Very true. But don't you think that a real good manager has something to do with the teams performance? For example, jim leyland with detroit. they have never had it, but once leyland is there, they are unstoppable. and it was the same when leyland was manager for pittsburgh. they were awesome when he managed pirates, as soon as he left, they pretty much fizzled out.
Motivation plays a role, but you have to have talent too. The Braves just don't have enough. Maybe in a couple years when some of their rookies mature.