Ozzie Guillen receives five game suspension after controversial remarks about Fidel Castro - MLB
As many as 100 protesters demonstrated outside New Marlins ballpark, calling for the sacking of Marlins’ manager Ozzie Guillen. Moments after his remarks were published in Time Magazine about supporting Fidel Castro, a Cuban dictator, a wave of discontentment
spread all across the Marlins.
In particular the Cuban American communities and other Latin Americans, people who endured Castro’s wrath the most, were flabbergasted and immediately lodged their protest.
As an intensity of the issue grew, Guillen had to return to Marlins from Philadelphia for clarification.
Though he issued an apology to all those hurt with his views, it was not enough for the Marlins to let him go without facing a five game suspension.
During his absence, bench coach Joey Cora, will be assuming his position.
"I feel like I betrayed my Latin community," Guillen said. "I am here to say I am sorry with my heart in my hands and I want to say I'm sorry to all those people who are hurt indirectly or directly."
The decision has been welcomed by MLB and in a drafted statement, they explained that Baseball is a socially responsible organisation and duly observe sensitivities of the communities affected by a barbarians rule.
"Guillen's remarks, which were offensive to an important part of the Miami community and others throughout the world, have no place in our game," said Commissioner Bud Selig.
When Marlins were asked as to why he was not fired given the kind of damage he has done to the whole community, they clarified that his apology has reflected his repentance and therefore he must be given a second chance.
Marlins are playing their three match series against Philadelphia Phillies at the moment. They are preparing for their second game after winning the first.
Although the team is well on his way to take on Phillies in the next game, his absence will be just a little distraction for the players.
Regardless of what is happening off-field, Marlins will want their players to focus on the field. The question however is how Guillen will conduct co-ordination with the players after he comes back. After all, his image has not remained the same as was before
the media trial.
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