Ozzie Guillen unveiled as ‘Miami’ Marlins new manager – MLB News
Florida Marlins did not have a fitting end to their stay at Sun Life Stadium, but that is history now as the ballclub prepares to move to a new home under a new manager and a new name.
Unveiling new manager Ozzie Guillen on Wednesday, September 28 before the season-ending game against Washington Nationals, owner Jeffrey Loria said, "I think we can turn it around next year. I see no reason why not when you’ve got a, for lack of a better
word, category 5 manager...This is a man with great passion and great energy. This is what this club needs."
As compensation, the Marlins have traded minor leaguers Ozzie Martinez and Jhan Marinez to the Chicago White Sox, where Guillen managed for eight seasons. His managerial record at 678-617 is commendable, given the fact that the White Sox won two American
League Central titles and a World Series crown in 2005 under his tenure.
Marlins will move into Little Havana Ballpark in 2012 and will be referred to as the Miami Marlins. Guillen, talking to reporters at the new facility, emphasised the fans to give due importance to the players instead of praising his managerial skills. He
stated that his ultimate goal is to make the fans proud to be a Marlins supporter but this will require a lot of patience.
Guillen further added that no one is above the team and even a string of losses should not affect the composition of the line-up. He said, “The only thing I guarantee is you’re going to see the same guy day in and day out. Lose or win, the players are going
to find out who really Ozzie is.”
Marlins’ starter Anibal Sanchez agreed with Guillen on the fact that this team needs to develop chemistry more than anything else. The players have shown glimpses of genius throughout the season, but consistency is one area where most of the players have
faltered.
Having served as a third base coach earlier under Jack McKeon, Guillen emphasised the players to work hard on developing a winning mindset. The dugout had sufficient depth this season but for some reason, did not click. Guillen has the ability to nurture
the team and develop a winning combination for years to come and McKeon agrees.
Tags: