Chipper Jones, who has spent his entire 18-year career with the Atlanta Braves, has announced he plans to retire after the 2012 season. The Braves say they want him to remain with the franchise but haven’t determined yet in what capacity.
Jones, who is coming up on his 40th birthday, planned to retire two years ago after a string of injuries but ultimately decided against it. The switch hitter–who is just third in line behind Mickey Mantle and Eddie Murray for most ambidextrous home runs at 454–is considered a sure thing for the Hall Of Fame.
“No doubt,” Braves manager Bobby Cox said. “A switch-hitter who has played on winners and done everything he’s done.”
It is widely considered to be an amazing feat for one player to stay with the same team for their entire career, and Jones is well-respected within the sports community for his work ethic and ability.
Former Braves pitcher Greg Maddux said of his teammate:
“He’s had a great career. He’s a winner. He played to win every day. He was a great hitter and was very well prepared. He meant a lot to that franchise and still means a lot to that franchise.”
It’s clear that Jones will be missed on the field, as a man who gained respect from those who aren’t even Braves fans.
Respect, even from a Reds fan. He played the game the way it is supposed to be played.
http://t.co/JTvkMd2D
Say what u want but Chipper Jones is our generations Mickey Mantle. One of my favs. Plus I feel old cuz I remember his rookie yr
Agreed “@Buster_ESPN: By the way: I think the chances are about 100 percent that Chipper Jones eventually becomes an MLB hitting coach.”
WebProNews is an iEntry Publication