The Florida Marlins introduced Ozzie Guillen as their new manager during a press conference at Sun Life Stadium on Wednesday afternoon.
Ozzie Guillen Introduced By Marlins, Praised For ‘Great Passion’
“This is a man with great passion and energy and this is what this club needs,” Marlins owner Jeffrey Loria said according to Joe Frisaro of MLB.com. “This is what it needs and I couldn’t be happier.
“We needed more energy here and going into our new ballpark...everything is about timing, and it just happened to all work.”
The 47-year-old Guillen was 678-617 during his eight seasons with the Chicago White Sox, guiding the club to a World Series win in 2005, his second season as a Major League manager. Guillen was released from his contract with the White Sox two days ago, and the Marlins shipped a pair of prospects to Chicago in order to hire Guillen, who has signed a four-year contract with the club.
Guillen replaces 80-year-old Jack McKeon, who was hired after Edwin Rodriguez resigned in June during a lengthy losing streak in June. Guillen was McKeon’s third-base coach when the Marlins won the World Series in 2003.
“I don’t need veterans, I need good players,” said Guillen. “I need players who care, to be in the same room rooting for each other. I don’t need veteran players, I need guys who go out there and play the game right. I’m willing to manage whatever club they put out there because this is my new job and I’m ready.
“I have a lot confidence, which is why I’m called cocky. Just give me the ballclub and let’s go for it.”
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