money in that bank account you feel you should mention during a recession. I’ve always tolerated Chipper’s big mouth cuz the man can hit like a machine, but I would be looking forward to this year more if it were minus one Larry.

yeahright

February 28th, 2011
10:51 am

i like chip…but for anyone who thinks it is not at least a little bit about the money – please stop being so naive. after all, he’s not offering to take a pay cut to help the team sign another player. all pro athletes are about the money…we see it every day in holdouts, negotiations, etc…so stop thinking otherwise.

cricket

February 28th, 2011
10:52 am

the cynical fan can really kiss my ass.

Love it. The great bizzaro-Jeter’s interview delivers again.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
11:00 am

“Shaun
February 28th, 2011
10:21 am
“JSS, so you recommend batting someone who makes outs more often batting higher in the order and costing the Braves outs more frequently? You want your best on-base guys coming up most often.”

Where did I say that? Go get someone other than Jones who could have strengthened the core of the line-up even more… You are counting on a diminishing product… It is simple as that…

Now you are stuck with Jones (only if he stays healthy) who has not played more than 143 games at any time since 2003! You expose him to even more chances of injury because he’ll be on base in front of your RBI hitters Uggla and the slower McCann… I have already made the case against his defense at 3rd base… A team as you describe better score runs in bunches… Defensively, they are going to kill a pitching staff… Your first baseman needs protection in the batting order more than Chipper…

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
11:01 am

No matter what you think of Chipper’s comments or his past or his swagger or all that other stuff, the bottom line is he’s posted an on-base in the .380’s over the last two seasons, which is among the best on the team. That means he’s costing the team outs at a lower rate than most of the other players, therefore he still has tremendous value. True, he’s not the same player but who is arguing that? You can make all kinds of statements about the state of sports and society, etc. But if the issue is whether Chipper still has value, the answer is pretty obvious, unless you simply ignore objectivity.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
11:04 am

JSS, isn’t that the point? To score runs in bunches. Essentially offense equals scoring runs in bunches. The best offenses are the ones who get on base most often and slug best. Find a good offense who doesn’t do that throughout the history of the game.

Jack in Macon

February 28th, 2011
11:08 am

I hope Chipper has a monster year. I will miss what he brings to the team when he decides to retire.

Escaped from Email Purgatory

February 28th, 2011
11:17 am

With the exception of this guy Shaun, seems most pro-Chipper posts resort to ad hominem attacks against those of us less than enamored of the oft-injured face of the franchise.

Why do legit criticisms of a guy we’ve observed for 15 years make us deficient in intellect and personal values? Heck – some of you Chippermaniacs even take shots at the quality of our lives in general. Not surprising, I guess. The great man himself responded the same way.

Are you Chipperphiles so impressed with your own opinions that divergent ones relegate the holder to second-class citizen status?

David Granger

February 28th, 2011
11:29 am

Chipper’s a good player when healthy. He’ll hit and will hustle, but…more than likely…will get hurt either running the bases or in the field. Sure wish we could DH him.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
11:29 am

Your “intellectualy curious” jibe was ridiculous… They (and I) know the difference and even more the presence that “true leaders” can bring to a clubhouse… But, the thing you miss is the “fact” that there is a flexibility which you need… Aaron realized, Boggs realized it, Mathews realized it, Berra realized it, Ripken realized it, and even that ego maniac Rodriguez realized it…

There is a poem by Lord Byron: “On This Day I Complete My Thirty-Sixth Year,” Chipper needs to read it and take it to heart… He needs to make a grown man’s choice…

Matt

February 28th, 2011
11:35 am

Yes he took hometown discounts but considering how many times he played less than 140 or 130 or even less than 120 games I’d say it’s evened out. He’s a HOF no doubt but is he still a 3 hole hitter for team contending for a playoff spot???

papadawg

February 28th, 2011
11:48 am

Some folks on this blog has never played ball or mthey would know after a certain age your reflexes slow down and your legs get weak and the last time I checked Chipper doesn’t have a S on his chest. Of course it don’t matter in Church Softball how out of shape you are and I think a lot of you are comparing pro ball to that

mcdaviddawg

February 28th, 2011
11:50 am

he can’t play in the out field and can’t play third base, just what are they going to do with him. He needed to retire several years ago or go to the American league as a DH.

papadawg

February 28th, 2011
11:50 am

By the way Shaun what position do you play on your church team

JSS

February 28th, 2011
11:59 am

Shaun
February 28th, 2011
11:04 am
“JSS, isn’t that the point? To score runs in bunches.”

No, the goal is outscore and prevent your opponent from scoring… I love a great offensive explosion… Still, the Braves are living on trade-offs between aiding the defense for the “hope” of an explosive offense (Uggla and Jones)… You are in the division with the Phillies, you are not going to win the explosive offense battle. Then what else can you do? Be defensively sound, pitch well, and score when the opportunity avails… Hey that sounds pretty familiar! See 1997 NY Yankees and 2010 SF Giants… The bottom of their lineups were the ones that won those series…

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
12:04 pm

papadawg, who is arguing that Chipper is the same player he once was. Everyone understands Chipper has aged and has declined. But he’s been in the top two on the team in on-base percentage among rate-stat qualifiers the past two seasons. He’s on base enough to be valuable and to hit in one of the top three slots in the order.

JSS, right, the idea is for your run differential to be as large as possible. Ask the 2010 Mariners what happens when you ignore offense to a large degree and focus too much on defense and pitching. You need some degree of offense in order to win around 90 games or more required to contend for a playoff spot. Of course the Braves aren’t the Phillies. But they can’t get by by just ignoring offense.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
12:12 pm

Shaun
February 28th, 2011
12:04 pm
And you just keep ignoring the Giants… They were what offensively? Seriously, stop “picking and choosing” and address it… Doesn’t matter if it is 10-0 or 3-2 as long as your side has more runs and doesn’t give away runs in playoff games. Isn’t that Chipper Jones, Andres Galarraga, and Brooks Conrad?

Matt

February 28th, 2011
12:25 pm

papadawg- I think that is the point. He is old and his skills have diminished yet we’re supposed to be excited about his return as if he will make that big a difference in the lineup. A 3 hole hitter is there to drive in runs not walk. Put him in the 2 hole or drop him down if you want to fall in love with his OBP.

Alan

February 28th, 2011
12:27 pm

If you don’t care about money chipper, i;ll take some.

Judd

February 28th, 2011
12:34 pm

Alan = Matt = JSS= Shaun =_____Dawg

All same person, blogging to himself

JSS

February 28th, 2011
12:37 pm

@ Judd…
Good thing they don’t use you to investigate anything I hope…

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
12:39 pm

JSS, the Giants didn’t have a bad offense. They had the fifth-best OPS+ (on-base plus slugging adjusted for league and park) in the NL.

Matt, If a great player’s skills diminish, chances are he’s still a pretty good player. No one is arguing that his skills haven’t diminished.

Also, all hitters are to do all they can to create runs. Hitters do this by getting on base as often as possible and slugging as high as possible. There is a strong correlation between on-base and slugging and scoring runs. Therefore you want the best on-base and best sluggers you can find. So it would be ludicrous to put your best on-base guys lower in the order where they make a lesser impact.

On-base percentage has a stronger correlation with winning than any other percentage or rate stat throughout the history of the game. This is not something that is arguable. This is a fact. So unless you can convince me that 100-plus years of baseball history is meaningless, you can’t convince me that Chipper doesn’t have tremendous value.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
12:46 pm

@ Matt…
Since OBP and walks are so important, let him bat lead-off like the Red Sox did Boggs… You’ll never steal a base or really play sound baseball when you need it the most; but it might get Chipper closer to his magical 3,000 hits… Well that is if he doesn’t pull something in the on-deck circle!

deb

February 28th, 2011
12:47 pm

You tell ‘em Chipper! If desire has anything to do with it, you will come back this year. I honestly think Chipper will be one of the ones who knows when it’s time to hang ‘em up and it’s not time yet.

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
12:52 pm

JSS, what is “sound baseball”? Do you think having a leadoff hitter that can steal a base every now and then is more important than one who gets on base more often than all but maybe one other player on the team?

I could care less about walks, per se. On-base is very important. Unless you deny history, you can’t argue that point. It’s an objective fact that good offenses are good on-base offenses. And it’s not just about getting on base. It’s also about avoiding outs. You go up to the plate making outs, you are costing your team. It’s really simple. But many have been brainwashed by tradition into thinking batting average is king. Batting average just takes into account hits in non-walk, non-sac plate appearances. On-base takes into account pretty much any way a player avoids and out and gets on base.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
12:54 pm

@ Shaun…
I know what OPS and OPS+ are… I also know about Baseball-Reference. That is why I know how overpaid he is when compared to return… Chipper should have been told, play first…

The Giants offense was MIA almost 7 weeks… Their pitching saved them until offense finally showed some life…

CHIPPAS DADDY

February 28th, 2011
12:54 pm

WHATS WRONG HOSS, YO DADDY BOOBI AINT THERE TO WIPE YO A** ANY MORE? BOO HOO HOO! A MANAGER THAT IS PROBABLY GONA HOLD YOUR FEET TO THE FIRE IS NOW IN HIS PLACE?

CHIPPAS DADDY

February 28th, 2011
1:07 pm

CHIPPER FANS ARE LIKE MIKE VICK FANS, BUT WHITE AND REDNECKS.

Richard Dawson

February 28th, 2011
1:16 pm

A pitiful article.

“This accusation generally comes from the short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed segment of the populace that vents on sports talk radio and posts comments on blogs, all behind the comfort of anonymity.”

Love the simple-minded aggregation of critics into one category. Short-sighted, ignorant and disturbed? Wow, JS, you must be Chipper’s daddy. You don’t think that intelligent, far-sighted, “normal” people can have the same viewpoint? How did you determine those critics were short-sighted, ignorant, and disturbed? Oh, just because their opinion is different than yours. You, the fanboy.

Maybe you should step back and analyze your own motives.

Richard Dawson

February 28th, 2011
1:21 pm

“I still feel like I have something to offer, and the cynical fan can really kiss my ass. I really don’t care. There’s a bunch of true fans and the people who actually want to take the time to get to know me know who I am. The guy who sits in his mom’s basement and types on his mom’s computer, I couldn’t really care less about”

The cynical fan can kiss your buttybutt? Really? I would be interested in how to “take the time to get to know [who you really are].” How do I do that, exactly? Are you having a tour around the state where you spend time with each fan individually?

Does everyone who criticize you live with their mom? Wow, that’s really interesting to know.

You are the definition of a-hole. Thanks for confirming what I always suspected.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
1:22 pm

“Sound baseball” is not beating ones self at the plate, on the mound, on the base paths, and in dug out. Being athletic enough and fundamentally sound enough to keep runners from advancing. Being able to hold runners so your catcher and infielders aren’t on always having to cover for the fact that you can’t keep teams honest… There’s more, but I don’t have the time…

Judd

February 28th, 2011
1:29 pm

Jeff-

Is JSS/CHIPPAS DADDY/Shaun all same person?

Shaun

February 28th, 2011
1:29 pm

JSS, okay, so the Giants’ pitching held them afloat until the offense came to life. But wasn’t it both the offense and the pitching that allowed them to win 92 games instead of something like 85? If there offense hadn’t come around, it’s hard to imagine that they’d have made the playoffs.

GIVE ME A BREAK

February 28th, 2011
1:50 pm

Braves will soon be playing without Chippy. He won’t last long. Can’t retire soon enough.

steve brown

February 28th, 2011
2:37 pm

The more I think about this the more pissed off I become. Really was feeling good about spring training and the season until these classless remarks by Mr. Jones. He needs to shut his mouth and just play ball.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
3:05 pm

@ Jeff Schultz…
You need to clue poor ‘Judd’ in….

Judd…
I’ve never played that multiple user name game that so many of you bloggers play here on … An immature user or two may try to steal my ID from time-to-time; but it (the truth) always comes out in the end…

Stinky

February 28th, 2011
3:24 pm

what’s the over/under on games played b4 chipper goes on the disabled list? or lost for the season?

Phillisux

February 28th, 2011
4:23 pm

You cannot be a Braves fan and not want Chipper to have a big year. I would love to see Chipper hit .300, belt 30+ homers, and drive in 100+ runs. If he does this in 2011, it will be great. I’d be happy with .275, 15-20 homers, and 80-90 RBI’s. Chipper is a competitor, but he is also 39 and prone to injury. Chipper’s drive to play the game hard is what makes him more susceptible to injury.

JSS

February 28th, 2011
5:14 pm

As they say in advertising: “Gotta protect the brand!!!” You might find me distasteful; but you’ll never see me hiding in a deer stand!

guy

February 28th, 2011
6:35 pm

Very crude to insinuate that people who doubt his motives can kiss his butt.That’s red! Great natural ballplayer,he is!

JSS

February 28th, 2011
6:54 pm

Just in case you forgot what the statue might look like…
http://4.bp.blogspot.com/__-tY4nx2_N4/S9O_ZdX5BXI/AAAAAAAAFBU/O0-hJ1cDfGA/s1600/080420-jones-vlg-4p.widec.jpg

C from Marietta

February 28th, 2011
11:12 pm

Blogs really do bring out the jerks don’t they? Go Chipper!

C from Marietta

February 28th, 2011
11:14 pm

Richard Dawson. I suspect you are the a-hole! HA HA!

John

February 28th, 2011
11:30 pm

this guy needs to hang it up, it’s 2011, not 1999. just like sports talk in atlanta and braves broadcasts always talking about maddux, smoltz, and glavine. atlanta braves fans never let go of the past, and never will.

admiral

March 1st, 2011
12:21 pm

“I still feel like I have something to offer, and the cynical fan can really kiss my ass. I really don’t care.”

LOVE it. Go get ‘em, Chip.

George

March 1st, 2011
1:55 pm

Chipper you are a great player i wish you well at your level you do play for the love of the game.

Hector Ramuski

March 1st, 2011
4:33 pm

Chipper is all that and a bag of chips. Unmistakeable talent, power, average, some speed and some defense. No doubt a future Hall of Famer. My only regret is not being able to see a Chipper that took conditioning to heart. Not conditionaing like walking 5-10 miles with a 25 lb wieght in your backpack across your Texas ranch to shed a couple of lbs. I am talking in the gym, with a knowledgebale trainer who can help reduce the wear and tear on your body. A trainer that can add strength and flexibility to a 34-39 year old frame. I am not the only one who wonders aloud. Chip’s last contract was rumored to have had a stipulation that he spend 5 mins a day in the gym. 5 minutes! That’s not enopugh time to scope out where the ab machine is. Word has it that he walks in, looks at the Braves conditioning coach and starts tapping his watch at 4:30 seconds. Okay, his call. I still appreciate what he has done. But it would have been nice to see him take physical fitness seriously. Who knows what the numbers would have been like. As for Andruw Jones and the gym, that conversation is even easier.

Mark (another one)

March 1st, 2011
6:04 pm

I can’t believe people that take shots at Chipper, event he ones that half heartedly give him is due but wonder what it would be like if he worked out. I can’t remember Chipper ever showing up out of shape, and I can remember him sacrificing his body to make a play. There is a reason he is going into the HOF, and it isn’t just because he is talented. He is also dedicated as an athlete and dedicated to his team mates. I have been concerned about his surgery but never his attitude or willingness to work.

Also, if he were to ever slack off, I bet his Mother would let him know to get his act in gear. She is a proud woman and I bet she wouldn’t understand any slack play.

Go Chipper and Go Braves!

Dr.Jones10

March 2nd, 2011
9:42 am

From the Chipper Jones Wiki -
In his career, through the 2010 season, Jones is a .306 hitter with 436 home runs, 1,404 walks, and 1,491 RBI in 2,261 games. He is behind only Mickey Mantle and Eddie Murray on the all-time switch hitters career home run list. He is considered one of the game’s best all-around hitters, and one of the best switch hitters in the history of the game. [1][2] He is the only switch hitter in Major League Baseball history to have a .300+ career (.306 at the end of the 2010 season) batting average and 400 or more home runs.

Just let that sink in for a second. Then go check out the rest of the Wiki – especially those who criticize his production over the last five years. I think you’ll be surprised at what you read about 2007 and 2008.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chipper_Jones

And to those who take shots at his character, I hope you don’t live in glass houses.

Has he been as productive recently as other stages of his career? Of course not.
Has he made mistakes in his personal life? Without question.
But he’s also shown remorse for his mistakes, taken less money over the course of his career to stay a life-long Brave, and generally been a great teammate. I may not want my sons to model his off the field behavior, especially before 2000, but I definitely point to Chipper as a model of how to handle one’s self between the lines.

You may not like him for a variety of reasons, but I think the future HOFer deserves everyone’s respect.

My $.02

BraveinBama

March 2nd, 2011
1:46 pm

Chipper is the MAN! Texiera was a GT grad and should have stayed in Atlanta, but no, ran for the money with the Yankees…Chipper could have been a 25 mil/yr. Yankee but chose to stay a BRAVE! Thanks Chipper and all true Braves fans love you dude, and I’m a guy and I mean that!

Chipper Jones gets hit in return and takes a swing at critics

Follow me on Twitter @JeffSchultzAJC; friend me at Facebook.com/JeffSchultzAJC

304 comments Add your comment

About Jeff Schultz

We’ve Moved!

One Subscription. Total Access.

Search this blog

Recent Posts

Archives

More from the AJC

Categories

Blogroll

All AJC blogs »

Tell us what you think about the site

Subscribe »

Customer Care »

AJC Services

Sections

Other Editions

Guides

Affiliates

Advertising

AJC Sites

Special Reports

Blogs

Opinion

Blogs

Topics

Features

Blogs

Topics

Features

Topics

Features

Features

Blogs

Topics

Features

Chipper Jones gets hit in return and takes a swing at critics

Follow me on Twitter @JeffSchultzAJC; friend me at Facebook.com/JeffSchultzAJC

304 comments Add your comment

About Jeff Schultz

We’ve Moved!

One Subscription. Total Access.

Search this blog

Recent Posts

Archives

More from the AJC

Categories

Blogroll

All AJC blogs »

Tell us what you think about the site

Subscribe »

Customer Care »

AJC Services

Sections

Other Editions

Guides

Affiliates

Advertising

AJC Sites