Jones, who played for the Atlanta Braves throughout his entire 19-year career and was a fan-favorite across the country, will give the most famous command in all of motorsports to the 43-car field: “Drivers Start Your Engines!”
“I have been a huge NASCAR fan my entire life,” said Jones, who grew up in Pierson, FL, just minutes away from Daytona International Speedway. “I have met many people within the world of NASCAR as well as many dedicated, true fans of the sport. I know there are a lot of those fans who love Talladega. I’m really looking forward to getting the Aaron’s 499 started!”
Jones spent the last two decades establishing himself as one of the greatest switch-hitters in baseball history, second only to switch-hitters Mickey Mantle and Eddie Murray in homeruns (468). The eight-time all-star, who retired following the 2012 season, was named the 1999 National League MVP, and helped the Braves win the World Series title that year.
“Chipper has a lot of fans all over the southeast, especially around us here at Talladega since we are just a short drive from Atlanta” said Grant Lynch, Chairman of Talladega Superspeedway. “His career stats have placed him in some is some good company with someone like Mickey Mantle. We are thrilled to have him get the engines fired for the Aaron’s 499.”
/// SoonerSports PR
