Cal Ripken Jr. better check his rearview mirror, because Adam Jones is coming after him at full speed.
OK, so Jones has a long way to go before he catches Ripken’s record of 2,632 consecutive games played, but that didn’t stop the Orioles outfielder from joking about someday accomplishing the feat.
“I’m going to break Cal’s record,” Jones said to reporters. “I’m going after Cal. Cal is in my sights. Sixteen more years. But that’s my goal. If I show up at the ballpark, I’d rather play than sit. I’d rather play than have a day off. That’s just my mentality.”
Jones played in all 162 games for the O’s last season, which is actually somewhat of a rarity for a player in today’s game. Plus, it really tells you something about just how wild Ripken’s record is when players openly joke about someday reaching the mark.
For those crazy enough to think Jones has a chance, you better pump the breaks. Not even Jones’ manager anticipates the two-time All-Star playing in all 162 games again this season.
“No, he won’t play 162. But don’t hold me to it,” Orioles skipper Buck Showalter said.
Looks like you’re safe after all, Cal.
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