Chipper Throws Out First Pitch Before Braves Opener

ATLANTA (AP) – Chipper Jones says it was “weird” to be at Turner Field for his first opening day as a retired player.

Jones, wearing his old Braves jersey, threw out the first pitch before the Atlanta Braves’ opening game against the Philadelphia Phillies on Monday night. He threw a strike to Brian McCann.

Jones retired after last season, ending a career that lasted almost two decades – all with the Braves. Jones said before the game, “I’m missing it today, but I won’t miss it tomorrow.”

He says he’s picking Washington to win the NL East and “it’s a coin flip” between the Braves and Phillies for second.

Jones also visited the Braves’ spring training as a guest instructor. The Braves plan to retire Jones’ No. 10 on June 28.