Russ Nixon was a professional baseball player and coach who had a long and successful career in the sport. He was born in Cleves, Ohio in 1935 and began his baseball career in the minor leagues in the 1950s. He played as a catcher for several different teams, including the Boston Red Sox, Cleveland Indians, Minnesota Twins, and Atlanta Braves.
Nixon's playing career spanned over a decade, from the late 1950s to the early 1970s. He was known for his strong defensive skills as a catcher and was a reliable hitter as well. He played in over 800 games during his career and had a batting average of .268.
After retiring as a player, Nixon became a coach and manager in the minor leagues. He worked his way up through the ranks and eventually became a coach for the Atlanta Braves in the late 1970s. He was promoted to manager in 1982 and led the team to a division title in his first season.
Nixon continued to manage the Braves for several more seasons, but the team struggled to maintain its success. He was eventually fired in 1988 and went on to coach for several other teams, including the Montreal Expos and the Cincinnati Reds.
Throughout his career, Nixon was known for his dedication to the sport and his ability to connect with players. He was respected by his peers and was known for his calm and steady demeanor. He was also a mentor to many young players and coaches, and his influence can still be felt in the sport today.
Nixon passed away in 2016 at the age of 81. He was remembered by many in the baseball community as a kind and generous person who had a profound impact on the sport. His legacy lives on through the many players and coaches he mentored over the years.
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