Andruw Jones: making a name for himself with the Atlanta Braves: center fielder helped Atlanta position itself in another run at a N.L. Eastern Division title.

FOR THE FIRST TIME, A JONES NOT named Chipper is being embraced as the hero and leader of the Atlanta Braves.

Andruw Jones?

Strange as it might seem to those outside the clubhouse, Andruw Jones was the force and attitude behind the injury-riddled Braves staying in the National League East race earlier this season.

While franchise icon Chipper Jones remained on the disabled list, Andruw Jones stepped into one of the most serious situations the organization faced in its run of 13 division titles--and steadied it.

The 28-year old center fielder was tied for the major league lead in homers with 32 through games of July 31 while batting .274 and ranking fourth in the N.L. with 79 RBI. During the 37 games Chipper Jones missed while on the disabled list from June 6 through July 17 with a foot injury, Andruw hit .311 with 15 home runs and 37 RBI.

Jones as the Braves leader is a surprising development because he has been viewed as a player who has not quite reached his potential and plays too relaxed for the hardcore baseball fan.

More than once, Braves fans have called into radio talk shows in town and ridiculed Jones for his smirk, that toothy grin he flashes after he has chased a bad pitch while striking out.