Braves legend Bobby Cox, who guided the franchise to the 1995 World Series championship, celebrated his 80th birthday on Friday.
In two stints as Braves manager over 25 years, Cox posted 2,149 victories, 14 consecutive division titles and the 1995 World Series title. Cox added 355 victories in four seasons as the manager of the Toronto Blue Jays - making his 2,504 total victories fourth all-time among managers in major league history.
Cox is a member of the Braves and National Baseball Halls of Fame and his No. 6 jersey was retired by the Braves franchise.
On Friday, Braves manager Brian Snitker commented about his friend, who has been battling health issues.
“I haven’t (had the chance to talk with him yet). I was really busy this morning,” Snitker said. “I’m going to try to get ahold of him when we’re done (speaking with reporters). I’ve done a couple videos for him. I just miss him every day he’s not here. I hate it for him. I hate it for us, the guys, because he’s a very valuable piece in this organization. The reason we’re the Braves, a big reason, is Bobby Cox. That’s why the Atlanta Braves are (who they are). So I just want to say happy birthday again to him.”