There's a way to go out and there's nothing better than leaving on top. Tony La Russa, arguably this generation's greatest manger, announced his retirement after 16 seasons as manager of the St. Louis Cardinals.
La Russa, 67, only days removed from winning the World Series, made the announcement during a Monday morning news conference.
He leaves the game as with 2,728 regular-season victories over 33 seasons as a manager. That ranks third on the career list behind Connie Mack (3,731) and John McGraw (2,763).
La Russa also was third on the career list with 64 postseason victories, trailing Joe Torre (84) and Bobby Cox (67).