Bobby Cox's Last Game as Manager

After 51 years in the Major Leagues, iconic Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox is finally calling it quits. On Monday night, after over five decades wearing an MLB uniform, Cox saw his Braves team lose the National League Division Series 3-4 to the San Francisco Giants. The loss represented much more than the end of the Braves' season however; it also represented Cox's departure from the job that has made him a household name among baseball fans. "It is hard to believe it’s the last time I will put (the uniform) on, but it is," said Cox, as his voice began to break. "A grown man shouldn’t do this." About his illustrious and accomplished career, Cox said, "It’s been a good ride."

Cox received plenty of applause from fans at Turner Field. Even Giants players took a break from their celebration to applaud for the man who will forever be a part of baseball history. "Anybody who has been in this game wants to pay their respect to Bobby," said Giants manager Bruce Bochy. "It’s going to be strange to come here next year and Bobby Cox won’t be managing the team. I’ve always looked up to him, not just how he manages the game, but his team, how professional they are. They are always in uniform. They play the game right." Atlanta President John Schuerholz said, "We knew this was inevitable, we had time to prepare for it, but I don’t think any of us were ready for it. He was a great leader. He was so much of what this franchise stands for. You don’t replace a guy like that."

It would have been nice for Cox to lead his Braves team to another World Series, but he already has a list of accomplishments to his name that is more than enough to be proud of. The all-time leader in game ejections, Cox is also ranked 4th on the all-time managerial win list. During his illustrious career as a manager, he led the Braves to 2 World Series titles and a professional sports records of 14 straight division titles (1991-2005). This 4-time Manager of the Year is also responsible for having led the Toronto Blue Jays to their first ever post-season appearance.

Fortunately for Bobby Cox fans, this legendary manager is not completely leaving the Braves. He has been given a five-year contract as a special assistant, meaning that Cox will very likely still have a continuing influence on the team. Schuerholz said, "Thank God we are still going to have him around. He belongs here." (Sources: foxsports.com)

Also fortunately for Bobby Cox fans, Hollywood Collectibles carries an amazing selection of Bobby Cox memorabilia, including signed photos, autographed baseballs, signed magazines, autographed bats, and more. Each of these special collectible items comes with a certificate of authenticity and would make a solid addition to any baseball memorabilia collection, especially one that could use some great Atlanta Braves memorabilia. These autographed collectibles would also make amazing gifts for Bobby Cox and Atlanta Braves fans.