From Modern Jay:
So, I have a confession. I have a love-hate relationship with Chipper Jones. This may seem logical to fans of lesser teams than the Braves, but really, Chipper’s our franchise guy. Not liking Chipper is a little heretical. But then, hello: the waitress. At times, he’s sort of the embodiment of the Southern stereotype I hate. (Kind of like that “Redneck Woman” singer, but that topic just makes me want to go start my own blog.)
You know what, though? The man can flat out play. There are a million blog posts out there about what a ridiculous season he’s having, complete with stats and sabermetrics and all that fun stuff. Why have I been amazed by him the past three years, though? Because he’s played well enough to get me to like him. And that, in a way, is the beauty of baseball to me. I know there are a few modern gals and guys that don’t have a love for baseball, and that’s fine. But baseball has an ability to slice through cynicism like few things I’ve seen. So yeah, Chipper’s a little too country for my taste. But to watch him defy age, injury and the vagaries of new ownership to remain a dominant force has been a joy to watch.
YES! I feel the exact same way about Chipper. I’m a big Braves fan and it’s hard to dislike the guy who had 7 RBIsa at the last game I went to. But … he is a huge redneck, and as a general rule I hate rednecks.
He can play some damn baseball, though.
I can’t believe it! I just saw your comment on Nuttycow and you seconded Everything’s illuminated as a good read, so I come here and what do I see ? A post about Chipper Jones !!! My favourite baseball player. Let me rephrase that, for me Chipper Jones is the embodiment of baseball. I don’t care about who he is out of the pitch all that much, but what a player…
Courtney: I completely understand your conflict. I hate it when there’s an exception to a hard and fast rule such as hatred for rednecks. The MG hates rednecks.
The Major: I’m glad you can share in some passions with The Modern Gal, but let it be said that love for Chipper Jones is not something The MG specifically endorses but rather the opinion of guest blogger Modern Jay. The MG prefers Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals who, in fact, is NOT a redneck.
You know, there’s really a whole seperate blog post just aching to be written that would explore why Chipper generates such intense passion either for or against him.
Courtney, just read your blog post about going to the game (and the ensuing sunburn, which often a souvenir I bring home from The Ted). And yeah, I really hate to endorse people who are rednecks. But you know, credit where due.
The Major: I’m guessing by “favourite” and “off the pitch” that you are from somewhere just a bit East of Atlanta! I would love to know how you got hooked on Chipper. And forgive the MG for being a Pujols fan. It’s a flaw we consistently overlook in our adoration. 🙂
EXACTLY!