Braves hitting consultant Chipper Jones not expected at spring training this year due to COVID-19 vaccination status. | Brooke Novak - Wikimedia Commons
Braves hitting consultant Chipper Jones not expected at spring training this year due to COVID-19 vaccination status. | Brooke Novak - Wikimedia Commons
Atlanta Braves legend and MLB Hall of Famer Chipper Jones is not expected at spring training due to his lack of vaccination against COVID-19—a requirement for all staff members in the league.
According to a report by Call to the Pen Saturday, Jones, who is entering his second season as a hitting consultant or de facto fourth hitting coach for home games, will be unable to lend his expertise in person this season.
"Hall of Famer Chipper Jones, a #Braves hitting consultant last year will not be at spring training… because all staff members are required to be vaccinated," David O'Brien of The Athletic tweeted Saturday
The MLB required all on-field personnel be vaccinated during the 2021 postseason. As the 2022 season looks toward its star, the Braves have followed suit, requiring COVID-19 vaccinations for all staff members participating in spring training.
Jones was an analyst for ESPN on games in 2020 before he joined the Braves in an on-field role, the report states. He is also known for having a close relationship with 2020 NL MVP and current Braves free agent Freddie Freeman.
While he may still do consulting via Zoom for the players, Jones will not be able to work hands-on with the Braves for over four months, assuming the mandate is lifted for the regular season, Call to the Pen reports.
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