Former Braves star Andruw Jones named special assistant to baseball operations
Andruw Jones is the latest Braves legend to re-join the franchise on a full-time basis.
The 10-time Gold Glove outfielder, who will be inducted into the Braves Hall of Fame this summer, was named special assistant to baseball operations on Monday. In his new role, Jones will assist with the organization's outfielders as well as its efforts in the international market. He will report to president of baseball operations John Hart and general manager John Coppolella.
"This is where I began my career and I'm looking forward to working with the young players and watching them develop," Jones said in a statement.
Jones, a five-time All-Star and the primary defensive anchor of the franchise's run of 14 consecutive division titles, was already in Braves camp serving as a special instructor. He could be found around the team's spring training complex working with young outfielders like Mallex Smith and Ender Inciarte.
"He is perhaps the most accomplished defensive outfielder in our organization's history and one of the best in baseball history," Coppolella said in a statement. "He signed at the age of 16 and was developed in this organization. He can offer a lot of experience and knowledge to our young players and we look forward to his contributions."
This is growing a trend for the front office. Earlier this offseason, the team added longtime third baseman Chipper Jones to its coaching and developmental staff and the lineup of special instructors during camp has included Tim Hudson, Mark Lemke and Javy Lopez.
