Chipper Jones has missed nearly two weeks since undergoing surgery on a torn knee meniscus, but he's making his way back to Atlanta. Tonight will be the biggest step in his recovery; he's going to play third base for the Rome Braves.
From a tweet from David O'Brien just a few moments ago:
#Braves Chipper Jones is going to play third in Rome tonight and tomorrow, rather than DH. All goes well could come off DL Monday
There was originally some concern regarding the knee's health earlier this week when the swelling had not gone down as much as the trainers and doctors would have liked, but it appears that Chipper feels good to give it a go. A return on Monday would have him join the team as they begin a 4-game series against the Pirates, who are battling for a playoff spot.
With Dan Uggla finally hitting as he's capable of and Jason Heyward displaying power in recent weeks, a healthy Chipper only makes this team better. It will also give the coaching staff and front office a few games to see this team at full strength as they consider making an acquisition at the trade deadline.