An abandoned kitten rescued from dangerous traffic outside a Georgia ballpark has transitioned from a roadside stray into a stadium fixture, serving as the official mascot for the Gwinnett Stripers minor league baseball team. Staff members took in the small cat after a player spotted it wandering near the arena, eventually naming the animal ChipPurr, also known as CJ Jones, as reported by AOL and Tag24.
Stray Rescue Outside the Gwinnett Ballpark
The rescue occurred in August when a Gwinnett Stripers player spotted the tiny feline stranded directly in the middle of a busy road adjacent to the stadium. According to accounts detailed by Tag24, a staff member was commuting to work when they encountered the vulnerable animal amid active traffic, immediately pulled over to retrieve it, and brought the kitten safely into the arena.
Gwinnett Stripers Create Stadium Apartment for Rescued Kitten
Following the rescue, the Gwinnett Stripers organization embraced the kitten, establishing an official presence for the animal within the facility. Marketing director Tricia Wurmstein oversaw the creation of a dedicated, toy-filled room inside the stadium designated as the cat’s private apartment. Wurmstein explained the immediate decision to take in the animal, noting to reporters that staff members quickly realized the cat had found a permanent home within the organization.
On-Field Debut During Purr in the Park
The kitten reached a milestone in September during the team’s “Purr in the Park” promotional night, an event where spectators were invited to bring their own cats to the stadium while donating pet supplies for a local shelter. Tag24 noted that for every donation received, the Stripers offered a voucher for a complimentary hot dog. Accompanied by Wurmstein carrying treats, ChipPurr made a ceremonial appearance on the pitcher’s mound to help open the game while Ozzy Osbourne’s “Crazy Train” played over the stadium loudspeakers.
Permanent Adoption Plans
While the kitten has lived comfortably inside its custom stadium quarters as an unofficial mascot, its long-term living arrangements are shifting to a domestic setting. Wurmstein confirmed that she will officially adopt ChipPurr, integrating the young cat into her household alongside her other feline pets.
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