By Mark Bowman

Exactly one month after playing the final game of his storied career, a smiling Chipper Jones proudly accepted an award that shows his peers had the utmost respect for him both as a player and a man.

Jones was named the Marvin Miller Man of the Year Award as the Players Choice Awards were broadcast by MLB Network on Monday night. This prestigious honor is presented annually to the player who inspires others through his on-field performances and contributions to his community.

“I’m honored to accept this award,” Jones said. “I know it’s not only for what you do on the field, but more importantly what you do off the field and the lives you affect off the field. You have a tremendous list of players who have won this award in the past and I am happy to be alongside them.”

The MLB Players Trust will donate $50,000 to the 65 Roses, a charitable foundation that promotes the fight against Cystic Fibrosis. Jones became involved with this charity after meeting a young boy who was battling this disease approximately 18 years ago.

As Jones was completing his Hall of Fame career, he quietly and proudly served a charitable member to his community. Much of his work was aimed toward charities involved with Cystic Fibrosis. He serves as the chair of the Georgia chapter’s 65 Roses Sports Committee and the “Bridges to a Cure” campaign.