Chipper Jones opens up about potentially managing the Atlanta Braves

As the Atlanta Braves begin their search for a new manager following the retirement of Brian Snitker, many fans are wondering if Chipper Jones would reconsider his stance on returning to the dugout.

Jones has long said he had no interest in managing, citing the time commitment and his desire to stay close to his family. But during a recent appearance on Chuck and Chernoff on 680 The Fan, the Hall of Fame third baseman expanded on those comments — and while he ruled out managing, he didn’t completely shut the door on rejoining the organization in another role.

“It has already been okayed by my family if I wanted to get back into it,” Jones said. “They are completely okay with it. They really enjoyed the Futures Game at the All-Star Game and that experience. That being said, I do not wish to manage… at all. I have no experience… There would be way too much interaction with people on your side of the fence (the media) that I probably wouldn’t get along with all that much. I don’t feel like it suits me very well.”

The idea of Chipper Jones replacing Snitker would be a dream for much of Braves Country, but history shows that even legends of the game aren’t guaranteed to make great managers. The modern era of baseball is vastly different, with analytics playing a central role, and anyone unwilling to adapt won’t last long in today’s dugout.

Still, Jones made it clear he believes he could add value in another way.

“I have a feeling that I could be a very, very good hitting coach,” Jones added.

Jones has already worked with Atlanta as a hitting consultant, helping several current Braves stars evolve into All-Stars. His voice will always carry weight within the organization, but it will be interesting to see if the next Braves manager reaches out about a spot on the staff. Both Jones and his family seem open to the idea, leaving the door cracked for a reunion in some capacity.

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