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05/09 13:47 CDT Bobby Cox, manager of Braves' teams that ruled National League
and won 1995 World Series, dies at 84
Bobby Cox, manager of Braves' teams that ruled National League and won 1995
World Series, dies at 84
By CHARLES ODUM
AP Sports Writer
ATLANTA (AP) --- Bobby Cox, the folksy manager of the Atlanta Braves whose
teams ruled the National League during the 1990s and gave the city its first
major title as well as World Series trips that fell short, died Saturday. He
was 84.
Cox died in Marietta, Georgia, according to the Atlanta Braves. He had a stroke
in 2019 and heart issues that complicated his recovery.
"Bobby was the best manager to ever wear a Braves uniform. He led our team to
14 straight division titles, five National League pennants, and the
unforgettable World Series title in 1995. His Braves managerial legacy will
never be matched," the Braves said in a statement.
Cox took over a last-place team in June 1990 and led the Braves to a
worst-to-first finish in 1991, losing the World Series to the Minnesota Twins
in seven games. That was the start of what was to become a record 14
consecutive division titles, a feat no professional team in any sport had
accomplished.
He managed the Braves for 25 years and led Atlanta to its first World Series
title in 1995, retired after the 2010 season and was inducted into the Hall of
Fame in 2014.
"Bobby was a favorite among all in the baseball community, especially those who
played for him. His wealth of knowledge on player development and the
intricacies of managing the game were rewarded with the sport's ultimate prize
in 2014 --- enshrinement into the Baseball Hall of Fame," the Braves said.
As of Saturday, Cox ranks fourth all-time with 2,504 wins, fifth with 4,508
games, first with 15 division titles including a record 14 in a row, first with
16 playoff appearances and fourth with 67 playoff victories.
Only Connie Mack, John McGraw and Tony La Russa had more regular-season wins
than Cox. His 158 regular-season ejections also was the most among managers.
"He is the Atlanta Braves," catcher Brian McCann said in 2019. "He's the best."
McCann described Cox as an "icon" and "one of the best human beings any of us
have ever met."
The Braves retired Cox's No. 6 jersey in 2011, when he joined the team's Hall
of Fame.
Cox spent 29 seasons as a major league manager, including four with Toronto. He
managed 16 postseason teams. He brought an old-school approach to the dugout.
He always wore spikes and stirrups, and his fatherly demeanor inspired loyalty
from his players.
___
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