Chipper Jones, one of the most iconic figures in Atlanta Braves history, has officially returned to the team, this time in a new role as the Braves’ bench coach. A key figure in the Braves’ dominance during the 1990s and 2000s, Jones’ transition into coaching is a natural evolution for a player who made such an indelible mark on the game.
Over the course of his legendary 19-year Major League Baseball career, all of it spent with the Braves, Jones amassed remarkable numbers: 2,726 hits, 468 home runs, and a career .303 batting average. His ability to make consistent, disciplined contact at the plate was reflected in his impressive 1,512 walks, which outnumbered his 1,409 strikeouts—a rare feat in the modern era. These statistics not only speak to Jones’ offensive prowess but also his baseball IQ and approach to hitting. Throughout his career, he was widely regarded as one of the most complete hitters of his generation.
Jones was an 8-time All-Star and finished in the top 10 of the National League MVP voting five times, earning widespread recognition for his elite performances in the batter’s box and his leadership in the clubhouse. His contributions helped the Braves secure 14 consecutive division titles from 1991 to 2005, culminating in the team’s World Series victory in 1995. Throughout that period, Jones remained the face of the franchise, and his consistency was a cornerstone of the Braves’ sustained success.
Now, as the Braves’ new bench coach, Jones brings not only his immense playing experience but also his deep understanding of the game’s finer points. As a player, he often displayed an uncanny ability to read pitchers, handle pressure, and deliver in clutch moments. These are qualities he will now aim to impart to the Braves’ current roster, helping the next generation of players refine their skills and approach.
Jones’ return to the Braves is a full-circle moment for both him and the franchise. After his retirement in 2012, he stayed connected to the game, working as a special assistant to the general manager and participating in various charitable endeavors. His presence as bench coach signals the next chapter in his baseball journey, one that promises to leave a lasting impact on the team he helped build into a perennial contender. Welcome back, Chipper, to the team that has always been your home.
