Chipper Jones appearance highlights support for MCC Baseball
Chipper Jones’ visit to Meridian Community College centered on baseball, education, and community support, as fans gathered for Legends of the Game: A Night with Chipper Jones, a fundraiser benefiting MCC Baseball.
Jones, a Baseball Hall of Famer and longtime Atlanta Braves standout, joined MCC Head Baseball Coach Dillon Sudduth on stage in the McCain Theater for a live conversation about the game and the lessons learned through a professional career. The discussion gave fans insight into Jones’ time in Major League Baseball and his continued involvement in the sport as a coach.
Jones played 19 seasons with the Braves and was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2018. He was the National League Most Valuable Player in 1999 and helped lead Atlanta to a World Series championship in 1995. He remains one of the most recognized players in franchise history.
MCC baseball players were introduced during the program, reinforcing the event’s focus on supporting student-athletes. A question-and-answer session allowed audience members to engage directly with Jones.
Support for the program extended beyond the stage. A silent auction featuring Jones memorabilia and MCC Baseball items gave guests additional opportunities to contribute. Proceeds from the auction, along with ticket and raffle sales, will benefit the baseball program.
One of the most talked-about moments of the night came earlier at Scaggs Field, where Bo Moffett won a raffle and played catch with Jones on the field. The experience drew attention from fans and players alike and underscored the event’s family-friendly atmosphere.
The fundraiser was supported by Pearl River Resort as the Hall of Fame Title Sponsor. Other sponsors included Ochsner Rush, Musco Lighting, Parish Tractor, Baptist Anderson Regional Medical, Elite Physical Therapy, the Mid-America League and Meridian Coca-Cola Bottling Co.
College officials said the event reflected strong community backing for MCC Athletics and the baseball program.
“All of this support helps our student-athletes on and off the field,” Sudduth said. “It was a meaningful night for our team and our campus.”
More information about MCC Baseball and athletics events is available at mcceagles.com.