Whether you love or hate the St. Louis Cardinals, this had to be a surprise
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The Cardinals announced this morning that manager Tony La Russa has retired after 33 seasons in a major-league dugout, the last 16 seasons of which was spent with the Cardinals.
“Tony leaves behind a legacy of success that will always be remembered as one of the most successful eras in Cardinals history,” chairman Bill DeWitt Jr. said at the announcement.
“I knew this day would come. I just hoped that it wouldn’t.”
La Russa said he told owner Bill DeWitt and the players Sunday evening of his decision. He said he actually made his decision to retire in August, and informed general manager John Mozeliak at the time.
“There isn’t one (factor) that dominates (my decision),” La Russa said at the news conference. “They all just come together telling you your time is over.
“We went through the season and I felt that this just feels like it’s time to end it and I think it’s going to be great for the Cardinals to refresh what’s going on here.
“I’m looking forward to what’s ahead. I’m ready to do something different.”
“That’s a good connection to make because of the coincidence, but it’s inaccurate,” he said.
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- Going out a champ: La Russa says he’s retiring (espn.go.com)
