C'mon Kid

I was out of town over the weekend when the news broke about the death of former Atlanta Braves manager Bobby Cox at the age of 84. 

Cox's passing came just a few days after the death of former Braves owner Ted Turner. 

The Braves honored both icons with a moment of silence before last night's home game against the Cubs. Atlanta beat Chicago for a feel-good 5-2 W.

Both gentlemen were synonymous with the first golden era of Atlanta Braves baseball, culminating with the first major sports championship for the city. 

I still remember where I was that night. In the 1990s, we hosted folks each October for our annual fall chili party. I enjoyed celebrating with friends that night as Marquis Grissom caught the fly ball to record the last out in the clinching 1-0 victory over Cleveland.

Coxey was a part of the post-game celebration. In the 90s, the Bravos were excellent and the skipper was a major part of that success. He was beloved by players -- the prototype players' manager. 

During my own coaching experience some years later, I would occasionally do my own impression of his trademark "C'mon kid!" cheer. Call it a #CoachJeff tip of the cap.

He was very popular and so easy to root for. He had very few rules but enforced those strongly. He wore a full uniform and spikes all the way up to his last game. And if he felt one of his players was wronged, he stood up for them vehemently.

He was ejected from games a total of 162 times for his colorful arguments with umpires.

Sadly, his health suffered in later years. He suffered a massive stroke in 2019. He would occasionally make appearances at the ballpark as he battled through his rehab. Still a fan favorite, his appearances always brought standing ovations.

There weren't many updates recently. Then, the news of his passing hit Braves Country hard over the weekend. Former players shared their own memories and tributes to Cox. The team has added a #6 to the back of their trademark red and navy caps. 

RIP Skipper. One of a kind. Truly a legend.

JG