Chipper Jones on track to return

Aug 2, 2008 - 8:59 PM ATLANTA (Ticker) -- Atlanta Braves third baseman Chipper Jones expects to return to the lineup next Friday, when he is eligible to be activated from the disabled list.

Sidelined since July 23 with a strained left hamstring, Jones took batting practice and fielded grounders prior to Saturday's game against the Milwaukee Brewers.

"I feel great," Jones said. "Everything feels good. I'll be ready by Friday."

When he returns, Jones will continue a pursuit for his first career batting title. Although his average has dropped significantly from his .420 mark on June 10, Jones still has a fairly comfortable lead over St. Louis first baseman Albert Pujols.

Since June 12, Jones is batting .253 in 29 games while battling an assortment of injuries. His average has fallen to .369, which was still 19 points ahead of Pujols heading into Saturday's play.