For Missouri Governor Jay Nixon, St. Louis Cardinals’ manager Tony La Russa is an icon – MLB News
Calling him a legendary figure, Missouri Governor Jay Nixon on Monday, October 31 commented that Tony La Russa was retiring as an icon.
While Tony La Russa received glowing tributes for his distinct services from the circuit of baseball, people of other walks of life complimented the multi-talented manager on Monday.
"In the baseball world and in Missouri, Tony La Russa was already a legendary figure before last week's World Series championship," Missouri Governor Jay Nixon said.
Tony La Russa’s retirement announcement was indeed news that very few people had expected. But as he made it official on Monday, the former Cardinals’ manager got the recognition and respect that a seasoned professional manager of such stature deserves.
While he remains a strong favourite for the next Hall of Fame as the successful team manager, his services for the Cardinals are recognised by everyone around, including the Governor Jay Nixon.
"But after leading the Cardinals on one of the most outstanding runs in baseball history, Tony La Russa retires as an icon. He's truly irreplaceable. On behalf of the people of Missouri, I thank Tony La Russa for everything he gave Missouri -- both on and
off the field."
Tony La Russa was in charge of the St. Louis Cardinals at a time when they were behind in the regular season with just over 10 losses. There seemingly was no chance for the team to move ahead. But they successfully overcame all the challenges in the coming
months by first winning the Wild Card race from the Houston Astros and then overwhelming the Philadelphia Phillies in the National League Division Series.
Despite all the difficulties that lay for the Cardinals, as their players were consigned to the disabled-list, the team manager continued to instil hope and confidence along with all the resilience and skills, to keep the team afloat.
His strategy worked out and the team won the World Series title for the 11th time in their history, winning kudos from all and sundry. Small wonder then why the manager will, for years, be complimented for his brilliance and the unshakable faith
he inculcated in the team to win.
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