He may be popular and familiar in the Brave's organization but I've never really been a fan of Fredi's. I think having a good, solid manager is more important than an easy transition.

And honestly, if his managerial tendencies being similar are true, being having spent time with the Braves or why ever, in a way I can kind of see that as being a downside. If we get someone similar to Bobby I can see not only him being compared to Bobby but being compared unfavorably as people might have a hard time accepting that he could do nearly as good a job. Number 6 might not have been the best the game has ever seen but I think a lot of people think he was the best in regards to his own way of doing stuff and without a stark contrast in managerial positions "Bobby Lite" would have a hard time living up to expectations.

At any rate, the chances of this happening are zilch I suppose but when Joe Torre announced he was leaving the Dodgers I always thought how ironic it would be if he came back to manage us. Former Brave become arch-nemesis of the 90's coming back home again. No matter what you think of him as a manager, it would make for a nice poetic story if real life were a film or a novel!

I didn't mean that I thought he would, just a passing thought I had. It was certainly brought up by callers from time to time on the pre/post-game and rain delay shows on 680 The Fan but I don't think it was ever really given much credence.

If he does manage again I think it would have to be someplace that could give him a chance to win again. Personally I wouldn't blame him from stepping down if he feels his glory days are over.

Oh, and just thinking about what kind of reception the Mets would give him is hurting my head! I get the impression I would fear for my life if I were a Mets fan at Yankee Stadium or a Yankee fan at Citi Field, much less a previously long-tenured opposing manager.

Just got an e-mail about a press conference today at 1:30 Eastern at braves.com. I guess they're definitely announcing something or at least have something important to say.

I bet you the decision was made months ago.

I wish him well, and yes he does have very large shoes to fill.

It's a shame the Braves lost, but San Francisco was definitely the better team. It ought to be a very interesting series between them and Philly.

Still, things change a heck of a lot in the after-season market so I would be a little surprised if they made their decision concrete that early. But apparently they now officially have a big announcement coming up after the press conference at 1:30.

The funny thing is, the Giants have been my second favorite team for a while. I don't know why and obviously I don't follow them as closely, but I guess it's a small consolation prize that at least one team I like advanced in the postseason. I'll definitely be rooting for them against the Phillies.

I especially appreciated the respect they gave Bobby on his way out after his final game.

Atlanta didn't waste any time in naming the successor to Bobby Cox. They're expected to Name Fredi Gonzalez as manager sometime today. Gonzalez was 2008 Manager of the Year with the Marlins and served as 3rd base coach for the Braves 2003-2006. He has some huge shoes to fill. Here's wishing him the best.

I thought they pulled the trigger a little quick with that hire. What's the hurry?

Surprised me a little too. When Gonzalez was fired by the Marlins, Cox came to his defense and blasted the Florida management. Gonzalez is familiar with the Braves' organization and some of the players, but the roster has had a small makeover since 2006. He's a decent manager and a good guy, but I would have thought they would wait a little longer to see who else might come available.

Personally, I don't think Torre will ever manage again. There have been rumors and rumblings of him going to the Mets, but he's too smart and too old to jump into that wood chipper.

Torre managed the Mets in the 70's and fell on his sword miserably. Don't think he would be welcomed back, especially after that, plus being an ex-Yankee skipper.

will do just fine with the Braves.  Atlanta management has had the whole season to make this decision and they didn't want to loose Gonzalez to another team looking for a field general.  Finally, the Braves will kick the Marlins a$$.