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Four times in my playing career I was lucky enough to play postseason baseball. Two times in my playing career I was even luckier to be a part of a World Series winning team, in 2006 and 2011.
You don’t just wake up and play championship baseball. The mentality and drive of a championship player does not simply come with hard work. It is forged through outstanding communication, alignment with your teammates and your organization, diligent preparation, and pinpoint execution. We must all look to our teammates and trust them, as well as gain their trust.
Through my conversations with players as I’ve gotten to know them, I have asked them each what they can do to get better for the 2023 season and what they wanted to accomplish this year. Each of them offered a different answer and a list of personal improvements. But one goal remained the same for each and every one – they want to win.
This is what they are here for. And that is what I am here for. To Win. This is the attitude that is expected in our clubhouse and the only one that will be tolerated.
When the Marlins called me to offer me the job to be their next Manager I didn’t hesitate to accept the position and get right to work. Beyond the energy and the culture in South Florida, the prospect of taking this team to the next level gets me excited to get out of bed each day and get to the ballpark.
We are fortunate in Miami to have an incredibly talented team full of All-Stars, award winners, and World Series Champions. This is one of the main reasons I took this job – because this collection of talent has the potential to be something very special. We have also invested in a dynamic coaching staff of like-minded, team-first individuals, including University of Miami’s own Jon Jay.
If you’re not excited about having Sandy Alcantara, the top pitcher in the National League take the mound every five days, or Jazz Chisholm, Jr., one of the most exciting players in the game today, patrolling centerfield and running around the bases, then I think it’s time to head to the doctor for a checkup.
You aren’t going to want to miss the action this season at loanDepot park. We are going to be a fast team. We are going to be an entertaining team. We are going to pitch very well with one of the best starting rotations in baseball and reliable relievers in our bullpen. We are going to hit the ball and play solid, fundamental baseball.
The season starts on March 30 when we take on the Mets, but there are plenty of opportunities to come cheer on your hometown team. I am proud to be your manager and I look forward to seeing you at loanDepot park this season!
