Braves’ Cox to step down after 2010

Bobby Cox will retire as manager of the Atlanta Braves after next season, ending an illustrious career in which he guided the team to 14 consecutive postseason appearances and the 1995 World Series title.

Cox, 68, agreed to a one-year contract extension for 2010, the Braves announced before Wednesday’s game against the New York Mets. He will start a five-year consulting deal to advise the team in baseball operations after he steps down as manager.

“They asked me to come back, and I said I would do it for one more year, and we’ll announce the retirement along with it. It’s the only way I think I’m ever going to walk away from the game, is to go ahead and say I’m going to, and then I’ve got to,” Cox said. “There’s no turning back now -- win, lose or draw. Whatever happens next year is going to be it.”

Bradley apologizes

Suspended Chicago Cubs outfielder Milton Bradley apologized for behavior that led to General Manager Jim Hendry’s decision to banish him for the rest of the season.

“I chose Chicago as a free agent because I wanted to be part of finally bringing a championship to the Cubs’ fans. I expected to have a great season and I am deeply disappointed by my performance and the team’s struggles,” Bradley said in a statement. “I wish that I handled certain things different and I apologize for those things that did not work out for the better. The air has been cleared, and we all want to move on and look forward to better days.”