Chipper Jones – Padre Killer

At the start of each series, we at Chicken Friars will zero in on an opposing player known to be a “Padre Killer.” No matter the day, time or place, this player is known to be a one-man wrecking crew when it comes to playing against the San Diego Padres.

In this column, I will analyze that player’s statistics against the Friars and try to offer some insight into how not to let that player beat our beloved team.

Once the Braves finish out the 2012 season, Atlanta’s Chipper Jones will be putting an end to a storied career that produced a National League Most Valuable Player Award (1999), a Silver Slugger Award (1999, 2000) and a World Championship (1996).

Many baseball writers expect Jones to be inducted into Major League Baseball’s Hall of Fame once he retires. Although Jones’ legacy will be up for debate in five years, there is one thing for certain, and that is Chipper Jones is a Padre Killer.

The 18-year veteran leaves no question marks when it comes to his legacy against the San Diego Padres.

Provided by Baseball-Reference.com:

To make matters worse, Jones owns a .315 batting average with 222 home runs and 763 RBI at Turner Field.

There is no real way to stop Jones from damaging the Padres. The 40-year-old is no longer in the Braves’ starting lineup, so all his damage will come off the bench. That being said, the Padres cannot afford to put guys on base and have Jones come up for a pinch hit opportunity because it will be good night.

Statistics Courtesy of: Baseball Reference