Bobby Cox to Retire After 2010

With all of the major moves over the past few years, such as the departures of Tom Glavine, John Smoltz, and Greg Maddux, and the changing of the guard in the front office, things in the Braves community are looking different every year. Faces come and go in the sport, names change every year and in some cases every month. However, if there was one change for the Braves that would be incredibly tough to get used to, it would be the stepping down of Bobby Cox as manager. And now that time has come. The Braves have announced that Bobby will retire as manager after the 2010 season.

While most fans have ragged on Bobby for many years, me included, all fans know that Bobby Cox is the Braves. You can point out the missed playoff chances and the questionable moves over the past couple years all you want, but the Braves wouldn't be considered one of the most respected and revered franchises in all of sports without him, and I would consider that just as important as a championship.

The Braves handled this situation perfectly. Bobby is leaving on his own terms, the announcement shot down any rumors of front office problems, and he gets one final year for the fans to say goodbye. There is no doubt I'll make it to a game or two to say it myself. I'll miss the barking of nicknames from the dugout, the awesome ejections, and the snippy little looks he gives reporters in postgame interviews. It doesn't matter who takes over, it won't be the same without #6 in the dugout.