Bobby Cox Received Warm Ovation at 1995 Championship Celebration
In an emotional ceremony at Truist Park, legendary manager Bobby Cox was honored by the Atlanta Braves on the occasion of the 30th anniversary of their 1995 World Series victory, prior to Friday’s game against the New York Mets. Cox, 84, greeted fans from a convertible, leading the pre-game parade through Battery, located outside the stadium. The parade featured prominent figures such as Hall of Fame pitchers Greg Maddux, Tom Glavine, and John Smoltz, along with former general manager John Schuerholz. Among the players who returned for the celebration were Hall of Famer Chipper Jones, David Justice, Javy López, Marquis Grissom, Ryan Klesko, Rafael Belliard, Steve Avery, Mark Wohlers, and Fred McGriff. Part of Cox’s coaching staff, including pitching coach Leo Mazzone, was also present. During the pre-game ceremony, Cox was introduced as “the beloved captain of this 1995 team.” From a luxury box, he responded to the cheers by touching his heart. Smoltz, Glavine, and Maddux were in charge of throwing the first ceremonial pitches. In 2019, Cox was hospitalized after suffering a stroke. Last season, he visited Truist Park, which opened in 2017, for a game. Brian Snitker, who took over as manager in 2016 and led Atlanta to win the World Series in 2021, maintains a close relationship with Cox. Snitker revealed that he tries to visit his former boss once in each home series. According to Snitker, Cox rarely speaks but enjoys visits from former players and coaches.Snitker expressed his enthusiasm for Cox’s return for the 1995 celebration.He understands everything. And if the guys start telling stories, he laughs out loud because he understands everything that’s happening. He’s aware of everything, and he knows how we’re playing and what’s happening in the games.
Brian Snitker
Snitker commented that he spoke with Cox’s wife, Pam, on Thursday, and that “it’s something he’s really looking forward to”. Bobby Cox was inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame in 2014. The Braves retired his number 6. Cox managed the Braves from 1978 to 1981 in his first stint as manager. Then, he was at the helm of the Toronto Blue Jays from 1982 to 1985, before returning to Atlanta as general manager in 1986 and taking over as manager in 1991. Cox’s Braves beat Cleveland in the 1995 World Series. He was named Manager of the Year four times, receiving honors in both the American League and the National League.It’s going to be incredible. It’s going to be great. And, you know, I think it’s going to be something really great.
Brian Snitker
