Braves Hall of Famer Chipper Jones Talks Team Expectations

Atlanta Braves Mike Yastrzemski is greeted by Michael Harris II (23) on his second solo homer, during the fourth inning of a spring training baseball game against the Boston Red Sox in North Port, Fla., Friday, Feb. 27, 2026. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert)

Hall of Famer Chipper Jones joins the show to break down the outlook for the Atlanta Braves heading into the season — and he doesn’t hold back. Chipper shares his thoughts on how dangerous this Braves lineup can be with Ronald Acuña Jr. back healthy, plus standout spring performances from Austin Riley, Matt Olson, Michael Harris II, and more. He dives into Riley’s mechanics and injury concerns, explains what needs to change for Harris to become a more consistent hitter, and breaks down why the Braves’ depth could be a major advantage over a 162-game season. Plus, Chipper gives high praise to rising talent Drake Baldwin, discusses the impact of ballparks on hitters like Mike Yastrzemski, and shares his perspective on why pitching injuries are on the rise across baseball. He also talks clubhouse leadership, what makes Walt Weiss the right fit, and even gets into some classic stories and Atlanta sports fandom. If you’re a Braves fan or just love smart baseball insight, this is a must-watch conversation.

He’s everything that I like to teach approach wise as a hitter. He is sitting something hard, middle way. I’m going to rifle this thing to left center field for a double. And if they hang me, you know, the change up or the slider for a strike, that’s the one that I clipped to right center. You’ve got to have good bat pass. And man, his bat is in the zone a long time. Sometimes you can’t even see the ball come off of the bat. It’s, you know, it stays in the zone. on so long, but just a great kid. He deserves the rookie of the year and I think he’s going to come in and make the statement.

–  Chipper Jones