ATLANTA -- John Hart was hesitant to become a general manager again. But he has agreed to a loftier title and the responsibility to oversee the Braves' front office that he has helped reconstruct over the past month.The Braves announced on Thursday that Hart will serve as president of baseball operations. Though this puts Hart in position to essentially handle the role, there has not been any indication about whether the club will eventually also hire a GM. 
When Braves president John Schuerholz dismissed Frank Wren on Sept. 22, he named Hart interim GM and made it clear that he was hoping that Hart would eventually assume the role on a full-time basis. It appears his power of persuasion eventually worked on his longtime friend, who previously was GM of the Indians (1991-2000) and Rangers (2002-05), winning six division titles and two American League pennants with Cleveland."I'm delighted that John Hart has agreed to accept the position of president, baseball operations," Schuerholz said. "Our organization is now poised to move forward in the best possible manner to do the important work that lies ahead. John's credentials speak for themselves. He has had great success as a baseball executive and demonstrated remarkable ability to construct championship teams. We are excited by John's dynamic and positive leadership style and look forward to him leading our baseball operations."Schuerholz, Hart and assistant GM John Coppolella have overhauled the scouting and player-development departments since Wren was terminated. Coppolella has stood as a candidate for the GM position. If the Braves choose, they could still give him that role and have him work under the guidance of Hart.Mark Bowman / MLB.com
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