WASHINGTON (AP) -Chipper Jones is hoping his ailing right elbow won’t stop him from winning his first batting title.
Jones was leading the major with a .358 average entering the Atlanta Braves’ game against the Washington Nationals on Saturday night despite a series of injuries this season. His biggest problem lately has been a balky right elbow.
“It’s really, really painful,” Jones said.
The third baseman said it’s not a structural problem, and it bothers him on some throws and occasionally when he extends the elbow at the plate.
“It makes you want to cry,” he said.
Jones has missed 24 games due to injuries. He was on the disabled list from July 24-Aug. 8 with a strained left hamstring.
“It was bothering me before I went on the DL,” Jones said. “I thought the DL stint would help it because I didn’t do any throwing during the DL stint.”
The Braves entered Saturday night’s game against the Nationals 17 games under .500 and manager Bobby Cox said Jones is the least of his worries.
“He’s been pretty healthy lately,” Cox said.
Jones would love to hold on for the batting title.
“It’s a motivational tool,” Jones said. “You’re expected to go out and entertain and represent your team. A lot of guys in here are trying to find something to motivate themselves. For me, it’s easy.”
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