It's critical that the manager has the respect of players so he can make the moves that he feels is appropriate without having somebody go to the papers. They respect you. So you respect them back.

The period ultimately proved the high-water era of Murphy's career. (Election to the hall requires 75%. In 2008 he was appointed to the National Advisory Board for the national children's charity Operation Kids.

Murphy won consecutive National League Most Valuable Player Awards (1982–1983) the National League's Silver Slugger Award four straight years (1982–1985) and the National League's Gold Glove award five straight years (1982–1986). During an 18-year baseball career 1976–1993 he played for three different teams but is noted for his time with the Atlanta Braves.