Atlanta Braves reorganize top management

ATLANTA — The Atlanta Braves announced several big changes at the top including John Schuerholz now stepping aside as the president of the Atlanta Braves…but why now?

It’s a question executives answered and elaborated on during Channel 2's Craig Lucie’s one-on-one interviews Thursday after a news conference at Turner Field. They also explained what it means for fans.

“I’m not stepping down, I’m not stepping back, I’m stepping forward,” said Schuerholz.

John Schuerholz built two World Series championship teams, the 1985 Royals and 1995 Braves. In the words of his boss, Braves CEO and Chairman Terry McGuirck, “He’s just recognized as one of greatest ever in baseball."

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Schuerholz was the Atlanta Braves general manager from 1990 to 2007 and then became the club president.

Effective immediately, he’s now the vice chairman.

“I don’t see John retiring. He’s moving into a role he’s incredibly good at,” said McGuirck.

Lucie asked Schuerholz what he wants Braves Country to know about his move.

“I think we are stronger. I really do with the elevation of the player experience in a leadership capacity,” said Schuerholz.

Filling his role, co-presidents Derek Schiller as president of business and Mike Plant who is now the president of development. They are two experienced business leaders the CEO believes will take the Braves to the next level in their future home.

“I think it will wow the senses when people see new ballpark. There will be 20 restaurants outside the front door and there will be a lot of fun things to do,” said McGuirck.

But Lucie wanted to know why the management shift now with SunTrust Park opening in a year.

“We have such a rich talent, of leadership talent with these two guys. I’ll be around for wisdom, whatever I can offer,” said Schuerholz.

Schuerholz says it’s perfectly timed and it’s the right fit.

Cox Media Group