Earlier this month, we said goodbye to another Hall of Fame manager, as the unforgettable Bobby Cox passed away at the age of 84. In appreciation of his career, I present my tribute of the top 5 cards of his from my collection.
1978 Topps #93 Bobby Cox (MGR)
It is fortunate for Cox that his MLB managerial career started when he was hired to manage the Braves in 1978. The 1978 Topps set is known for having the greatest manager cards ever produced. Who doesn't love that flashback stamp from their playing days? It's interesting that his player photo is a minor league card from his time with the Richmond Braves. Cox actually played two seasons with the Yankees, starting in 1968 (Mantle's last year by the way!)
1981 Fleer
#247 Bob Cox (MGR)
The 1981 season would be the last for his first stint with the Braves. In those four years his team never finished higher than 4th place. He was replaced by Joe Torre, who would likewise be inducted to the Hall with Cox in 2014.
1986 Topps
#471 Bobby Cox (MGR, CL)
The Blue Jays were quick to scoop him up and make them their next manager. In his four years with Toronto, Cox would take the team from last place in 1982 to AL East Champions in 1985. After that season, Cox would return to Atlanta as their General Manager, laying the foundation for a dynasty.
1990 Topps Traded
#23T Bobby Cox (MGR)
Although Cox never held a front office job before, he was crucial in turning the Braves into a powerhouse. He is responsible for the trade that brought John Smoltz to Atlanta, as well as selecting Chipper Jones with the #1 pick in the 1990 draft. Shortly after that draft, he returned to the dugout midway through the season, ceding the GM role to John Schuerholz.
1991 Topps
#759 Bobby Cox (MGR, TL)
His second stint as the Braves' manager was historically better than his first go-around. In 1991 the Braves won their division for the first of what would ultimately be 14 consecutive division titles. In those 14 years they captured the NL pennant 5 times, and in 1995 Cox led the team to a World Series Championship.
Cox would end his career with 2,504 managerial wins, good for 4th place all-time. The Expansion Era Committee unanimously voted him to the Hall of Fame in 2014.
RIP Mr. Cox. You will be missed.
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