UPDATE, 2:40. p.m.: In an expected move, the Braves introduced Fredi Gonzalez as Bobby Cox’s replacement.

Cox held a farewell news conference at Turner Field Wednesday afternoon. As soon as he was done, the Braves introduced Gonzalez as their new manager, with Cox at his side.

EARLIER: That didn’t take long.

Two days after the Braves were eliminated from the postseason and manager Bobby Cox was sent into retirement, the team is expected to introduce Fredi Gonzalez as its new manager this afternoon, according to MLB.com.

The Braves have said they will make a “major announcement” after Cox meets with the news media at Turner Field.

Gonzalez, 46, managed the Marlins for 3 1/2 seasons before being fired on June 23. He had a 276-279 record. He was a coach under Cox from 2003 to ’06 and has been considered the favorite to replace the legend for several months.

There are eight teams with a managerial opening or a interim manager in place, including the Blue Jays, Royals, Mariners, Marlins, Mets, Brewers, Cubs and Pirates.

By Peter Barzilai