Best manager (as opposed to lineup filler-outer) that I’ve ever seen. And I’m not even a St. Louis fan.
Tony irritated fans because his style was intense rather than aggressive, and he relied on power rather than speed as had all other successful Card managers since 1926. Maybe the next guy will get games finished in less than four hours.
Oquendo is a good candidate, as is Francona, whose father played here.
Herzog, however, did as much with far less until the brewery sabotaged him.
I admire Tony La Russa greatly. What a career. Hope he has a wonderful retirement and just eases back and enjoys life. He deserves it.