Freddie Freeman Surpasses Chipper Jones in Doubles—But Braves Fans Feel the Sting
LOS ANGELES, CA – Los Angeles Dodgers first baseman Freddie Freeman recently reached a major career milestone, moving into 32nd on MLB’s all-time doubles list with 550 doubles. While this achievement cements Freeman’s place among baseball’s elite hitters, the milestone carries a bittersweet sting for Atlanta Braves fans—because Freeman passed Hall of Famer Chipper Jones while wearing a rival uniform.
Freeman’s Milestone and Reflection
Freeman, who spent 12 stellar seasons with the Braves, shared his thoughts on surpassing his mentor:
“Yeah, I would say so. I know he’ll tell me he’s still got me in homers. But yeah, Chipper has meant a lot to me. My approach and the inside line of the batter’s box—he told me to hit the ball through the wall, not over the wall. He definitely meant a lot to me earlier in my career.”
The milestone underlines Freeman’s consistent excellence but also amplifies the mixed emotions of Braves fans, who remember his roots in Atlanta.
Freeman vs. Jones: Legacy and Mentorship
Chipper Jones was more than just a Hall of Famer for Braves fans. He embodied loyalty, having spent his entire career in Atlanta after being drafted in the first round of the 1990 MLB Draft.
Freeman, though exceptional on the field, didn’t replicate that sense of lifelong allegiance. After leading the Braves to a World Series title, he chose to sign with the Dodgers, citing personal goals and a longer contract, even after Atlanta offered a five-year, $135 million deal.
Jones weighed in on Freeman’s decision:
“I do not agree with the way this was handled on Freddie’s side. If you want to play in Atlanta, you play in Atlanta. You maybe take a little less to be happy and play in a place that is comfortable for you.”
Freeman’s choice to join Los Angeles allowed him to secure a sixth year and chase additional financial security, but it also meant leaving the Braves’ fans with a lingering sense of what could have been.
Dodgers Success vs. Braves Departure
Freeman’s career has flourished in Los Angeles. He has won two World Series titles with the Dodgers, maintaining elite production at first base. Meanwhile, the Braves, led by Matt Olson, have found stability at first base despite Freeman’s departure. Olson, four years younger and more durable, has eased the transition.
Even with the Braves performing well without him, the emotional impact of seeing Freeman pass Chipper Jones in doubles is felt by long-time Atlanta fans.
A Milestone That Cuts Both Ways
Freeman’s achievement highlights his consistency and longevity:
- 550 doubles in a 17-year career
- Surpassing a franchise legend in a career category
- A testament to his skill and work ethic
Yet, the milestone also serves as a reminder of Freeman’s departure from Atlanta, making it a bittersweet moment for fans who hoped he would follow in Jones’ footsteps both on and off the field.
What Braves Fans Think
Freeman’s milestone stirred a mix of pride and frustration:
- Pride in his accomplishments and skill
- Frustration that it occurred while wearing a Dodgers uniform
- Reflection on what might have been if Freeman had remained in Atlanta
Freeman’s story exemplifies the complex interplay of loyalty, career decisions, and legacy in modern professional sports.
