The Atlanta Braves have had an interesting spring so far. They have dealt with a plethora of injuries and an unexpected suspension. However, there has also been plenty to be excited about. The offense has been firing on all cylinders, and pitching has looked good. One Braves infielder has been doing his best to show his worth on the roster.
Mauricio Dubon started as a great utility option for the Braves. Unfortunately, the injury to Ha-Seong Kim thrust him into the starting role. Dubon is an upgrade offensively from Nick Allen, but he isn't known for being the most consistent bat.
Dubon's Gold Glove-level defense is going to fit in nicely, but Atlanta hopes he can improve at the plate. A Hall of Fame Braves legend is doing all that he can to unlock that for him.
Chipper Jones' hitting advice is already paying dividends for Mauricio Dubon
Chipper Jones is known for being a great hitting guru for Braves hitters. Fans have wanted to see him become the hitting coach for years. Jones hasn't felt ready to take on coaching, as he's mentioned many times. However, recent conversations with Dubon have only furthered that desire to see Chipper in a coaching role.
The two have been working together, and the advice provided by Jones seemingly unlocked something for Dubon. He immediately got three hits in a spring game after working with Jones, and credited him for it.
“There’s no coincidence that he came here, talked to me a little bit, and I got three hits after it,” Dubón said.
This is something Chipper has helped many Braves players with over the last few years. The man understands hitting, and young players would be wise to listen to what he has to say. Dubon appreciated this more than most as he grew up watching the Braves on TBS with his family in Honduras. He was able to meet his childhood idol and pick his brain.
Hopefully, this conversation allows Dubon to have an incredible season at the plate. It would be a welcome sight after all of the unfortunate injuries and shortcomings thus far. He's looking forward to proving to fans he is a great addition.
“Every year, I’ve wanted to prove to people what I can do. People are always going to second guess. In the beginning, they’re doubters, and then it’s, ‘You know, the guy can play.’ I’m excited to show everybody that I can play.”