The Atlanta Braves moved former manager Brian Snitker into a new front office role this offseason and promoted Walt Weiss to the manager position. It was a move that underwhelmed many Braves fans who hoped that an outside hire would bring much-needed energy to the clubhouse. However, Weiss has put his own stamp on the team, bringing in new coaching pieces and carefully building a group that has Atlanta fans cautiously optimistic. Still, there is one final piece that would go a long way in easing any remaining concerns, and that is hiring Hall of Fame third baseman Chipper Jones.
Jones has remained involved with the organization since walking away at the end of the 2012 season. The franchise legend has worked as a consultant with the Braves since the 2021 season. The former infielder has helped work with Atlanta hitters and been a consistent presence at games, or even in the Atlanta broadcast booth.
While Jones has made it clear he isn't interested in a managing role, Weiss would be wise to put the legend in a more cemented position. Even if Jones isn't willing to go on the road for 81 games a season, offer the legend a more formal role that puts him in the clubhouse during Atlanta home games, allowing hitters a consistent source of information and energy.
Braves Manager Should Make Perfect Final Addition to Atlanta's Staff in Chipper Jones
No matter what it takes to get a deal done, the Braves would be foolish not to attempt to have Jones in a more official capacity. One that gives the franchise a needed leadership boost and a sounding board for Atlanta's aging lineup. Atlanta needs to begin to look to its past more often and consider bringing in pieces that have proven they understand what it takes to win at the highest level.
Chipper is a World Series champion and was a piece of Atlanta's roster when the franchise won the National League East for 14 straight seasons. This is a level of established winning that adds to a resume that has 468 career home runs and too many clutch moments to count.
Weiss and his current coaching staff are a solid and predictable group, but none offer the history that Jones brings and the respect he will garner in the dugout or Atlanta clubhouse. The most sensible move for the Braves is offering Jones a high salary to step into a full-time hitting coach role alongside incumbent Tim Hyers
Even if Jones isn't willing to take on this role, the Braves could counter with a part-time role, having the veteran only work with the players throughout each and every Atlanta homestand. As unique as this might sound, the Braves should be willing to think outside the box after a dismal 2025 season, and there is no denying the allure of having Chipper around the franchise more often. This leaves every reason for Weiss to actively explore this option and find out whether the Atlanta legend could be convinced to return.