After hanging up his cleats, Cox shifted his focus to managing, where he found his true calling. His managerial career took off with the Atlanta Braves in 1978, marking the beginning of a long and storied tenure. Cox's first stint with the Braves lasted until 1981, after which he moved on to manage the Toronto Blue Jays. Under his leadership, the Blue Jays saw a transformation, culminating in their first-ever division title in 1985.
Cox returned to the Braves in 1990, this time as general manager, before stepping back into the dugout as the team's manager in 1991. This period marked the start of an era of dominance for the Braves. Cox's strategic acumen and leadership were instrumental in guiding the team to an unprecedented 14 consecutive division titles from 1991 to 2005, a record in Major League Baseball. His ability to manage a diverse roster and foster a winning culture was evident as the Braves consistently performed at a high level.
The pinnacle of Cox's managerial career came in 1995 when he led the Braves to a World Series championship, defeating the Cleveland Indians. This victory was a testament to his skill in building and managing a championship-caliber team. Cox's Braves were known for their strong pitching rotation, featuring Hall of Famers like Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz, all of whom thrived under his guidance.
Cox's managerial style was characterized by his fiery demeanor and unwavering support for his players. He was known for his willingness to defend his team, often resulting in ejections from games. In fact, Cox holds the record for the most ejections in Major League history, a testament to his passionate approach to the game.
Throughout his career, Cox received numerous accolades, including being named National League Manager of the Year four times. His influence extended beyond the field, as he played a crucial role in shaping the Braves' organizational philosophy and fostering a culture of excellence.
In 2010, Cox retired from managing, leaving behind a legacy that would be remembered for generations.
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